China
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Macao, Hong Kong and Taiwan, The Magnificent Trio
Get ready for a whirlwind week across three of Asia’s most electrifying destinations: Macao, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. In Macao, “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but what happens in Macao becomes a legend”—this glitzy gambling haven blends Portuguese charm with high-stakes thrills. Hong Kong greets you with, “Why settle for one skyline when you can have a symphony of lights?”—a city where towering skyscrapers dance with Victoria Harbour’s glow. And in Taiwan, “Taipei whispers, ‘I’m the island where night markets reign supreme and bubble tea flows like rivers’”—a treasure trove of culture and cuisine awaits. This 7-day tour dives into the most talked-about attractions, offering a mix of group adventures and solo explorations, sumptuous eats, and vibrant nightlife. Buckle up for an unforgettable ride!
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Destination
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Departure
London -
Departure Time
Please arrive by 9:15 AM for a departure at 9:30 AM. -
Return Time
Approximately 8:30 PM. -
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable athletic clothing, hat and light jacket. -
Included
Airplane TransportBreakfastDeparture TaxesPersonal Guide -
Not Included
5 Star Accommodation
Day 1: Macao - The Las Vegas of Asia
Macao’s crown jewel, the Ruins of St. Paul’s, stands as a testament to the city’s unique East-meets-West heritage, drawing travelers into its storied past with a flourish of dramatic flair. This iconic facade, all that remains of a 17th-century Jesuit church, rises majestically atop a hill, its intricate stone carvings whispering tales of Portuguese colonial days against a backdrop of modern casinos. As you ascend the granite steps, the blend of history and the buzz of nearby Senado Square create a captivating contrast—here, you’re not just visiting a relic, but stepping into Macao’s soul, where every stone tells a story of resilience and reinvention.
- What to See:
- Ruins of St. Paul’s - Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and the adjacent Monte Fort for panoramic views. (Website: www.macautourism.gov.mo)
- Senado Square - Wander this colorful, tiled plaza lined with pastel colonial buildings and shops.
- The Venetian Macao - Marvel at the indoor canals, gondola rides, and lavish casino floors. (Website: www.venetianmacao.com)
- Where to Stay:
- The Parisian Macao - A luxurious hotel with a half-scale Eiffel Tower and chic rooms. (Approx. $150-$200/night, book via www.parisianmacao.com)
- Where to Eat:
- Lunch: António - Savor authentic Portuguese dishes like bacalhau (codfish) in a cozy setting. (Approx. $20-$30/person)
- Dinner: Lord Stow’s Bakery - Grab a famous Macanese egg tart and pair it with dinner at a nearby stall in Taipa Village. (Approx. $5-$15/person)
- What to Do:
- Group: Guided walking tour of the Historic Centre of Macao, including St. Dominic’s Church and A-Ma Temple.
- On Your Own: Try your luck at The Venetian’s casino or shop for souvenirs in Senado Square.
- What to Expect:
- A compact city with a mix of cobblestone charm and neon glitz. English is limited outside tourist areas, so a translation app is handy. Expect warm, humid weather in March.
- Nightlife and Fun:
- Hit The House of Dancing Water show at City of Dreams for a dazzling aquatic performance, or bar-hop along the Cotai Strip. (Tickets via www.cityofdreamsmacau.com)
Day 2: Hong Kong - The City of Lights
Victoria Peak, Hong Kong’s loftiest perch, offers a breathtaking panorama that transforms the city into a glittering masterpiece below—an experience so iconic it’s practically mandatory. Reached by the historic Peak Tram, this vantage point unveils a skyline of skyscrapers piercing the clouds, with Victoria Harbour shimmering like a liquid mirror. Whether you’re gazing at the daytime sprawl or the Symphony of Lights at night, the Peak is Hong Kong’s pulse made visible, a dizzying blend of nature’s grandeur and urban ambition that leaves you awestruck.
- What to See:
- Victoria Peak - Ride the Peak Tram and hike the Peak Circle Walk. (Website: www.thepeak.com.hk)
- Hong Kong Disneyland - A magical escape with thrilling rides and parades. (Website: www.hongkongdisneyland.com)
- Temple Street Night Market - A bustling bazaar for trinkets and street food.
- Where to Stay:
- The Kowloon Hotel - Central, modern, and near Tsim Sha Tsui’s action. (Approx. $120-$180/night, book via www.thekowloonhotel.com)
- Where to Eat:
- Lunch: Tim Ho Wan - Dim sum heaven with Michelin-starred quality at budget prices. (Approx. $10-$20/person)
- Dinner: Under Bridge Spicy Crab - Feast on typhoon shelter-style crab in Causeway Bay. (Approx. $25-$40/person)
- What to Do:
- Group: Day trip to Disneyland with the group for rollercoasters and character meet-and-greets.
- On Your Own: Explore Mong Kok’s Ladies’ Market or take a Star Ferry ride across the harbor.
- What to Expect:
- Fast-paced and crowded, with excellent public transport (MTR). English is widely spoken. March weather is mild but can be foggy.
- Nightlife and Fun:
- Catch the Symphony of Lights at 8 PM from Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, then head to Lan Kwai Fong for rooftop bars and clubs.
