Overview

Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, is officially known as the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. It is a country in Southeast Asia and is made up of the eastern half of the island of Timor including the nearby islands of Atauro, and Jaco and Oecussi-Ambeno, an exclave on the northwestern side of the island. Timor-Leste is a beautiful country that is growing in terms of economic development. The local climate can be described as tropical and is generally hot and humid. The major languages spoken in Timor-Leste are Tetum and Bahasa Indonesia.

Activities & Attractions

Timor-Leste has a lot to offer by way of natural beauty. The natural reefs around Timor-Leste are quite striking. You will find a huge biodiversity that is unmatched in the world. The waters are clear and the beaches are pristine, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and the sea. A Timor-Leste vacation is perfect for scuba diving, snorkeling or simply strolling along the beach. In fact, Timor-Leste is called a scuba divers' paradise.

Dili is a quiet, charming place with colonial buildings and frangipani trees. A 27 meter high statue of Christ and an old lighthouse tower are some of the popular tourist attractions in Dilli. The city has many nightspots where you can experience the local cultural flavor.

If you are looking for adventure, try climbing up the highest peak in East Timor, Ramelau. You can plan an overnight trip to the mountain and enjoy the sunrise on the peak.

When you visit Baucau, the second largest city in East Timor, you can see the ruins of the Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market). This market was built during the Portuguese Era. You can visit the beach at Osolata, which is near this place. Known as Pantai Wataboo, it has a series of white sand coves that are fringed by palms.

Lodging

Good accommodation facilities can be found in the large cities of Timor-Leste. If you are interested in camping out, you can either take your own camping equipment, or you can purchase them in the city of Dili. Hotel Audian, The Esplanda, Hotel Dili, Timor Lodge, and Dili Guest House are some of the places of accommodation you can stay in, when you are in the capital city of Dili.

Transportation

Though public transportation facilities exist in Timor-Leste, they are usually unavailable after dark. Vehicles are driven on the left side of the road. In many areas, four wheel drives are a necessity. Ferry transport is available between Dili and Atauro Island. You can find mikrolet (small minibuses) that operate daily between many of the towns. You can drive a motorcycle or car to the places of your interest. Alternately you can also use a bicycle to get around the city.