To and From Macau and Shenzhen in mainland China is Getting Easier and More Enjoyable

China’s Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport is a good transit hub for going to and from all points in the mainland, Macau, and Hong Kong. Firstly, the airport flies just about everywhere worth going in the People’s Republic. Secondly, the airport has got some pretty good services that contribute to its growing popularity in the region. Last weekend I used Shenzhen as my jumping off point for my 3-day excursion to mighty Beijing.

On the return leg of my trip, I had an hour and a half to kill at Shenzhen airport. I was waiting for the Turbojet ferry that would return me to Macau and wasn’t overly keen about spending it at the Fu Yong Ferry Terminal. (Note: Fu Yong is not so bad, but it’s also not so good, though I did notice they had improved the restaurant there.) On exiting the domestic baggage claim area at SZX, I was faced with two choices: Turn right towards the hallowed, golden arches that have welcomed billions to enjoy sizzling beef patties (McDonald’s) or left towards the iconic emerald mermaid of the sea, luring caffeine addicts with her sweet siren song (Starbucks), like irresistible Lorelei on the River Rhine. I opted for the buxom marine nymph over the red and yellow clown. To my delight, I discovered that both Starbucks and McDonald’s have free wireless internet, so bring your laptop.

A few other things to note:

There’s a KFC in the departure hall on the top floor. As well, there’s a 7-11 between Terminal A and Terminal B, which sells China SIM cards. If you want to relax in the departure area of Terminal B, there’s a great café at the very end of the building. Huge relaxing couches and chairs overlook the gates.

From Shenzhen Airport, there is regular transportation by bus, ferry, and helicopter to Macau and Hong Kong. Tickets can be purchased by the exit doors closest to McDonald’s and Starbucks. A free shuttle bus departs regularly to Fu Yong Ferry Terminal.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, March 28th, 2007 at 12:53 pm and is filed under Gossip. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.