Centro Escolar University-Malolos

Km. 44 McArthur Highway, Malolos City, Bulacan

PRTM 123
Global Culture and Tourism Geography
Hongkong, Taiwan, Macau

Presented by:

Adrian Arvie Arcega

Mariejoy D. Bagalso
Audree Margarette Chan
Charlie DL. Cruz
Aliah Galedo
Louize Adrianne Mabaga
Kristine Rose C. Pascual
Ma. Louise Nicole S. Rabino

Submitted To:

Mr. Mareon Genovia

September 30, 2023
 Hong Kong

Hong Kong culture welcomes you to a nightlife full of spirits, diverse

civilization, amazing traditional temples, and mouth-watering cuisines. If you are
someone who is scared of heights, apologize to tell you that Hong Kong is
claimed to have one of the highest numbers of skyscrapers in the world due to its
attractions such as high-rise buildings and mountain terrains. Besides those things,
are you a shopaholic? One of Hong Kong people’s lifestyles is to explore a
paradise of shopaholics.
Characteristics of Hong Kong

Social Characteristics
They are a mix of Han Cantonese (Traditional ethnic culture of
southeastern China), British, and many more Western cultures. People in Hong
Kong tend to be worldly-wise and multiracial which is why they are
knowledgeable about different countries.

Hong Kong Chinese are people who take business seriously, they tend to
build relationships with people who have a perspective with long-term goals on
business. They often notice insubordinations of people’s minds in terms of
business for the sake of their business deals.

Cultural Characteristics
Hong Kong culture is a fusion of the traditional Han Cantonese ethnic
culture of southeastern China and British and Western culture generally. Hong
Kongers are becoming more and more affected by mainland Chinese culture.
They have a sophisticated culture that blends Confucian and British ethics and are
well-versed in global affairs. Hong Kong culture is essentially the culture of the
native Chinese born there throughout the 22 years following the return to Chinese
rule or when Britain was in control. Their distinct Western/Eastern fusion culture
has formed over the past 150 years of British rule thanks to the influence of
foreign media, daily interactions with foreigners in Hong Kong and abroad, and
the fact that many people traveled for commerce, work, and education.
 ● Traditional Values
The traditional Asian traits that still dominate life in Hong Kong, such as
the concept of "face," balance out the city's contemporary and Western features.
This trait characterizes a person's reputation, influence, dignity, and honor and is
present in most Asian cultures. You offer someone a face by praising them,
treating them with respect, or doing something to boost their self-esteem. People
can also lose face and gain, save, or build face. To maintain their sense of
self-worth and how they are perceived by their peers, people in Hong Kong
typically act purposefully and with restraint. People tend to act conservatively
because they do not want to draw attention to themselves or risk looking foolish.

Hong Kong has also been significantly influenced by Confucianism.

Advocating the idea that connections between individuals should be unequal but
with clearly defined hierarchical positions (for example, ruler and subject,
husband and wife, father and son) highlights the significance of healthy human
interactions. It is believed that when this inherent inequality is understood and
embraced, it is simpler to preserve peaceful, stable relationships between people
and within society. However, because of their time under colonial control, Hong
Kong residents are arguably more affected by Western concepts like freedom of
expression, the rule of law, and democracy.

In Hong Kong, age dictates the levels of respect, and 'filial piety'
emphasizes the significance of age. It is a fundamental Confucian principle that
calls for absolute respect and loyalty for parents and elders. Sometimes, it entails
blind submission to elders, such as conceding arguments so they win. Filial piety
is historically defined as reverence for one's ancestors, and in Hong Kong, many
people frequently participate in rites or rituals where they light incense to worship
their ancestors.
 Compared to Western societies, Hong Kong is more collectivistic. People
frequently believe they are part of a group rather than being independent actors.
These groups often demand a high degree of loyalty since they reflect or
ultimately define who their members are. For instance, even when they contradict,
the group's interests typically take precedence over the individuals. In addition,
group members anticipate being treated better than non-members of the group. A
person receives a sense of togetherness, safety, and belonging in exchange for
their loyalty.

● Language
The most popular dialect is Cantonese. With the 'literate and trilingual'
policy established by the local government since the city's return to China in
1997, Cantonese, Chinese Mandarin, and English are spoken languages; Chinese
and English are considered the official languages.

