Mandarin Oriental Macau Hotel Review | The Beat Stays
Macau/ Nomads/ Explore

The Beat Stays: Mandarin Oriental Macau, Urban Retreat with Golden Service

The Beat Stays Mandarin Oriental Macau Urban Retreat with Golden Service

Mandarin Oriental, Macau is unique in the gaming-strong city of Macau, serving the classic Mandarin Oriental style of accommodation and service as the SAR's only five-star hotel not affiliated with a casino. Comparable to any other MO location, the Macau hotel strives for perfection.

Opening in June 2010, the Mandarin Oriental property trades a familiar aura and steadfast commitment to intimate comfort in line with the original mission of the Hong Kong brand. We ventured to stay at the Mandarin Oriental, Macau on a weeknight and indulge in all three F&B venues in 24 hours. Here are our thoughts.

Mandarin Oriental Macau Hotel Review | The Beat Stays

Venue & Neighbourhood

Sharing the limelight with the towering Grand Lisboa resort-casino north of Macau’s Nam Van Lake, Mandarin Oriental, Macau is a chic and contemporary urban retreat in the city. In lieu of hosting a casino at its property, Mandarin Oriental commits to supreme service, powerful food and beverage programmes, and homely rooms.

Mandarin Oriental’s Macau outpost shares an exclusive geographical setting on Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-sen, neighbouring the MGM Macau, Sands Macao, the Macau Cultural Centre, and Macau Science Center. A sunny day can produce magical views of Taipa and Zhuhai, while the night lights up with the mystical glow imposing on Cotai’s casino strip.

Mandarin Oriental Macau Hotel Review | The Beat Stays

The Room

At 43 square metres in size and boasting colourful views of Macau’s western neighbourhoods and towering Zhuhai business district, our Deluxe Lake View Room was fit for kings. Paired with a plump king bed and goose down bedding, the spacious room pits you against the Macau tower, high and almighty in your serene and decadent castle.

With deluxe rooms located between the 4th and 23rd floors, floor-to-ceiling windows allow exposure to the elements. Circle around to the walk-in shower and wardrobe, and you’re treated with a shut-off from the world with neat brown shades and oak walls maintaining your privacy from the world.

I was a fan of the vanity and bathroom, as the latter stands central in the room, allowing guests to circle in either direction to relax in the bath or prepare for a day in the wardrobe. I did not even have time to explore the TV channels. The bed and sheets hugged me so tight I was lights off in seconds!

Mandarin Oriental Macau Hotel Review | The Beat Stays

Amenities

In a gaming-heavy Macau, the casino-less Mandarin Oriental, Macau nurtures a compelling five-star identity with its handful of three powerful restaurants and bars and wellbeing facilities. Classic Mandarin Oriental treatments are available at the Spa. The Macanese Dragon is recommended, a two-hour and 15-minute treatment involving a deep body scrub with Mandarin Oriental’s signature body oil, followed by a steam shower and bath.

Dining at the Macau property is exquisite. Our three-course business lunch at the Vida Rica Restaurant was appetising and fused unique elements of the Mandarin story, tracing flavour elements from the West of Turkey to the far east of Japan.

The Vida Rica Bar offers Macau’s only cocktail-food pairing menu, an experimental discovery of the Silk Road through floral and herby cocktails, and paired nicely with Chinese and Western dishes.

Breakfast served at the Lobby Lounge was intimate and fared well for my British-style Mandarin Breakfast. However, the price of MOP238 was slightly higher than my expectations for the spread.

Mandarin Oriental Macau Hotel Review | The Beat Stays

Experiences

The Mandarin Oriental, Macau, is a hotel to host parties for dining, relaxation and stays, but is not central to retain your attention on the property 24/7. At its doorstep, a wealth of Macau’s colonial history is begging for discovery.

