Timor is a large, curved island tucked among the Lesser Sunda Islands in the Sunda Sea. The island is divided, as it has been for centuries, with the western half a province of Indonsia and the eastern side an independent nation of Timor-Leste. In the past, these segments were colonies of the Dutch (West) and Portuguese (East). After gaining independence from Portugal, East Timor was invaded by Indonesia, and descended into 25 years of resistance and war to gain its present state. Outside of town, on the Cape Fatucama headland, is a large statue of Cristo Rei. One of the island’s best beaches, the Jesus Backside Beach, is located just under the statue. Timor is renowned for the indigenous textiles and baskets of its various ethnic groups.
Dili is very much a third world country with a 222,000 people. 20% of the population is unemployed, and 53% live on less than $1.25 per day. About half of the island is illiterate. Our guides today were college students training to be tour guides. When asked one of the students offered that 6 months at the college she attended cost $30.00. There isn’t much development here, yet, the mall we visited was filled with inexpensive items and very busy as it had air conditioning. Locals were looking for a place to escape the heat. The heat and humidity today was nearly unbearable so we didn’t climb the mountain to see Cristo Rei but, it is visible in one of the pictures below on the peak of the mountain.
Joe:
Be careful what you wish for. The smaller cruise ship meant that we could get to some smaller ports. This means smaller cities and remote places. We got that today. This island is absolutely beautiful. These people are making it. This place is like watching a third world location emerge into it’s first world self. Growing commerce and most everything else with their OG world all around them. They fought to gain their independence. Strong people. Its a pleasure to be in the presence of their hard work and hope. Thanks for letting us visit.
Wow what an adventure! Well done!