● Religious Beliefs
In the region, people practice Taoism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and
other religions. There are many Buddhist and Taoist temples in particular. Many
people adhere to the Taoist theory of Feng Shui, or "Wind and Water." It is a
method of geomantic divination that has been practiced for three thousand years
and teaches people how to live in harmony with the forces of nature and change to
succeed and be happy. Feng Shui principles are deeply ingrained in Hong Kong's
culture and architecture. Many buildings are designed with consideration for these
principles, and Feng Shui masters are often consulted in business and personal
matters.
 ● Food
Hong Kong, the culinary capital of Asia, is home to various regional and
international specialties. Some of the delicacies there combine the flavors of
Chinese and Western cuisine because the city is inspired by Western nations.
Tourists can enjoy the dim sum, noodle, and Cantonese eateries that locals like to
experience and enjoy the traditional culinary culture.

Political Characteristics
Hong Kong is known as the Special Administrative Region or SAR of the
country, China. Hong Kong has never been claimed as an electoral democracy and
even if there were a lot of proposed advocacies regarding their separation from
China, it has never been approved nor there is no any legal basis. Hong Kong has
never been an independent country and has always been a part of China based on
its history.

Hong Kong Basic Laws were progressed by the Chinese National People’s
Congress, which applied by 1997 and became the constitutional document in
Hong Kong.

Environmental Characteristics
Hong Kong experiences a hot, muggy, and wet season from May to
September and a very moderate, mostly dry winter season from December to
February. Hong Kong's remarkable biodiversity is a benefit of both its location
and prudent resource management. Despite its reputation as a small metropolitan
area, Hong Kong offers more than 1,000 kilometers of untamed coastline,
mountain ranges, and national parks. It is, therefore, not surprising that it is home
to a diverse array of fauna. Its biodiversity is higher than usual for a small area
since it lies where the tropics and the temperate zone meet. Here, there are over
3,300 plant species, 55 terrestrial mammal species, 115 amphibian and reptile
species, 194 freshwater fish species, over 130 dragonfly species, and about 245
butterfly species. In addition, Hong Kong is home to one-third of all the bird
species in China, with over 570 species reported. However, Hong Kong has put a
lot of effort into urbanization and land reclamation to make room for the city's
already dense and expanding population. One of Hong Kong's rising
environmental problems is land development, which includes illegal rubbish
dumping and deforestation. This had a substantial negative influence on the
region's biodiversity and way of life.

Other Environmental Issues in Hong Kong

1. Outdoor Air Pollution

Air pollution is one of the main environmental problems in Hong Kong.
Chronic exposure to high levels of air pollution can lead to serious health issues,
such as an increased risk of cancer, chronic diseases, and infections of the
respiratory system.

Sources of air pollution in Hong Kong include fossil fuel-powered cars

and regional smog, which is brought on by pollutants from mainland China and
local industrial power plants and maritime vessels.

2. Landfill Waste
Landfill garbage is one of the most evident environmental problems Hong
Kong is now dealing with. Approximately 4.17 million tonnes of solid waste are
disposed of in their landfills each year, and since the coronavirus pandemic, the
amount of plastic cutlery, single-use masks, and food takeaway boxes has
increased significantly.

3. Plastic Pollution
Hong Kong produced roughly 3.9 billion disposable food and drink
containers annually before the coronavirus outbreak. This amounts to every
Hongkonger receiving 180 disposal drinks and 170 takeout dinners. People rely
on takeout alternatives, and the number of plastic containers and cutlery used and
thrown away has increased as a result of eateries limiting business hours and
seating capacities during the pandemic.

4. Food Waste
Hong Kong has a reputation for offering a dazzling array of affordable
world cuisines, earning it the title of "international food paradise." This implies
that food waste is also prevalent in the city and is unquestionably one of Hong
Kong's largest environmental problems.

Tourists Activities in Hong Kong

● Marvel at Victoria Harbour via Hong Kong’s Star Ferry

Spread across the South China Sea, Victoria Harbour is one of the city's
prominent tourist destinations. It divides the Kowloon Peninsula from Hong Kong
Island in the south. The urban environment provides beautiful views of the city
skyline, and visitors frequently flock to its nightly multimedia light show, "A
Symphony of Lights," which begins at 8 p.m. Benefit from boarding the cruises,
which provide detailed commentary on the harbor.
 Take a trip on the Hong Kong Star Ferry to see Victoria Harbour's
beautiful scenery. One of Hong Kong's most affordable and pleasurable modes of
transportation is the ferry. It transports passengers between Kowloon and Hong
Kong Island across the harbor.

