According to forum posts, the Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal to Shenzhen Shekou route is currently not operational through TurboJet, which previously offered services. However, there is an alternative ferry route available from Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal to Shekou. Travelers can find the sailing schedule and book tickets directly through the TurboJet website.

Travelers have highlighted that the ferry service from Macau to Hong Kong Airport's SkyPier has been significantly reduced, with only three sailings per week. This change is primarily due to the convenience offered by the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, which is faster and cheaper. Despite the limited schedule, the SkyPier ferry continues to be a viable option for direct access to Hong Kong International Airport without the need to pass through Hong Kong immigration, particularly suitable for travelers with mobility issues or excessive luggage.

According to forum posts, for travelers interested in visiting Macau's historic sites, the Hotel Lisboa is often recommended due to its proximity to major attractions like Senado Square and the Ruins of St. Paul. However, if exploring the Cotai Strip's casinos is a priority, The Venetian is suggested for its central location among the mega hotels and casinos.

Some travelers mentioned that hotel prices can fluctuate based on the day of the week, with Monday generally being more affordable. For budget-conscious visitors, the Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16 and the Hotel Royal Macau were highlighted for offering reasonable rates while providing proximity to central attractions.

Travelers have called out that during peak seasons like Chinese New Year, hotel prices in Macau surge significantly. It's advised to book accommodations well in advance during such periods to secure better rates and availability.

According to forum posts, travelers can purchase prepaid SIM cards for Macau at various locations. Useful guides for buying these SIM cards can be found on websites like PhoneTravelWiz and ABrokenBackpack, which provide updated information for 2023.

For many users, using a SIM card from mainland China, such as China Unicom, in Macau might require enabling international roaming. If the SIM is not set up for roaming, purchasing a local Macau SIM card would be necessary. Some travelers have mentioned that Macau is so close to the mainland that sometimes the mobile network automatically connects to the mainland service, which may affect data rates and access to certain internet services.

Travelers have called out the convenience of using Macau SIM cards, especially for accessing local services and staying connected while traveling. These SIM cards are readily available in Macau and can be an essential tool for navigation and communication.

According to forum posts, Macau offers a wide range of gaming options similar to those found in Las Vegas. Key attractions include roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and slots. Additionally, some casinos host Texas Hold'em poker cash games and tournaments.

Travelers have noted that minimum bets can vary significantly between casinos. For instance, blackjack minimums may range from $100 at some casinos to $200 at others. Roulette outside bets may start at $200, while certain casinos offer electronic roulette options with significantly lower minimum bets.

Some travelers suggested utilizing online resources like the Maven of Macau website for detailed information about specific games, stakes, and the overall gambling scene in Macau. This can be particularly useful for visitors trying to plan their gaming activities in advance.

It's important for visitors to know that casino gambling in Macau is conducted in Hong Kong dollars (HKD). This helps in budgeting and understanding the cost of various games and bets while gambling.