Many Americans do not understand the political relationship between China, Hong Kong, and Macau. Both Hong Kong and Macau are “special administrative regions” of China.
It is not a name used by the country, but it means that these two areas are under the government of the People’s Republic of China but are not part of the country of China. Generally these areas enjoyed more autonomy than other regions of the country.
Related: Carnival adds new ban; more about the cancellation of Norway
“The concepts of ‘special administrative regions’ and ‘one country, two systems’ have been established by the Chinese government to integrate Hong Kong and Macau into China,” Practical Law explains.
“As SARs, Hong Kong and Macao maintain their own capital systems and have a high degree of autonomy. [The] The mainland government remains responsible for the defense and foreign affairs of the two SARs, but each SAR is allowed to engage in foreign affairs and participate in international organizations if permitted by its own laws. “
Both Hong Kong and Macau have become popular tourist destinations and are always stops on many road trips.
Macau has been a port of call for Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises and Holland America, while smaller ships from cruise lines can dock there.
The US Department of State says, however, it is a bad idea and issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel Warning on Nov. 27 of the station.
Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or first) cruise.
Macau cruise has been canceled
It is worth noting that, even before the State Department warned, major cruise lines serving the North American headquarters had stopped going to Macau. This is likely because cruise lines have been slow to come back to China even though they had big plans to grow there before the Covid-19 crisis hit.
Spectrum of the Seas returned to China in April and Royal Caribbean plans to bring a second ship to market in 2025.
Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Silversea, Viking and Windstar have all been sailing in China, but not on ships open to Americans.
The US State Department’s warning is aimed at Americans.
The US government has limited ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in Macau SAR due to the People’s Republic of China Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel restrictions on diplomatic staff.
Even during the emergency, the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires all US workers, including those authorized to Macau SAR, to apply for and receive visas before entering Macau SAR. This will take approximately five to seven days, greatly limiting the US government’s ability to provide timely services in Macau SAR.
On a broader level, warning No. 3 advises Americans to reconsider any travel plans for Macau.
“Reconsider travel due to the possibility of being limited to provide emergency services of the representative. Take extra care due to the enforcement of local laws” is the title of the warning.
Be the first to see the best deals on cruises, special cruises, and more. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter.
Citizens of both countries should be extra careful
The government of Macau SAR does not recognize the two countries, according to the US State Department.
“Dual US-PRC citizens and US citizens from China may be subject to insecurity and harassment,” the agency wrote.
“If you are a US-PRC citizen and enter Macau SAR on a US passport, and are detained or arrested, the PRC authorities are required to notify the US Embassy or US Consulate General of your detention and allow US consular officers to have access to you.”
That should be the case, but the reality may be different.
“In reality, however, U.S. officials may be prevented from providing assistance, even to those who entered on their U.S. passports,” it added.
READ MORE: Top travel agents share how to get the best price on your trip
It is also important for anyone who still decides to visit Macau to understand the local regulations.
“Participating in demonstrations or any other activities that the authorities interpret as acts of separatism, rebellion, terrorism, or collaboration with a foreign country may result in prosecution. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid demonstrations,” the State Department warned.
Are you taking a trip or thinking about taking one? Visit our Come Cruise With Me website to have all your questions answered.