Macao celebrated World Tourism Day on September 27th with a vibrant series of events that showcased the city’s dynamic energy and cultural significance. Organized by the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), the day’s festivities highlighted the city’s appeal as a global tourism hub, with highlights including the thrilling “25th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Macao SAR 2024 World Tourism Day Tray Race” and the welcoming of this year’s Lucky Tourists.

Lucky Tourists Experience Macao’s Warm Hospitality

The celebration began with a warm welcome for this year’s Lucky Tourists at Macau International Airport, where MGTO Deputy Director Ricky Hoi greeted Samiton Pangellah and his family from Indonesia. The Pangellahs were presented with souvenirs and electronic consumption cards to help them explore the local community and enjoy Macao’s rich cultural offerings.

Samiton expressed his excitement about returning to Macao for a second visit, eager to explore historical sites, savor local delicacies, and experience the city’s unique blend of old and new. His family’s five-night stay promises a deep dive into Macao’s heritage and its vibrant, modern charm. MGTO also distributed souvenirs throughout the day to visitors at various Tourist Information counters, further enhancing the festive atmosphere and promoting World Tourism Day’s global message.

Unveiling Macao’s New AI Chatbot for Tourists

In conjunction with the festivities, MGTO introduced its newly launched Macao Tourism AI Chatbot, designed to provide visitors with comprehensive and easily accessible information about the city. The chatbot, developed in collaboration with CTM and Baidu, leverages Baidu’s Ernie language model and offers insights into Macao’s history, attractions, dining options, hotels, and shopping experiences. Available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Korean, and Thai, the AI assistant is accessible via MGTO’s website and mobile app “Experience Macao.” The chatbot is set to expand language support in the future, providing a cutting-edge tool for visitors of all backgrounds.

Tray Race Celebrates 25 Years of Macao SAR

One of the most anticipated events of the day was the annual Tray Race, which saw 225 contestants from 34 local hotels and restaurants compete in a fun and high-energy race. To mark the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Macao SAR, participants posed for a group photo in the shape of the number “25” at the Ruins of St. Paul’s before setting off on the race.

Racers dashed through Macao’s historic streets, balancing bottles of Macau Beer on trays as they raced towards Senado Square. The event was filled with excitement, as locals and visitors cheered on the participants. Wu Caiyuan of Studio City Hotel took first place in the men’s category, while Deng Lingzhi from The Londoner Macao claimed victory in the women’s category. The Best Costume Award, themed “100% Celebration,” encouraged contestants to wear colorful and festive outfits, adding a playful twist to the race.

New Mascots Fun Run Brings Extra Fun

A fresh addition to this year’s Tray Race festivities was the Mascots Fun Run, which saw 18 mascots, including MGTO’s popular MAK MAK, take part in a lively competition. The mascots, dressed in bibs featuring the number “25,” paraded from MinM Plaza to Senado Square, bringing smiles to onlookers and adding a delightful touch to the event. MAK MAK took home first prize, followed by mascots from Wynn Macau and Galaxy Entertainment Group. The Mascots Fun Run was a highlight for families and children, infusing the day with a lighthearted and joyful spirit.

World Tourism Day 2024: Promoting “Tourism and Peace”

Since 1980, World Tourism Day has been celebrated to raise awareness about the important role tourism plays in global development and cultural exchange. This year’s theme, “Tourism and Peace,” emphasized tourism’s power to bridge cultural divides, promote understanding, and contribute to peacebuilding efforts around the world.

Macao’s festive and welcoming World Tourism Day celebrations embodied the spirit of this year’s theme, showcasing the city’s commitment to tourism as a force for good. With events like the Tray Race, the AI Chatbot launch, and the honoring of the Lucky Tourists, Macao continues to stand out as a must-visit destination that embraces both tradition and innovation.

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