GRAND
LISBOA (*****L): A Thesaurus dictionary is necessary to
describe
this hotel, as words are lacking: cyclopean, superfluous, ostentatious,
intemperate, with a superfluity sense of epicureanism, this cathedral
dedicated
to the God of luxury, gastronomy and gambling can Like it or not, the impressive, iconic structure of the Grand Lisboa, inspired by the lotus symbol of Macau, with 52 floors and a total height of 261 metres, makes it proudly the local equivalent of the Eiffel Tower in Paris: a landmark. Erected in 2008 by architect Dennis Lau, in the heart of Macau, the building reflects gold and prosperity. Opulence starts with the Bentley Continental Flying Spur limousine pick up at the airport till the check-in procedure in the palatial lobby-museum: exhibiting «The Star of Stanley Ho», the largest, 218.08 carats internally flawless D-color diamond, and a collection of million dollars Chinese antiques made of pure jade and gold. The casino (offering 268 mass gaming tables and 786 slot machines) stands beside the lobby, and the flood of 99,9% Asian gamblers creates a round the clock electric atmosphere which we didn't meet in any other hotel-casino in Macau. Of course, we were expecting bling, ornamented rooms matching the Chinese exuberance of the public areas. Surprisingly, the 430 rooms and suites, all with a breathtaking view, have been decorated by world-renowned designer Khuan Chew in a warm, sensual way. Glossy mirrors, fulgent electric led appliances and a rich wood panelling make them grand, but not showy. A fortune has been invested in the super king size beds, with a large, high leather padded back. Anywhere else, such a palatial couch would ornate the Presidential Suite only; at the Grand Lisboa, it appoints all the rooms. We loved the ritzy bathrooms: ours, like many, was equipped with a Jacuzzi... and a private steam-bath which we used everyday, to ensure a pleasant night on the smoothest mattress in China... Amazingly high-tech, with a large Bang & Olufsen plasma TV in the master bedroom (with on-demand programmes free-of-charge), plus two more screens in the bathroom... and toilet, and complimentary Internet, the hotel IT equipment is well worth six stars. Items in the minibar are complimentary. Fruit and snacks are brought up to the room at least once per day. We could check the amazing quality of the service when, each morning, then once again in the evening, we realized that the maid had put new Hermès toiletry in the bathroom, though we had only used a small volume of this pricey items. We won't drop the names of the palace hotels in Paris or New York where the Hermès shower bath and shampoo is updated only once per stay... This shows the respect and particular care accorded to the guest at Grand Lisboa. Just for this, we would come back with pleasure. The anticipating service extends to the large, gorgeous Executive Lounge, where lovely hostesses pampered us with fine beverage and a selection of mouth watering Western and Asian snacks imported from the hotel (and sister hotel Lisboa) 15 restaurants. The Grand Lisboa and Lisboa complex concentrates the world record of 8 Michelin star 2011 under one roof! Including the legendary 3 star Joël Robuchon a Galera, ranked as one of the best restaurants worldwide. We have experienced some of them, and all blew our minds. Particularly the 70 meters long Grand Buffet: the largest hotel buffet in the world, serving flamboyant specialities featuring «all you can eat» delicacies like oysters and seafood from the South China Sea, Spanish «Pata Negra» ham, Italian pastas, and French cheese for the price of a pizza in Paris! This makes Macau the most affordable gourmet destination in the world: the casino obviously acts as a generous sponsor to F&B, and this would be a pity not to take profit of the advantageous conditions offered to the happy -and numerous!- guests of some of the best gastronomic tables in the world... The Grand Lisboa Hotel offers one of Macau best spa facilities which are operated by Clarins, and a lovely swimming pool. No need to be a gambler -and we are not- to stay there: the hotel constitutes a perfect heaven for tourists and businessmen alike. Room rates start from HKD/MOP 1,730 (EUR 175) for a Superior Room, and HKD/MOP 3,330 (EUR 335) for a Suite. Excluding 10% service charge and 5% tourism tax. The
flagship hotel by Dr Stanley
Ho's Sociedade de Jogos de Macau, the Grand Lisboa still needs to be
discovered
and fully enjoyed by a Western clientele. This is one of the most
beautiful
hotels which we have ever enjoyed in our spoiled travellers' long life
