239 articles
Stories, travel guides, and news from Timor-Leste.
Paulina Mau Torres Da Cruz went from catering manager to Program Manager and tourism coach at Agora Food Studio in Dili, championing local food and peer-to-peer coaching for Timor-Leste's next generation of tourism entrepreneurs.
Explore Letefoho's coffee farms with Café Brisa Serena — pick cherries, meet producers, stay in community guesthouses, and discover why Ermera is Timor-Leste's coffee heartland.
Ataúro Island and its tourism association ATKOMA earned a place in Green Destinations' Top 100 Sustainability Stories, recognized for reviving cultural traditions and fostering ecotourism through Tara Bandu Marine Protected Areas.
Mercy Corps and Timor-Leste's Ministry of Tourism launched the country's first catalog of locally upcycled and recycled products, advancing circular economy approaches to protect the environment and support sustainable tourism.
Luis "Melky" Berhuno became Timor-Leste's first certified local dive instructor through a USAID-funded grant, teaching 20 Timorese to dive and opening new doors for the country's growing marine tourism industry.
Australia's Market Development Facility and six Timor-Leste dive operators have mapped five new dive sites, filmed a biodiversity documentary, and built industry collaboration to accelerate post-pandemic marine tourism recovery.
The Balibo Fort Veterans' Museum, opened in April 2022, honours those who served in Timor-Leste from World War II through INTERFET, with free entry, bilingual displays, and easy access to Balibo's trails and Fort hotel.
How Agora Food Studio used peer-to-peer coaching and a community of practice to grow Timor-Leste's domestic tourism sector during COVID-19, empowering young entrepreneurs via the
Each year in February and March, the communities of Oesilo in Oé-Cusse gather at sacred sites to perform the traditional corn harvesting ceremony, a living ritual connecting generations to their ancestors and to the land.
DaTerra is a social enterprise and educational farm in Baucau that blends sustainable agriculture with eco-tourism, offering guided hikes, homestays, and hands-on permaculture experiences just two hours from Dili.
The second Dili International Film Festival brought together local and international filmmakers in October 2020 under the motto "Adapting to Change", drawing nearly 100 film submissions and hundreds of attendees across multiple Dili venues.
Reaching Oé-Cusse from Dili is possible by plane, ferry, or road. This guide covers the options, schedules, and prices for travelling to Timor-Leste's unique enclave on the island of Timor.
Mission Aviation Fellowship has partnered with Atauro's tourism association ATKOMA to launch a Fly/Stay shuttle service, connecting Dili to Atauro Island in under 20 minutes with Friday evening and Monday morning departures.
In Beto Tasi, a coastal community on the fringe of Dili, small-scale fishing families are diversifying into homestay ecotourism, inspired by a learning exchange with the Atauro Homestay Association and supported by marine conservation organisation Blue Ventures.
The "Ha'u-nia Timor-Leste" (My Timor-Leste) campaign was launched to inspire residents to become tourists in their own country, encouraging them to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag
The Ha'u-nia Timor-Leste Domestic Tourism Fair and Expo brought together tourism businesses and the public around World Tourism Day, with a 5-day expo at Timor Plaza and a tourism fair offering special packages, cultural performances, and community awards.
The Ombai-Wetar Strait has been designated a Mission Blue Hope Spot, recognising Timor-Leste's globally significant coral reefs, marine wildlife, and the community-led conservation work of the Assosiasaun Turizmu Maritima Timor-Leste.
The Hotel Owners of Timor-Lorosa'e (HOTL) Association unites hoteliers to grow sustainable tourism in Timor-Leste, promoting the destination and supporting economic recovery after COVID-19.
Timor-Leste marks World Oceans Day by signing new guidelines for responsible interaction with whales, dolphins, and dugongs, supporting the sustainable growth of the whale and dolphin watching industry.
The Market Development Facility (MDF) is building linkages between Australian and Timorese tourism operators through webinars, trade networks, and destination marketing to grow the number of Australian visitors to Timor-Leste.
The shrine of Our Lady of Mount Ramelau in Timor-Leste has re-opened to visitors after closure due to COVID-19, with guidelines for masks, social distancing, and respectful behaviour at this sacred protected site.
Australian travel blogger Catherine Hopgood documents her adventures across Timor-Leste on her blog Timor Tourist 2021, with guides to local activities, accommodation, and farm-to-table food experiences.
Balibo Trails, Timor-Leste's first formal tour office outside of Dili, now offers guided walking, hiking, and cycling tours around the historic village of Balibó, with mountain bikes available for hire.
Four young Timorese artists transformed by a USAID-funded ceramics training programme at ETDA are now creating glazed pottery with traditional cultural motifs for the tourism market, selling locally and internationally.
Timor Unearthed partnered with USAID's Tourism For All Project to deliver a 5-day safe tourism workshop for operators across Timor-Leste, creating safety resources that reached over 223,000 people online.
