 Situated
in South-East Asia, East Timor is part of the eastern
half of the island of Timor (the western half belongs to
Indonesia) which is situated off the northern coast of
Western Australia. Dili, the capital offers numerous
examples of colonial architecture left by the
Portuguese, notably the Portuguese castle (1627) and the
State Museum of East Timor, exhibiting a collection of
traditional art, musical instruments and paintings.
Dili is undergoing major reconstruction works, for the
city was badly hit during the fighting with Indonesia in
1999, although there are still many catholic churches
standing as well as the famous large statue of Christ on
the top of Cape Fatucama.
On the island the official language is Tetum along with
Portuguese, and English is often used in the
administrative centers, however there are other 30 local
dialects.
The interior of East Timor is mountainous; while along
the coastline there are plenty of beautiful beaches,
such as Areia Branca, near Baucau where magnificent
views and pristine sites can be admired.
Some good water activities can be found in Com, a
picturesque fishing village where fishing and snorkeling
are popular and lovely rooms can be found at the Com
Beach Resort.
For more historical sites a trip to Fatsuba and Maubara
is worthwhile, with their garrisons and 17th century
forts jutting out onto the sea.
East Timor has a tropical monsoon climate and is very
hot and dry from July to November, with the rainy season
from December to March. It is cooler and more humid in
the mountain region.
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