Rua da Felicidade, the blissful street in Macau

When you travel to Macau, a picture of Lisboa Casino would appear in your mind, including luxurious hotels, shopping malls and so on. These are definitely attractive spots in Macau. But we cannot forget that Macau has a long history. Rua da Felicidade is one of them. It is a historic street in the southwest of Macau Peninsula. The name comes from Portuguese, which means blissful street.

History

Rua da Felicidade, meaning ‘the street of joy’ was built in the middle age of Qing dynasty by Macau governor-general. Then, two rich merchants bought it. With their management, it rapidly developed into an entertainment street. Rua da Felicidade was divided into two parts. One is cluster of brothel and teahouse while another part is a perfect place for taking drugs and drinking.
Once you come here, you will find that the street is preserved so well by the government that as if you have come back to hundred years ago. It is a kind of magical time traveling.

Unique heritage site

These days, lined with small retail shops and local eateries, the street is completely reborn and has become one of the most emblematic and unique heritage sites in the city. Some movie lovers may even recognize the street from the Hollywood film, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, where it featured as a backdrop in some scenes.

One of the street’s most notable eateries is Cheong Kei Noodle (68 Rua da Felicidade), considered one of the well-known noodle houses in the city. Here, they still make noodles using the traditional method of a bamboo pole to knead the dough. The prawn roe wanton noodles are a must-try.

Don’t miss the delightful Belos Tempos teahouse (10 Rua da Felicidade), which serves delicious Portuguese-style food, as well as Macanese favourites such as minchi rice.

The street is also home to Macau’s oldest guesthouse. The SanVa Hotel (65-67 Rua Da Felicidade) has been operating as a guesthouse since the 1930s. With more than 30 rooms and some of the most competitive room rates in the city, it is well worth considering. Not only will you be in the heart of Happiness Street itself, you will also be on the doorstep of Macau’s main sites and attractions.

Food

For the popularity of any place, its cuisine is one of the major contributing factors and a source of attraction for the tourists. If you have been fortunate enough to travel around Rua da Felicidade, then you must have an idea that Rua da Felicidade is enriched in providing you a countless number of cuisine varieties that differ from one another according to the provinces. Rua da Felicidade is really world famous for its cuisine. Specialties are Tian FaWan fin and Shrimp eggs.

Tips

Walking here in the morning is such a joyful relaxation, people can feel the strong atmosphere of history from the red windows. You can have your breakfast in the tea shops to experience the local food culture.

Source Culture Trip