life. GRAND
LISBOA MACAU: Avenida de Lisboa, Macau, SAR, P.R. China
LISBOA
(*****L): Sentimentally referred by taxi drivers and
locals as «the
old Lisboa», this has been long time the most luxurious hotel in
Macau. Inaugurated in 1970 by Dr Stanley Ho, designed into a pop
architecture
reminiscent of Las Vegas golden years, this five star hotel
still The hotel lobby looks smaller, more intimate compared with the next door Grand Lisboa (which is also at least twice taller); this is just an illusion as, hard to believe, the «old Lisboa» hosts close to 1,000 rooms and suites. Recently refurbished, though of course no as luxurious as in the sister hotel which is unique, they are decorated with rich colored fabric and handcrafted furniture, offering modern comfort and convenience. Modern bathroom settings in each room also await you with mosaic pattern flooring, glass and marble wall panels, and massage shower. Tower Suites and Royal Suites guests can enjoy free in-house movies, free local calls and complimentary use of the in-room mini bar. The suites luxurious bathrooms include a steam bath, relaxing massage shower and Jacuzzi bathtub. Most rooms offer a magnificent view of the South China Sea and major landmarks in Macau. The iconic casino, which participated in Stanley Ho's legend, has been constantly upgraded, and is now shared with the Grand Lisboa: building a a city within a city, full of excitement and fun. The luxurious Clarins SPA and 15 acclaimed restaurants with an extensive wine collection of over 7,400 labels (check our Grand Lisboa review ) are part of Lisboa Hotels Complex. Room rates start from HKD/MOP 850 (EUR 85) for a Standard Room. The splendid Royal Suite is actually affordable, at HKD/MOP 2,050 (EUR 200). Excluding 10% service charge and 5% tourism tax. A
classy hotel, in an attractive,
very central location.
LISBOA:
2-4 Avenida de Lisboa, Macau, SAR, P.R. China MGM
MACAU (*****L): On a prime waterfront location,
with a harmonious architecture inspired by the rolling swell of the
ocean
surf, this iconic resort constitutes a world class
entertainment
center. Quite similar to the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, we found the MGM
Macau
more Little bit neglected by the Michelin guide, but not by the guests, the F&B ressources are nevertheless quite brilliant, and developed under a variety of well inspired concepts fulfilling any gastronomic cravings. We started our days pleasantly, sitting at the terrace of Rossio, at the Grande Praça: experiencing one of the best breakfasts in Macau. This restaurant is actually international, with a buffet reflecting the global quality of the Italian, French and Asian gastronomies available in the hotel. If the swank Russian Room, with a rich selection of caviar, Champagne and Cognac, makes you feel like in a traditional, ritzy palace hotel, the high end diner scene is Aux Beaux Arts: a lovely tribute to the 1930’s French Brasserie, celebrating art, culture, and serving Chef Elie Khalife's French Cuisine in a warm and comfortable environment. The hotel has two lobbies. The grand lobby, decorated with pieces of modern art (featuring a sculpture by Salvador Dali), with beautiful lights changing color as the day passes. Huge, it gives access to the Grande Praça, and to the 200,000 square foot One Central prestigious complex featuring the world’s leading luxury brands (Hermès, Vertu, Tods...). The second lobby, darker, more intimate and classic, reflects the soft atmosphere of a traditional European palace hotel: with rich marbles and plenty of flowers all around, it welcomes VIP guests, with a separate access to the ritziest rooms. No need to book in the most expensive room to enjoy a breathtaking view of Macau. Just try to stay as high as possible atop the 35-story tower. Many of the 593 rooms have an Ocean view. The South China Sea and the remote islands are splendid at sunset. Large and pleasantly designed, all rooms and suites reflect the little bit sanitized notion of the American comfort: wouldn't it be by the panorama, one would feel like anywhere in the world. We liked the smart en-suite bathroom, filled with plenty of toiletries (toothbrush, razor...), fine soap and shampoo. The beds are oversized, smooth and so comfy. The good value for money Grand Deluxe Ocean View Rooms (48 sqm) are a perfect choice; those looking for high end luxury should book straightly in a Villa Room: 220 to 380 sqm, with a kitchenette... and a private karaoke room! Interesting promotion rates and packages are available. Located within the five star Six Senses Spa, the gymnasium is out-fitted with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment. An aerobic studio is available for warm-up and stretching, and multilingual fitness instructors are on hand to provide health assessment. A curiosity: the spa is equipped with a «snow-sauna» showering fresh snow on your body after, to lift your skin after a few minutes in the steam-bath. Quite unique in the world! The connected, outdoor heated swimming is one of the largest in the city. The
