East Timor achieved independence on May 20, 2002, after a violent struggle to break 25 years of occupation by Indonesia. Previously, it had suffered under centuries of Portuguese colonialism. In May 2004, the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) transferred responsibility for policing the country to East Timor forces. U.N. advisors will remain in the country to train the security forces there, including the police force.
East Timor's economy is rated among the lowest 25 percent in the world. Coffee and marble are the main exports until potential gas and offshore oil resources can be developed.
Now a democratic, independent nation, East Timor is located on the eastern half of Timor Island, part of the southern region of the Indonesian archipelago. Tropical rainforests occupy much of the 15,000 square km (5,800 square miles) of land, consisting of tropical foliage, mountains, beaches, colonial towns, forts and hill stations. The capital, Dili, situated around a harbor offset by parkland, offers Western amenities and services that are lacking in the rest of the country.
Weather is generally hot with extreme wet (December to March) and dry (May to November) seasons. Temperatures range from 85 to 95 F (29-35 C) during the day, dropping to 70 F (21 C) at night in the capital, with appreciably cooler weather in mountainous regions.
Transportation in East Timor: Although international airline service to Dili's Comoro airport is limited, flights from Australia and Bali arrive and depart daily. Entry to the country across the border with Indonesia is not advisable.
Roads and driving conditions are hazardous and travelers are encouraged to hire a car and driver. Traffic in Dili is very chaotic. Travel inland is discouraged because of security and road conditions, especially during the wet season when many roads are washed away. Most vehicles are right-hand drive; traffic flows on the left side of the road. Taxis, mini-vans and buses are available, although public transportation is often crowded and unsafe. Foreigners should consult their local embassy before traveling outside of the capital.
Tetum is the main language of East Timor. Bahasa Indonesian, Portuguese and English also are spoken.
International phone calls can be placed in Dili. Mobile phone service is available in Dili and some other areas with a Telstra SIM card (through Australian Telstra network). Most areas, however, are served by satellite phone. East Timor has a functioning postal service.
The official currency is the U.S. dollar (USD). The Banking and Payments Authority (BPA) regulates amounts of other currencies brought into the country. Most businesses will not accept credit card payments in East Timor's cash economy. Two banks and licensed moneychangers are available to exchange money.
When traveling in East Timor, continually monitor security conditions in the country, especially at the border with Indonesia. Increasing incidents of theft and assault against foreigners in Dili have prompted visitors to exercise extreme caution and security awareness, especially after dark.
The iJET® Intelligence Center
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