Macau (Part 2 of 3) A visit to the Macau Tower, and a look at the world’s highest bungy jump. Afterwards a stroll through the casino area. Macau Tower Detail: The Macau tower measures 338 m (1109 ft) in height from ground level to the highest point. An observation deck with panoramic views, restaurants, theaters, shopping malls and the Skywalk X, a thrilling walking tour around the outer rim. It offers the best view of Macau and in recent years has been used for a variety of adventurous activities. At 233 meters, the Macau Tower’s tethered “skyjump” and Bungy jump by world renowned AJ Hackett from the tower’s outer rim, is the highest in the world. The tower was created by the architecture firm of Craig Craig Moller. Casino Detail: The so-called “Monte Carlo of the Orient”, Macau’s economy relies heavily on gambling. Nowadays, the gambling industry (28 casinos)generates over 40% of the GDP of Macau. After the handover of the Macau from Portugal to China, the SAR released gambling licenses to other companies in order to eliminate the monopoly played by the Stanley Ho owned STDM. In 2002, the government signed concession contracts with two Macau gaming companies, Wynn Resort Ltd. and Galaxy Casino. This opened the gambling market for competition and increased government tax revenue significantly. It also attracted more tourists to Macau. At this moment, according to official statistics, gambling taxes form 70% of Macau’s government income. With 3400 slot machines and 800 …