The hotel can organise private bookings for a two-hour pit stop UNESCO tour around the cities. Many UNESCO heritage sites, including the Dom Pedro V Theatre and Ruins of St. Paul’s, are priced at MOP600 per person. For MO Fans, enjoy the lights of Macau in a guided helicopter tour at night.

I don’t game on my journeys to Macau, but the hotel is linked with a passageway to neighbouring MGM Macau that hosts gaming tables in their casino hall, if your objective to the city is adventure.

Mandarin Oriental Macau Hotel Review | The Beat Stays

Check-Out Thoughts

Mandarin Oriental, Macau serves proof that an alternative experience to the gaming-heavy industry can be had and enjoyed supremely. Importing the classic hotelier experience from homebase Hong Kong, the Mandarin Oriental serves Macau with quintessential service, meals and cocktail experiences, and rooms that blend modern and the old.

The hotel should be your number one choice for experiences in Macau, away from gaming and towards experiencing the high standard of dining and architectural marvels in the city.

Where: Mandarin Oriental, Macau, N.◦945, Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen, Macau


Travelling across Asia soon? Check out more reviews of great hotels in the region in our The Beat Stays series.

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This Week's Events In Macau View more

This Week's Events In Macau

Macau/ Nomads/ Explore

Macau International Airport Has a New Lounge for Luxurious Travellers

Macau International Airport Has a New Lounge for Luxurious Travellers Photo by Plaza Premium Group

Macau International Airport is making travel more luxurious with the opening of its newest facility, the Plaza Premium First Lounge!

Located near the airport’s Departure Gate 10/10A, the new Plaza Premium First Lounge spans 5,000 square feet and features an elevated lounge concept. The lounge promises to give passengers a sophisticated experience with personalized services and exquisite dining options, Plaza Premium said on their website.

Here, guests can look forward to a carefully designed interior, equipped with comfortable lounge chairs, shower facilities, and televisions. For business travelers, it also features working spaces, charging stations, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Macau International Airport Plaza Premium Lounge Lobby
Photo by Plaza Premium Group

The lounge likewise serves made-to-order signature Macanese delicacies, such as the Portuguese egg tart, the classic pork chop bun, and Macanese-style Portuguese chicken, among other dishes. There is also a bar that serves various beverages, including cocktails, beers, and spirits.

“Plaza Premium First serves delicacies in Macao’s signature style, which is set to elevate travelers’ overall experience. Their remarkable services will support Macao’s tourism industry as it progresses towards greater diversity and sustainability,” said Cheng Wai Tong, Acting Director of Macao Government Tourism Office, in a press release.

Macau International Airport Plaza Premium Lounge Dining Area
Photo by Plaza Premium Group

This marks Plaza Premium Group’s fourth lounge in the Plaza Premium First collection, following those in Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta. It is also part of the group’s strategic expansion efforts and 10th anniversary in Macau.

Travelling to Macau? Drop by Plaza Premium First Lounge! To learn more or book your visit, head over to their website.

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Macau/ Nomads/ Explore

Macau's Fireworks Display Contest to Light Up the Skies This September

Macaus Fireworks Display Contest to Light Up the Skies This September Photo by Website/ Macao Government Tourism Office

Macau’s fireworks displays are one of the grandest. And if you’re looking to witness it for yourself, great news, because the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest will be making its return this year for its 32nd edition!

Following its postponement last weekend due to Super Typhoon Yagi, the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest has announced its continuation and will now be held on Sept. 14, 15, and 21, as well as on Oct. 1 and 6.

Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Event Poster
Photo by Macao Government Tourism Office

The contest will kick off with a vibrant fireworks display from Thailand and Canada’s teams on Sept. 14. Teams from Russia and France will continue the spectacle with their own displays on the following day, giving both locals and tourists dazzling fireworks shows for two nights in a row.

Meanwhile, the following dates will feature displays from Spain, the Philippines, China, Italy, Japan, and Portugal, which will last for about 18 minutes each. These displays will start from 9 PM to 9:40 PM on all nights.

Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Schedule
Photo by Macao Government Tourism Office

Aside from the fireworks display and contest, visitors can also look forward to a fun and vibrant Fireworks Carnival, which will be set up next to the waterfront of Macao Science Center from 5 PM to 11 PM.

According to the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), some of the best spots to see and experience these fireworks displays include the Kun Iam Ecumenical Centre to Leisure Area of Kun Iam Statue Waterfront on Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, Anim’Arte NAM VAN, Avenida de Sagres, Avenida do Oceano da Taipa, and the Macao Science Center waterfront, where sound systems will be installed.

MGTO is also advising the public to take note of temporary traffic measures and arrangements for metered parking and motorbike parking spaces during the contest. The agency also promises to monitor weather conditions and announce any adjustments necessary to the public as soon as possible.

The 32nd Macao International Fireworks Display Contest is also in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Macao SAR.

For more details about the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest, visit its website.

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Macau/ Nomads/ Explore

Win Round-Trip Tickets, Stays, & More With MGTO's 'Experience Macao'

Win Round Trip Tickets Accommodations More With Experience Macao Photo by Facebook/Visit Macao

Haven’t had your taste of Macao yet? Great news, travel junkies! The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) is holding its “Experience Macao Limited Edition” campaign, giving travelers a chance to discover the city with exclusive travel perks.

From today until Oct. 17, travelers are encouraged to participate in MGTO’s daily quiz via the campaign’s official website for a chance to win one of 100 prizes, which include round-trip tickets to Macau, accommodation in one of the city’s six major integrated resorts, adventure activities, Michelin-starred dining, and more.

MGTO 'Experience Macao Limited Edition' Campaign Poster
Photo by Macao Government Tourism Office

The quiz contains Macau-related questions, from trivia to general knowledge. The quiz will take place in three stages, which will determine the 100 winners.

One of the 100 winners will also get the “Ultimate Experience Macao Limited Edition Prize,” which consists of 30 days of free travel in Macau and exclusive privileges for major attractions, exciting performances, and unique hotel stays in Macau!

To top it off, Miyeon of K-Pop girl group (G)I-DLE will also be releasing a special collaboration single and music video, “Lovin’ My Stay,” in conjunction with the campaign. The music video will feature the singer’s experiences in the city.

Wait no more and take part in MGTO’s campaign now to win an exciting trip to Macau! For more information, follow Visit Macao’s Facebook and Instagram pages, or check out their website.

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Macau/ Nomads/ Explore

Melco Resorts & Entertainment Launches the First-Ever Dolby Cinema in Macau

Studio City Dolby Cinema Photo by Provided by/Melco Resorts & Entertainment

Immerse yourself in the ultimate cinema experience as the Studio City Cinema opens their doors to the first-ever Dolby Cinema in Macau and Hong Kong on June 26.

The cinema house will feature over 770 seats across nine halls, five of which are VIP suites with exclusively paired seating. The houses feature RealLaser 4K projection, with three houses supporting Dolby Atmos® for the most intimate and indulgent viewing experience.

Another highlight of the Cineplex is their Dolby Cinema with a 338-seat capacity – their biggest screening hall designed by Dolby. Here, guests can experience the best screen and sound quality as it combines the immersive sound of Dolby Atmos® and the remarkable picture of Dolby Vision®.

According to Melco Resorts & Entertainment’s Senior Vice President Mr. Kevin Benning, the new movie theatre destination will complement Studio City's collection of incredibly diverse and cosmopolitan contemporary leisure and lifestyle experiences.”

Some amenities to explore are the Studio City Water Park, the Golden Reel Ferris Wheel, and the Studio City Event Center. In a report by Macau Post Daily, they mentioned that the cinema is set to operate from 11 AM to 11 PM during weekdays, and 10 AM to 1 AM during weekends and public holidays.

