The ferry that departed from Hong Kong Sheung Wan arrived at the Macau Ferry Terminal on the Macau Peninsula. After concluding a 4-night, 5-day trip around Hong Kong, it was now time to continue the journey in Macau.
The beginning of the Macau journey starts with the immigration process. Although both Hong Kong and Macau are part of China, they operate under a “One Country, Two Systems” framework. Therefore, when traveling between the two, it is treated as visiting different countries, requiring a separate immigration process.
“Immigration at Macau Ferry Terminal”
Since I entered Macau by ferry from Hong Kong, the immigration process took place at the ferry terminal. The atmosphere at the Macau immigration area was noticeably different from that in Hong Kong.
Compared to the airport, the terminal was relatively smaller in scale, and there were fewer visitors in the immigration area, creating a quieter atmosphere. Additionally, the atmosphere had a somewhat more solemn tone.
“Portuguese, Chinese, and English Mix in Macau”
What stood out the most was the combination of unfamiliar languages. Unlike in Hong Kong, where English and Chinese are commonly used, in Macau, Portuguese and Chinese were mixed, which left a strong impression.
Moreover, there were well-dressed men in suits using Portuguese at the terminal. Their stature and their use of Portuguese were quite imposing, and it briefly made me wonder if it was worth coming here instead of staying in Hong Kong.
However, once the immigration process began, there were no significant difficulties, and I was able to complete it quickly.
“Portuguese Usage in Macau”
The reason Portuguese is used in Macau is simple. While Hong Kong was under British rule in the past, Macau was under Portuguese rule. As Hong Kong was returned to China, so was Macau.
Due to the current “One Country, Two Systems” regime, both regions are jointly governed by two or more governments within one country. It is expected that Macau will also be fully returned to China when Hong Kong completes its full return.
Because of this, Portuguese is mixed in with other languages in Macau. Both Guangdongese (a Chinese dialect) and Portuguese are used commonly. While English is not an official language, it is used to some extent, and you can also find signs in Korean at airports and terminals.
Thanks to this, at Macau Ferry Terminal, you can see signage in five languages: Chinese (Guangdongese), Portuguese, English, Korean, and Japanese.
“Moving from Macau Terminal to Hotels”
Upon exiting the Macau Terminal, you can proceed to the shuttle bus boarding area. Macau is known for providing complimentary shuttle buses from various hotels, even if you’re not staying at that specific hotel. (Scenes of boarding complimentary shuttle buses from Macau hotels were also featured in the drama ‘Boys Over Flowers’ from the past.)
To board the complimentary shuttle bus from Macau hotels, you need to go through the underground passageway. Before passing through the underground passageway, you might notice taxi drivers trying to solicit passengers. If you stand outside the terminal holding your luggage and looking at your phone, they will certainly approach and strike up a conversation.
While they may appear friendly, the prices they quote can vary greatly. Some may offer 200 Hong Kong dollars to take you to the hotel, while others may offer 100 Hong Kong dollars. In the end, I chose to use the complimentary shuttle bus instead of a taxi. If you’d rather avoid being approached by these individuals, it’s best to check the map inside the Macau Ferry Terminal in advance and head directly to your destination.
“Complimentary Shuttle Buses from Macau Hotels”
Large hotels in Macau provide complimentary shuttle bus services that operate continuously. As mentioned earlier, you can use these shuttle buses even if you’re not staying at the hotel.
After searching for the hotel shuttle bus route, simply board the shuttle bus closest to your chosen hotel. If you have luggage, place it in the designated area, and make sure to visit it before getting off.
I’ve compiled the shuttle bus routes for Macau hotels, and you can find information on the link below.
- Macau Complimentary Hotel Shuttle Bus Information: Macau Hotel Free Shuttle Bus Routes
Since many of the major hotels in Macau operate complimentary shuttle buses, it’s a good idea to check in advance and make the most of this economical travel option.
“Macau Peninsula, Ferry Terminal”
- Address: Macau, Largo do Terminal Maritimo
- Operating Hours: 24 hours