A Study On The Relationship Between The Time-Map Of Tourist Spots And The Time-Space Of Other Areas In Macao

Gambling and tourism have become the main industries in Macao as the city develops. Tourism plays an important role in Macao's economy ?40% of the GDP comes from its total revenue and about 30% of the labor force is made out of it. According to the relevant statistics, it is going to be a very potential industry which helps create lots of employment opportunities as well as wealth in the coming few decades.Apart from package tours, it is also very attractive and interesting for self-tours. Since July 28, 2003, personal application for travel permits has been accepted in four cities of Canton province (Dongguan, Jiangmen, Foshan and Zhongshan). Going with this plan, personal application is to be made easier in Canton province, probably starting from January 1, 2004. Moreover, it is also to be accepted for all citizens from September 1, 2003 onwards in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Beijing and Shanghai. Possibly, more and more people from mainland will travel to Macao in the coming future. Therefore, case studies and researches on relevant travel topics may help discover more potential in Macao's tourism.With the present travel information in Macao and the use of GIS (ArcView 3.1), I would like to show the time-spatial relationship among the tourist spots of Macao. In order to give a clearer picture to tourists, I would also draw the time-map of all tourist spots with the help of the concept of time-space. Referring to these, tourists can design their own travel plan to Macao more easily and effectively.To make a time-map, we have first to locate the time cells of all districts in Macao (Macao downtown, Taipa, Coloane), then the five synthesized centers (a few harbors, the border gate, the Lotus bridge building, the ferry terminals, the Macao Airport) and finally the center of Macao downtown (Leal Senado). Then, the location of all tourist spots including churches,3temples, parks, Sortaleza Do Monte, casinos and some other spots are to be marked out of the time cells. Finally, the analysis of transportation route is to be made so as to show the relationship between the tourist spots and all districts. With the thorough analysis above, users can get a full and detailed picture of Macao. Thus, it is much easier and beneficial for them to design their own travel plan. In addition, with information shown in this research can also help expand tourism industry in Macao as well as enhance the cooperation between Macao and other cities or countries around.