● Enjoy thrilling rides at Ocean Park

Thanks to its exhilarating rides and animal habitats, Ocean Park is one of
Hong Kong's greatest theme parks. The Summit and The Waterfront, connected
by a 1.5-kilometer cable car system, and the Ocean Express Funicular Railway,
are the two main sections of the area.

The two zones are further divided into eight sections: Aqua City, Amazing
Asian Animals, Whiskers Harbour, Marine World, Thrill Mountain, Adventure
Land, Polar Adventure, and the Rainforest in the Summit. In addition to enjoying
the rides, visitors may observe playful animals, including sea lions, dolphins, and
penguins.

● Hike to Dragon’s Back for some thrill and adventure

One of the most well-liked hiking routes along the southern coast is called
Dragon's Back. spread between Shek O Peak and Wam Cham Shan. Beautiful
views of Tai Tam, Shek O, and Big Wave Bay are promised by the hike. The
7-kilometer stretch is perfect for people who want to enjoy nature's abundance
because it may be finished in 2 to 3 hours.

● Go on a shopping spree at Temple Street Night Market

The market caters to tourists and locals, with eager merchants offering
anything from clothes, home goods, cheap jewelry, purses, toys, watches, and
more. The busy street is also home to fortune tellers and feng shui specialists. In
some cases, there may also be a Cantonese opera performance.

● Experience utopia at Hong Kong Disneyland

Disneyland, situated on Lantau Island, is the largest theme park in Hong
Kong and the second largest in all of Asia. The colorful parade, exhilarating
adventure rides, and tours will undoubtedly make one of the most fun day trips.
The many theme parks, like Adventureland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Mystic
Point, and others, provide magnificent experiences for all adrenaline seekers.

Unique Attractions in Hong Kong

Common Attractions are Hongkong Disneyland, Ocean Park, Kowloon
Walled City Park, Sky 100 Observation Deck, and Wong Tai Sin Temple

● Tian Tan Buddha

The large bronze statue was finished in 1993. This statue is located in
Ngong Ping, Lantau Island.
● Victoria Peak
Victoria Peak offers an incredible view of the city’s iconic skyline, this
peak is also known as Mount Austin or The Peak and this is the tallest hill in
Hong Kong with a height of 552 meters or 1,811 feet.
● Ngong Ping 360
This offers a cable car ride from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping for tourists to
see the 360 sceneries. This is one of the longest aerial cable cars in Asia.
● Avenue of Stars
This was modeled on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Avenue of Stars
is located in Tsim Sha Tsui, along the harbor of Victoria. This is to give honor to
the celebrities of the film industry in Hong Kong.
 Taiwan

Taiwan, a Republic of China territory, is an East Asian Island in the

Western Pacific Ocean. With its beautiful and diverse metropolis, Taipei became
the capital of Taiwan in 1894. The East China Sea, the Philippine Sea, and the
Taiwan Strait surround it. Nearby nations include mainland China, Japan's islands,
and the Philippines. Like many other Asian countries, this country has a large
population and is highly developed in terms of economics, technology, and
transportation.
Characteristics of Taiwan

Social Characteristics

Taiwan had a population of 23,929,710 as of September 25, 2023,

according to the Worldometer. There are several cultural and ethnic groups in
Taiwan, which is why Taiwan is considered a multicultural society. The people in
Taiwan are divided into four ethnic or sub-ethnic groups, and these are the
aboriginal peoples, two groups of Taiwanese: Fukien Taiwanese (Fukienese,
Fujianese) or Hoklo, Hakka, and Chinese from mainland China who arrived in the
mid-1940s. Aboriginal people are assumed to be Taiwan's first inhabitants, though
this is not proven. Aboriginal people make up about 2% of Taiwan's current
population. Taiwan currently has 16 officially recognized indigenous tribes or
aboriginal people, which are as follows: Amis, Atayal, Paiwan, Bunun, Puyuma,
Rukai, Tsou, Saisiyat, Yami, Thao, Kavalan, Truku, Sakizaya, Sediq, Hla'alua,
and Kanakanavu. The Amis are the most famous and biggest group, accounting
for two-fifths of the Aboriginal population; the Paiwan, Atayal, and Bunun are the
next three largest groups, encompassing almost the remaining Aboriginal
population; and the Thao and Hla'alua, each with a few hundred members, are
regarded as the smallest Aboriginal groups. The second and third people in
Taiwan are the Hoklo, or Fukien Taiwanese, and Hakka. The Hoklo, or Fukien
Taiwanese, and Hakka first arrived on the island a thousand years ago, but most of
them migrated during the 14th and 17th centuries. The Hoklo originated from the
province of Fukien (Fujian), and they are the majority ethnic group in Taiwan,
comprising 65% of its population. On the other hand, the Hakka were from the
provinces of Kuangtung (Guandong) and Fukien. Today, the Hakka make up
around 15% of the entire population. The Chinese are the other people in Taiwan.
Taiwanese relations with the Chinese became complicated when they came in the
mid-1940s. Both of them had frequent disagreements and considered each other to
be rivals.

