Indonesia

Indonesia is a tourist's delight. There are number of places to see in Indonesia. These include the capital city of Jakarta, beach resorts of Bali and Lombok, and the wonderful islands of Java, Sumatra and Kalimantan. As Indonesia is a tropical country and one of the last remnants of tropical rainforests on the earth, it is home to rich flora and fauna and hence a major attraction for nature lovers.

Important places to visit :

Jakarta
The capital of Indonesia, is the largest city in Indonesia. The city has all the modern amenities. But in its quest for modernization the city has not forgotten its past and has carefully preserved its rich cultural heritage. Apart from the skyscrapers, colonial structures built by European powers form an integral part of Jakarta's skyline. 

It is the main gateway to Indonesia. In recent years, Jakarta has expanded its facilities for visitors with multi-star luxury hotels, fine restaurants, exciting nightlife and modern shopping centers. Food is quite cheap in Jakarta and is available in great variety. 

Top attractions in Jakarta :
The National Monument

Kalimantan
Formerly known as Borneo, Kalimantan is the world's second largest island. The North and northwestern part of the island are the East Malaysian state of Serawak and Sabah, with the newly independent state of Brunei Darusalam between them. The rest of the island is part of Indonesia, divided into four provinces - East Kalimantan, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan and South Kalimantan. 

Top attractions in Kalimantan :
Derawan Island, Bontang, Pontianak, Gunning Palung National Park and Nature Reserve, Palangkaraya, Sampit

Lombok
Though less developed than Bali, in recent years Lombok has given Bali a run for its money in the realm of tourism. Lombok has wonderful beaches, volcano and varied landscape. It is an ideal place for those looking for a private holiday away from the hustle and bustle of a normal tourist spot. 

Top attractions in Lombok :
Gili Islands, Kuta, Museum Negeri Nusa Tenggara Barat, Pura Lingsar, Taman Narmada, Rinjani, Senggigi

Sulawesi Island
Formerly known as Celebes, Sulawesi is shaped like a tropical orchid. It is Indonesia's third-largest island with an area of 172,000 square km. The island of Sulawesi is divided into the provinces of North Sulawesi, South Sulawesi and Southeast Sulawesi. Sulawesi has great topographical variety-spectacular mountains, scenic coastline, lakes, rice and dense jungles-and offer wonderful opportunities for travelers. 

Top attractions in Sulawesi Island :
Manado, Bunaken Sea Garden, Manado Tua Island, Kendari, Moramo Waterfall, Moramo Bay

Sumatra Island
Sumatra is a complete tourist destination-sunny beaches, rich flora and fauna, large rivers and great history. Sumatra has the richest wildlife in Indonesia and hence it is known as "Africa of Asia". It is full of tropical rainforests and if you are a wildlife lover then Sumatra is the ideal place for you. Trekking is another option that you can opt for in Sumatra. Sumatra attracts fewer tourists than its neighbors like Java and Bali. So if you are looking for a quiet holiday away from maddening crowds then Sumatra fits the bill perfectly. 

Top attractions in Sumatra Island :
Medan, Berastagi, Lake Toba, Danau Ranau, Aceh

Israel

Israel is a beautiful country and a great place to visit. The country has marvelous old cities, good beaches and plenty of culture, history and holy places... and really good food.  Israel is bordered by Egypt in the south, Lebanon in the North and Jordan and Syria in the East.

Important places to visit :

Masada
Situated in the Judean Desert and overlooking the Dead Sea is one of Israel's most popular tourist attractions, the mountaintop fortress of Masada (sometimes spelled Massada). This enduring symbol of Jewish history is the site of the heroic defiance by 967 Jewish Zealots who rose against the Roman Empire in 66 AD and took their own lives when defeat seemed inevitable. A cable car ride or hike up the Snake Path takes one to the top where breathtaking views can be enjoyed over the Dead Sea and the surrounding desert.  The Masada Sound and Light  Show recounts this dramatic history with special  pyrotechnic effects, and takes place in a natural amphitheater on the west side of the mountain reachable only from Arad.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the holiest Christian site in Jerusalem, the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial and resurrection. First constructed in 335 by Emperor Constantine, persistent damage has been inflicted on the structure over the centuries and subsequent repair work has been undertaken by the religious communities that administer it. The Church contains the Chapel of Golgotha and three Stations of the Cross where Jesus was crucified, and the Sepulchre itself marks the place of his burial and resurrection.


