Frequently Asked Questions About East Timor

General FAQs for East Timor

What is the capital of East Timor?

The capital of East Timor is Dili. Located on the eastern side of the island nation, Dili is a bustling port city and home to many government institutions, businesses, and cultural sites. With its strategic location on the Timor Sea and beautiful tropical climate, Dili has become an important center for trade, tourism, and economic growth in East Timor.

What is the currency of East Timor?

The currency used in East Timor is the United States dollar. Although East Timor does not have its own official currency, it has adopted the US dollar as a legal tender to facilitate trade and economic activity throughout the country. Despite some initial challenges after gaining independence from Indonesia in 2002, East Timor’s economy has been growing steadily over the past decade, and its use of the US dollar has proven to be a key factor in this success.

What languages are spoken in East Timor?

The official language of East Timor is Tetum, a Creole-based language that is spoken by the majority of the population. However, many other languages are also commonly used in East Timor, including Portuguese, Indonesian, and English. In addition to these widely spoken languages, there are also numerous local dialects in use throughout the country, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of East Timor and its various ethnic groups.So be sure to do some research on Tetum and other common languages spoken in East Timor before your trip, and you are sure to have a rich and rewarding experience during your visit!

Which time of the year is best to visit East Timor?

There is no bad time to visit East Timor, as the country enjoys a tropical climate throughout the year. However, for most visitors, the best time to go is from May to October when temperatures are relatively mild and rainfall is at its lowest. During this period you will be able to enjoy all of East Timor’s attractions in pleasant weather conditions and avoid the extreme heat and humidity of the summer months. For those looking to explore East Timor’s stunning beaches, the best time is from December to March when temperatures are at their warmest and rainfall is at its lowest.

How many days do you need for a trip to East Timor?

The amount of time you need for a trip to East Timor will depend on the type of experience you are looking for. If you plan to explore the country’s major cities and main attractions, then four or five days should be sufficient. However, if you want to really immerse yourself in the culture, scenery and history of East Timor, then you could easily spend two weeks or more exploring all that this unique country has to offer.

Which are the emergency numbers in East Timor?

In case of an emergency while in East Timor, it is important to have the right contact numbers available. The main emergency number for all types of services in East Timor is 112, and this should be used for calling police, fire or ambulance assistance. In addition, you can also call the helpline at 800-1777 for non-emergency inquiries. For medical help, the East Timor Ministry of Health provides free health services at its Primary Health Care Centers (PHCCs), and these can be contacted on +670 3326 7777. Knowing who to contact in case of an emergency is essential for any trip to East Timor, so make sure to have these numbers on hand before embarking on your journey.

Places FAQs For East Timor

What are the must visit places in East Timor?

– Baucau: Located on the east coast of the country, this former Portuguese colonial town is home to several historic monuments and gardens.


– Dili: The capital city of East Timor, this vibrant port city has a rich cultural heritage and plenty of attractions for visitors to explore.


– Atauro Island: This small island just north of Dili offers stunning white sand beaches and a rich underwater world to explore.


– Tutuala Beach: This untouched paradise on the northern coast of East Timor is home to several ancient ruins and is one of the country’s most beautiful beaches.

 

– Mount Ramelau: Standing at almost 2,400 meters, this mountain is the highest peak in East Timor and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.


– Cristo Rei: Located at the entrance to Dili, this iconic statue is modeled after its namesake in Lisbon, Portugal, and offers spectacular views of the city.

What is the best way to get around in East Timor?

The best way to get around East Timor is by car or local bus. Although there are limited public transport options, the country does have a good road network and car hire is widely available from most major towns and cities. Alternatively, local buses run between major towns and cities such as Dili, Baucau and Same, offering a comfortable and affordable way to get around. Taxis are also available, but these can be more expensive than other options so it is best to negotiate a fare before setting off on your journey.   For those looking for an authentic experience, there are several companies offering homestay experiences in the rural areas of East Timor, providing the perfect way to explore the countryside and get a real feel of the local culture.  However you choose to explore East Timor, it is important to ensure that you are travelling safely and legally at all times. Always carry your passport with you and make sure to check with your embassy or consulate before travelling.

