Dili

The pleasant, laid back capital of Timor-Leste has undergone significant rebuilding since most of the city was destroyed during the militia attacks of 1999.

Dili still offers a Portuguese flavour with its villa-lined beach roads, the former colonial garrison built in the late years of the 18th century and the waterfront motel. New shops, hotels, restaurants, and bars are opening all the time, bringing a new energy and style to this once sleepy city. A wide range of international cuisine is available, from Asian to Portuguese to European, with excellent Timorese fruits and vegetables and a regular supply of imported foods form Singapore and Australia.

The waterfront remains a centre of activity from dawn till dusk. A park separates the beach from the road, with Banyan trees offering an excellent place to cool down in the shade while enjoying fresh coconut juice. Fishermen unload all kinds of fish, squid and lobsters on the beach near the park, making it one of the best places to find the freshest seafood in Dili. In the afternoon, joining the boys in their daily game of football is an excellent way of meeting local people. Peddlers can be seen selling cold drinks, snacks and satay all day and into the evening. The nearby island of Atauro, which is visible from Dili, can be reached by chartered boat or by ferry service.

Stongly Roman Ctholic, Dili features many churches. A massive status of Christ, which was built by Indonesia on the nearby headland at Cape Fatucama, is reminiscent of the statue in Rio de Janeiro. From the various stops on the way pup to the statue, there are magnificent views of Dili and also the coast stretching to the West.