Cultural Characteristics

Like most other Asian cultures, Taiwanese culture is traditional and

conservative, but to a greater extent. The modern Taiwanese culture is a fusion of
Chinese, Austronesian, Japanese, and Western influences. Taiwan is
predominantly Chinese when it comes to its nature and origin, and as a result,
Taiwan is sometimes claimed to be more Chinese than China. Taiwanese culture,
however, has been shaped by traditional Japanese culture, which was more
clan-oriented and hierarchical. Taiwan's culture has also been tribe-oriented due to
the influence of aboriginal people.

● Taiwanese culture when it comes to family

Taiwanese people are extremely courteous and have an exceptionally

positive relationship with their parents. Taiwanese families are close to one
another. Most families in Taiwan are patriarchal and patrilineal-extended. Aside
from that, most Taiwanese individuals remain close to their parents even after
they marry.

● Taiwanese culture when it comes to cuisines

One of the best cuisines in the world is thought to be in Taiwan. Taiwanese

take great pride in their cuisine, and eating has become the heart of their culture.
Taiwanese believe that meals at home are a time for family bonding. When
visiting Taiwan, their bubble tea is something that you can never miss trying.
Bubble tea is a beverage made in Taiwan that combines tea, milk, and chewy
tapioca pearls. Bubble tea originated in T'ai-nan in the mid-1980s and spread
globally in the 2000s.

● Taiwanese culture when it comes to art

Taiwanese art culture has been shaped by aboriginal peoples, Chinese

culture brought by immigrants, Western colonialism, Chinese administration,
Japanese rule, and Westernization. Puppet shows, sculpture, and dance are
examples of Taiwanese art genres. Their traditional fine arts include calligraphy,
painting, and Chinese operas, which former Chinese President Chiang Kai-shek
favored.

● Taiwanese culture when it comes to festivals

Austronesian tribes who live on the island's west have long been exposed
to Chinese culture. Nonetheless, they've managed to preserve a significant portion
of their culture and see festivals as essential opportunities to show off their arts
and customs to tourists while also passing over their traditions to future
generations.

The Ear-Shooting festival is one of the most accessible and significant events for
Bunun people, and the festival is known as mala-ta-ngia in Bunun's tribe
language. This festival is celebrated in south Taiwan in late April or early May.
The members of the tribe shot at animal ears affixed to a post during this event,
and the festival got its name from displays of the tribe's archery abilities.

The Amis Harvest Festival in East Taiwan is a fantastic opportunity to see the
lives of Aboriginal people. After the rice crop has been harvested, each of the
Amis communities in Hualien and Taitung celebrates a festival that lasts three to
seven days. Members of Taiwan's largest aboriginal tribe show appreciation for
plentiful crops and seek the blessings of spirits and ancestors via songs and
dances. On the final evening, romance is in the air because this is one of the rare
occasions where girls are permitted to express interest in boys.

The Mgay Bari is the Truku tribe's largest yearly festival. The festival's primary
purpose used to be making sacrifices for their ancestors, but over the past ten
years, it has developed into a more general celebration of tribal culture. Truku
stories and legends are recreated through traditional songs and dances, making it a
captivating journey for music lovers.

Flying fish is a traditional food of tremendous cultural and nutritional

significance for the indigenous inhabitants of Orchid Island. Hand-built wooden
boats are used for fishing. Islanders began fishing in late spring after performing a
sacred act that they thought would attract the fish. Men sing, and women clap.
Black-flying fish are a particular favorite and reserved for special guests.