Temple Mount (Al-Haram al-Sharif)
Temple Mount, known by some as Mount Moriah, is a site of tremendous religious importance to Muslims, Jews and Christians alike. It is one of Jerusalem's most famous landmarks and can be found within the walled section of the Old City. The glinting golden dome of the Dome of the Rock rises impressively from Jerusalem's skyline and has become the city's most distinguishable feature. Temple Mount is of Jewish and Christian historical importance on two accounts: the large rock is believed to be the place where Abraham offered his son Isaac up for sacrifice, and the First Temple is the place where the Ark of the Covenant was housed. Even though off limits to Jews today, it is still the focal point of Jewish life and Jews worldwide face the Temple Mount during prayer. For Muslims the same rock is the place from which Muhammad, in a dream, ascended to heaven. In commemoration the Dome of the Rock was built over the site in the 7th century. It is known to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary or Al-Haram al-Sharif, and is one of the three most important sites in Islam. Also located on the Temple Mount are theAl Aqsa Mosque and the Islamic Museum, which houses a collection of Korans and Islamic relics.

The Israel Museum
The Israel Museum has achieved world-class status with its remarkable collections spanning prehistoric archaeology to contemporary art. These include displays of archaeology from the Holy Land, a comprehensive compilation of Judaica and ethnology of Jewish people, and a fine art collection encompassing the Old Masters to renowned contemporary works. Perhaps the most famous exhibit are the Dead Sea Scrolls, they date from the 3rd century BC to the 1st century AD, and were unearthed in 1947. Numerous temporary exhibitions, publications and educational activities form part of the museum's cultural program and over 950,000 visitors are drawn to this vast complex each year. Another great attraction of the Museum is its Art Garden that was designed by the Japanese-American sculptor, Isamu Noguchi. It is a fusion of Zen landscaping incorporating the natural vegetation of the area such as rosemary bushes, olive and fig trees. Displayed within this picturesque setting are the famous sculptures of Rodin, Bourdelle, Maillol, David Smith, Henry Moore, Richard Serra, Sol LeWitt and James Turrell.

The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea and its immediate environment is a landscape abundant with natural wonders. Most notable of these is the high salt and mineral concentration found in the waters that enable visitors to float effortlessly on its salty surface. The therapeutic properties of the black mud found in the region are formed by a mixture of sea minerals and organic elements. For a completely rejuvenating experience several Dead Sea spa resorts offer a range of health and beauty treatments, and the opportunity to float in the saltiest body of water in the world, and the lowest place on earth. The Ein Gedi Spa is on the western shore. Equally fascinating are the archaeological sites of the Dead Sea region with traces remaining of Persian, Greek, Roman and other civilizations. Notable historical locations include the notorious biblical city of Sodom that was destroyed along with Gomorra. Salt pillars emerge from this eight-mile (12km) geological ridge in the southern part of the Dead Sea.

Hamat Tiberias National Park
The 17 springs of Hamat Tiberias flow from a source that stretches 33ft (10m) below the ground. Its therapeutic powers have been used since ancient times to cure various ailments. The Hamat Tiberias synagogue, built between 337 and 286 BC, contains the oldest surviving mosaic floor in Israel. The central mosaic is a beautifully preserved design representing a large zodiac with Helios at its center guiding his celestial chariot in the direction of the sun.

