Call 0330 880 3600 Calls may be monitored or recorded. Opening Times.
- TRAVEL INSURANCE
- COVID-19 ENHANCED COVER
- More Options
- Help & Advice
- Existing Customers
Call 0330 880 3600 Calls may be monitored or recorded. Opening Times.
Need help?
UK Customer Services0330 880 3600*
Open Monday to Friday 9:00am to 6pm, Saturday 8:30am to 4pm and closed Sundays.
*Calls are recorded for training and quality purposes.
Official name: Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China
Capital city: Macao (administrative region, no capital)
Languages spoken: Cantonese, Portuguese, Mandarin, English
Population: Around 700,000
Currency: Macanese pataca (MOP)
Time zone: GMT+8
Driving side: Left
Climate: Subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters; typhoons can occur between May and October
Macao SAR, often called the "Las Vegas of the East," is known for its glittering casinos, Portuguese colonial heritage, and a fusion of Chinese and Western cultures. As a Special Administrative Region of China, it retains a high degree of autonomy in many areas, including legal and financial systems. Beyond the casinos, visitors can explore UNESCO-listed historic sites, colourful festivals, and a rich food culture blending Cantonese and Portuguese influences.
Macao is a small territory on the southern coast of China, bordering Guangdong Province and facing the South China Sea. It consists of a peninsula and two main islands, Taipa and Coloane, which are now connected by reclaimed land forming the Cotai Strip. Its terrain is mostly flat and urbanised, with green hills on Coloane providing contrast to the cityscape.
Macao is easily reached via ferry from Hong Kong, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, or flights into Macao International Airport. The region has efficient public transport, including buses and taxis, though walking is often the best way to explore the compact city centre. Free hotel shuttle buses also connect major attractions and casinos.
UK citizens can enter Macao visa-free for up to 6 months. Many other nationalities also enjoy visa-free entry, while those requiring a visa can usually obtain one on arrival. As Macao is a Special Administrative Region, consular assistance for British nationals is provided by the British Consulate-General in Hong Kong.
The Macanese pataca (MOP) is the official currency, though Hong Kong dollars are also widely accepted at a fixed exchange rate. Credit cards are commonly used in hotels, casinos, and large restaurants, but cash is preferred in smaller shops and markets. ATMs are widely available throughout the territory.
Healthcare in Macao is generally of a good standard, with both public and private hospitals available. Emergency services are reliable, but treatment may be costly for non-residents, so travel insurance with health cover is essential. Tap water is treated but not always recommended for drinking – bottled water is advised.
Get travel insurance
Single trip travel insurance Annual multi-trip travel insurance Pre-existing medical conditions Compare travel insuranceSubscribe to our newsletter
For discounts, competitions, news, tips & more.