MGM Casino is brand new, and
makes you feel like in Las Vegas. Just like all casinos in Macau, it
operates
complimentary shuttle bus service to the boarder and to the ferry pier.
MGM
MACAU: Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen, Macau, SAR, P.R. China
POUSADA
DE SAO TIAGO (*****L): A landmark, and the unique hotel
with a history
in Macau, it was originally a fortress built by the Portuguese in the
early
17th century. On a strategic location,
defending Macau against hostile European nations and local pirates, the
Fortaleza de The one and only Relais Châteaux in China, this haven of peace cannot be compared with any of its competitors. A five star hotel, it is not part of a casino complex. A small structure, it attracts a Western clientele, in a city where the larger luxury hotels are 95% packed with Asian guests. To complete this Old World, actually amazing European atmosphere, the restaurant La Paloma, serves traditional Portuguese and Spanish cuisine. Chef Hector Costa Fernandez is a master of Catalonian cuisine: he spoiled us with a fresh fish and lobster paella which was fit for a king! The terrace is actually pleasant in the evening, when a cool air sweeps the Macau hills. A boutique hotel, the Pousada de São Tiago offers a high end comfort and luxury. Each of the 12 spacious suites has a balcony overlooking the picturesque Inner Harbour of Macau and the Pearl River Delta. Decorated with plush and quality furnishings to provide exquisite comfort for guests, they all include a 40 inches Bang & Olufsen plasma television with surround sound effect, a modern lush bathroom with 60cm rainforest shower, a very exclusive steam room and “in mirror” bathroom TV. Guests can also enjoy complimentary in-room movies, free mini bar and internet access. The large balconies, with a view of the harbour, allow guests to relax in their private residence. There
is a large, beautiful outdoor swimming
pool
with a panoramic terrace. Last but not least, this hotel with a soul,
which
we loved at first sight, has its own 16th Century chapel. Open to hotel
guests, it is regularly used for blessing and weddings ceremonies,
which
can be arranged by the hotel. The Capela de São Tiago (Chapel
of St. James) dedicates to the saint worshipped by the
Portuguese army
at that time. Just like the rest of the Barra fortress, the chapel
underwent
renovation in 1978 and has since become an important landmark,
adjoining
Pousada de São Tiago. POUSADA
DE SAO TIAGO: Avenida da República, Fortaleza de São
Tiago da Barra, Macau, SAR, P.R. China THE VENETIAN MACAO RESORT (*****L): Hosting the largest casino in the world, this palatial resort combines the timeless romance of Venice with the excitement and glamour of Las Vegas. Located within close proximity to the Macao International Airport, Ferry Terminal and main Chinese border crossing, this unique resort also offers unrivalled dining, entertainment and shopping options. Guests can experience the grandeur of the complex by taking a traditional Italian Gondola through the Venetian-style canals. There are 300 premiere boutiques, over 35 restaurants and a myriad of sporting, leisure and conference facilities. The
Venitian
Macao Resort convention and exhibition center is large enough to hold
ninety
Boeing 747 jumbo jets! THE
VENETIAN MACAO RESORT: Estrada da Baía de N. Senhora da
Esperança,
s/n, SANDS MACAU (*****L): Located in the heart of Macau peninsula, this «made in USA» hotel-casino offers a collection of 289 luxurious accommodations, with panoramic ocean and city views: featuring hand-woven carpets, designer furnishings and top-of-the-line lighting fixtures, as well as state-of-the-art entertainment centers with plasma televisions and superb audio-visual equipment. The beautifully appointed bathrooms will soothe away all your stress and worries with separate standing shower units and relaxing Jacuzzi tubs. The Sands Macau has two award-winning restaurant: the Golden Court, and the Moonlight Market. The Macanese restaurant Perola and the Las Vegas-style Copa Steak House are much visited. The
hotel
stands just five minutes from Macau Ferry Terminal.
