Macau is split into two halves, in more than one way.
Geographically the ex-Portuguese colony is about 40 miles south-west of Hong Kong, and is made up of the Macau peninsular to the north and the islands of Taipa and Coloane to the south. Early in the millennium, “land reclamation” filled in the sea between the islands, creating the area known as Cotai and effectively combining Taipa, Coloane and Cotai into one larger island.
Some of colonial style buildings still exist, especially on the peninsular. On the other hand, the majority of the island is engulfed by enormous hotel-casino resort complexes.
A split is also clear in daily life. Although tiny, Macau is one of the most densely populated areas of the world. Apparently more than 650,000 people live in Macau. Many work in the hotels or casinos, or in jobs supporting the massive tourist business. However, in the streets and alleys away from the tourists, life seemed much more impoverished.
