Back in the 18th century, the beautiful area of Taipa was comprised of two hilly islands and a busy international harbor, used by clipper ships and Indian merchants who traded with the Cantonese to the north via the Pearl River. Ships carrying muslin, opium, tea, porcelain and silks were regular visitors to the Macau Islands, resulting in a robust exchange of culture. Now that the Macau International Airport has opened on Taipa Island, it is once again the international gateway to the location of Macau. You can take a bus to the terminus in Taipa Village, making sure to appreciate the Tin Hua Temple in the square. If you choose, you can rent a bicycle at a kiosk adjacent to the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau. Or you can simply stroll along the cobbled streets of this busy and colorful part of Macau China, appreciating the fusion of architecture, hanging flower baskets, old-fashioned street lamps, and spicy aromas. Taipa Village is full of stucco Chinese shop-houses, with balconies for families living above their businesses. There are many temples to visit there, as well as stately churches built by the Portuguese in Macau, many of whom were missionaries. Our Lady of Carmel, a neo-classical church built in 1885, has lovely paths that wind down the hills to Avenida da Praia, where you can enjoy refreshments and cool breezes at a café. Save your appetite, however, for the numerous Macau restaurants on Rua da Cunha, known in English as Food Street. Taipa Island is famous for its traditional cookies, so let yourself hit a pastry shop while here, especially if you have children in tow! Food Street has a broad representation of cuisine, including Macanese, Chinese, Portuguese, Indian, and African influences. Consider paying a visit to Taipa on Sunday, when the Islands’ Weekly Fair takes place in the heart of the old village. Booths spill over with traditional crafts, foods, and toys, and there are Fair-related cultural and recreational events at the Maia de Magalhaes Square. When night falls, you undoubtedly will want to visit one of the several casinos on Taipa, among them the Greek Mythology Casino in the New Century Hotel, Casino Marina, The Taipa Casino in the Hyatt Regency, and the Macau Jockey Club Casino. Play some baccarat, blackjack, roulette, boule, fan-tan, or enjoy one of the numerous slot machines, which the locals call “hungry tigers.” If you like horses, don’t miss the Macau Jockey Club, which operates a full horse-racing facility for an entrance fee of just over one US dollar. The horses don’t run on the hottest nights, so if you are visiting in July or August you may miss out on this treat. The nightlife in the area around the track jumps, with some pubs with casual ambience built near it, as well as at least one good karaoke bar. Not just for gamblers, the Macau Jockey Club also has a Riding School, so you can take a lesson or rent a horse there for your own riding pleasure. Taipa Island’s two highest hills, Taipa Grande and Taipa Pequena, are circled by hiking and biking trails that provide superb panoramic views of the entire area of Macau China. So whether you want a peaceful stroll or bike ride, a great meal, or a wild night on the town, Taipa welcomes you! |
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