A roundup of UNDP and SAR-ZEESM Tourism Project activities in Oé-Cusse, including hospitality training for 108 participants, tour guide courses, a new tourism website, redesigned brochures, and a street art installation in Pante Macassar.
Timor-Leste's traditional hand-woven textile tais has been inscribed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding, unlocking a $270,000 grant to fund preservation, youth training, and cultural tourism development.
Tour company Adventureiro Azula Outdoor has launched an 8-day guided trek to all five of Timor-Leste's highest peaks, from Mount Ramelau at 2,967 metres to Datoi-Tapo, offering adventurous travellers a unique way to discover the country's dramatic highland landscapes.
Timor-Leste celebrated World Tourism Day 2021 with the second annual Turizmu Ba Ema Hotu awards, recognizing outstanding contributions across Tourism, Solidarity, and Climate Champion categories, alongside the announcement of two new Tourism Youth Ambassadors.
Timor-Leste officially launched the Faith-based Tourism Association (ATRTL) at Dili Cathedral, backed by a $110,000 government grant and U.S. support, to tap into the estimated $18 billion global religious tourism market and create jobs for local communities.
Timor-Leste has submitted a formal application to UNESCO to have its traditional hand-woven textile tais inscribed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding, a milestone that would be the country's first-ever government-led UNESCO designation.
The Dili Tourism Information Centre in Lecidere has trained staff ready to help visitors with maps, brochures, diving information, boat timetables, and practical travel tips for exploring Timor-Leste, open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:30.
The inaugural Turizmu Ba Ema Hotu Tourism Champions Awards 2020 called on the public to nominate individuals and organizations who have made an outstanding contribution to tourism in Timor-Leste, with winners selected by a panel on criteria including hospitality, customer service, and sustainable tourism principles.
The 2021 Turizmu Ba Ema Hotu awards expanded to three categories — Tourism Champion, Climate Champion, and Solidarity Champion — reflecting the dual challenges of COVID-19 and devastating floods that Timor-Leste's tourism sector faced that year.
Meet the 2021 Turizmu Ba Ema Hotu Tourism Champions — conservationists, divers, and restaurateurs shaping sustainable tourism in Timor-Leste.
USAID's Tourism For All project supports a $50M+ public-private partnership to redevelop Dili Port into a world-class marina, tourism hub, and cultural waterfront destination.
Discover Timor-Leste's coffee country — a rugged mountainous interior where nearly a third of households grow specialty coffee, one of the nation's top non-oil exports.
Explore community-based tourism in Oé-Cusse, Timor-Leste's hidden enclave, where UNDP supports local entrepreneurs building sustainable, equitable travel experiences.
Ten outstanding individuals and organisations were honoured at the Turizmu Ba Ema Hotu Tourism Champions Awards, celebrating exceptional contributions to tourism in Timor-Leste.
Forty marine science students from the National University of Timor-Leste explored Atauro Island's coral reefs, joined whale-watching excursions, and learned how sustainable dive tourism protects Timor-Leste's extraordinary marine biodiversity.
Meet Timor-Leste's young ocean ambassadors Micky and Mardy, who clean Atauro's beaches, track marine debris, and turn plastic waste into handcrafted goods.
Eight Australian travel agents explored Timor-Leste on a familiarization trip organized by the Market Development Facility, culminating in a speed networking event that connected them with local tour operators, dive centres, and hoteliers to boost post-COVID tourism arrivals.
The inaugural Timor-Leste Tourism Investment Forum took place on November 21-22, 2024, at the Dili Convention Centre, bringing together some 300 stakeholders from government, industry, and ASEAN partner nations to attract investment and establish Timor-Leste as an emerging tourism destination.
Charles Sturt University graduate Marieke Hoelscher joined 13 students on a New Colombo Plan study tour to Timor-Leste, gaining hands-on insights into sustainable smallholder farming in Southeast Asia.
Over 100 people, mostly children, were displaced in Dili after heavy rains caused widespread flooding, tree falls, and damage to public infrastructure across Timor-Leste.
Timor-Leste authorities intervened to stop a group of youths from traveling to Cambodia amid fears of human trafficking by a company recruiting for a casino.
Timor-Leste partners with the World Food Programme to deliver nutritional support and health education to pregnant and lactating women nationwide.
Timor-Leste's Integrated Health Program brings AI-enabled TB screening, expanded eye care, and new simulation centres to advance Universal Health Coverage nationwide.
President Jose Ramos-Horta voiced support for India and Indonesia as permanent UN Security Council members, highlighting Timor-Leste’s growing diplomatic influence.
Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão announced a possible government reshuffle in March 2024, aiming to strengthen Timor-Leste's governance and address national challenges.
