GENERAL INFORMATION
Geography
officially Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste 5,950 sq mi (15,410 sq km) is located in the eastern part of Timor, an island in the Indonesian archipelago that lies between the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. Timor-Leste includes the enclave of Oecussi, which is located within West Timor (Indonesia). After Indonesia, Timor-Leste's closest neighbor is Australia, 400 mi to the south. It is semi-arid and mountainous.
Dili , on the north coast, is the capital and largest city, as well as the country's main port. Other large cities include Dare, outside Dili, and Baucau, on the northeast coast and the site of the main airport. The terrain is largely hilly and mountainous, reaching its highest point on Mt. Tatamailau (6,562 ft/2,963 m).
Demographics
The Timor-Leste's population (2002 est. pop. 800,000), which is collectively known as the Maubere, an originally derogatory name that was turned into a name of pride by the resistance movement, consists of a number of distinct ethnic and traditions most of which are of Malay descent and some of older Papuan stock and a significant international presence, the world's newest nation offers a great deal for visitors. There is also a small ethnic Chinese minority.
The population is predominantly Roman Catholic (90%), with sizable Muslim (5%) and Protestant (3%) minorities. Smaller Hindu, Buddhist and animist minorities make up the remainder.
Languages
Timor-Leste's two official languages are Tetum, a local Austronesian language, and Portuguese. Indonesian and English are defined as working languages under the Constitution.
Communications
The local mobile telephone network and fixed line are managed by Timor Telecom, which provides coverage in the Whole Country. Internet is not widely available (access can be made in capital City only-DIli), with public access only be found at the Timor Telecom office in Dili, World Bank, and several internet cafes (cost arround 4-6 USD/hour)
Transportation
Bus (“Mikrolet”)
In Dili, bright, colourful minibuses provide a useful alternative to walking. They are cheap and go to a variety of places but seem restricted to the main roads. Getting around on a bus really requires you to have some knowledge of Tetum. Buses are the usual form of public transport out of Dili to other towns in Timor-Leste. It may also be possible to negotiate a taxi to drive out of Dili.
Taxis
There is a plentiful supply of taxis in Dili. It is important to negotiate the price before embarking on the journey.Taxi drivers are nicer to you if you speak Tetum. Taxi drivers themselves often have a companion for safety, especially late at night. Taxis are hard to get at night. However, if you are in the middle of town, you should always be able to find one and get yourself home again unless it is really late.
And others Travel Company like Megatour and Intrepid Travel, which is provide tour assistances to the whole country.
Bank & Currency
The official currency of East Timor is the US Dollar which is the only currency that can be accepted as legal tender.
Four commercial banks operate in Dili: ANZ Banking Group, Banco Nacional Ultramarino (BNU), Bank Mandiri, Western Union. They all offer telegraphic transfer facilities and Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) which dispense US dollars using credit/debit cards that are Cirrus/Maestro linked.
TOURISM INFORMATION
Where you want to go in Timor-Leste?
Even Timor-Leste is a small country, but the range and variety of different opportunities for visitors to explore is unbelievable!.........Check out here.!!!
Baucau
Timor Leste's second largest town is a spectacular three hour drive
from Dili along the coast via Manatuto. With a cool climate and
outstanding beaches, nearby Baucau is an essential stop on any journey
eastwards. The country's first Hospitality training facility, the Pousada
de Baucau, has recently opened. Boasting excellent accommodation, high
service standards and an emphasis on quality food, this spectacularily
"pink palace" is well worth a visit.
The beach at Baucau is a deserted haven that offers cool ocean breezes, fantastic camping under the shade of the palm trees and phenomenal sunsets. After the drive down from Baucau simply follow the road left until you reach the Portuguese ruins.
From Baucau you can also cut across the island and head for Viqueque. This region was once an important source of sandalwood and teak and the remaining forests are lush and dense due to the high amounts of rainfall that the area receives. Journeys can be difficult during the wet season so be sure to take travel advice before you set out.
Maubisse
Maubisse and Aileu are old hill towns that are an easy day trip from
the heat of Dili. This region is the main coffee growing area of Timor
Leste. Between the periods of June and September it's possible to witness
the coffee harvest and its processes. At Maubisse the former government
rest house, now known as the Pousada, has been converted into a hotel.
With 360 degree views, spectacular mountain scenery and cool weather, this
is an absolute must for any visitor to Timor Leste.
You can also use Maubisse as a base for walking up Mount Ramelau. To do this, drive to Hatobuilico, which is at the base of the mountain. The drive takes about 45 minutes. The walk up the forested slopes, takes around 3 hours to reach the summit which offers fantastic views that stretch from Atauro in the north, all the way to the South coast. The forest on the plateau just before the summit offers protection against the worst of the elements if you are camping overnight. With its petrified trees and early morning mist the magical feeling of being at the top of Timor Leste is simply fantastic. Be sure to pack wet weather gear and to take water if you are climbing Mount Ramelau.
Same
The district of Manufahi's capital, Same, offers a fantastic
base for exploring the South Coast of East Timor. The people here are
friendly and accomodating while the natural beauty of the area is
outstanding. With its villages surrounded by tall forests and dense
vegetation Same has a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere with a fantastic
climate.
Western style accomodation on the South coast is very limited at the moment so be sure to pack some form of camping equipment before you leave Dili. You can travel on towards the West arriving in the District of Cova Lima or head East towards Viqueque. Please be aware that bad weather can make some of these routes impassable during the wet season, sometimes for several days, ask for travel advice from the local police stations along the way if you are in doubt.
Lospalos
This region in the East is totally unspoilt. With fantastic beaches,
pristine coral reefs and the National Park of Jaco Island, this area calls
out for those who love the sea. In addition, the rugged landscape will
delight visitors. The rural communities here are already experienced in
helping visitors.
For those interested in the cultural past of Timor Leste, Lospalos has a whole host of interesting features. Cave paintings have been found near Lautem. There are also stone sarcophagi and many animist shrines to be found in the area. The area is also a haven for many of the island's 25 protected species of birds including eagles, ospreys and the barn owl.
Oecusse
Surrounded on three sides by West Timor, this isolated former
Portuguese coastal enclave is politically part of Timor Leste.
Pantemakassar, the capital, was the first permanent Portuguese settlement
in Timor. The first Portuguese landing place is five kilometers west of
the capital at Lifau, where a monument marks the spot. About 1.5
kilometers from Pantemakassar is the old hilltop of Fatusuba, offering
wonderful views. Local religious festivals are held at the shrine here.
The easiest way to travel to Oecussi is by the new ferry service.
Ata'uro
The island of Ata'uro is a short trip from Dili and the journey is well
worth it. The island has a very relaxed atmosphere and an unspoilt
environment. The island is visible from Dili and there are a great variety
of ways to travel there. You can choose a sailing charter, a diving
charter or fishing charter with Dive Loro Sae. Currently there is an
eco-tourism site being developed so it is possible to stay overnight,
although accommodation is basic. Visitors to Ata'uro frequently report
being accompanied during the journey by schools of dolphins and
whales!