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Macau/ Nomads/ Explore

Korean Air’s Daily Macau-Seoul Daily Flights Will Start Taking Off by July

Korean Air MAC ICN Daily Flights Photo by Facebook/Korean Air

Tick off a new destination on your bucket list and get ready to explore the beauty of Korean culture, whenever you want, as Korean Air launches a new daily service between Macau and Seoul starting July 1.

With 12 business class seats and 126 economy seats, the new flight will be operated in two Boeing 737-800 aircrafts. Operating daily, the flights going to Incheon International Airport will take off at 9:15 PM, landing by 11:55 PM. Meanwhile, flights flying to Macau International Airport will depart by 1:10 AM and arrive by 6 AM – approximately three hours and 40 minutes for each flight.

Whether you want to deep dive into their rich culture or just enjoy the nightlife in the city, you are sure to find new experiences in a beautiful country like South Korea. Likewise, more tourists can check out Macau’s interesting streets, historic buildings, and vibrant skyline and enjoy activities like night bus tours and fountain shows.

Dust off your passports and book your flights here.

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Macau/ Nomads/ Stay

Lek Hang Group Announces Soft Opening of the Historic Hotel Central

Lek Hang Group Announces Soft Opening of Hotel Central Photo by Lek Hang Group

Property development company Lek Hang Group has officially announced the soft opening of its flagship hotel at the Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, the historic Hotel Central.

The century-old hotel is opening its doors today, April 30, with a HK$2 billion investment by Lek Hang Group for its acquisition and revitalisation. It is situated beside some of Macau’s most iconic landmarks, like the Ruins of St. Paul's and The Senado Square.

Offering a total of 114 rooms, the revamped Hotel Central is intended to cater to the accommodation needs of different types of travellers. This includes six different types of rooms with different layouts and facilities.

Lek Hang Group's Hotel Central Interior Design Preview
Photo by Lek Hang Group

To pay homage to Macau’s vibrant culture and history, the hotel’s interior design, designed by Cheng Chung Design, is also incorporated with vintage objects personally handpicked by Lek Hang Group Chairman Simon Sio.

The hotel will also be home to the renowned restaurant Palace, which serves nostalgic Western fares, traditional dim sum, and many more.

In celebration of its soft opening, which coincides with the May Day holiday, Hotel Central is also offering a promotional package, with which guests can enjoy a two-night stay with complimentary breakfast for two and mini-bar access for as low as MOP788 per night.

To learn more about Hotel Central or book your stay, click here.

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Macau/ Nomads/ Explore

MGM Launches a Series of Events to Boost Barra’s Tourism

MGM Barra Photo by Provided by/MGM

In an effort to boost Barra’s cultural tourism through art, MGM has been organizing activities like art exhibitions, flower mixology workshops, and busking performances since the start of the year. Now, under the same concept of “Living Art in Style,” they held yet another exciting series of events for residents and tourists for the “The Barra ARTivation” last March 21.

MGM unveiled a beautiful 64-metre-long mural in front of Navy Yard No. 2 during the launch of the Barra District Revitalization Series. Co-created by local street artist AAFK and over 150 students and senior citizens, it takes on the “Colors of Macau” theme, featuring the city’s diverse cultures, backgrounds, and viewpoints.

As part of the launch, MGM also invited troupes from Shenzhen, Portugal, the UK, Spain, and Mozambique to perform for the 2024 Macao International Parade. They also invited floral designers to perform floral arrangements and share their flower knowledge with the participants, along with The Association of Macau Floral Culture which provided a floral art certificate course onsite.

There was also an exhibition co-organized by MGM and the Cultural Affairs Bureau (ICM) and co-hosted by the Macao Cultural Development Promotion Association that features historical photos related to the Barra district. Entitled, “Reminiscences of Barra: A Visual Journey Archives and Arts Exhibition.” it presented a visual journey through its development over time, allowing the public to gain a better understanding of the district's history through the lens of photographers.

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