Gone are the days when tourists in Asia had to endure long flights to experience the charm of the UK’s Big Ben or capture a photo of London’s iconic red double-decker buses. Now, they can have the same encounters right in Macao, known as the Asian version of Las Vegas.
Recently, the grand opening ceremony of The Londoner Macao, a luxurious British-themed casino resort situated in the Chinese gambling hub, took place, graced by none other than English football sensation David Beckham. He expressed his excitement about bringing elements of Italy, France, and England to Macao, a Chinese special administrative region.
This latest addition to Macao’s collection of upscale casino resorts along the Cotai Strip not only showcases a commitment to excellence but also offers visitors a captivating fusion of cultures.
The Londoner Macao, owned by Las Vegas Sands, has been operational for two years, but due to strict Covid-19 restrictions and travel regulations, its official opening was delayed. With a staggering investment of $2 billion, this resort has meticulously recreated famous landmarks from the UK, including the Palace of Westminster, 10 Downing Street, and the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain.
In addition, the Cotai Strip, an enchanting promenade adorned with hotel casinos, shopping centers, and theaters, serves as the location for Las Vegas Sands’ portfolio of properties, which includes The Venetian Macao, The Parisian Macao, Sands Macao, and The Plaza Macao & Four Seasons Hotel Macao. These establishments also feature replicas of renowned European attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower and Venice’s grand canal.
According to Robert Goldstein, the CEO of Las Vegas Sands, The Londoner Macao offers unparalleled hotel rooms, spa experiences, and culinary delights. He proudly states that the resort is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality, with rooms that rival the best in the world.
One of the most captivating features of The Londoner Macao is the “Changing of the Guard entertainment extravaganza,” a spectacle inspired by the renowned ceremony at Buckingham Palace. This mesmerizing performance takes place six days a week and involves over 20 dancers and musicians.
Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in a taste of London by indulging in an Alice in Wonderland-themed afternoon tea or embarking on a virtual tour in a classic black cab, guided by Beckham himself, as he showcases his favorite spots in the city.
While Macao has long been associated with its vibrant casinos, it has transcended its gambling-centric identity and expanded its offerings. Goldstein highlights that two decades ago, people in Hong Kong would have never imagined Macao as a destination encompassing retail outlets, restaurants, spas, conventions, and hotels.
However, today Macao’s growth is undeniable, transforming it into a dominant and vital market. Casino operators in Macao have collectively invested approximately $15 billion over the next decade to diversify the region’s reliance on gambling and elevate its stature as an international tourist destination.
Goldstein commends the government’s focus on fostering tourism growth, acknowledging the significant role played by non-gaming amenities in attracting visitors.
The opening of The Londoner Macao has brought a touch of British allure to Macao’s vibrant Cotai Strip. The fusion of diverse cultures and the unwavering commitment to quality embodied by The Londoner Macao epitomize Macao’s transformation into a global tourist destination that appeals to a wide array of travelers.
