So, this is how it feels to wake up in Macau. In our specific case, the crack of dawn revealed two exciting views outside our window. To the left is the colossal Macau Tower, which I’ve visited in my first trip. At 1,109 feet, it’s the region’s tallest man-made structure and it practically hovers over our vicinity. And, across a tiny portion of the South China Sea to the right is Zhuhai, the closest I’ll be to Mainland China for now. They may not be part of the itinerary, but I’m glad they’re there to greet us each day. 

Much as it’s my third visit, I feel I’ve yet to fully imbibe the place. 2009 was essentially an impromptu detour, which prompted Mom to hire a tour guide on standby. At four hours, it was my shortest stay in any territory yet – a record eventually equalled by Denmark 19 years later.

2015 with Marga, on the other hand, was relatively more planned, though it was still technically a side trip. The main difference was that actually we had time for a sit-down meal and even Sunday mass. That visit lasted eight hours. 

Yet, despite the near-impulsive nature of the first two trips, something in the former Portuguese colony felt like home. I couldn’t quite process it then. But one thing’s for sure: I’m thankful I get to spend more time now. 

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One thing I’ve observed, now that I’ve spent morning here, is that the city wakes up late. Case in point, it was almost 11:00AM, but 95% of the stores in Rua de Felicidade were still closed. So much for brunch plans. Given its proximity to our hotel, though, it wasn’t wasted effort. Its reputation as a former red light district turned hip spot still made the traditional Chinese street, more than a worthy detour. Another piquant note is that a scene in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom was shot there. 

After settling for a few photo-ops, we continued our stroll. 

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Whenever you’re on the peninsular side, all roads will always lead to the St. Paul’s Ruins. It’s like their center of gravity. It’s futile to resist the pull, even if it’s the closest they have to a tourist trap. And, true enough, it was conspicuously crowded for a weekday, with the casual tourists even out-numbering the tour groups. Still, even with only the facade left standing, the structure will always be a sight to behold. And, with more time on our hands, we got to appreciate every angle.

As Mom and Tita Anna sat down for coffee I utilized the time exploring the quaint side streets, including the visually eye-popping alleyway, Calcada do Amparo. 

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After visiting the Neo-classical wonder that is St. Anthony’s Church, it was a long arduous walk back to Senado Square, which was as busy as I remembered it a decade ago. Mom and Tita continued their vigil in St. Dominic’s Church, which was teeming non-Catholic sightseers. Some preliminary retail therapy ensued, until hunger finally caught up. It then dawned on us. It was two hours past lunch.