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Galaxy Waldo Casino and Hotel, Avenida da Amizade

Opened in 2004, the Galaxy Waldo Casino and Hotel – not to be confused with the Galaxy Grand Waldo Casino and Hotel – was the first of the Galaxy Resort and Casino family to open in Macau. Catering mostly to mainland Chinese and Chinese VIP group, the Waldo facility has been neither panned nor praised by Western reviewers who say the casino facility is worth a visit, but that better options are available.

With 44 tables, the Waldo Casino offers: 21 public tables with Baccarat, Sic Bo, Blackjack, Caribbean Stud and Roulette; 15 semi-VIP tables; and eight high-stakes tables. Also available are 48 slot machines. Of note is Waldo Casino’s attention to security; Waldo staff have developed extensive security measures to ensure the legitimacy of all their table gaming, which has apparently been a problem among some of Macau’s smaller casino facilities.

Waldo Hotel, a massively renovated old-style hotel, presents patrons with 160 well-furnished and large rooms. Visitors can choose from four distinct room styles: American, European, Cotemporary and Thai. All rooms feature broadband Internet connections, free coffee and tea, and 24-hour room service. Also available are two Presidential Suites - multi-room getaways with dining room, lounge area, master and guest bedrooms.

For food, there are a couple of options. For Asian tastes, the Prince Seafood Restaurant features Japanese and Chinese cuisine and offers the ever-popular sushi bar. A quick bite between gaming can be had at the Waldo café, a 24-hour restaurant/café that serves up the hottest international tastes.

Those interested in staying in shape while on vacation can work up a sweat at the Waldo Hotel’s fitness area. Burn some calories on the cardio equipment or bulk up with the array of free weights. When you’re done, hit the steam room to let go of all your worries.

Located in the business district of Macau, you will have no problem finding something to do at night. Situated between several of the largest Macau casinos and resorts, check out some of the area nightclubs or visit the local street clubs where you can choose the type of music depending on your mood.

If you want to take in a little culture. The ancient A-Ma temple is nearby, as are the 16th century Moorish Barracks and 16th century Portuguese churches and buildings. If modern is more to your liking, enjoy the limitless shopping at one of the area’s infamous pawn shops, where you can buy a “Rolex” for $10.

Find the Galaxy Waldo Hotel and Casino by flying into Macau International Airport and taking a 10-mintue car ride to the Waldo Hotel and Casino, Avenida da Amizade, Macau, China.