what happens next
The story of Macau is one of constant reinvention. From the casino high rollers touching down on helicopters from past decades, the destination – one that generates the world’s largest gaming revenue – is now beckoning adrenaline junkies of a different variety: children and their families. As arguably one of East Asia’s top family holiday spots, the city – including the glamorous Cotai Strip – now is more about toddlers frolicking in water than it is about blackjack. At the JW Marriott Hotel Macau, literally steps away from the bright flickering lights of Lady Fortune, her poker tables and gaming machines is the world’s largest JW Kids’ Club, an immensely popular attraction that keeps children entertained – and their parents a break – with its specially devised ‘edutainment’ selection of games, spread over various sections that educate and amaze in equal measures.
Outdoors, the Galaxy Macau’s Grand Resort Deck with its game-changing water park attractions including the latest 375-metre Skytop Adventure Rapids – the world’s longest elevated aquatic adventure river ride – offers thrills and spills for both young and old. Guests at the JW Marriott Hotel Macau gain complimentary access to the Grand Resort Deck with its tropical garden environs, white sand beach, and the world’s largest wave pool in the clouds.
After an afternoon in the water, head back to relax in one of the hotel’s 1015 chicly decorated rooms and suites. Opulent rose gold colour schemes dominate along with wistful shades of bright greens and blues. Check out the elegant curves and lines of the Art Deco bathrooms with their nifty tech. For privacy, turn the expansive glass frame that divides the room and the bathroom into an electronic curtain with a flick of a switch. Other room highlights include world-class amenities such as bed linen by Todd-Avery Lenahan, bath amenities courtesy of Aromatherapy Associates, JBL sound systems, and Nespresso coffee machines for a perfect cup of coffee to begin the day. Beyond the hotel but still in the megalith that’s the Galaxy Macau, shopping, dining and entertainment options abound at the Promenade Shops featuring luxury brands along with leading high street stores.