macaupass - old topic "not recommended for short visits" -
has anything changed for the macaupass over the years or still a no go for short visits?
The Macau Pass is a stored-value card primarily used for public transportation, including buses and some ferries in Macau. While it was previously considered less practical for short visits due to the effort involved in obtaining and topping up the card, some changes over the years have made it slightly more convenient, but the core considerations remain the same.
Here’s an overview of the current situation for short-term visitors:
- Availability: Macau Pass cards can be purchased at MTR stations, convenience stores, and major bus terminals. Visitors can obtain a card quickly without long waits.
- Top-up Options: Reloading is straightforward at convenience stores, some bus terminals, and select metro stations. However, the card requires a deposit, and the process may take some time for very short stays.
- Usage: It can be used on all public buses and some shuttles, but taxis and certain private transport services do not accept it. For a visitor staying only 1–2 days, this may limit its utility.
- Refund: Refunds of the deposit and remaining balance are possible at certain locations, but you may need to visit specific outlets and sometimes wait in line.
Given these factors, for short visits (1–2 days), the Macau Pass is still generally not the most efficient option. Alternatives such as paying cash for single bus rides or using taxis may save time and hassle.
- For longer stays or frequent bus travel, the Macau Pass becomes more worthwhile as it avoids repeated cash transactions and offers some convenience.
- If planning to primarily visit casinos or areas accessible by shuttle buses, the pass may be unnecessary, since many resorts offer free shuttle services from key points like the border or ferry terminals.
- For tourists staying only a day or two, carrying coins or using taxis might still be faster and simpler.
In summary, while the Macau Pass system has improved in terms of accessibility and top-up options, it is still generally not recommended for very short visits due to the limited time to offset the effort of obtaining and returning the card.
More Macau Travel Questions
- Dancing Waters
- Macau late night transport back o Zhuhai?
- HKIA area to Macau
- Shuttle bus between city of dreams and hotel sintra
- Macau to Hong Kong International Airport best way of transpo
- What area is best for a hotel if I want a central location?
- Hotel Bookings for end 2024 /early 2025
- Queries on travelling in and out of Macau
- Studio city indoor water park
- Ruins of St. Paul's Renovation
- Free Transpo to Macau
Popular Destinations
Popular Travel Questions
- MARC train from Odenton to DC?
- Area near the Crypto Arena
- First time visiting
- Hiking in the area, Gulf Hagas , Moosehead Lake
- Motorcycle Ride in and Park and Walk
- most southern panhandle town
- Which restaurants do locals go to for seafood dinner?
- Lunch with a view
- Trip advisor site for Farmington, Maine
- Shared Taxi Kasghar to Tashkurgan
- Marta from Airport
- Thoughts on travelling in June please