Stepping out of my hotel, I made my way to the Praia Grande/Si Toi bus station. A quick ride on Bus 6A brought me to Calçada da Vitória, my stop for this much-anticipated adventure.

The Guia Fortress, the Chapel, and the Lighthouse

From the bus stop, I made my way toward Guia Fortress Ramp. The morning air was crisp, making the gentle “hike” feel effortless. Along the way, I passed several locals deep into their workout routines, adding a lively energy to the peaceful ascent.

At exactly 9 AM, the gates to the chapel and lighthouse opened to visitors. From the top, the city stretched beneath me, meeting the vast expanse of the sea in a breathtaking panorama. Beyond the stunning views, the fortress carried a weight of history, making the experience even more profound.

From a distance, I could see the iconic Grand Lisboa and the towering Macau Tower, both standing majestically against the skyline.

In the midst of my solo travel era, I found myself fumbling with my phone, trying to take a decent photo. Just then, a middle-aged woman seemed to notice my struggle. She walked up to me, eyes on my phone, and spoke in Chinese words I couldn’t even understand. But her warm smile and gestures said it all—she was offering to take my picture. Haha!

Built in the 17th century, Guia Fortress and its iconic lighthouse stand atop Guia Hill, Macau, as enduring symbols of the city’s rich history. From its ancient walls, visitors are treated to sweeping panoramic views of both the cityscape and the sea. Dedicated to Our Lady of Guia, the patron saint of sailors, this small chapel, originally built in 1622, is located at the top of Guia Hill in Macau. It serves as a place of worship and protection.

Notably, the lighthouse holds the distinction of being the oldest on the South China coast, its guiding light having safely led ships into the harbor for centuries.

Strangers at the Fortress: A Pinay Connection

After soaking in the views, I continued exploring the rest of the fortress. My curiosity led me to the Guia Cable Car, so I followed the signs toward its location.

As I neared the ticket office, I noticed two women in workout gear chatting in Tagalog. They were also planning to take the cable car. Unable to resist, I found myself eavesdropping on their conversation with the staff. One of them caught my eye, smiled, and asked, “Pinay ka?” (Are you Filipina?). I nodded, and she grinned before sharing some unexpected good news—the cable car ride was free that day.

Alicia’s friend hopped on the cable car first, giving us the perfect chance to ride together. There was something comforting about meeting a fellow Filipino in Macau—it instantly made my heart feel at home.

As the cable car glided forward, she excitedly shared that she had been working in Macau for almost a year. We bonded over our shared heritage, exchanging stories and laughter, until we stepped off the ride together, carrying with us a small but meaningful connection.

The cable car offered breathtaking views of the city below. From there, I could see the entire expanse of Macau and beyond.

I said goodbye to Alicia and hopped on the cable car once more, enjoying the short but scenic ride. Back at the fortress, I made my way down, step by step, until I reached the bus station I had been looking for. I waited for Bus 28C at Yuet Wah College to Fisherman’s Wharf. When the bus finally arrived, I boarded eagerly, ready to explore the famous waterfront destination.

Wandering Feet: A Stroll Through Fisherman’s Wharf

As the bus pulled away, I couldn’t help but admire the cityscape unfolding before me—grand structures like Sands Macau and the elegant Harbourview Hotel came into view, standing tall against the bustling streets. Upon arriving, I made my way toward Fisherman’s Wharf, where its unique architecture instantly caught my eye.

The grandeur of the place reminded me of Rome’s Colosseum, with its striking design and historical charm. Its Colosseum-inspired structure, part of a sprawling theme park-like complex, added a touch of old-world elegance. At its heart stood a Roman-style amphitheater, an open-air venue designed for concerts and performances, blending history with modern entertainment.

As I walked toward Sands Macau, I noticed a free shuttle bus ferrying passengers—mostly potential gamblers—to various hotels and casinos, including The Parisian, The Venetian, The Londoner, and more. Intrigued, I decided to hop off at The Parisian and explore the nearby hotels and casinos on foot.

Casino Hopping

Just to be clear—I’m not a gambler or a casino fanatic. I’m here purely for the sights and, of course, the photos!

The Parisian Macau is a luxurious hotel and casino, renowned for its stunning architecture and world-class amenities. Its most iconic feature? A breathtaking replica of the Eiffel Tower, making it a must-visit for anyone drawn to Parisian charm.

Not far away, The Venetian Macau stands as another grand attraction. Inspired by the beauty of Venice, Italy, it boasts an indoor canal where guests can enjoy gondola rides, along with an impressive lineup of entertainment and shopping options.

Meanwhile, The Londoner Macau brings a touch of Britain to the city. Its striking Big Ben replica, British-themed décor, and traditional English pubs transport visitors straight to the heart of London—all without leaving Macau.

On the bus on my way to the Parisian, another architectural marvel demanded my attention—the sprawling Galaxy Macau. From afar, its shimmering gold-tinted façade sparkled under the sun, almost like a mirage in the middle of the city. It’s a constellation of luxury under a single roof.

2025 Macau International Parade

I can’t quite recall which bus number I took back to Avenida Almeida Ribeiro that day, but one thing’s for sure—I got off earlier than planned. As I stepped off, a massive crowd caught my attention. Curiosity got the best of me, and since Senado Square was just a short walk away, I decided to check it out.

To my surprise, I had stumbled upon the 2025 Macau International Parade—a vibrant celebration of cultures and traditions from around the world. The energy was electric, the performances mesmerizing, and the streets came alive with a dazzling display of colors, music, and dance.

What started as a simple detour turned into one of the best decisions of the day. Sometimes, the most unexpected moments lead to the most unforgettable experiences.

*** At Capela de Nossa Senhora da Guia, I whispered my worries and burdens, seeking comfort and solace in the chapel’s peaceful embrace. In that quiet moment, I found relief in sharing my troubles with a higher power, hoping that, in time, the weight I carried would be lifted.***