A practical guide to electric sockets and plug adapters in Thailand, covering plug types A, B, C and voltage requirements so you can keep all your devices charged.
Explore Tenerife's unique blend of African flair and European charm — from volcanic Mount Teide to sun-drenched beaches and vibrant Canarian culture.
Everything you need to know about eTravel Philippines — the mandatory digital registration for all air and maritime travellers entering or leaving the archipelago.
Explore Canberra's world-class museums, stunning national landmarks, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful bushland — Australia's capital city has something for every traveller.
Discover the iconic Sydney Opera House — world-class performances, stunning harbour views, and unforgettable architecture await every visitor to Sydney.
Discover Brisbane's vibrant cultural scene, stunning riverbanks, world-class dining, and laid-back charm in this ultimate guide to Queensland's sun-drenched capital.
Plan your Australian adventure with this ultimate Aussie travel guide — tips on guidebooks, tour guides, and how to make the most of your Down Under journey.
Pack like a pro for your Australian adventure — carry-on rules, packing methods, and essential checklists to make your trip Down Under smooth and stress-free.
Portuguese researchers discovered new nudibranch species off Timor-Leste's north coast, identifying 130 types of sea slugs — around 30 potentially new to science.
Discover the many purposes of travel — from cultural immersion and personal growth to economic benefits and visa requirements — and let your wanderlust goals guide your next journey.
Timor-Leste's Consumer Association urges the government to increase price regulation after a survey found retail prices varying by up to 200% across Díli supermarkets.
The National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) has issued a warning that fireworks are only permitted on New Year's Eve, following complaints from residents in Díli.
The UK is backing Timor-Leste's economic growth by helping establish a national system of origin certificates to boost exports and ASEAN integration.
Plan your perfect trip to Timor-Leste with this ultimate travel guide covering the best time to visit, top destinations, food, and travel tips.
Your complete guide to Melbourne — from iconic laneways and world-class food to transport tips, best travel seasons, and must-do experiences in Australia's cultural capital.
Everything you need to know about travel insurance for Australia — costs, coverage options, top providers, and why it is essential for every visitor heading Down Under.
Visit the Alola Foundation Center & Shop in Dili to discover authentic Tais textiles and handicrafts made by Timorese women, supporting cultural preservation and economic empowerment since 2006.
Aquatica Dive Resort in Dili offers world-class scuba diving, diverse marine life, comfortable rooms, and exceptional cuisine — a must-visit for divers in Timor-Leste.
Arte Moris in Dili is Timor-Leste's most beloved art gallery and creative community, showcasing murals, sculptures, and the living culture of a resilient nation.
Many travellers flying to Timor-Leste connect through Darwin or Bali. Here's how to turn that regional hop into a genuine adventure before you arrive.
Bliss Massage Therapy in Dili, Timor-Leste, offers a professional spa experience with skilled therapists and a calm atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Yes, babies can sleep in a carrier on a plane — practical tips on safety, airport security, bassinets, and keeping your infant comfortable in flight.
Everything you need to know about flying with hairspray — carry-on limits, checked baggage rules, aerosol restrictions, and tips for breezing through airport security.
Visit the Cemetery of Santa Cruz in Dili, a powerful memorial to the 1991 massacre and a moving testament to Timor-Leste's long struggle for independence.
The Chega! Exhibition in Dili offers a powerful and emotional look at Timor-Leste's fight for independence, housed in a former colonial prison.
Comarca Balide Prison in Dili is a powerful museum and memorial where political prisoners were held during Timor-Leste's fight for independence — a must-visit site.
Cristo Rei of Dili is a towering monument and Timor-Leste's most iconic landmark, blending spiritual significance, panoramic ocean views, and a powerful history of national resilience.
The Dare War Memorial Museum in Dili honours the Australian soldiers and Timorese resistance fighters of WWII, offering history, stunning views, and a peaceful hilltop setting.
East Timor's beaches offer world-class diving, pristine coral reefs, and uncrowded surf breaks — a true sun-soaked escape for adventurous travellers.
Explore Timor-Leste's rich history, stunning coral reefs, and dramatic mountains in this in-depth map guide to Southeast Asia's hidden gem.
Plan your trip with confidence — explore Timor-Leste's tropical climate, wet and dry seasons, best travel months, safety tips, and what to expect in Dili.
Everything you need to know about catching a ferry to Fraser Island — fares, schedules, vehicle permits, and tips for making the most of K'gari.
Plan your perfect trip to Timor-Leste with this complete travel guide covering the best time to visit, budgeting tips, cultural insights, and essential entry requirements.
Atauro Island, just 25 km north of Dili, is home to the world's most biodiverse reef — a paradise for divers, snorkellers, and culture seekers in Timor-Leste.
Plan your trip to Timor-Leste with this complete travel guide covering safety, transport, best time to visit, costs, visas, and what makes this Southeast Asian gem worth exploring.
