Late Night Live - Separate stories podcast Macau, the Portuguese city in southern China
Jun 19, 2025
Paul French, a London-based writer and broadcaster with extensive experience in China, shines a light on the rich tapestry of Macau. He reveals how this vibrant city transitioned from a Portuguese colony to a bustling casino capital, exploring its unique blend of cultures. French discusses key historical figures who navigated the murky waters of trade and gambling, while illuminating the understated handover from Portugal to China. Listeners will appreciate Macau's cultural heritage, including its stunning architecture and the survival of the Portuguese language in a modern context.
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Macau's Dual Character
- Macau is a city of contrasts: modern casinos on reclaimed land versus a historic old city with Portuguese colonial heritage. - The old city fascinates tourists due to its unique blend, unlike Hong Kong or Shanghai.
Stanley Ho's Smuggling Origins
- Stanley Ho built modern Macau from smuggling rice and kerosene during WWII to investing in ferries and casinos after the war. - He cleverly flew different flags on his boat to avoid trouble during wartime neutrality.
Stanley Ho's Gambling Control
- Stanley Ho's gambling empire in Macau remained stable and profitable, never going bankrupt. - He controlled not just casinos but all forms of betting including horses, dogs, and cricket fighting.