Nazareth
Nazareth is one of the most important Christian holy sites attracting pilgrims from all over the world to its parts. It was here that Jesus spent most of his life and it was here that the Miracle of the Annunciation took place. Nazareth is home to both Christians and Muslims (the largest Arab population left in Israel) and is a quaint amalgamation of red roofs and white churches dotted along the slopes of the Galilean hillside. Breathtaking views can be enjoyed from the summit, which looks out onto the Jezreel Valley. The Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth is one of the most important sites in the Christian world, constructed over the location of the Annunciation. The walls of the upper sanctuary are decorated with panels depicting scenes from the life of Mary that have been donated by Catholic communities from around the world. The nearby Church of St Joseph houses the remains of Crusader bas-reliefs, capitals and inscriptions found during the Church's construction. The Synagogue Church in Nazareth is thought to have been built over the site where Jesus preached and read of the coming of the Messiah. The Mosque Quarter is an interesting area comprising an elegant mosque within the central market area. The Turkish-style edifice was constructed in 1812 and today belongs to the wealthy Fahoum family.

Japan

Japan is an island nation that is located in East Asia. Japan is sometimes known as “The Land of the Rising Sun” and even though its history goes back for thousands of years and they retain a lot of their ancient culture, they are also headliners in some of the most modern technology, fashions and trends.

Japan is a country that offers the tourist exotic beauty and marvelous attractions. Anyone who makes the trip should have the vacation of a lifetime.   Unfortunately, Japan is one country where the language barrier does make travel very difficult for the English-speaking visitor.  Traveling in Japan takes more effort than traveling in Europe but we think you will find that the rewards are more than worth the effort.

Important places to visit & Things to do

Mount Fuji
apan’s highest mountain (3776 meters, 12,377’) is unquestionably the country’s most iconic natural landmark. Photographed in all seasons from all angles, its near perfect cone is climbed by one quarter million people yearly, usually during the months of July and August. Its high visibility and traffic is partially owed to its proximity to the Kanto, or the plain surrounding Tokyo. However the best time to view the mountain is in the winter months when visibility is best. Considered one of the three holy mountains in Japan, along with Tateyama and Hakusan, there is understandably a collection of shrines on the crater rim. Since many people climb the mountain hiking trails and facilities are well established and there is a considerable amount of development on the mountain. The meteorological station marks the high point of the mountain and the country. Popular hiking routes to the summit are Gotemba, Fujinomiya, and Kawaguchiko. All of the trails have ten stations each, which are situated strategically to offer refreshments, lodging, and facilities for the hikers and tourists alike. Most hikers start from the 5th station/s, which are located between 6,000’ – 7,000’ and have access by paved roads. However, Mount Fuji lacks train access. If you are interested in climbing and don’t have a POV the best way to get there is by catching one of the many Fuji-bound buses departing from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo during the months of July and August. Fuji, a strato-, or composite volcano, last erupted in 1708 and is considered dormant.

Ginza, Tokyo
A UNESCO World Heritage Site it is not, but instead an unofficial shrine to Japan’s industry, technology, and material culture, if there is one. Ginza epitomizes Tokyo, if not Japan. It’s ground zero for neon, shopping, and as close to what Tokyo calls center, or downtown, for such a huge city. Within walking distance are the National Diet, the center of Japan’s government, and the Imperial Palace, a vast complex of buildings, which houses Japan’s Head of State, the Emperor of Japan and his administrative apparatus. Ginza is best experienced at night so you can view the electronic fireworks. There are so many interesting places in Tokyo and this is a logical place to orient yourself if you visit Japan’s largest city and capital.

Himeji Castle
Japan’s most famous castle and one of twelve that is in its original condition. Known as the “White Heron Castle”, it is one of the three most famous in the country, and the most visited. Its fame, not to mention its beauty, is perhaps why it was used as one of the locations for shooting the 007 film, You Only Live Twice (1967) starring Sean Connery. Located in Himeji, Hyogo prefecture, not far from Osaka, the castle is surrounded by pine and cheery trees, which make it especially scenic in the spring. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its original construction was between 1333-1346 with other expansions occurring in 1601-1608, a well-known period for castle building in Japan. Not without coincidence it was during this time period when warlords fought for control of the country.

