I'm in a similar situation as I will be heading to HKG following the Tokyo and Seoul do next Easter. I am going to be in HKG for 6 nights and was planning to make 2 of those nights (the first 2) in Macau.

Some questions:

1. I see that I can take a ferry right from HKIA to Macau. Do they run often and do I need to pre-purchase my ticket? The link posted a bit earlier in the thread shows just 4 departures. That's not much. Any other options?

2. Also in the thread, someone said that if I have checked luggage, I just need to give my tag?? I don't need to claim my luggage first?

3. Some hotels in my price range include the Sofitel in pier 16, The Venetian and the Sheraton. All look nice and are 5*. A bit worried that the Sofitel in not in the resort area, but is closer to the older part of town. I like to gamble (Craps), but also like to walk around/shop. Any recommendation. I'm currently platinum with Accor, but expect to lose it come this September.

Planning to be in Macau Thursday and Friday nights.

Thanks for your advise! This is my first visit to Asia, other than Japan once before.