Getting You Started
Timor-Leste, formerly known as East Timor, became the world’s newest independent nation in May 2002. Situated north west of Darwin between Australia and Indonesia, Timor-Leste is just over an hours flight from Darwin. International country code for Timor-Leste is 670. Timor-Leste is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Entry & Visa Requirements (subject to change)
Visitors who are nationals of British, Australian, Canadian, USA and other EU Countries require valid passports and a tourist visa valid for 30 days. Visas will be issued on arrival for a fee of USD30 cash. There are no money exchange facilities at the airport.
Medical & Health Requirements
Hospital facilities exist in the capital Dili. Malaria and dengue fever are a problem in Timor-Leste and anti malarial precautions are highly recommended. Remember that some medications can make you sun sensitive, so extra care must be taken to ensure that skin is protected from sun burn. Please check with your physician for the best precautions to be taken. (For further details contact Travel Vax on 1300 360 164).
Currency
The currency of Timor-Leste is the US Dollar. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels however restaurants do not allow you to run a tab therefore taking USD cash is recommended.
1 AUD = approximately 0.89 USD (Janaury 2010)
Baggage (International flights Ex Australia)
Air North– 25kg (applicable for divers only) (Subject to change without notice)
Duty Free
The allowance is 200 cigarettes and 2.25 litres of alcohol.
Weather
East Timor has two seasons. The wet season is December to April and the dry season is May to November. Daytime temperatures in the lowland area ranges from 30°C to 35°C dropping into the low 20’s overnight. In the mountains temperatures can drop as low as 15°C overnight.
Clothing The emphasis is on light and casual clothing but not too brief in public places including churches and markets. Swimwear is not permitted in the public areas of hotels. Remember to cover up with light cotton clothing at dusk and dawn to prevent mosquito bites. Sun protection is absolutely essential.
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Electricity
220 volts AC, Plug I, C, E & F. Please note that some accommodation may have Indonesian plugs so it is recommended to carry a converter just in case.
(for further details refer to http://www.kropla.com/electric2.htm).
Banking
Both the Australian ANZ bank and the Portuguese Banco National Ultramarino have branches in Dili. Banking hours are 9.30am to 3. 3 0pm Monday to Friday. ATM’s can be found in Dili. Traveler’s cheques are not widely accepted.
Language Tetum and Portuguese are the official languages. English and Indonesian are also widely spoken throughout Timor-Leste.
Religion
Approximately 95% of East Timorese are Catholic. Religious days are closely observed, loud noise and frivolous behaviour are frowned on during these times.
Water
Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled or sterilised. It is recommended to drink bottled water. In the tropics it is important to drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids to avoid dehydration.
Shopping
In the centre of Dili, the local market is a great spot to meet the locals and find batiks and embroidered fabrics in traditional patterns and colours along with coral jewellery and woodcarvings. The coffee from Timor-Leste is unique and different from other coffees around the world. It is organically grown, renowned for its sharp flavour and definitely worth a try.
Tipping
There is no service charge added to bills, however if you are happy with the service, a 10% tip would be appreciated.
Diving
Timor-Leste offers the adventurous diver the opportunity to explore the unexplored and has some of the most accessible shore diving in South East Asia. Alternatively you can venture out to the famous Atauro Island, a 45 minute boat ride from Dili. Average water temperature is 28°C. A protective lycra suit or 3mm suit is recommended. Best visibility is between July to October. Dive operators supply tanks, weight belts and dive guide services. There will be an extra charge if equipment hire is required.
Departure Tax
A local tax of USD10 is to be on departure at the airport. Please have US cash available.
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