Bomb Dome, Hiroshima
The Bomb Dome has the dubious distinction of being almost directly under “Little Boy” when it detonated over Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The remains of the Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall have, ever since, come to be known as the Bomb Dome, or Genbaku Domu. Designed in 1916 by a Czech architect named Jan Letzel, the structure survived reasonably intact even though it was a mere 150 meters from the hypocenter. Today, it’s the centerpiece of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and consequently attracts thousands of people to the otherwise industrial city. It was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 although both the United States and China strongly objected. The museum has some very graphic photos of the aftereffects, which killed 70,000. Much debate continues today over the necessity of the bomb. The FDR and Truman administrations expended an incredible amount of time, money, and manpower into the development of the A-bomb, and some historians believe this weighed heavily on the decision to use it on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The Battle of Okinawa gave further pause to the U.S. military and the planned land invasion of Japan because of the tremendous loss of military and civilians estimated at 120,000.

Kamakura
The outdoor Daibustu is, alongside Miyajima’s “floating torii”, the best known monument in Japan. Kamakura is close to Tokyo, even closer to Yokohama, so day trips from the Kanto are easy. Known as the Great Buddha it was once housed in a building that was destroyed by a typhoon in the 15th century. For the curious, the statue is 13.35 meters (44 feet) high and weighs 93 tons. The first mention of the bronze statue dates to 1252. Now hoards of tourists come to get their photos taken in front of the Daibutsu and the many edible (and rotten) offerings left at its foot. The city has a long history and perhaps that’s why the Daibutsu stands. Although the Daibutsu gives Kamakura its deserved recognition the city’s historical record is long and rich. It is no accident that a period in Japanese history is named the Kamakura period (1185-1333), which marked the beginning of the shogunate established in the city. The city is also famous for Nichiren Buddhism, found by the Japanese monk Nichiren (1222-1282) and sometimes associated with radicalism. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto
It is best known as the Golden Pavilion and it said to be Japan’s most visited site and its beauty, accented by surrounding pine trees and ponds, is remarkable. The Temple of the Golden Pavilion’s history dates to 1397 and it is affiliated with Zen Buddhism. The one you look at today dates to 1955 thanks to a radical Buddhist monk who burned it down in 1950. Despite its relatively recent date, it still draws crowds of the camera-ready Japanese who become frenzied with picture taking. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is however only one of many historic and cultural sites in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital. A trip to Kyoto would not be complete without visiting Heian shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo castle, To-ji, and of course the less spectacular Ginkaku-ji, or the Silver Temple Pavilion. There’s much more too as the city has 17 places designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Most date from between the 10th and 19th centuries. The incidence of many prewar buildings in Kyoto is because the city was largely sparred as a bombing target in WWII.

Matsumoto Castle
Construction started in 1504 and the castle eventually was nicknamed the “Crow Castle” because of its resemblance of that bird with outstretched wings. It remains one of twelve castles in Japan that have survived reasonably intact of any major structural damage other than routine repair since the Meiji Restoration began in 1868. Its fame is further enhanced by the well deserved designation as one of the three finest in Japan along with Himeji (see above), and Kumamoto Castle. What makes it unique is the water-filled moat, something the other two do not have. Following the Meiji Restoration the Castle was slated to be demolished but locals, led by a school principal, managed to save it from destruction by land developers. Still the outer castle was demolished and what remains is the beautiful keep. Some of the gates have been rebuilt as have many other castles across Japan that once stood during the long period of shogunate, or warlord, rule. The castle is considered a National Treasure of Japan and it does not belie such a designation. Located away from the coastal area, Matsumoto is as far inland as you can get in Japan and it remains a gateway to the Kita Alps. The Kaichi gakko (school) in Matsumoto is also worth seeing and is located close to the castle. Modeled after western school buildings with a central cupola adjoined by two wings, it looks out of place in Japan, yet it was built in the 1870s.

