Opulence in Macau

I am not sure that freeloading from a friend who gets “free” rooms and such qualifies as thrift butI can tell you it qualifies as minimalist. Everything is provided here. Not being much of a ‘resort traveler’ this ‘all inclusiveness’ is a difficult but pleasant experience. The fanciness and opulence here at The Parisian is incredible. There are some 30+ hotel-casinos in Macau each with 2000-4000 rooms and all the luxury you can enjoy. My friend’s willingness to share his spoils with me is fantastic and makes for a very cheap few days. 

There are free shuttles most everywhere and the main square is much like being in Portugal. The highlight being the iconic Ruinsof St Paul’s. The island originally being developed by the Portuguese more than a hundred years ago. As always people watching is free and so long as you are not staring rudely people don’t mind. In Macau, as in the rest of Hong Kong, I am a real minority. I am usually the only white person wherever I go. Even as a minority my priveledge follows me. Everyone is kind and helpful. So blessed. Now days, the island is ‘owned’ by American, Japanese, Chinese and Hong Kong tycoons. The overall feel is pretty surreal. If ever you get the opportunity, visit Macau!