Bargains, in historic settings

Looking into Senado Square, the heart of central Macau

Place: MACAU

For those looking for a Macau experience away from casinos, the destination of choice for most is Senado Square. Located in the peninsula in the older part of Macau, it is today part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site as the 'Historic Centre of Macau'. It is hardly ever free of

Lovely cobbled stone art is all over the area,
adding to it charm

This central area is distinctly European in its look. Located close to the former Senate building,are pastel coloured neo-classical buildings, creating a consistent and harmonious Mediterranean atmosphere.

Like many city centres around the world, it has an old world charm that makes for a great relaxing stroll around the area. Budget a few hours if you have the time, especially if you plan to shop.

It's an area that intermingles heritage and history. The ruins of St Paul's, easily the most popular historic site in Macau, is just around the corner, about five to six minutes walking. Just theoretically, for all along the way are little shops - shoes, clothes, antiques, wooden chess boards done up in Chinese styles, jewellery, cosmetics, t-shirts, curios, tea sets egg tarts and cookies, there is a lot that will continually distract you. Few, tourists or locals, can resist stopping, usually to buy, but sometimes to just look. The first time I went, my return luggage was massively overweight! A suggestions, the cookie boxes look really attractive and sell like, well hot cookies, but they are rather dry for Indian sensibilites.

Magnets come in
tempting shapes

My pick - the magnets, especially the cocks that are a symbol of Macau and the distinctive city. A lot of the stuff is made in China, so you will momentos that relate to outside Macau too. There are a number of beautiful antiques or antique looking pieces for those interested, from replicas of Chinese soldiers, to tea sets and much more. Some are exquisite, and you can bargain!

Macau in general is less expensive than say Hongkong or Singapore, but of late, shopping here is getting pricier. Though there are enough bargains for those interested. Seriously, it wont compare to Orchard Road or Chatuchak Market, but who knows you might just find your bit of travel nirvana here.