Planning a trip to Tokyo? This complete travel guide covers how many days to spend, the best time to visit, budgeting tips, visa requirements, and how to get around.
Jaco Island is East Timor's sacred, uninhabited eastern gem — pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and tropical dry forest make it a must-visit hidden paradise.
Dive Timor Lorosae is a PADI 5 Star IDC Dive Centre in Dili offering scuba courses, daily dive trips, and accommodation at the edge of the Coral Triangle.
‘Timor-Leste’s National Malaria Control Programme was recognised by the WHO for its outstanding efforts in malaria prevention across the country.’
Learn how to claim expenses and compensation from EasyJet for delayed or cancelled flights, including refunds, airport tax, luggage costs, and EC261 rights.
Empreza Diak is a Timorese social enterprise fighting poverty by training rural artisans and selling authentic handicrafts in Dili — your purchase funds real change.
Cairns offers year-round swimming in warm tropical waters, from the safe Esplanade Lagoon to Great Barrier Reef snorkelling — here's everything you need to know before you dive in.
Discover the Archives & Museum of East Timorese Resistance in Dili — a powerful journey through the nation's fight for independence, with multilingual exhibits and a moving theater room.
Fly Bus is a reliable taxi and shuttle service in Dili, Timor-Leste, offering airport transfers, city tours, and group transportation at affordable rates.
Fretilin proposed a resolution in Timor-Leste's parliament calling for an international ceasefire in Gaza and humanitarian support for all victims of the conflict.
Fretilin condemns President José Ramos Horta’s decision to pardon two convicted former officials, warning the move undermines East Timor’s judiciary and anti-corruption efforts.
Planning a trip to Timor-Leste? Here's how to prepare for your journey — from flights and check-in tips to what to expect on arrival in Dili.
Choosing the right travel bag makes every trip smoother — from weekend getaways to long-haul adventures in Southeast Asia and beyond. Here is what to look for.
Planning your flight to Timor-Leste? Here's everything you need for a smooth journey to Dili — from airline options and transit tips to arriving ready to explore.
Discover the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Dili, Timor-Leste — a stunning landmark where striking architecture, stained glass, and spiritual heritage meet.
Largo de Lecidere is Dili's favourite waterfront park — a shady gathering spot where locals relax, street food vendors sell $1 coconuts, and the city's daily rhythm unfolds.
Wondering how to pronounce "Timor-Leste" correctly? This guide demystifies the name, its origins, and everything you need to know about this fascinating Southeast Asian nation.
Motael Church is the oldest Roman Catholic church in Timor-Leste, a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and the nation's long struggle for independence in Dili.
One Dollar Beach in Dili, Timor-Leste, is a quiet coastal escape offering white sand, scenic views, and a peaceful retreat away from the city's crowds.
Discover Ponkys Cocktail Lounge in Dili — a tropical-themed bar praised for expertly crafted cocktails, a lively ambiance, and a welcoming vibe for all ages.
Planning a trip to Timor-Leste? Learn which power plug types are used, what voltage to expect, and which travel adaptors to pack to keep your devices charged.
A World Bank report reveals that 20% of Timorese youth aged 15–24 are neither studying nor working, driven by gaps in education, healthcare, and social protection.
Tais Market in Dili is Timor-Leste's top shopping destination for handwoven Tais textiles, local souvenirs, and a genuine taste of Timorese cultural heritage.
Tasitolu is a serene nature and wildlife area in Dili, Timor-Leste, offering snorkeling, beachcombing, and a peaceful escape into the country's rich biodiversity.
Things and Stories in Dili is a standout destination for purchasing high-quality, locally made handicrafts and traditional Tais textiles in Timor-Leste.
Discover Timor-Leste's history and culture with Timor Adventures, Dili's top-rated tour operator offering motorcycle tours, heritage sites, and Atauro Island excursions.
Join Blue Ventures in Timor-Leste's Coral Triangle and dive into some of the world's most biodiverse waters on Atauro Island — conservation and cultural immersion combined.
Discover the vibrant and diverse population of Timor-Leste — its ethnic groups, languages, economy, and what makes this young Southeast Asian nation unique.
The Timor-Leste government imposed a six-month suspension on martial arts clubs and schools following 54 violent incidents, four deaths, and 26 injuries across the country.
Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão commits to strengthening the Portuguese language, supporting CPLP cooperation and teacher training programs across the country.
Timor Unearthed Tours is a licensed operator offering immersive cultural, educational, and nature tours across Timor-Leste for schools, universities, and private groups.
Timor-Leste's Parliament approved the 2024 State Budget of 1.78 billion euros, with funds allocated to economic development, social protection, health, and education.
On the 48th anniversary of East Timor's independence declaration, President José Ramos-Horta granted seven pardons and awarded hundreds of national honors.
