Christmas in Macau
Hop on a ferry to our sister SAR for an easy escape during the festive season.
What’s a sure-fire way to get the hell outta town when everyone else is fleeing to warmer climes on trips they planned months in advance? Make a beeline for Macau, of course. It’s cheap, convenient and there’s as much hoopla about the holidays there as there is here. Sure, Senado Square gets all prettified, but there’s more to do than just ooh and ahh at the lights. We’ve rounded up where to find the best Yuletide food, festivities, culture and more. And if you you want to stay the night, we’ve got you covered, too.
EAT, drink and be merry
From high tea to molecular cocktails, there’s celebratory fare for everyone in Macau.
Voulez-Vous Manger Avec Moi?
Feast like a bon vivant at the Sofitel’s two gourmet restaurants, Mistral and Privé, which are aiming to impress with a Christmas spread a la française. Mistral is where you can dine buffet-style on French classics such as terrine, foie gras, cheeses and escargot (among others), while Privé is ideal for an intimate gathering to savor traditional fare with a modern twist. For a decadent holiday afternoon, there’s also a seasonal high tea set ($298 for two). Sip on perfectly brewed Ronnefeld teas and nibble on macarons and heavenly French pastries—all served with a glass of sparkling wine—in the hotel’s glittering lobby.
Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16, Rua do Visconde Paco de Arcos, (+853) 8861-0016.
Their First Christmas
Part of the new Sands Cotai Central mega-complex, Macau’s largest hotel is celebrating its first Christmas in business with holiday food specials for every taste. Throughout the month of December, guests can delight in festive afternoon tea sets at Palms, Italian “mama”-style buffets at Bene, Macanese fare at market-style restaurant Feast and an Asian twist on holiday fare at Xin. A definite highlight is Xin’s roast turkey prepared in Peking duck-style, and gourmet seafood hotpot.
Sheraton Macao Hotel, Sands Cotai Central, Cotai, (+853) 2880-2000.