There’s more to this small city than bright lights, and The Venetian Macao is the perfect place to experience Macau without actually having to venture outdoors.

Macau has always been a long time favourite for its neighbouring Asian city visitors, but in recent years the appeal to Australian travellers has seen a jump, and it’s not hard to see why. It has earned its nickname the “Las Vegas” of Asia promising a fun, relaxing holiday for families, couples or even singles, giving each their own choice of holiday style.

With a number of resorts to choose from, The Venetian Macao has been a long-time favourite for Australian travellers, but does it stand the test of time?

Here’s Travel Weekly’s verdict.

First Impression:

There’s a lot to take in when you first step foot in The Venetian Macao. First the decor, then the crowds.

The lobby area can be a sense sensation, and yes, at first it is over-stimulating. It’s to be expected during high peak times, as it is a 3000 room resort. Luckily, the VIP check in area just off the main lobby offers respite and a sanctuary away from the crowds with resort staff to assist with the check-in process, leaving you to enjoy the refreshments on offer.

With your room keys you’ll be given the second most important asset you’ll need during your stay – a map. Marketed as Macao’s first ‘integrated resort’, a more accurate description would be a “never-ending resort”. The 10,500,000-square-foot resort, modeled on its sister property in Las Vegas, connects to six other resorts and it’s highly likely that once you arrive, you won’t leave the expansive grounds until your departure.

Making your way to your room, you’ll have to pass the vast shopping precinct connected to the hotel tower – actually, it’s the largest indoor shopping mall in Macau, offering 850 high end shops but best of all, it’s duty free.

Usually a hotel’s decor will not make an impact to your stay, however, The Venetian Macao is truly unique in how the decor adds to the enjoyment of your holiday. For starters, it almost feels like you’re outdoors, despite being indoors, just simply by the colourful murals and blue skies (complete with clouds) painted across the ceiling, as well as through the use of smart lighting.

Location:

The relatively new Hong Kong-Zuhai-Macau bridge might not have direct impact on Australian travellers to the region as yet, but in future it will certainly add to the ease of access to Macau for international visitors.

The easiest way for Aussies to get to the tiny city is via a number of ferry connections, either directly from Hong Kong’s International Airport or its downtown ferry terminals which takes about an hour. On arrival, a number of complimentary hotel shuttles are available to take you direct to your resort. The Venetian Macao offers a number of packages including free ferry tickets on select bookings.

Located on the famous Cotai Strip, it’s the ‘place to be’ in terms of access to old Macau and proximity to the ferry terminal.

Suites:

Here’s where The Venetian Macao stands out above other resorts in the region. As an all-suite hotel, the rooms are spacious, comfortable and truly luxurious. Staying in the Royale Deluxe Suite, a huge 70-sq meters offers a separate living area, but the huge marble bathroom should also get a mention (it could be the size of other hotel’s entire bedroom).

Sometimes a king sized bed in a hotel room leaves little room for much else aside from luggage, but here it fits perfectly with ample space for even a baby cot.

The sunken living area is well thought out, with huge windows and views across the bright lights of the Cotai Strip, making it an ideal space to feel connected to the outdoors without having to venture outside.

The spacious rooms offer serenity away from the crowds downstairs, and the availability of booking an early and/or late (4pm) check-out is a definite bonus.

Drinking & Dining:

Is there ever a problem with too much choice? Whatever dietary requirement, type of cuisine or even preferred style (fine dining, relaxed, buffet), The Venetian and its connected hotels offer a multitude of options across its 150+ restaurants and bars.

It’s well worth trying out their signature restaurants (or treating yourself to the Michelin-starred), but be sure to book in advance as they are popular. Again, there’s no real reason to leave The Venetian for your fill, they even have stalls selling world-famous popular Portugese tarts, so you’re able to try local treats without having to leave the complex.

Services:

The resort offers free (and fast) wifi throughout the complex, which makes it easy to make dinner reservations and of course, fire up your Insta-game. With four different swimming pools, kids play areas and state-of-the-art gym, there’s a lot of activities for young and young at heart.

A standout feature however, has to be the signature Gondola rides, bringing a touch of Venice indoors. Enjoy being serenaded from either on a ride itself, or if you’re not a fan of being on show, there’s plenty of vantage points to take in the spectacle with a Starbucks coffee in hand.

Verdict: 9/10

The Venetian Macao is a fantastic resort offering everything from a city holiday; without having to leave the premises, a blessing in the height of summer.