As for the Studio City project, the land was originally approved for an East Asia Television Studios theme park. However, due to insufficient funding, construction stalled and the site was left unfinished. It was later redeveloped into a Hollywood-themed resort. Of course, looking at it now, it’s a rather run-down resort with very low foot traffic. The W Hotel, where I stayed during my last visit to Macau, is also part of this resort. Fortunately, they’re currently hosting a Sanrio Characters event this season, which has brought in a bit more life compared to before.
The highlight of our visit this time is the figure-8 Ferris wheel at Studio City—the “Golden Reel.” Towering between two hotel towers at a height of 130 meters, it is the world’s tallest figure-8 Ferris wheel. Admittedly, there probably aren’t many figure-8 Ferris wheels in the world anyway. Its design concept was inspired by the Gotham City searchlight from the Batman movies. It features 17 retro sci-fi themed observation cabins, each accommodating up to 10 passengers, with a full ride lasting approximately 18 minutes. Tickets purchased on-site are quite pricey, but you can find discounted rates on Trip.com, making the price fairly reasonable.
Although each cabin can hold up to 10 people, when visitor numbers are low, strangers generally aren’t grouped together~~ With just two people inside, the space feels quite spacious.
Overall, the ride is relatively smooth. The cabin features transparent glass all around, but as you pass over the central hump of the figure-8, the entire cabin becomes completely suspended in mid-air, which can be a little scary…
W Hotel and the sunset, with Hengqin Port visible in the distance
Next, let’s talk about the Parisian Eiffel Tower. Located within The Parisian Macao resort, this tower is built at half the scale of the original Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. Standing approximately 162 meters tall with 38 floors, the 7th and 37th floors are open to visitors. Access to the 7th floor is free, while tickets are required for the 37th floor. This tower is arguably the best vantage point in Macau; the night view of Taipa is absolutely stunning, so make sure to visit after dark.
View of the tower from the 7th floor
On the other side, you get a perfect view of The Parisian Hotel
View of The Londoner Macao from the 37th floor
View of The Parisian Macao from the 37th floor
Support
