Fun Classes for Expats Living in Macao
Summary: One of the best ways to get settled after a move is to get out there and do something. Enhance your experience in Macao by joining classes that are great for meeting people and adapting to life abroad.
For expats and digital nomads in Macao, finding engaging activities that cater to English speakers can be a delightful way to immerse in the local culture while meeting new people. Whether you're interested in enhancing your culinary skills, learning the local language, exploring the world of wine, or expressing yourself through art, Macao offers a variety of classes that can enrich your stay. These classes not only provide valuable learning experiences but also serve as social hubs where you can connect with like-minded individuals and locals. Here's a curated list of classes that are perfect for English-speaking adults looking to learn and have fun in Macao.
Institute for Tourism Studies - Educational Restaurant
Type of Class(es): Culinary Arts and Hospitality
Location: Colina de Mong-Ha, Macao
At the Educational Restaurant, part of the Institute for Tourism Studies, adults can dive into the world of culinary arts. The classes are designed to cater to both beginners and those with more advanced skills, offering a hands-on approach to cooking. While the primary language of instruction may be Cantonese or Portuguese, the international nature of the school means that English speakers can navigate the courses with ease and enjoy the multicultural environment.
Yin Ji Bookstore - Chinese Calligraphy and Painting
Type of Class(es): Chinese Calligraphy and Painting
Location: Rua de Cinco de Outubro, Macao
Yin Ji Bookstore offers classes in traditional Chinese calligraphy and painting, providing a serene environment where English-speaking adults can learn about these ancient art forms. The instructors are accustomed to teaching students from diverse backgrounds, making it a welcoming place for those still mastering the local language.
Macao Conservatory
Type of Class(es): Music and Performing Arts
Location: Rua de Luis Gonzaga Gomes, Macao
The Macao Conservatory is a hub for the performing arts, offering classes in music, dance, and drama. With a variety of courses available, English-speaking adults can find something that suits their interests, whether they are beginners or seasoned performers. The Conservatory's international outlook ensures that non-native speakers can participate comfortably.
Clube Militar de Macau - Portuguese Language Classes
Type of Class(es): Portuguese Language Learning
Location: Avenida da Praia Grande, Macao
For those looking to learn Portuguese, the Clube Militar de Macau offers language classes that cater to different proficiency levels. The club's historical setting provides a unique atmosphere for learning, and the courses are structured to help English speakers grasp the language effectively, facilitating their integration into the local community.
Wine Society of Macau
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Various locations in Macao
The Wine Society of Macau organizes wine tasting events and classes for enthusiasts looking to expand their knowledge of wines from around the world. Conducted in English, these sessions are perfect for socializing with fellow expats and locals while learning about viticulture and oenology.
Albergue SCM - Art Workshops
Type of Class(es): Visual Arts and Crafts
Location: Calcada da Igreja de S. Lazaro, Macao
Albergue SCM, a creative hub located in the St. Lazarus district, offers workshops in various forms of visual arts. These workshops are designed to be accessible to English speakers and provide a space to explore creativity through painting, sculpture, and other mediums.
Macau Culinary Association
Type of Class(es): Macanese and International Cuisine
Location: Rua de Luís Gonzaga Gomes, Macao
The Macau Culinary Association offers cooking classes that focus on Macanese cuisine as well as a variety of international dishes. These classes are a great way for English-speaking adults to learn about the fusion of flavors that make up Macao's unique culinary landscape.
Dom Pedro V Theatre - Acting Workshops
Type of Class(es): Theatre and Acting
Location: Largo de Santo Agostinho, Macao
Located in a historic building, the Dom Pedro V Theatre provides acting workshops for those interested in the performing arts. These workshops are often available in English, offering a platform for expats to hone their acting skills and engage with the local theatre community.
Orbit - Macau's Creative Space
Type of Class(es): Photography and Digital Arts
Location: Avenida do Coronel Mesquita, Macao
Orbit is a contemporary space that offers workshops in photography and digital arts. These classes are tailored to English-speaking residents who want to capture the beauty of Macao through a lens or create digital masterpieces, all while connecting with fellow creatives.
Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center
Type of Class(es): Business and Technology Workshops
Location: Rua dos Pescadores, Macao
The Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center provides workshops and seminars on various business and technology topics. While these classes are designed to be accessible to English speakers, they also offer a chance to learn about the latest trends and developments in the industry.
Please note that the availability of classes and the language of instruction can vary, so it is recommended to contact the institutions directly for the most up-to-date information.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.