A Portuguese influenced trading post and fishing region that is now back under the control of China, Macau remains a special economic zone that is connected to the land via a sandbar. With no forests or pastures or woodland, most visitors of Macau come instead for its food – an interesting blend of southern Chinese and Portuguese cuisine, for the gambling and for various landmarks and temples. Macau is home to the largest casino in the world by its number of table games, and recently surpassed Las Vegas in gambling revenues. Shoppers will be delighted to know that Macau is a tax free haven. The Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-visit destination, filled with hundreds of stores and restaurants styled after different seaports of the world. In terms of sites, the A-Ma temple is one of the oldest major temples in the region. The Fortaleza do Monte is a historical military center built in defense of Macau and the Macau Tower offers a panoramic view of the entire city. A quick 40 minute ride from Hong Kong, Macau is an interesting stopover for visitors in the South China region, or as a destination in itself for those wanting to try their luck at a game of poker.