Political Characteristics

● History

Martial law was implemented in Taiwan from 1949 and 1987, during
which time it was ruled by the military for several years. Taiwan made the
transition to democracy at that time and throughout the 1990s, holding its first
direct presidential elections in 1996. Taiwan has two major parties, the
Kuomintang (KMT) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Since 1948, the
Kuomintang has mostly controlled Taiwan's politics which was led by the
president. The Democratic Progressive Party arose following the first presidential
election. By that point, Taiwan's politics are divided into blue and green.
Kuomintang is represented by blue, whereas the Democratic Progressive Party is
represented by green. The Kuomintang has an inclination to support the People's
Republic of China, but the Democratic Party of China does not.

● Current

When it comes to conducting fair elections and defending political rights,

Taiwan has received good recognition. Every four years, Taiwan has elections for
the president and the legislature; the following one will be in January 2024. The
most recent polls for prefecture magistrates and city mayors were conducted in
November 2022. The majority of the population supports democracy and
generally agrees with how the country's system is run in practice. However, its
democratic system has an impact on how politics is governed and makes forming
policies more difficult which means that the political system does poorly in terms
of performance.

Environmental Characteristics

● Climate

Except for the far southern region of the island, Taiwan's climate is
subtropical. Summers are hot and lengthy, lasting from April through October.
Winters are brief and warm; however, snow falls in the highlands and at lower
elevations in the north on occasion. The average annual high temperature on the
island is 70 °F (21 °C); altitude has a significant impact on temperature in the
winter but has little effect in the summer.
 ● Nature

Despite a human population that has expanded over the years and a major
growth in industry and agriculture, Taiwan remains a place of breathtaking
landscapes and lush forests. Over 58% of Taiwan is covered with some form of
wood or bamboo. Taiwan's environment is highly diversified. This country is also
home to 2,992 species of fish, 401 species of butterflies, 690 species of birds, 118
species of reptiles, 43 species of amphibians, 119 species of mammals, and 690
species of birds. It is easy for people to live in Taiwan and to construct their
homes because of the flat coastline. Additionally, it helps in the farming of rice,
which requires level and flat fields. Taiwan has a vast system of wetlands, there
are also 52 man-made wetlands, including an extensive one near Taipei's Dahan
River. The environment also makes it simple to cultivate a wide variety of tropical
fruit varieties. Many individuals work as fishermen or unload ships at the harbor
because they are located near the sea.

● Environmental Problems

The negative side of Taiwan’s environment is the harm caused by the

numerous kinds of dirty industries. Since the beginning of its rapid economic
expansion and urbanization processes, Taiwan has experienced a surge in garbage.
These wastes provide varied levels of hazard to human health because they
pollute land, water, and the air. However, democratization has produced both
possibilities and barriers for those whose interests are in environmental
conservation. Numerous agents and parties with widely divergent interests
prevent the establishment of an effective environmental control system.
Unique Attractions in Taiwan

● Houtong Cat Village

This village in Ruifang District, New Taipei started as a Mining Town, but
after it was closed, the younger citizens fled the town in pursuit of better futures.
After they departed the community, the number of stray cats grew, and those who
remained started feeding the cats. Not only cat lovers should visit Houtong
Village. Beautiful scenery may be seen all across the city. The town is divided in
half by the Keelung River, and some paths follow it, as well as hiking routes in
the nearby hills.

● Rainbow Family Village

This Village in Taichung, Taiwan is a highly well-liked tourist spot in

Taiwan, however, it is entirely abandoned. Younger people are most fond of the
location, not only because of the great Instagram photos they may take there but
also because of the interesting story that inspired the development of this
picturesque village. Huang Yung-Fu, a retired soldier, started painting the interior
of his house as a final act of love and remembrance for his beloved home and
community, as well as just to pass the time. It started as a few pieces of furniture.
The painting eventually moved to a wall and subsequently to his neighbors'
abandoned houses.

● Carton King Creative Park

The fanciful park in Taichung, Taiwan, is 1,600 square meters large and
perfect for anybody looking to spend a pleasant afternoon viewing well-known
constructions made of durable cardboard and dining in a restaurant where
everything is made of cardboard. Carton King's major goal is to teach people how
paper can be utilized extremely creatively, and there are virtually limitless options
when it comes to building anything out of paper.

