Macao: magnetic Chinese hub with multiple charms

ALLURE OF DIVERSE CULTURES

Both Almeida and Costa were impressed by Macao's cultural diversity. "I've met people from various cultural backgrounds, which was a delightful surprise," Almeida said. "There's always someone ready to help, which has made my time here truly enjoyable."

As a historical city where Chinese and Western cultures meet, Macao displays a unique charm that belongs to a culture typical of southern China, yet with a distinctive European touch.

Since the mid-16th century, Macao has served as a vital bridge that has facilitated the exchange of knowledge between East and West, said Wu Zhiliang, who has spent decades studying the city's history and culture.

The historic center of Macao, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to one of the earliest and most enduring encounters between China and the West.

This rich cultural synthesis is embodied by landmarks like the Ruins of St. Paul's, whose facade integrates Eastern elements, such as Chinese inscriptions and lion motifs, into its design. Nearby, the Na Tcha Temple -- a tribute to the legendary figure Ne Zha, a demon-slaying hero depicted in the 16th-century Chinese classic "Journey to the West" -- underscores the harmonious coexistence of Eastern and Western traditions.

Macao's cultural allure extends beyond its iconic churches and temples. "Here, civilizations and cultures don't clash but coexist and understand one another, reflecting the traditional Chinese ideal of harmony in diversity," Wu explained.

This blend is perhaps most evident in Macao's culinary tapestry. Over the centuries, the city has preserved the cuisines of different nations while crafting new flavors through creative fusion. Macanese cuisine, one of the world's first fusion foods, marries Chinese and Portuguese cooking techniques and ingredients. It also incorporates spices and seasonings from regions along the ancient Maritime Silk Road, such as curry and coconut milk, creating dishes with a rich historical and cultural depth.

Pedro Miguel Manhao Sou, a local resident whose mother runs a restaurant specializing in Macanese cuisine, recalled his childhood as being filled with a colorful mix of cultures and flavors.

"My grandfather used to run a noodle stall, and after school, we'd pick our favorite side dishes there. In the evenings, we'd enjoy the Macanese dishes my mother cooked at home. This was our life," he said. "My family celebrates both the Spring Festival and Christmas."

Today, Macao is one of the safest and wealthiest places in the world, renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurants, famous Portuguese egg tarts, and vibrant street food stalls. Its rich culinary heritage has not only attracted food lovers from around the globe but also earned international recognition.

In 2017, Macao was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. More recently, in June 2024, the city was designated a Culture City of East Asia as part of a program initiated by China, Japan and the Republic of Korea to promote cultural exchange and collaboration.

With its growing global reputation, Macao has seen a surge in visitors. By December 7, 2024, the city had welcomed over 32 million tourists -- a 26 percent increase compared to the same period last year, according to official data.

Jose Chan Rodrigues, a Macao resident with Portuguese ancestry, views the city as a bridge that fosters a deeper understanding of China. As one of Macao's cultural ambassadors, Rodrigues highlights the city's unique appeal: Macao offers travelers nearly everything they seek, from cultural blend to culinary experience, all wrapped in a coastal city of 33 square kilometers.

"That," he added, "is the allure of Macao for the world."