Miyajima
The “floating torii” is arguably Japan’s most iconic man-made landmark along with Kamakura’s Daibutsu. Often featured on JTB http://www.jtbusa.com/ posters, this monument symbolizes Japan, but is actually a small part of a complex of shrines on Miyajima, which translates to the “Island of Shrines” for good reason. Located close to Hiroshima in the Inland Sea, the island is more formally known as Itsukushima (StrictIsland) and, like Nara, has a population of resident deer that are ready for handouts, too skittish to pet, and leave droppings everywhere. Of course many come to photograph the torii (shrine gate) built in 1874, although one has stood in the water for the last seven centuries. At low-tide it actually sits on a mud flat. Still, the island has played host to other shrines as early as the 6th century since the island is a holy Shinto site. Take your time and allow a day. Adjacent to the torii is the five story pagoda built in 1407 and Senjokaku Hall (c. 1587). Although there is a ropeway to the top of Mount Misen (535 meters, 1755’) hiking to the top of this mountain along one of the paths is suggested because of the virgin timber stands. The torii and shrine have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nikko
Nikko is a long day trip from Tokyo, but possible if you take the shinkansen, or high-speed rail, which stops in Utsunomiya 35 km to the east. Set in the mountains, the town has a number of famous shrines and temples that make it well worth the visit. Against a backdrop of mountains, beautiful forests, and rocky, wooded, ravines with fast flowing streams the temples and shrines are perfectly set in their natural background. The town essentially developed around the temples, the first said to have started in 766. Among the most famous are the Toshogu Shrine, founded in 1617, with its ornamental gate and Three Wise Monkeys. The Shrine is set among giant cryptomeria trees, a relative of the cedar. The Futarasan Shrine, founded in 767, is at the base of Nantai-san, a sacred mountain popular with hikers. Nearby is the beautiful SacredBridge which spans a brook. Finally there is the Rinno-ji, a complex of Buddhist temples, with its beautiful ornamental wood work, established in 766. All three are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Besides the shrines and temples there is the nature of Nikko: Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls, one of the three highest in Japan, which drains the aforementioned lake. The mountains are breathtaking and rise abruptly from the town. Watch for the monkeys on the winding road that leads up to the lake. The Japanese Macaque can often be seen foraging along the road.

Todai-ji Hall, Nara
Nara is not to be missed by any visitor to Japan. It’s Japan’s oldest capital and traditionally ranks as its first city. Founded in the 8th century, Nara’s best known monument is Todai-ji Hall, the world’s largest wooden building. It’s hard to get a sense of scale until you stand beneath it. Inside are the gigantic Daibutsu (Buddha) and other humungous statues. A number of buildings have stood on the site and the latest dates from 1709; one two-thirds the size of the building that preceded it, which was destroyed by fire. Todai-ji Hall incidentally is also the center of Kegon Buddhism in Japan. There are other interesting sites in Nara as well and some archaeological foundations of the ancient city. Also of interest are the skittish deer that inhabit the city and wander the streets looking for handouts.

Laos

Laos has one of the most pristine natural landscapes in Southeast Asia, home to an extremely diverse animal kingdom from leopards and sun bears in the north to the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins of the far south. Theravada Buddhism is a dominant presence in Lao culture and an inherent feature of daily life, while Lao cuisine reveals its twin influences of the spicy dishes of Northeast Thailand and the bakeries of France. Follow the Mekong past the World Heritage Sights of Luang Prabang and Wat Phou, the mysterious Plain of Jars and the capital Vientiane to the "four thousand islands" of Si Phan Don to fully appreciate the world?s latest must-see destination

Important places to visit :

Luang Prabang
Ancient capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom Luang Prabang is the jewel of Laos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. This ancient royal city is surrounded by mountains at the junction of the Mekong and its tributary, the Nam Khan. Mount Phousi stands in the centre of the city with stunning views of the surrounding temples and hills. This is a city not to be missed!