Budget FAQs For East Timor

How much will East Timor trip cost?

The cost of travelling to East Timor will depend on several factors, including the length of your stay and type of accommodation you choose. Generally speaking, however, you can expect to pay between USD$50 and USD$100 per day for a basic trip in East Timor. This should cover food and accommodation expenses as well as entry fees to attractions. For those looking for more luxurious experiences, the cost can be higher, with some high-end hotels costing upwards of USD$200 per night. Car hire and taxi fares can also add to the overall cost of your trip. It is best to plan ahead and budget accordingly to make sure that you have enough funds to cover your expenses while travelling in East Timor.   It is also important to note that visa fees are required for certain nationalities, so make sure to check with your embassy or consulate before travelling. The cost of a visa will vary depending on the length of stay and type of visa issued, but typically range from USD$50 – USD$90.

How much does a meal cost in East Timor?

Meals in East Timor are typically quite affordable, with most restaurants offering reasonably priced meals. A basic local meal such as a plate of nasi goreng (fried rice) and a drink can cost around USD$2-4, while more substantial dishes like seafood or chicken curry will be slightly more expensive at USD$5-7. For those looking for a more western-style meal, prices will be slightly higher at around USD$10-15. It is also worth noting that alcohol can be expensive in East Timor, with most beers and spirits costing around USD$5-7 per glass or bottle. Overall, the cost of meals in

 East Timor should be relatively affordable compared to other Southeast Asian countries.  It is important to note that prices may vary depending on the location and type of restaurant you choose, so it is best to research your options before making a decision. Additionally, most restaurants in East Timor will not accept credit cards or international currencies, so it is important to have the local currency (U.S dollars or Indonesian Rupiah) on hand when dining out.

What is the cost of accommodation in East Timor?

Accommodation in East Timor will vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose and the location. Budget-friendly options such as hostels or guesthouses can cost between USD$10 – USD$20 per night, while more luxurious hotels can be upwards of USD$200 per night. Mid-range hotels typically cost around USD$50-100 per night and offer a good balance between budget and comfort. Many of the accommodation options in East Timor also include breakfast, so this should be taken into account when planning your trip.

What is the cheapest time to visit East Timor?

The best time to visit East Timor and get the most out of your trip is typically between April and October, as this period tends to be less crowded and accommodation costs are usually lower. The months of November through March tend to be much busier due to the peak tourist season, so prices for flights and accommodation will be higher.

Culture FAQs For East Timor

How are the people in East Timor?

The people of East Timor are incredibly friendly and welcoming. The majority of the population is Christian, which contributes to a generally relaxed atmosphere and ethical values that promote peace and harmony. Locals are usually very open and eager to help visitors explore their culture, customs, cuisine and attractions. Tourists should expect to be met with smiles and hospitable people during their visit to East Timor.  In general, the people of East Timor are welcoming and open to visitors, making it a great place to explore and experience the country’s culture. It is important to be respectful when traveling in East Timor and observe local customs, as this will ensure that you have a pleasant experience. Additionally, it is recommended to learn some basic phrases in the local language of Tetum to show respect and be better understood by the locals.

Popular dishes in East Timor include:


– Ikan Bakar, which is grilled fish served with a chili sauce.


– Paniki, which is a type of bat stew cooked with spices and vegetables.


– Baked banana filled with coconut and sago pudding.

 

– Fried rice or noodles with seafood.


– Satay with spicy peanut sauce.


– Local seafood dishes such as squid, octopus and tuna.


– Suka Malu, an East Timorese version of steak tartare.


– Salada de batata, a mashed potato salad usually served with meat or fish.


– Grilled prawns served with chili sauce.

 

– Tapai, a traditional fermented rice dish.

 

– Fruit shakes and coconut smoothies.


– Pudim de Leite, a custard pudding made from condensed milk and eggs.