On the 32nd anniversary of the Santa Cruz massacre, President José Ramos-Horta honours the victims and calls on Timorese youth to lead the nation's future with courage and vision.
Discover Tiris Manumera, a stunning hidden waterfall in Dili, Timor-Leste — perfect for hiking, swimming, and exploring untouched natural beauty.
Discover the top 10 stylish and functional travel backpacks for women — from carry-on friendly 35L packs to 70L expedition bags for long-haul adventures.
From pristine beaches and sacred mountains to war memorials and vibrant markets, Timor-Leste offers an unforgettable mix of history, culture, and nature.
Discover Timor-Leste, a hidden gem next to Australia — stunning coral reefs, pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and an off-the-beaten-path adventure await.
Explore the rich linguistic tapestry of Timor-Leste, from Tetum and Portuguese to dozens of local tongues, and learn essential phrases for your visit.
Discover the unique flavour of Timor coffee — from the prized Hibrido de Timor bean to sustainable farming traditions that make every cup an adventure.
Discover Dili, the vibrant capital of Timor-Leste — a Southeast Asian gem shaped by Portuguese heritage, stunning coral reefs, and a resilient, welcoming culture.
A deep look at the East Timor genocide — from Indonesia's 1975 invasion and the Santa Cruz massacre to independence in 2002 and the Timorese people's resilience.
Everything you need to know about airport gate operations — from what "gate open" means to boarding timelines and flight status displays — so you never miss a flight to East Timor.
Discover the captivating story behind the Timor-Leste flag — its colours, symbolism, and the remarkable history of independence that this emblem proudly represents.
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Timor-Leste — its Melanesian and Malay roots, Portuguese colonial history, linguistic diversity, and vibrant traditions shaping a resilient independent nation.
Discover the story behind the 1991 Santa Cruz Massacre in Dili — a turning point in East Timor's fight for independence — and what it means for travellers today.
Discover why Timor-Leste uses the US dollar, what it costs to visit, and key currency facts every traveller should know before heading to East Timor.
Yes, you can pay for a hotel with a Visa gift card. Learn how to use it for accommodation, flights, and travel expenses — including key tips to avoid declines.
Can you wear a baby carrier through airport security? Yes — here's everything parents need to know about carriers, liquids, infant rules, and smoother family travel.
The World Bank warns of a human capital crisis in Timor-Leste, where children born today will only reach 45% of their productive potential without urgent reform.
Discover the Xanana Gusmão Reading Room in Dili — a library, museum, and cultural hub celebrating Timor-Leste's history, independence struggle, and living culture.
Planning a trip to Australia? Many travellers use it as a gateway to Timor-Leste. Here's what you need to know to combine both destinations.
Plan your advanced base camp trek in Timor-Leste for 2024. From Mount Ramelau to multi-day trails, here's everything you need to know before you go.
A new USAID-supported tour package takes visitors to the Dokomali waterfall and the mountain communities of Ainaro, combining a scenic highland drive, a traditional welcome ceremony in Lebolau village, and cultural stops along the way — rated 'good' or 'excellent' by 90% of the inaugural pilot group.
The EU's €19 million "Pro-culture" project supports PALOP countries and Timor-Leste in music, literature and theatre, creating 800 new cultural jobs by 2023.
Timor-Leste's parliament approved amendments to the RAEOA law removing the President's role in appointing the regional leader, as Fretilin walked out in protest.
Australia estimates revenues of $1.8 to $7.1 billion from the Greater Sunrise fields following the permanent maritime boundary treaty with Timor-Leste, signed in March 2019.
Portuguese coach Fabiano Flora takes charge of Timor-Leste’s national football team, aiming to restore its image and prepare for the Southeast Asian Games.
"Hooked on Life" by artist Vincent Mock transforms over 22,000 fishhooks into stunning marine sculptures at the Lisbon Oceanarium, connecting East Timor's ancient fishing heritage to ocean conservation.
Timor-Leste approves a triangular cooperation agreement with Portugal and Argentina to train national journalists in radio, television, and written press through the Language Office for Journalists program.
Timor-Leste's Court of Appeal annulled the 2016 conviction of former ministers Emília Pires and Madalena Hanjam over hospital bed contracts, but sent the case back to the District Court without a final verdict.
Dili's 7th Timor-Leste Studies Association conference brings together 200+ researchers from five countries to mark 20 years since the historic 1999 independence referendum.
Xanana Gusmão accused Australia of betrayal after a 2004 eavesdropping scheme by Australian secret services targeted Timorese government offices during Timor Sea treaty negotiations.
The Government of Timor-Leste will debate three fiscal ceiling scenarios for the 2020 General State Budget (OGE) at the Budget Days weekend event starting June 27.
Timor-Leste's state-owned gas company Timor Gap has rejected reports it is set to take a $16bn loan from China's Exim bank to finance the Greater Sunrise gas project in the Timor Sea.
