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Location
South China coast.
Time
GMT + 8.
Area
28.2 sq km (10.9 sq miles).
Population
513,427 (2006 estimate).
Population Density
18,207 per sq km.
Capital
Macau.
Geography
Macau is situated on a tiny peninsula at the mouth of the Pearl River. Two bridges of 2.5km (1.5 miles) and 4.5km (2.8 miles) respectively link it to its nearest island, Taipa, which in turn is joined to the island of Côloane by a 2.2km (1.3-mile) causeway. At the extreme northern end of the peninsula, on a narrow isthmus, is the imposing gateway (Portas do Cerco, or Border Gate), which leads to the Zhuhai and Zhongshan areas of the People's Republic of China. Some 60km (37 miles) to the east-northeast, across the mouth of the river, is Hong Kong.
Government
Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China since 1999.
Head of Government
Chief Executive Edmund Ho Hau-Wah since 1999.
Recent History
Previously a Special Territory of Portugal, Macau became a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China on 20 December 1999, with Edmund Ho Hau-Wah appointed Chief Executive. In early 2002, the government broke the monopoly on operating casinos, previously held by local tycoon Stanley Ho, by licensing three new casino operators - all American interests.
Language
The official languages are Chinese (Cantonese) and Portuguese. English is widely spoken by those engaged in trade, tourism and commerce. Hokkien and Mandarin are also spoken.
Religion
The main religions are Buddhism, Roman Catholicism, Protestantism and Taoism. The majority are Buddhists.
Electricity
Usually 220 volts AC, 50Hz.
Social Conventions
Entertaining generally takes place in restaurants and public places. It is rare to be invited to a private home, unless the person is wealthy. Spirits are standard gifts in return for hospitality. Apart from the most formal occasions in restaurants and nightclubs, casual wear is acceptable.