Dili, Timor-Leste, June 28, 2016

Dili, Timor-Leste Tuesday June 28, 2016

We docked at the large harbour and spend most of the day exploring the township and its surroundings.

We started at the Taibessi Traditional Market where colourful stall are selling souvenirs and local handywork.

Next off to the Timorese Resistance Archive and Museum, which has many displays on the 24-year struggle of the East Timorese, peoples fight for independence from Indonesia.

Then back on the bus, we climbed the hillsides passing coffee plantations which great views overlooking the city and stopping at a school and adjoining Australian WWII war memorial.

The final stop was at the Monastery at the mountainside village of Laulara, where young dancers and a band welcomed us.

While tourism is still in its infancy in East Timor, the friendly approach and enthusiasm of the local peoples was most evident. I predict this will become a major place to visit in future years.