SANDS
MACAU: Sands Macau Hotel, Largo de Monte Carlo, No.203,
Macau, SAR,
P.R. China GRAND HYATT MACAU (*****L): Located in the Cotai area between the islands of Coloane and Taipa, off the tip of Macau Peninsula, the hotel is part of the City of Dreams: a lovely urban resort integrating entertainment, dining and shopping options. The hotel features 791 rooms & suites with spectacular views over Cotai and the west banks of Pearl River. With well-equipped MICE facilities and signature restaurants, Grand Hyatt Macau hotel promises to provide magnificent services to every guest visiting the cosmopolitan cultural city of Macau. The Grand Hyatt Macau is easily accessible from Macau and Taipa ferry terminals, China Border Gate and Macau International Airport. GRAND
HYATT MACAU: City of Dreams, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, Macau,
SAR, P.R.
China
REVIEWS
OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN MACAU    |
been
see from any part of the relatively small city of Macau. Symbolizing
the
brilliant present and exciting future of the world capital of
game,
overpassing Las Vegas since 2010! This is long, long time that we have
not been impressed by a five star deluxe hotel, expecting this would
happen
in New York, Rome, Paris or London; not in a “village” like Macau,
which
is really a city full of good surprises. 
delivers
ultimate luxury to its guests. Shouldn't it be from its vintage
external
structure, one could hardly imagine that the Lisboa is 40 years old. We
closely inspected each detail of the opulent lobby: from the dazzling
chandeliers
and glittering mosaics, till the shinny marble, all
come immaculate.
Like brand new! As soon as a single small item of the Portuguese and
Chinese
lavish décor looks slightly tired, it is restored or
replaced.
The hotel also showcases Dr. Stanley Ho’s extensive private collection
of priceless art pieces. 
attractive
and definitely more charming. Very much American, indeed (queuing for
check-in/out
is a US standard...), the hotel comes with plenty of «made in Macau»
bonuses which we loved at first sight. The architecturally stunning
1088
square-meter Grande Praça, under an impressive glass ceiling, is
simply unique: a village square in the hotel! Dedicated to gastronomy,
hosting part of the 12 restaurants and bars, the Grande Praça is
a must be seen and constitutes one of the reasons which incited us to
book
in this hotel. Capturing Macau multi-faceted heritage, with its
Portuguese-inspired
colonial facades, a dramatic skylight dome and a myriad of terraces,
not
to forget the “Lights & Sounds” tribute daily after sunset, it
develops
the look and feel of old-world Portugal. We felt like transported in a
dreamed universe, so far away from Asia, but still so close to Macau...
A hard to describe feeling, which can be enjoyed nowhere but at the MGM
Macau! 
Barra
was transformed into this enchanting Portuguese hotel retaining a
romantic,
authentic Portuguese atmosphere at the tip of the Macau Peninsula along
the tree-lined Praia Grande Bay: five minutes away from the historic
A-Ma
Temple, Maritime Museum and Chapel of Our Lady of Penha.
