Many people talk about Hong Kong, but far fewer seem to know about nearby Macao. Having lived in Hong Kong through the pandemic, I’d always been intrigued by this elusive territory, just a short boat ride from one of the world’s most densely populated cities. So when borders finally reopened, I didn’t hesitate to visit. These days, I’ve become something of a regular in this dazzling, one-of-a-kind city, known for its lavish hotels and casinos. I recently went to stay at The Londoner Macao to experience the luxury property themed around all things British for myself.

The Londoner Macao review

Welcome to Macao

Before I dive into the hotel itself, it helps to understand what makes Macao so unique. Often called the Las Vegas of Asia, it’s a Special Administrative Region of China famous for its glittering casino resorts and glitzy entertainment offerings. That said, I’ve never been a gambler – I’d rather poke needles in my eyeballs than sit at a blackjack table.

Fortunately, it’s also a place where history runs deep: a former Portuguese colony for over 400 years, Macao blends cultures in ways you can see everywhere – from its UNESCO-listed historic centre, where baroque churches stand beside Chinese temples, to its stunning Sino-Portuguese architecture and cuisine.

Step inside

The Londoner Macao review interior of rooms at the hotel
Guests can expect interior design that nods to pared back British elegance

The Londoner Macao opened gradually throughout 2021 – not an easy feat when Chinese pandemic restrictions kept guests away for almost three years. Now fully unveiled, this 5-star luxury resort in Cotai is part of the Sands China portfolio and offers a proudly British-inspired experience from the moment you arrive. And yes, that includes a full-scale replica of the Houses of Parliament at the entrance.

You might wonder why I’d choose the most British hotel possible in the heart of Asia. All I can say is: why not? As someone who’s lived in Asia for years, I found it fun, refreshing, and oddly comforting.

The heart of London in China

The theming here goes far beyond a few Union Jacks. There’s a mind-blowing Crystal Palace atrium with a 10-storey-high glass ceiling, a life-size Big Ben that chimes on the hour, and even regular Changing of the Guard performances inspired by Buckingham Palace. Quirky touches like red telephone boxes, real black cabs, replica landmarks, and a soundtrack of classic British pop tunes on loop complete the experience. I admittedly slammed my body down and whined it all around when the Spice Girls’ Wannabe blared across the lavish corridors.

Rooms dripping in British class

The Londoner Macao review interior of suite
Suites bring the drama with leather and velvet accents

Stepping into my suite in The Londoner Court felt less like checking into a hotel and more like arriving at an exceptionally fancy London apartment. I stayed in a Louis Suite, and the commitment to the British theme was both impressive and delightful without feeling overdone or tacky. The room was a masterclass in refined, residential-style luxury, featuring deep, rich colours, classic furnishings, and beautiful panelling that gave Belgravia townhouse vibes.

The Londoner Macao swimming pool
Take a dip in the shadow of the replica Big Ben

A separate lounge area, complete with a comfortable sofa and writing desk, provided a perfect spot to catch up on work and unwind with a cup of tea. The real showstopper, however, was the magnificent Victorian-style clawfoot bathtub, positioned elegantly in the marble bathroom. While the interior design teleported me straight to Mayfair, the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows constantly reminded me I was indeed on the exotic Cotai Strip.

Beckham-approved accommodations

The Londoner Macao review David Beckham-designed suites
For fans of all things Beckham, the footballer has designed a selection of Suites

This wasn’t my first trip to the property. I previously got a glimpse when I attended the star-studded hotel launch that was officiated by none other than David Beckham himself, who also serves as the global ambassador of Sands Resorts Macao (yes, I sneakily grabbed a photo).

In fact, the hotel even features 14 bespoke suites designed by Beckham himself, featuring all the home comforts he enjoys when travelling – the first celebrity-designed suites in Macao. I got a sneak peek: they’re stylish, homely, and feature personal touches like arty Beckham family photos and his famous DB initials on amenities like the linen.

The Beckham connection doesn’t end there either. His best mate Gordon Ramsay also makes an appearance on the hotel’s ground floor with Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill, serving up classic British dishes like Beef Wellington and fish and chips, of course.

Final thoughts

In a city that already has a replica Venetian canal, an Eiffel Tower, and Hollywood-themed resorts, checking into a fake London somehow feels perfectly right for someone like me who once lived in the UK and considers it a second home. For travellers around the globe missing a taste of British flair – with a side of Macao’s signature decadence – The Londoner is a playful, polished, and thoroughly enjoyable escape.

Discover more about The Londoner Macao or Book through Booking.com

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