Although its population is primarily ethnic Chinese, Macau—because it was a Portuguese territory for so long—has a distinctly Mediterranean flavor: a languorous pace with balconied pastel buildings and open pracas, or squares. Over the years it has grown considerably to transform itself into a tourist mecca, both in its European flair and its massive casino hotels that give it a pseudo-Atlantic City vibe.
After centuries of administration by Portugal, Macau was returned to Chinese sovereignty in 1999. China has promised 50 years of noninterference in Macau's economic and social systems. A relaxation of visa requirements has helped Macau to see a gigantic boost in tourism from mainland China. This has measurably fueled the economy.
On weekends and holidays, Macau is filled to capacity with Hong Kong residents, who visit for the gambling and the slower, more relaxed pace of life. Increased tourism from both China and the greater region keeps hotels busy, with the conference business particularly robust. Macau is about 35 mi/60 km west of Hong Kong.
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