Tourist Activities in Taiwan

● Baguashan Skywalk

This is a recommended walking route for tourists who are seeking leisure
and fitness. This skywalk passes through Changhua's wooded hills, providing
trekkers with spectacular views of the city. Along the skywalk, there are plaques
providing information in Mandarin and English on the flora, wildlife, and sights
that the people could discover.

● Paragliding in Taroko, Hualien

With a paraglider gliding above Taroko, tourists can see the beauty of
Taiwan's east coast and the beautiful Treasure Island. Located in the Sanzhan
district of Xincheng Township, Hualien. It is also near Taroko National Park,
Qixingtan Crescent Bay, and clear water cliffs, as well as Sanzhan Valley.

● Try the famous Chun Shui Tang Bubble Tea

Tourists should not skip out on drinking boba tea while in Taiwan. The
Chun Shui Tang Xinyi Branch, often known as the "birthplace of bubble tea," is a
notable tea house in Taiwan, with tourists saying it's almost a sin not to stop by
one of its 90 branches and have one of its bubble teas.
 Macau

Known as Asia's Las Vegas located on the Southern Coast of China, East
of Asia. It gained its fame because of what it can offer, Macau is proportionally
balanced with modernity and a rich cultural heritage. Here are the famous
activities that make tourists visit Macau.
Characteristics of Macau

Social Characteristics
Macau is a renowned region that has a relatively small population in
comparison to other regions and is highly filled with a diverse mix of ethnicities,
such as Chinese and Portuguese, which makes Macau have a rich mix of Chinese
and Portuguese culture. Macau is also a culturally diverse region as it is home to
numerous and various religious groups such as Buddhism, Taoism, and
Christianity. Notably, Macau is famous worldwide for its rich and thriving
entertainment as well as its tourism industry and is world-famous for its distinct
historic architecture in terms of its colonial-era buildings and temples.

Cultural Characteristics
● Historical Heritage: Macau has a rich history, with Portuguese
colonization that began in the 16th century and lasted until 1999 when it
was handed back to China. This colonial history is evident in its
architecture, cuisine, and culture.
● East Meets West: Macau is often referred to as the "Las Vegas of Asia"
due to its vibrant gaming industry. This blend of Eastern and Western
influences is also visible in its architecture, with Portuguese-style
buildings alongside Chinese temples and modern skyscrapers.
● Religious Diversity: Macau is home to a variety of religious beliefs,
including Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity (both Catholic and Protestant),
and other faiths. You can find temples, churches, and religious festivals
representing this diversity.
● Cuisine: Macau's food culture is a fusion of Chinese and Portuguese
flavors. Dishes like Portuguese egg tarts, Macanese-style curry, and pork
chop buns are popular and reflect this unique culinary heritage.
● Festivals: Macau celebrates a mix of Chinese and Portuguese festivals.
The Lunar New Year, Dragon Boat Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival are
celebrated alongside Portuguese-inspired events like the Macau
International Fireworks Display Contest.
● Language: Both Portuguese and Chinese (Cantonese) are the official
languages in Macau. However, Chinese (Cantonese) is more commonly
spoken daily, while Portuguese is mainly used for official documents and
some historical contexts.
● Art and Music: Macau has a thriving art scene, with numerous art
galleries and exhibitions. Traditional Chinese art, as well as contemporary
Western art, are appreciated. Macau also has a unique musical genre
known as "Fado," which is Portuguese folk music.
● Historical Sites: Macau boasts numerous historical sites, including the
Historic Centre of Macao, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It
includes well-preserved colonial-era buildings, fortresses, and churches.
● Gaming and Entertainment: Macau is a major hub for the gaming and
entertainment industry in Asia. Casinos, theaters, and nightclubs
contribute to its vibrant nightlife.
● Hospitality and Tourism: Tourism plays a significant role in Macau's
economy. The hospitality industry is well-developed, offering a wide
range of accommodations and entertainment options for visitors.
● Family and Tradition: Family values and traditions are highly regarded
in Macau, with many cultural practices rooted in Confucianism. Respect
for elders and strong family ties are important aspects of Macau's culture.
● Global Influence: As a global city, Macau hosts people from various
backgrounds and nationalities, contributing to its cosmopolitan
atmosphere.
These cultural characteristics make Macau a fascinating and culturally diverse
destination with a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. It's a place
where tradition and modernity coexist, making it a vibrant and dynamic region.

