Macao, known as the Las Vegas of Asia, has introduced another extravagant casino resort to its renowned Cotai Strip. The latest addition is The Londoner Macao, a
luxurious British-themed destination that immerses visitors in the charm of London. From a grand replica of Big Ben to the iconic 10 Downing Street, guests are transported to the heart of the British capital within Macao's Cotai strip.
Owned by Las Vegas Sands, The Londoner Macao has already experienced a 16% increase in shares year-to-date. The resort's opening ceremony, graced by English football celebrity David Beckham, marks a significant milestone for the Chinese gambling hub. The Cotai Strip, referred to as an alley lined with hotel casinos, shopping centers, and theaters, now boasts this opulent British-inspired retreat.
Las Vegas Sands CEO, Robert Goldstein, expressed his confidence in the project, stating, "You can't get a better hotel room than what we've put in the Londoner. You can't get a better spa experience, you can't get better food experience." The resort has been in operation for the past two years but faced delays in its official opening due to strict Covid-19 restrictions and travel regulations.
With a staggering investment of $2 billion, The Londoner Macao showcases replicas of renowned UK landmarks, including the Palace of Westminster, 10 Downing Street, and the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain. Las Vegas Sands, the owner of The Londoner Macao, also operates other hotels along the Cotai Strip, featuring replicas of famous European attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Venice's grand canal.
Goldstein proudly acknowledges that The Londoner Macao brings together the cultural essence of Italy, France, and England, adding an international touch to the Chinese special administrative region of Macao. The resort's website highlights the impressive "Changing of the Guard entertainment extravaganza" as its main attraction, with performances reminiscent of Buckingham Palace's ceremonial tradition. Additionally, visitors can indulge in Alice in Wonderland-inspired afternoon tea or embark on a virtual black cab tour with Beckham, exploring his favorite spots in London.
While Macao is widely known for its gambling scene, the city has undergone a transformation to offer diverse experiences to its visitors. Goldstein emphasizes that Macao has evolved significantly over the past two decades, with the addition of retail outlets, restaurants, spas, convention centers, and hotels. Today, Macao is a dominant and vital market, attracting international tourists and reducing its reliance on gambling revenue. Casino operators have collectively committed to investing approximately $15 billion over the next ten years to further diversify Macao's offerings and boost its appeal as a global tourist destination. Photo by Mike, Wikimedia commons.