When was the last time you traveled without a phone or using a paper map? It’s nearly impossible to imagine our lives “disconnected”, we basically have created an application for every little thing possible, work or leisure. Thus, if you’re visiting Macau or even a local, these five must-have apps can make your life and time in Macau much easier!
Photo credit: Unsplash, Macau Photo Agency
Bus Traveling System
Created by the Transport Bureau of Macao SAR, this app is most likely used by every person who’s ever hopped on a bus in the city. As a matter of fact, each and every expat asked, listed it among their essential Macau applications. Sure, we can check websites or read bus stop posters, but the Bus Traveling System gives you all the information you need on routes and stops, real-time traffic conditions, and bus arrivals. It also shows how much time you need to cross a bridge between Macau and Taipa. You can be on a bus and see the number of stops to the destination and when to get off as well.
Available for free on iOS and Android.
The Michelin Guide
How many exceptional restaurants are there in Macau? Enough to wow even the most experienced gastronomy connoisseurs. If you’ve set a goal to collect unforgettable dining experiences, install The Michelin Guide app and start planning every evening. Filter by location, cuisine, service, or Michelin award, browse through the photos and create a list of favorites. This is a convenient catalog to narrow down the options and even make reservations.
Available for free on iOS and Android.
OpenRice
Clearly, high-end restaurants can’t offer a 100% perspective on the local culinary scene. If you consider yourself a foodie, Macau is the right destination to add new dishes and eateries to your gourmet list. But with the abundance the city offers, how do you find the best spots? As Tripadvisor is not that popular in Macau, turning to it for advice won’t always present a clear picture. For local eateries and searches like “best minchi,” try OpenRice. Originally from Hong Kong, it is widely used by Macau locals as well and features reviews, photos, and all the necessary information such as opening hours, menus, average check, and contacts.
Available for free on iOS and Android.
It is worth noting that in Macao SAR, Google, Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and WhatsApp are available. So nothing can stop you from using them. However, installing WeChat can give you some additional bonuses when in Macau. Many local eateries have WeChat accounts that you can access by scanning a QR code or browsing for them. This is where they often announce updates, special offers, and promos. If you have any questions, better hit the properties up on WeChat rather than Facebook. At times, this would result in a quicker response.
Available for free on iOS and Android.
MPay
If you live in Macau and especially if you have a bank account in a local bank, downloading MPay can significantly streamline your payment process for groceries, dining, shuttle bus services and more, all while reaping rewards from partner benefits. As of 2023, MPay users have the added convenience of using Mpay for payments not only in Macau but also in Hong Kong and Mainland China, with announcements for further expansion on the horizon.
Available for free on iOS and Android.
Macao Smart Go
Learn which public bus to take, or where free hotel shuttle buses stop, know how many parking spots are available and choose the most convenient route to get to your destination. You can do all these and more with Macao Smart Go, an app developed by the Transport Bureau. Whether you’re walking, driving, or biking, this is a useful tool that will make your commute smoother. Among its best features, are up-to-date information on roadworks and taxi availability in the area.
Available for free on iOS and Android.
Also read: How to Make Your Life Easier: Trendy Apps in China
This article was originally written by Ksenia Kuzmina in February 2018 and updated in March 2024.
