Macau travel info

General information for the traveller new to Macau.

Visas
Macau was reunited with China on 20 December 1999. Entry rules are similar to Hong Kong, i.e. many nationalities are issued with limited tourist visas on arrival. Check with Macau Tourism before travelling.

Note: If you are also intending to visit Mainland China you will need a separate China Visa. Macau law demands that everybody carry identification at all times.

Customs
There are no restrictions on the amount of currency that you can take into and out of Macau. Visitors may take unlimited amounts of alcohol and cigarettes into Macau.

Time
Macau time: GMT + 8 hours

Currency
Pataca (ptcs or MOP) - Check current exchange rates.
100 cents = HK$1
100 avos = 1 Pataca
Notes issued - MOP1,000, MOP500, MOP100, MOP50, MOP20
Coins issued - MOP10, MOP5, MOP1, 50 avos, 20 avos, 10 avos

Hong Kong Dollars are welcomed as equivalent currency (with a very marginal difference); however change will always be given in Patacas.

Tipping
Many restaurants and hotels add 10%. Tipping is not expected but is appreciated - tip porters and hotel staff around MOP5-MOP10.

Banking Hours
Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 4.30 pm
Saturday 9.00 am to 12.30 pm

Language
The official language of Macau is Cantonese, although Portuguese and English are also spoken. If you do not speak Cantonese, it is definitely a good idea to carry a map or to have the names of places that you wish to visit written in Chinese characters.

Telephone
The international dialling code for Macau is 853 (there are no individual area codes in Macau) When calling overseas from Macau dial 01 + country code + area code + telephone number

Electricity
220 V AC 50 cycles in most places. Some older buildings still use 110V - check with your hotel if you are not sure. Plugs are usually 3 round pins.

Water
Tap water is safe to drink and bottled water is widely available.

Health
Make sure that you have adequate health insurance, as medical care can be expensive in Hong Kong. It is advisable to be inoculated against Hepatitis A and to be aware that some smaller eating establishments have less than scrupulous hygiene standards. Check the current situation and any vaccination requirements with your doctor when planning your trip.

International Airport
Hong Kong International Airport (opened in July 1998) at Chek Lap Kok.

International Airport
Macau International Airport was opened in 1998.

International Airport Departure Tax
On flights to China: MOP80 (MOP50 for children aged 2 to 12).
For all other destinations: MOP130 (MOP80 for children).
Transit passengers who continue their journey within 24 hours of arrival are exempt from the above.

Etiquette/Dress Code
In general, casual to smart clothes are worn; although some restaurants and bars do have a dress code. At weekends casual clothes are de riguer. On beaches, topless sunbathing is never acceptable.

As with most Asian countries, situations should be avoided which would cause a loss of "face". Try to steer clear of confrontation as it is not appreciated and will only worsen rather than resolve any situation.

Diplomatic Missions
The Portuguese Consulate General is now located in the building formerly known as the Hotel Bella Vista.

Useful Sources of Information
For further information contact the Macau Tourist Board.

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