– And many more!

Sports are popular in East Timor, with soccer being the most popular sport. Other sports that are played include basketball, beach volleyball, surfing, martial arts and rugby. Soccer is widely supported throughout East Timor and has become an important part of local culture. The East Timorese National Football Team competes in various international tournaments and has recently been gaining recognition in the region. 
In addition to soccer, beach volleyball is becoming increasingly popular and there are even local tournaments held along the coast. Surfing is also becoming more popular, as there are waves suitable for all skill levels from beginner to advanced surfers. Martial arts such as karate, muay thai and jiu-jitsu, are all practiced in East Timor and many of the local gyms offer classes. Rugby is also gaining popularity, with the East Timorese National Rugby Team competing in various international tournaments.

What are the common religions in East Timor?

The majority religion in East Timor is Roman Catholicism, with 97.5% of the population identifying as Catholic. Protestantism and Islam make up the remainder of the religious makeup in East Timor, at 1.3% and 0.9% respectively. East Timor also has a vibrant traditional spiritual practice known as Animism, which incorporates elements from traditional religions and nature worship. Animism is practiced alongside the major world religions by a small percentage of East Timorese people. 
In addition to Christianity and Animism, Buddhism has been gaining popularity in recent years and there are new Buddhist temples being built around the country.

Which festivals are celebrated in East Timor?

East Timor has a variety of festivals throughout the year celebrating traditional and religious events.

 

– Feast of the Immaculate Conception (December 8): Celebrating the conception of Mary, patron saint of East Timor.

 

– Carnival (February/March): Street parties across East Timor including traditional music and dance performances, parades and food stalls.

 

– Corpus Christi (May/June): Catholic processions through the streets with colorful costumes and dances to honor Jesus’ body and blood.

 

– Independence Day (May 20th): Public holiday celebrating East Timor’s declaration of independence from Indonesia in 2002.

 

– Feast of the Assumption (August 15): Celebrating the assumed bodily ascension of Mary into heaven.

 

– Santa Cruz Massacre Memorial Day (November 12): Commemorating those who died in East Timor’s Santa Cruz massacre in 1991.

 

– Christmas (December 25): Public holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus with religious ceremonies, family gatherings and feasts.

– New Year’s Day (January 1): Public holiday to bring in the new year with fireworks, parties and celebrations.

 

– All Saints’ Day (November 1): Catholic celebration honoring all of the saints with processions and offerings.


– Ascension Thursday (May/June): Religious observance of Jesus’ ascension into heaven.


– Feast of Sts Peter and Paul (June 29): Celebrating the life and martyrdom of saints Peter and Paul.


– International Workers’ Day (May 1): Public holiday honoring workers with marches, rallies and demonstrations.


– Good Friday (April/May): Catholic observance of Jesus’ crucifixion.


– Easter (April/May): Public holiday celebrating Jesus’ resurrection with religious ceremonies, family gatherings and feasts. 
These are some of the most popular festivals celebrated in East Timor that attract tourists from around the world. All visitors should respect local customs when attending these festivals or any other cultural events in East Timor. Visitors should also be aware of the country’s laws and regulations when in East Timor, as some activities may be prohibited or require permits.

What souvenirs to buy from East Timor?

East Timor offers a wide range of souvenirs that reflect the country’s culture, history and vibrant artistry. Some popular souvenirs to buy from East Timor include:


– Handicrafts: Local artisans produce an array of handcrafted items such as jewelry, pottery, woven baskets and carved figurines.


– Tíki masks: These wooden masks are an important part of East Timorese culture, representing distinct characters from traditional myths and stories.


– Coffee beans: East Timor is one of the world’s leading producers of Arabica coffee beans, making it a great souvenir to take home.


– Textiles: The country has a vibrant textile industry, producing colorful shawls and traditional Ikat fabrics that are popular souvenirs.


– Music: Traditional East Timorese music is very rich and diverse, with a variety of instruments and styles. Visitors can find CDs and other recordings of this beautiful music in local stores.