Mandarin Oriental Macau could simply be pronounced ‘style’. There’s no casino here, simply first-rate beds and food to match in an exclusive location. One of the most exclusive hotels in Macau, Mandarin Oriental, Macau is a decidedly elegant five-star retreat. With a chic, contemporary design, fabulous restaurants and legendary service, it offers a sophisticated atmosphere, waterside setting and unbeatable luxury.
8 / 10
Location
On the fringe of downtown Macau the Mandarin overlooks the inner harbour and Nam Van lake. The seriously swish One Central mall is right next door.
8 / 10
Style & character
The hotel is shaped like a ship, with her bow pointed south toward the harbour. Rather than a grand lobby with soaring columns, there’s a modest entrance from whence new arrivals are whisked discreetly upstairs. Fellow guests are likely to be on a business trip, taking a relaxed holiday from mainland China or Hong Kong, or indulging in a spa break rather than trying to cram everything into a three-night, two-day gambling and guzzling spree.
9 / 10
Service & facilities
What first struck me about the staff, and continues to do so, is their natural confidence. Courteous, humorous, assured, utterly professional, yet never straying into the inanity of “have-a-nice-day” or “how’s-your-meal?”, they’re one of the prime reasons for staying here, or at any other Mandarin Oriental. The spa also deserves a sustained round of applause, as does the infinity pool.
8 / 10
Rooms & Suites
Contemporary design & soothing atmosphere, There are 213 rooms and suites, but for my money, the best place to stay is either a Waterfront Suite or a Premier View Room which adorn the hotel’s “prow”, allowing you to snuggle under the goose-down bedding while watching what might be labelled “TV Macau”, the 24/7 show right outside the windows. All the rooms are crammed with the latest tech bits and bobs, which blend seamlessly in among the luxurious fittings.
The serene setting of the property’s rooms and suites combines superb comfort with state-of-the-art technology. Towering over the picturesque Macau waterfront, Mandarin Oriental, Macau enjoys a prime location and offers spectacular views of Nam Van Lake and Macau Bay from each of its guestrooms.
8/10
Meetings and Events
Its sensational setting, serene atmosphere and unbeatable service has made the property a perfect venue for meetings, events and weddings.
Weddings & Events
As the only five-star, non-gaming hotel on the peninsula, Mandarin Oriental, Macau’s discreet and luxurious atmosphere, exclusive style, grace and efficiently friendly service, sets the tone for your wedding or special occasion.
8 / 10
Food & drink where dining is Theatre, From mouth-watering menus to delicious cocktails and fabulous cakes, Mandarin Oriental, Macau offers a range of memorable dining and drinking experiences
There’s a substantial case to be made for taking breakfast and lunch and dinner at Vida Rica, the hotel’s only restaurant ( Natural stone and sensuous lighting create an exhilarating ambiance for all-day dining with a contemporary twist). And afternoon tea too, just for good measure. Showcasing Asian and Western dishes with equal dexterity, it’s modern without being fussy, and you can taste the freshness. I nurture a special affection for the Szechuan-style poached turbot, and have to make a conscious effort not to lick my lips while perusing the wine list.
The adjoining bar is a well-paced cavalcade of marble and chrome, with separate areas devoted to coffee, cocktails, and champagne and tapas. A glass of something imaginatively alcoholic tastes even better while appreciating the metropolitan and marine views through the 7.5-metre high windows. Finally, nobody has ever raised any objection to my bringing home a perishable souvenir from the hotel’s Cake Shop.
A perfect Venue and Value for money
* Adjacent to world class casinos
* Views of the harbour, Nam Van Lake, Sai Van Lake and all three bridges linking Macau to Taipa
* An ideal base to explore Macau’s historic UNESCO World Heritage sites
* 10 minutes from Macau International Airport
* 5 minutes from Macau Ferry Terminal
* 60 minutes from Hong Kong (by ferry)
