Welcome to Timor-Leste 😊
Timor-Leste is a small island nation located in Southeast Asia. It was once ruled by Portugal and then Indonesia before gaining independence in 2002. The country boasts stunning natural scenery, including beautiful beaches and impressive mountains. Its people are known for their resilience and friendly nature, despite a history of hardship and conflict. Agriculture and tourism are important industries in Timor-Leste, with coffee and rice being major crops. Visitors can also enjoy traditional music, dance and cuisine, which reflects both indigenous culture and Portuguese influence.
Quick Facts About Timor-Leste
- Currency: United States Dollar
- Population: 1.3 million
- Languages: Tetum,Portuguese,Indonesian
Money and Finances
The official currency of Timor-Leste is the US dollar, which is divided into 100 cents. Coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, and notes come in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.
ATM Network
ATMs are available in major cities and towns, but they are not as widespread as in other countries. It is recommended to carry enough cash when travelling to remote areas.
Credit Cards
Credit card acceptance is limited in Timor-Leste, and it is mostly available in major hotels and restaurants. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than AMEX.
Internet and Phones
In Timor-Leste, the average internet speed for uploads and downloads is relatively slow compared to other countries. Additionally, there is government interference in internet use in some areas, especially regarding political content.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
The main telco companies in Timor-Leste are Timor Telecom and Telemor. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is relatively high compared to other countries in the region, and there can be some sim compatibility issues.
Dialling to Timor-Leste
To call Timor-Leste from another country, dial +670 followed by the phone number. Within Timor-Leste, the area codes used vary by region and can be found online or in a local phone book.
Transport Around Timor-Leste
Air Travel
The major airport in Timor-Leste is Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport located in the capital city of Dili. It serves both domestic and international flights.
Train Travel
There are no inter-city train services in Timor-Leste.
Metro / Local Trains
There is no metro or local train service in Timor-Leste.
Buses
Timor-Leste has a limited bus network with most services operating in Dili. An example ticket price for a journey within Dili is around USD 0.30 and the journey time is approximately 30 minutes.
Rideshare
Rideshare companies such as Ojek and Gojek operate in Timor-Leste with average travel prices varying depending on the distance and time of day.
Driving by Car
Driving in Timor-Leste is generally manageable, though road conditions can sometimes be challenging. The speed limit is 40 km/h in urban areas and 60 km/h on open roads. Timor-Leste uses left-hand drive.
Local Customs
In Timor-Leste, tipping is not a common practice. Locals greet each other with a handshake or a simple nod of the head. It is considered respectful to address elders with a formal title, such as 'Tia' for aunt or 'Tio' for uncle. When speaking with strangers, it is best to be polite and avoid asking personal questions. Men and women generally address each other with the same level of formality, but it is important to use appropriate titles when addressing people in positions of authority.
Health and Diseases
Medical System
In Timor-Leste, the health system is underdeveloped and medical facilities can be scarce in some areas. The healthcare system is largely centralized, with most medical services available in the capital city, Dili. Private healthcare facilities are also available but can be expensive. It is recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance when visiting Timor-Leste, as medical costs can be high. A visit to a doctor can cost approximately $50-$100 USD.
COVID Situation
Timor-Leste has implemented several measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including restricted travel, mandatory quarantine, and widespread testing. As of October 2021, the country has reported relatively low rates of coronavirus, with a total of 19,642 cases and 73 deaths.
Common Health Risks
Malaria is a common health risk in Timor-Leste, particularly in rural areas. Dengue fever is also prevalent during the rainy season. Travelers should take precautions against mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets. Food and waterborne illnesses are also a risk, so it is important to drink only bottled or filtered water and avoid street food. Respiratory illnesses, such as tuberculosis, are also a concern in Timor-Leste.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Timor-Leste, alcohol consumption is legal and widely accepted. However, public drunkenness and disorderly conduct are not tolerated and could result in fines or imprisonment. The legal drinking age is 18 years old.
Recreational Drugs
Recreational drug use is illegal in Timor-Leste, and those found guilty could face very harsh penalties, including long prison sentences and heavy fines. This includes both possession and trafficking of drugs.
Pre-Marital Relationships
In Timor-Leste, pre-marital relationships and sexual activity are not illegal but are not openly accepted in conservative parts of society. However, sexual assault and rape are punishable by long prison sentences.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Same-sex sexual activity is not illegal in Timor-Leste, and some progress has been made in recognizing and protecting LGBTQ rights in recent years. However, societal attitudes are still conservative, and discrimination and harassment can occur.
Firearms / Guns
Gun ownership in Timor-Leste is strictly regulated. Only authorized personnel, such as security forces and military personnel, are allowed to possess firearms. Private ownership is not allowed, and those found in possession of illegal firearms could face severe punishment.