Wat Phu
Meaning ‘Mountain Temple’ Wat Phu is an incredible UNESCO protected Khmer temple site that dates back to the 5th century. Travellers in southern Laos should not miss the opportunity to explore what is a remote site with amazing views. Wat Phu sits at the foot of a holy mountain, Phu Kao, in southern Laos, and is the oldest historical site of worship in the country with a history dating back some 1,500 years.

Plain of Jars
One of Asia’s most mysterious ancient attractions the Plain of Jars sites spread out around the newly rebuilt town of Phonsavan and make for Laos’s most enigmatic tourist draw. Legends surround the hundreds of jars and a visit will quickly reveal that, like Stonehenge and other prehistoric sites, their original purpose can still only be guessed at.

Vientiane
It’s been called Asia biggest village – a bit of a simplification, but it does reflect the quiet nature of the city that is Laos’ capital. Set on the banks of the Mekong Vientiane is the hub for all travel in the country and is a city full of surprises. Take a look behind the tree-lined boulevards and likely as not you’ll find fields of rice and vegetables, colonial mansions mixing with stunning golden temples and French loaves as popular as noodles!

Lebanon

Lebanon is quite unique and unlike any other Middle Eastern country. With 250 kilometres of Mediterranean coastline, and two ranges of beautiful snowcapped mountains, it is strategically located at the crossroads of 3 continents. Lebanon is the destination for any tourist seeking: breath-taking views of nature, majestic historical and archaeological sites, a mixed and a vibrant culture, and the best nighlife in the world, along with an exquisite cuisine and a unique experience all around.

Important places to visit :

Baalbek
Baalbek is to Lebanon what Palmyra is to Syria, being one of the most important and impressive ancient sites, dating back to the Roman ages. The site, which is on the Unesco World Heritage List is just a few hours by minibus from Beirut, in the north of the Bekaa Valley and if you really have little time, you can visit it as a daytrip. But this is hardly enough to experience the massive site. You need at least a full day to truly get to know Baalbek, so staying in the modern town with the same name is advisable. Getting there from Bsharri and the Chedars is more expensive and in winter the road is even closed.

Cedar Reserve
Near the town of Bsharri is the Cedar Reserve, one of the few remaing forests with cedars, the national symbol of the country which is also used in the national flag. The town and reserve are easily reached from the coastal city of Tripoli and can be done as a daytrip, although staying in the town itself with beautiful views and a nice relaxing atmosphere is much better. Visiting the reserve in winter is even better when the snowcapped mountains and trees are even more stunning. The Cedar Reserve is located in the ancient Qadisha Valley and are placed on the UNESCO list.

Ancient cities
Lebanon has several of the longest inhabited towns and cities in the world, including Byblos and Sidon. Both can be visited as an easy daytrip from the capital Beirut. Byblos is an ancient phoenician city and on the UNESCO World Heritage list. and is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Sidon is about an hour south of the capital and with its old souq and seaside fortress is equally good to visit.

Wineries
You won't believe it till you try it, but Lebanon has very good wines and the area around Zahlé in the Bekaa Valley is particularly good to visit if you like to do som winery tours. Several of those are just outside the town and can be reached on foot if you don't mind some walking. You will taste several good white and red wines and tours are both in English and French.

Beirut
A visit to Lebanon without visiting the capital is a shame, as the Paris of the East as it used to be called is still a very fine city, albeit not very safe since recently. The new centre, the boulevard and the Green Line with several demolished buildings still to find there are great and the nightlife is suprisingly active as well. Read more in the Beirut article.

Macau

Macau is a fabulous travel destination in the world where east meets the west. Macau travel guide is a concoction of the polity, history and society of two celebrated cultures. A jewel among the famed isles of the world, Macau, China, Asia offers a scintillating experience on your Macau tour.

Macau Travel ensures our journey through the land of dragon once nourished by the Portuguese colonial masters. The terra firma is Chinese. Even the vox populi is utterly Chinese. But the culture is imbibed in the ethnicity of the Portugal. What a splendid mixture? The history and geography have keenly remodeled the isle. Your Macau tour is sure to be amusing amid serene places and population enthusiast with bonhomie for the tourists. Museums in Macau, Forts in Macau, Macau Amusement Parks and Festivals in Macau are enthralling enough to attract tourists.