Seven years after launching in 2012, Visit East Timor remains the number one tourism website for East Timor, built by a dedicated team of volunteers.
A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck the Banda Sea northwest of Timor-Leste on June 24, 2019, shaking Dili and parts of Indonesia with no casualties reported.
Portugal and Timor-Leste signed a €70 million Strategic Cooperation Program 2018-2022, covering rule of law, education, and socio-economic development.
Timor-Leste and Australia are working to ratify their historic 2018 maritime border treaty by August 30, 2019, requiring legislative amendments to petroleum, tax, and Timor Gap laws in both countries.
An Australian academic told the Lusa news agency that the UN Transitional Administration that led Timor-Leste to independence in 2002 failed to create some of the essential functions of government, leaving lasting shortcomings in the country's political system.
Portugal and Timor-Leste sign the Strategic Cooperation Program on Tuesday, amounting to 70 million euros.
How East Timor's coastal communities turned from turtle hunting to conservation, and are now using marine protected areas to build a sustainable tourism economy along the northeastern coast.
Timor-Leste's ruling AMP coalition unanimously voted to block the renewal of Mari Alkatiri's mandate as president of the Oecusse-Ambeno special region.
An Indonesian Citilink Airbus A320 made history as the first plane to use the new $120 million Oecusse Ambeno International Airport, inaugurated in June 2019.
Timor-Leste's CNRT, the largest coalition party, criticises President Guterres Lu-Olo's "lack of State sense" and raises concerns over justice and SAREA spending.
More than 70% of young Timorese are smokers, with most starting as early as age 13. The National Tobacco Control Alliance is fighting back with awareness campaigns in Dili.
Oecusse's new Sandalwood Route International Airport opened in June 2019, welcoming flights from Dili, Jakarta, and Kupang for its inauguration ceremony.
President Francisco Guterres Lu-Olo renews the mandate of Armed Forces Chief Lere Anan Timur via presidential decree, amid uncertainty over the command's duration and legal limits.
Timorese President Francisco Guterres Lu-Olo calls for a strategic business and tourism plan to maximise the $120 million investment in Oecusse-Ambeno's new international airport, inaugurated on the fifth anniversary of the RAEOA special administrative region.
How Australia continued drawing millions per month from Timor Sea oil fields belonging to Timor-Leste while the 2018 maritime boundary treaty remained unratified, raising serious questions about Australia's moral obligations to its neighbour.
Timorese Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak travels abroad for medical treatment, with Minister Agio Pereira leading the government during his absence.
Fretilin, the largest party in the Timorese parliament, has reaffirmed its role as an opposition force, pledging to defend the Petroleum Fund and oppose its misuse amid an ongoing institutional impasse in East Timor.
US Ambassador Kathleen M. Fitzpatrick met with the President of Timor-Leste's National Parliament in June 2019 to strengthen democratic ties between the two nations.
Timor-Leste appeals to Australia's Victoria Supreme Court after it granted jurisdiction to hear Lighthouse Corporation's $328 million lawsuit over alleged breaches of fuel and generator supply contracts signed in 2010.
Timor-Leste coffee reaches Poland via a distribution agreement with Biedronka, Jerónimo Martins' retail chain, making Delta Cafés and Delta Q available in over 2,900 stores.
The Port of Tibar in Timor-Leste won the Asia Pacific Best Public-Private Partnership Award from IJ Global, recognising the country's first and largest PPP infrastructure project valued at over US $278 million.
A 2019 analysis of Timor-Leste's telecoms landscape covering fixed-line, mobile, and broadband markets, operators, regulatory environment, and growth forecasts through 2023.
Air Timor and Indonesia's Transnusa launch a joint Dili–Kupang route from June 14, 2019, with promotional fares of $45 one-way — offering a new travel link between the two Timor capitals.
Join the Day of Portugal, Camões, and Portuguese Communities celebrations this Friday, June 7 at 18:30 at the Sky Bar of Timor Plaza in Dili, hosted by Centro Cultural Português.
Indonesian authorities detained a Timorese couple at the Motaain land border after discovering 4,874 tablets, allegedly ecstasy, hidden inside a printer.
Timor-Leste enters the 2022 World Cup Asian Qualifiers against Malaysia, joining 11 other nations in the preliminary round as the long road to Qatar begins.
The head of Timor-Leste's Oecusse-Ambeno enclave, Mari Alkatiri, decreed Idul Fitri on June 5, breaking with the central government's June 6 date and sparking a dispute over minority religious rights.
Despite being predominantly Catholic, Timor-Leste is leading the fight for LGBTQ rights in Asia, with annual Pride Parades in Dili and growing community and government support.
A Dili District Court ordered pre-trial detention for one of three Filipino nationals suspected of involvement in a cross-border drug trafficking case linking Timor-Leste and Indonesia.
