Macau's New Central Hotel: A Luxurious Journey Through Time Refined Over a Century

Macau's New Central Hotel redefines luxury as a 'living history museum.' From the mechanical hum of the 1928 elevator to the city pulse at the rooftop observatory, from the retro Western cuisine at the Belle Palace to the time-traveling escape room, every detail tells the century-old legend of Macau. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or a traveler seeking immersive experiences, this place offers a time-travel journey beyond expectations. Take this guide and experience the unique charm of 'one room, one era; one scene, one universe!' 🏛️🕰️ From the 1928 President Hotel to a model of government-enterprise cooperation, decode the living museum of East-West cultural integration I. Historical Revitalization: Architectural Narratives Through a Century 1. Architectural Epic and Government-Enterprise Cooperation • Rebirth of a Century-old Landmark: Opened in 1928 as Macau's first elevator hotel, it was the tallest building during the Portuguese era. The existing structure is listed in the 'Macau Heritage List.' In 2016, the Lixing Group invested HKD 2 billion for comprehensive restoration, preserving the original concrete structure and Art Deco style. • Time Capsule Design: The lobby is paved with 1930s Portuguese imported mosaic tiles, the elevator retains its copper dial pointer, and the corridors display over 300 antiques such as old phonographs and dial telephones. The 4th-floor cultural corridor showcases century-old photos and documents of Macau. 2. Era-themed Rooms • Layered Time Experience: Floors 5-10 each correspond to a decade theme (20s/30s/40s), with rooms replicating the furniture and decor of the respective periods: ◦ 1920s Industrial Style: Walnut carved bed + brass wall lamp, with silent film star posters on the walls ◦ 1930s Art Deco: Geometric mirrored lines + tassel lamps, equipped with antique phonographs (can play Zhou Xuan's golden hits) ◦ 1940s Hollywood Style: Black and white marble-patterned bathroom + black and gold sofa, some rooms have balconies overlooking New Road. II. Core Experience: Symphony of History and Modernity 1. Ceremonial Check-in Service • Butler Tour: Upon check-in, a dedicated butler explains the building's history, gifting a 'New Central Hotel Chronicle' booklet and vintage postcards • Time Capsule Mailbox: The lobby features a 1930s-style mailbox where you can send postcards stamped with 'Macau 1928.' 2. Rooftop Observatory • 360° Historical Panorama: The 11th-floor observatory offers views of landmarks like the Ruins of St. Paul's, Senado Square, and the Grand Lisboa. Capture the juxtaposition of old and new buildings at dusk (recommended to bring a 70-200mm telephoto lens). 3. Retro Dining Experience • Belle Palace Restaurant: The 4th floor replicates a 1930s Macau restaurant, recommending Black Truffle Portuguese Chicken (MOP 498) and hand-brewed coffee with Portuguese tarts. The waitstaff wear 1920s uniforms. • Rooftop Afternoon Tea: The 11th-floor observatory offers English-style three-tier tea sets, including a limited edition 'New Central Hotel Historical Cake' (requires 3-day advance booking). III. Room Details: Collision of Antiques and Technology 1. Facility Highlights • Bathroom Aesthetics: KOHLER bathroom fixtures + Italian Evviva bath set, with bathtubs featuring 1930s mosaic designs • Smart Upgrades: Hidden electric curtains, smart toilet seats, mini-bar with free mini champagne and hand-brewed coffee. 2. Hidden Surprises • Antique Phone Booth: Some rooms have replica dial telephones connected to the front desk for requesting classic Cantonese songs • Escape Room Game: Participate in the 'Find the Hotel Key' activity during your stay, solve historical puzzles to receive souvenirs. IV. Practical Guide: Must-Read Tips and Avoidance Guide 1. Room Selection Strategy • Best Value: 1940s themed suite (80㎡) with balcony and bathtub, weekend price around MOP 1800, 60% cheaper than the Venetian in the same area. • Family-Friendly Rooms: 1930s themed rooms offer children's bathrobes and toy boxes, some rooms include LEGO historical building sets. 2. Unlock Hidden Benefits • Free Upgrade: Marriott Bonvoy Platinum members can apply for a view upgrade, call the concierge 48 hours in advance. • Consumption Deduction: Book through official channels to receive MOP 500 dining credit (applicable at Belle Palace and partner restaurants). 3. Avoidance Guide • Facility Limitations: Shower pressure is low, recommend bringing a portable booster showerhead (hotel can provide) • Transportation Tips: Walking to the Ruins of St. Paul's takes 20 minutes during morning rush hour (8:00-9:30), recommend taking the hotel's free shuttle bus. V. Surrounding Exploration: In-depth Tour of the Historic District Morning: Hotel → Senado Square (5-minute walk) → St. Dominic's Church (explore Baroque architecture) Afternoon: Ruins of St. Paul's → Love Lane → St. Augustine's Square (World Heritage Site walk) Evening: New Road Night Market (taste Andrew's egg tarts, Hengyou fish balls) → Wynn Palace Music Fountain. 📸 Top 5 Photo Spots 1. Mosaic Tile Floor in the Lobby: Shoot upwards with the vintage chandelier in the foreground, highlighting geometric patterns and light-shadow layers 2. 1920s Themed Room Corridor: Dress in qipao/suit to mimic old photo compositions, use film filters to enhance texture 3. City Skyline from the Observatory: Capture the neon lights of the Grand Lisboa and the warm glow of Senado Square at dusk 4. Belle Palace Retro Dining Table: Hold a bone china teacup and Portuguese tart, with a walnut carved wall in the background 5. Escape Room Game Scene: Capture the moment of solving historical puzzles (suggest wearing a khaki trench coat) 🎒 Pre-Travel Checklist ✅ ID card + Hong Kong and Macau travel permit (valid endorsement required) ✅ Vintage-style clothing (hotel offers 1920s-40s style clothing rental service) ✅ Foldable tripod (essential for night photography at the observatory) ✅ Change (for using antique phones) ✅ Spare cash for tips (recommended MOP 200 per person per day)