Day 3: Lantau Island
Explore Lantau Island’s Big Buddha and Ngong Ping Village, a serene contrast to the city’s hustle.
Day 4: Taiwan (Taipei) - The Island of Night Markets
Taipei 101 pierces the sky like a bamboo shoot of steel and glass, a towering icon that defines Taiwan’s capital and promises an unrivaled view of its sprawling beauty. Once the world’s tallest building, this architectural marvel blends traditional Chinese design with modern engineering, its observation deck on the 89th floor offering a 360-degree vista of Taipei’s urban tapestry and distant mountains. The ascent in one of the fastest elevators on Earth is a thrill in itself, but it’s the moment you step out—greeted by a city pulsing with life below—that truly captures Taipei’s dynamic spirit.
- What to See:
- Taipei 101 - Ascend for views and shop at its luxury mall. (Website: www.taipei-101.com.tw)
- Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall - A grand tribute with gardens and changing of the guard.
- Shilin Night Market - A foodie paradise with stinky tofu and bubble tea.
- Where to Stay:
- CitizenM Taipei North Gate - Stylish, affordable, and near Taipei Main Station. (Approx. $100-$150/night, book via www.citizenm.com)
- Where to Eat:
- Lunch: Din Tai Fung - World-famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). (Approx. $15-$25/person)
- Dinner: Raohe Night Market - Sample beef noodle soup and grilled squid. (Approx. $5-$15/person)
- What to Do:
- Group: Guided tour of Taipei 101 and the National Palace Museum.
- On Your Own: Hike Elephant Mountain for a sunset view of the skyline or visit Ximending for shopping.
- What to Expect:
- Friendly locals, efficient MRT system, and a mix of urban and natural beauty. Mandarin is predominant, but English signage helps. March is pleasant but rainy.
- Nightlife and Fun:
- Explore Ximending’s neon-lit streets, karaoke lounges, and craft beer bars, or catch a performance at Taipei Eye.
Day 5: Jiufen (old town charm),
Day 6: Taroko Gorge (stunning marble cliffs)
ravel Logistics and Safety Travel Safety Macao: Low crime rate, but beware pickpockets in crowded areas like casinos. Hong Kong: Generally safe; stay aware during protests or crowded markets. Taiwan: Very safe, with minimal crime; watch for typhoons in spring. Important Phone Numbers Emergency (All Regions): 999 (Macao/Hong Kong), 110 (Taiwan for police), 119 (Taiwan for fire/ambulance) Police: Macao: +853 2857 3333, Hong Kong: +852 2527 1212, Taipei: +886 2 2321 1110 U.S. Embassy: Macao/Hong Kong: +852 2523 9011, Taipei: +886 2 2162 2000 Money, Credit Cards, and Exchanges Macao: Uses Macanese Pataca (MOP), but Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) are widely accepted. Exchange at banks or casinos. Credit cards are common. Hong Kong: HKD only. ATMs are plentiful; cards are widely used. Taiwan: New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). Exchange at airports or banks; cards accepted in cities, less so in rural areas. Internet and Cell Phone Options Macao: Free Wi-Fi at tourist spots; rent a pocket Wi-Fi or buy a local SIM (e.g., CTM). Hong Kong: Excellent free Wi-Fi; SIM cards from 7-Eleven (e.g., CSL). Taiwan: Free Wi-Fi via iTaiwan; affordable SIMs at airports (e.g., Chunghwa Telecom).
Tour Location
Travel Logistics and Safety
Travel Safety
- Japan is one of the world’s safest countries, with low crime rates. Still, watch for pickpockets in crowded areas like Shibuya or Dotonbori.
- Natural disasters (earthquakes, typhoons) are possible—download the Safety Tips app for alerts.
- Follow local etiquette: no loud talking on trains, queue orderly, and respect sacred sites.
Important Phone Numbers
- Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 110 or 119
- Tourist Information (JNTO): +81-3-3201-3331
Money and Credit Cards
- Currency: Japanese Yen (¥). Exchange rates fluctuate; as of March 13, 2025, ~¥150 = $1 USD.
- Cash is King: Many small shops and rural areas don’t accept cards. ATMs at 7-Eleven or Japan Post are reliable for withdrawals.
- Credit Cards: Widely accepted in cities at hotels, big restaurants, and stores. Visa/Mastercard are safest bets.
Internet and Cell Phone Options
- Pocket Wi-Fi: Rent from providers like Ninja WiFi or Japan Travel SIM (~$5-$10/day) at airports. Essential for Google Maps and Translate.
- SIM Cards: Buy at Bic Camera or airports (e.g., Mobal, Sakura Mobile). ¥3000-¥5000 for 7 days with data.
- Free Wi-Fi: Spotty—available at Starbucks, stations, and some hotels, but often requires registration.
Police and Embassy Phone Numbers
- Police: 110
- U.S. Embassy (Tokyo): +81-3-3224-5000
- U.K. Embassy (Tokyo): +81-3-5211-1100
- Australian Embassy (Tokyo): +81-3-5232-4111
- Check your country’s embassy website for local numbers.