The United Nations Young Professionals Program (YPP) 2019 is open for applications in June and July, covering Economic Affairs and Information Systems and Technology — Timor-Leste is among the eligible countries.
Timor-Leste had a population of 1,183,643 in the 2015 census, rising to an estimated 1,348,232 by 2019. Explore district-by-district figures and literacy rates.
Portugal hosts the first CPLP tourism technicians meeting in Lisbon, sharing expertise on destination development, investment, and digital marketing with Timor-Leste and partner nations.
Timor-Leste launches its first electronic interbank system, P24, developed by Portuguese company SIBS, enabling ATM and POS interoperability across all commercial banks in the country.
The waters off Dili are home to sperm whales — the largest predators on Earth. Here is what it takes to encounter one in Timor-Leste.
Timor-Leste's Minister of Education Dulce Soares calls on Portugal to continue the Formar Mais teacher training programme, aiming to strengthen Portuguese language education across the country.
At age 63, Portuguese motorcyclist Francisco Sande e Castro completed a 7.5-year, 140,000 km round-the-world journey on a Honda Crosstourer, passing through 62 countries including East Timor.
A World Bank director argues Timor-Leste must invest in both infrastructure and human capital to turn its petroleum wealth into lasting and equitable development.
The Timorese government pledged support for market traders in Manatuto after a fire destroyed the town's market, with cleanup and damage assessment already underway.
Nobel laureate José Ramos Horta defends China's political autonomy, advocates diversifying Timor-Leste's economic ties beyond Indonesia, and reflects on 20 years of independence.
Timor-Leste signed an €18.6 million contract with Dutch shipbuilder Damen for a new 380-passenger vessel to serve the north coast, Oecusse, and Ataúro island.
By end of May 2019, Timor-Leste had executed 31.9% of its State Budget, with $387.45 million spent and $107.67 million in domestic revenue collected.
Right on Dili's doorstep, the Ombai/Wetar Strait is one of the most significant cetacean hotspots on Earth — home to over 24 species of whales and dolphins.
From climbing Cristo Rei and diving off Atauro Island to trekking Mount Ramelau at dawn, here are 7 unmissable experiences in Timor-Leste.
A fire, likely caused by an electrical short circuit, destroyed the market in Manatuto, Timor-Leste, on 29 May 2019, leaving traders with significant property losses.
Timor-Leste aims to double coffee output to 20,000 tons and triple export value to $73 million by 2030, backed by a $40 million national development plan focused on quality, farmer income, and market access.
Timor-Leste launched a new 200-cent coin worth two US dollars to reduce reliance on low-denomination notes and cut the high cost of currency replacement.
The Haksolok ferry, built in Portugal to connect Dili to Ataúro Island and Oecusse-Ambeno, faces a $14 million cost overrun and years of construction delays due to financial problems at the Portuguese shipyard.
Angola, Timor-Leste and São Tomé and Príncipe met at Macau's IIICF forum to discuss Chinese infrastructure investments and the "One Belt, One Road" strategy.
A family road trip from Dili to the sacred island of Jaco — four hours of potholes, colourful microlets, and a deserted beach with opal-blue water worth every bump.
How Portuguese chef Luís Simões spent five years travelling Timor-Leste to recover dishes erased by decades of Indonesian occupation and turn shame into pride.
Meet the Wawata Topu — the women divers of Atauro Island who have practiced traditional free-diving and spearfishing for generations.
The Haksolok ferry — meaning "happiness" in Tetum — was launched on 26 May 2019, set to operate between Atauro Island and the Oecusse enclave.
Former President José Ramos-Horta argues Mari Alkatiri should be reappointed to lead the Oecusse-Ambeno special region to attract vital private investment and complete its economic development phase.
In 2016, Conservation International declared the reefs of Atauro Island the most fish-diverse ever recorded. Here is what that means for divers.
Chinese airline Air Travel and Air Timor sign a code-share deal to launch direct flights between Dili and Hong Kong, aiming to break Timor-Leste's costly aviation isolation.
Former President Ramos-Horta calls for prudence in Timor-Leste's growing debate over political defamation and insults on social media, warning against curbing press freedom.
Just outside Timor-Leste's capital city lives one of the ocean's most elusive mammals — the dugong. Here is where to find it and what to expect.
Religious leaders from six faiths signed a pact in Dili to develop faith-based tourism across Timor-Leste, aiming to boost the local economy and showcase the country's rich spiritual heritage.
Timor-Leste is betting on religious tourism to diversify its oil-dependent economy, launching pilgrimages to historic Catholic sites in the Oecusse enclave — where Portuguese missionaries first arrived in 1515.
EU and Timor-Leste representatives met in Dili in May 2019 to strengthen cooperation on climate change, maritime safety, sustainable development, and the post-Cotonou agreement negotiations for Asia and the Pacific.
