Glimpse of the past

Macau and Hong Kong, although both former colonies, have very different attitudes toward cultural preservation.

It appears that the Hong Kong government, regardless of the dedicated voice of "collective memories," prefers for the city to be an ultra-modern metropolis, with almost all traits of colonial influence being allowed to fade.

Quite the reverse, Macau understands and treasures its position as crossroads for different cultures, cuisines and commerce, a delicious mixture of Portuguese and Chinese civilization. You might call it hybrid, but for the Macanese, it is their very own, genuine culture.

Regardless of the increasing attention it gets as a gaming and business tourism venue, Macau also proudly preserves its own historical heritage and customs, while adding some new elements now and then.

Following the successful inscription of "The Historic Centre of Macau" on the Unesco World Heritage List in July 2005, Macau received the Grand Award for Heritage from Pacific Asia Travel Association in September.