Important places to visit :

A-Ma Temple
The striking A-Ma Temple was built over 500 years ago and is dedicated to the Goddess of the sea, A-Ma or Tin Hau. Built before the arrival of the Portuguese, the name Macau was taken from the word A-Ma. At the main entrance of the temple is a large boulder with an engraved ‘lorcha’ or traditional Chinese sailing vessel.

Leal Senado
Located in the Largo do Senado or Senate Square on its southern side is the Leal Senado or Senate Building. This beautiful building is a magnificent piece of Portuguese architecture built around neo-classical lines and has a paneled Senate Chamber, a 16th century library and an interior courtyard decorated in classic Portuguese ‘azulejo’ tiling. The area around the Leal Senado also has a number of churches including the 17th century Sao Domingos Church which is home to the image of Our Lady of Fatima, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful and interesting churches in Macau.

Guia Fort
Located close to the Lou Lim Ioc Gardens atop Guia Hill is the Guia Fort. This fort sits on the Macau peninsula’s highest point and is topped by a chapel and one of the oldest lighthouses on the Chinese coast built in 1865. A long walk to the top, visitors can go up by cable car ride. A visit to this fort provides stunning and panoramic views of the entire surrounding Macau area.

Lou Lim Ioc Gardens
Of the many gardens in Macau, the Lou Lim Ioc Gardens are exceptionally beautiful and is definitely worth a visit. This Chinese-styled garden has been landscaped to resemble a Chinese painting with its ornamental pathways surrounding an ornately arched mansion. With both European and Chinese plants planted here, this garden has a variety of lotus ponds, pavilions, groves and grottoes. A shady retreat amidst the city, this garden and its mansion once belong to the wealthy Lou family which has now become a school.

Kun Iam Temple
One of the most interesting Buddhist temples in Macau, the Kun Iam Temple was built by Buddhist monks in 1627. An active temple with many visitors, Kun Iam is also a historic site as the first trade and friendship treaty between the US and China was signed here in 1844.

Ruinas De Igreja São Paulo/ Ruins Of St. Paul’s
Built in 1602, this church was one of the grandest Catholic churches ever built in the East. Destroyed by a fire in 1835, only the façade of this Jesuit church now remains. Built by the early Japanese Christian exiles, St. Paul’s is a reminder of Macau’s glorious past. Upon closer inspection of the building’s façade, its stone detail incorporates the fundamentals of Christian faith and Chinese characters and symbols representative of Japan. A spectacular sight when lit up at night, the Ruinas de Sao Paulo is a must see when in Macau. There is a museum in the cathedral's former nave, which houses a piece of St. Francis Xavier's arm bone and the tomb belonging to the cathedral's builder, Father Alessandro Valignano.

Sun Yat Sen Memorial Home
Sun Yat Sen Memorial Home is a Moorish-style house that pays homage to the founder of the Chinese Republic. It is said that Sun Yat Sen practiced medicine in Macau for several years before turning to revolution. The memorial home houses an assortment of old flags, photos and relics of Sun Yat Sen.

Taipa House Museum
Sitting along the Taipa seafront are five Portuguese colonial houses that overlook the ocean. Renovated and restored, these architecturally beautiful buildings were once the home of aristocratic Portuguese but have become the Taipa House Museum. With an art gallery, an amphitheatre, this museum also displays the early and recent history of Macau, Taipa and Coloane under Portuguese.

Coloane Island
It is said that Coloane was a pirate island until 1910, however nowadays it is the perfect retreat for golfers, hikers and beach lovers. Providing an atmosphere of old Macau with its narrow lanes, sheds and temples, Coloane Island is also home to The Chapel of St Francis Xavier, the former home of the saint’s relic now housed in Sao Paulo Museum. With two beautiful beaches complete with a yacht club, this island also has some great hiking trails that lead to the top of a 176m mountain topped with a statue of A-Ma.