Political Characteristics
Macau operates under the "One Country, Two Systems" principle, which
is also similar to that of Hong Kong. This place has a high degree of autonomy in
its local affairs, especially in its legal and economic systems, and a low degree of
autonomy in foreign affairs and defense, as Macau is controlled and under the
control of the central Chinese government in Beijing.

Macau has its own government, which is led by its chief executive, and a
legal system that is highly based on Portuguese civil law traditions. The region
has its own currency, which is the Macanese pataca, and its political structure
encompasses a mixed electoral system for the Legislative Assembly, blending
direct and indirect elections.

Environmental Characteristics
● Limited Land Area: Macau is one of the most densely populated regions
in the world, and its land area is quite small, approximately 32.9 square
kilometers (12.7 square miles). This limited space poses challenges for
urban development and environmental conservation.
● Urbanization: Macau has experienced rapid urbanization and extensive
construction, particularly in the form of high-rise buildings, to
accommodate its growing population and tourism industry. This
urbanization has led to increased pressure on the environment.
● Coastal Location: Macau is situated along the southern coast of China,
with the Pearl River Delta to the west. Its coastal location makes it
vulnerable to issues like sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and typhoons.
● Natural Resource Constraints: Due to its small size and limited land
resources, Macau faces challenges related to securing natural resources
such as water, which has led to a dependence on imported water from
mainland China.
● Air Pollution: Like many densely populated urban areas, Macau faces air
pollution issues, primarily due to traffic congestion and industrial
activities. Efforts have been made to improve air quality through stricter
regulations and the promotion of cleaner transportation.
● Waste Management: Managing waste is a significant environmental
challenge in Macau. The high population density generates substantial
amounts of waste, and managing this waste in an environmentally
sustainable manner is a priority for the government.
● Biodiversity Conservation: While Macau's urban landscape dominates
much of the region, efforts have been made to conserve and restore
pockets of greenery and natural habitats. These include parks and nature
reserves where local flora and fauna can thrive.
● Water Quality: Water quality in Macau's rivers and coastal areas is a
concern due to pollution from industrial and urban sources. The
government has implemented measures to address water pollution and
promote sustainable water management.
● Climate Change: Macau is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change,
including rising sea levels, increased temperatures, and more frequent
extreme weather events like typhoons. Adaptation and mitigation efforts
are underway to address these challenges.
 ● Sustainable Development: In recent years, Macau has shown an
increasing commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.
Initiatives include green building standards, renewable energy projects,
and efforts to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable
transportation.
● Tourism Impact: The tourism industry, a major economic driver in
Macau, can have both positive and negative environmental impacts.
Managing tourism sustainably and minimizing its ecological footprint are
ongoing priorities.
It's important to note that, despite these environmental challenges, Macau
has made efforts to promote sustainability and address environmental
issues. Government policies, public awareness campaigns, and
international collaboration play a role in shaping the region's
environmental future.

Tourist Activities in Macau

● Bizarre Nightlife
Macau is named the “Gambling Capital of the World” or “Monte Carlo of
the East” However, Macau is underrated by Westerners. But, this small territory is
times bigger than Las Vegas as they surpassed “Sin City’s” revenue with yearly
gambling revenue.
● History and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Rarely talked about, but Macau was colonized by the Portuguese for 400
years and in 1999 it was turned over to China and then became a Special
Administrative Region (SAR). Here are some historical places to visit in Macau:
most visited on the list is the Ruins of St. Paul, if you can see the only remnants of
the church in the front due to the typhoon that hit Macau in 1835 that left the
building to its today’s form. Dom Pedro V Theatre, despite being built by the
Portuguese, used Chinese architecture for this building.
● Cuisine
Macau’s cuisine can be defined as a unique culinary scene, with a mix of
Chinese and Portuguese cuisine which are both known for their culinary
art.

Unique Attractions in Macau

Chinese are known for their grand celebrations of their festivals. However,
in Macau, their festival celebrations are a mix of Chinese and Portuguese culture.
They celebrate International Boat Races, the Macau Food Festival, the Parade
through Macau’s Latin City where it almost feels like Mardi Gras, and the Macau
Lotus Flower, if you noticed in the flag of Macau, the element there is the Lotus
Flower, they honor the Lotus Flower’s beauty throughout the City.
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