Foreign workers in East Timor sent $283M abroad in 2018, triple the $91M Timorese emigrants remitted home, highlighting a striking reversal in remittance flows that reveals the country's growing role as a labour importer.
Timorese Minister of Education Dulce Soares calls for greater independence of CAFE schools and expanded outreach to neighbouring public schools across Timor-Leste.
Discover why Timor-Leste is one of the world's best-kept diving secrets — pristine reefs, anemone gardens, and exceptional marine biodiversity await.
Timor-Leste's government plans to keep taxes low while reforming tax administration to boost revenue collection, as the Greater Sunrise oil project shapes fiscal strategy.
The Oecusse-Ambeno region and Malaysia's Sutera Sanctuary Lodges signed a landmark deal to upgrade the Ambeno Hotel to five-star standard, boosting tourism investment in Timor-Leste.
The World Bank forecasts 3.9% GDP growth for Timor-Leste in 2019, reversing two years of contraction driven by political uncertainty and reduced public spending, with a 4.9% rebound projected for 2021.
May 20 honours the Timorese victims of Indonesian occupation — from the Santa Cruz cemetery massacre in Dili to the hardline resistance fighters who sacrificed their lives for independence.
Timor-Leste's President warned that poverty, unemployment, and lack of basic services threaten national stability as the country marked 17 years of independence in 2019.
Jose Ramos-Horta condemns airline monopolies by Garuda and AirNorth for keeping Timor-Leste flight prices among the world's highest, strangling tourism growth and isolating the country.
Timor-Leste is the only Southeast Asian nation ranked "Free" by Freedom House, earning 70 out of 100 points — the highest score among all 11 countries in the region.
Timor-Leste's government backed a 2018 seminar on reducing plastic use, pledging a Zero Plastic Policy and a moratorium on plastic imports as part of a national sustainability strategy.
East Timor is set to become the world's first plastic-neutral country after partnering with Australia's Mura Technology to build a $40-million recycling plant in Dili, turning all plastic waste back into usable products.
Discover 12 unforgettable things to do on Atauro Island, from snorkelling pristine reefs and hiking Mt. Manucoco to birdwatching, basket-weaving, and starlit outrigger rides.
A Kilwa coin found off Australia's coast suggests Portuguese sailors — who reached Timor-Leste in 1515 — may have landed in Australia 250 years before Captain Cook, potentially making them the first Europeans on the continent.
Timor-Leste marks the 39th anniversary of its 1975 proclamation of independence — a milestone celebrated across all 13 districts with medals for freedom fighters.
Tropical cyclone Lili is losing intensity but will bring heavy rains of 100–150 mm and winds up to 100 km/h to East Timor's southern coast over the next 24 hours.
Air Timor suspends its Dili–Singapore route on March 30 after Singapore Airlines declines to renew the charter contract, affecting both passengers and freight transport.
A Portuguese traveller shares his honest impressions of Timor-Leste after 7 months exploring Asia — from its welcoming people to its pristine coral reefs and world-class coffee.
Coffee lovers worldwide can now taste Mount Ramelau coffee at Starbucks — a unique single-origin blend from Timor-Leste's highest peak, now available in supermarkets.
Timor-Leste has created a National Day of Timorese Culture, celebrated on October 14th in honour of poet Francisco Borja da Costa and the nation's rich cultural heritage.
P&O Cruises added Díli, Timor-Leste to their Indonesian Explorer itinerary — a 16-night Pacific cruise departing Singapore that finally puts this hidden gem on the map.
Portuguese biologist Ana Sofia Reboleira discovered Sarax timorensis, a new cave-dwelling arachnid species, during the Fatuk Kuak hosi Timor Lorosa'e 2016 speleology expedition in Timor-Leste.
The Timorese Government temporarily suspended controversial new rules for tourist and business visas, following criticism from tour operators and travellers over complex consular application requirements.
Timor-Leste's VIII Government set a target of 450,000 tourists per year, betting on diving, cultural heritage, religious tourism, and adventure to drive economic growth.
Timor-Leste approves a memorandum with Malaysia to normalise air transport services, amid growing controversy over rising fares and the loss of the Singapore route.
The Tour of Timor is an annual mountain biking event drawing hundreds of international riders through East Timor's breathtaking landscapes and warm, welcoming culture.
Australia, Indonesia and Timor-Leste are developing cross-border pilot projects in tourism, cattle breeding and biosafety under the Timor Island Economic Corridor.
USAID announces a three-year tourism development program in Timor-Leste projected to stimulate $25 million USD in community and ecotourism investments, create 1,000 jobs, and boost community incomes by 15 percent.
A remarkable whale and dolphin hotspot has been discovered just off Timor-Leste's coast, making it one of the world's highest-concentration cetacean areas.