American professor reflects on 23 years of Macao’s transformation

American expatriate and professor at the University of Macau, Timothy A. Simpson, who has lived in Macao for over two decades, shares his reflections on the city's rapid transformation and the ease of adapting as an English speaker in this culturally diverse region.

Simpson arrived in Macao in 2001, just 18 months after the handover of the territory to the People's Republic of China. Having spent more than 23 years in the region, he has witnessed first-hand the remarkable changes that have reshaped the city. "I happened to live here coincidentally during this massive transformation of the city, the economy, and the population," he says, reflecting on his time in Macao. "It's been a huge change. The city has become much bigger, there are more people, more tourists, and an influx of billions of dollars from gaming companies investing in resort properties."

The changes have dramatically altered the skyline and the living experience in Macao. According to Simpson, these changes have made the city increasingly international, bringing in a wider range of expatriates and transforming Macao into a global destination for both tourists and business professionals. "It's always been international, but it has became international in a new kind of way," he observes.

Despite Macao's deep connection to Chinese culture, Simpson believes that English speakers can easily live and thrive here. "It's not a problem to live in Macao and be an English speaker," he says. "Especially if you can just learn a few Cantonese phrases and words—that's all you really need." While he admits that speaking Chinese can be helpful, particularly in more local areas, he notes that English is widely spoken, especially among the younger generations. "Pretty much all young people today are fairly fluent in English," Simpson adds, making it easier for foreigners to integrate into the community.

Simpson is one of many expatriates who have made Macao their home over the years, with others coming from countries such as the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia. The city's diverse, multicultural atmosphere is particularly appreciated by many expatriates, who enjoy being part of this unique melting pot. (By Zhao Anqi and Zhu Caiyun/China Youth Daily)