Low Xiao Wei’s Exchange Journey at Macao University of Tourism
Hear from Low Xiao Wei, BSc (Honours) in Conventions and Events Management student, as she shares her unforgettable exchange journey at Macao University of Tourism!
I chose Macao for my exchange programme because the language environment felt familiar and accessible, and I had always wanted to visit Hong Kong since I was young. Being close to Hong Kong and having a mix of cultures made Macao an exciting destination for me. Another reason was my love for food, as I was eager to explore the famous cuisines in the region.
Academically, my experience abroad was both unique and eye-opening. One of the most memorable courses I took was Wine Studies. Through the course, I learned about the art of wine appreciation, including grape harvesting, the fermentation process, wine production, and tasting techniques. Understanding the craftsmanship and culture behind wine truly fascinated me and left a lasting impression.
Culturally, Macao was an amazing place to explore. As a food enthusiast, I enjoyed discovering local dishes, especially Portuguese cuisine and Hong Kong-style food. Macao’s food scene was diverse and incredibly delicious. Besides food, I also visited several historical landmarks such as the Ruins of St. Paul’s, St. Dominic’s Church, and the A-Ma Temple. These places allowed me to learn more about Macao’s unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese heritage. I also had the chance to watch the fireworks show near the Macao Tower, and it was absolutely stunning.
Of course, the exchange experience also came with challenges. Many locals mainly communicate in Cantonese, and sometimes when I tried speaking Mandarin or English, I felt that people were not very welcoming. This made me feel uncomfortable at times. However, instead of giving up, I took it as an opportunity to learn. Through the local friends I met, I gradually picked up some Cantonese. At first, communicating in Cantonese was difficult, but over time I became more confident in speaking Cantonese and am still learning it till now.
This exchange program has greatly contributed to my personal growth. It was my first time leaving my family and living abroad on my own, which helped me become more independent. Although homesickness was unavoidable, this experience allowed me to see how big the world is beyond the classroom. Academically, I also had the chance to explore subjects outside my major, such as hospitality management and wine studies, which broadened my knowledge and perspective.
To future exchange students, especially those leaving home for the first time, it is normal to feel scared, homesick, or even question whether studying abroad is the right choice for you. However, fear should not stop you from exploring the world. The world may not always be perfect, but it is full of experiences worth discovering. Opportunities like this do not come often, so take the chance and embrace the journey.
