Born and raised in Macau, Isabela Faustino truly calls Macau her home. Fondly referred to as Bel by family and friends, the creative young woman has been a significant contributor to Macau Lifestyle since it’s early days. Our Author of the Month juggled her role while studying at the City University of Macau. Having graduated with a major in International Tourism and Hospitality Management, she continues to write passionately about her spectacular haunts in the SAR.
Bel loves learning about different cultures, meeting new people, trying out new things and travelling. She was also an exchange student at Florida State University and participated in a six-month academic training program at the Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.
Her flair for adventure, desire to learn and explore has brought many memorable experiences for readers of Macau Lifestyle. From yoga and meditation to trying out different cuisines, Bel dreams of inspiring the younger generation through healthy living and fitness. She hopes to make an impact so that they can find true happiness and love within themselves. Read her thoughts on everything she loves about Macau in our quick interview.
What do you love most about Macau?
I love the convenience of getting around anywhere between Macau, Taipa, and Coloane. And whenever people ask me where I’m from, I always have an interesting story to talk about from the fusion of two cultures – Portuguese and Chinese mix in creating this unique city to how diverse Macau is actually becoming and that it’s not only known as “Asia’s Las Vegas” but more than that.
What is your ideal weekend in the city?
My ideal weekend in the city would depend on my mood. If I wanted a relaxing type of day, I love reading magazines & newspapers at Central Tap Seac Library or Nova Taipa Library. I also love strolling around the older parts or alleys of Macau and discover a new cafe or store. My favorite chilling spots to catch up with some old friends would be at Starbucks located in Old Taipa Village or Tom n Toms. Sometimes we would try out some café and restaurants we’ve never been to or have always wanted to go to and pretend that we’re food critics.
Why do you love contributing to Macau Lifestyle?
I love contributing to Macau Lifestyle because I get the chance to share what Macau has to offer through my perspective and experience to anyone in the world visiting or even to friends who had no idea about a new café or event coming up.
I also get the opportunity to meet restaurant and café owners and learn and discover their stories. It’s more than just about dining or getting in touch with the latest happenings in Macau. It’s also a never-ending experience in learning more and more about Macau every day.
What is your best advice to tourists?
Never leave Macau without trying the Portuguese egg tart!
You can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle three things: a rainy day, a lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights 😂✨ 📸 @qviet_
Macau Tips from Bel
5 favorite restaurants in Macau:
Hmmm.. that’s a hard question because I love food everywhere! My current favorite restaurants would be Papermoon Thai Cuisine because you get to enjoy authentic Thai food and relax in modern style. I also love Pho Tik and Banh Mi for their authentic Vietnamese food, Alves Cafe for a more cha chan teng style, and Ufufu because they got about 114 choices of desserts!
Favorite places for shopping in Macau:
H&M and I used to shop at Forever 21 when it was located near Ruins of St. Paul but I heard they’re moving to Parisian now, let me know if it’s true!
Favorite heritage and tourist spots in Macau:
My favorite tourist spots would be St. Lazarus District and Tap Seac. You’ll get an illusion that you’re strolling around in Europe.
Hidden gem or secret spot in Macau:
Three Lamp District and Red Market for local style eatery and snacks!
Follow Bel’s stories here on Macau Lifestyle and check out her Instagram @belbrosasfaustino
