Back tracking even further into last year, Doben and I travelled to East Timor, where he spent his first 14 years of life. For me it would be there first time to visit, for the wedding of Doben's older sister.
With a little hesitation at first due to the language barrier, I soon became very excited to visit Doben's home country where I have heard of many memories. Among all the nice stories, were obviously the harsh contrast of the conflict during the struggle for independence. Many years on from that time, things are looking up for Timor and I hope that the country continues to grow as an independent nation.
On our journey to Dili, we stayed overnight in Darwin where we visited Mindil Beach Market on a Thursday night which was such an amazing surprise. This night market really makes Melbourne's Victoria Night Markets look like play school.
Variety of Thai-desserts
Our papaya salad in preparation
Fantastic Mindil Beach Market Papaya Salad
Beef Rendang with rice and egg
The next day we were on our way to Dili where we would attend the wedding on the 2nd day of arrival.
Breakfast
Coastal view from Church
Coastal view looking towards Dili
Steps leading up to Cristo Rei
View half way up to Cristo Rei
Looking towards Dili from Cristo Rei lookout
Bakso special with es campur
Rujak - preparation
Rujak
Pasir Putih beach goer
Sunset at Pasir Putih, Dili
Overall I found my 7 days in Timor to be a very relaxing and fascinating trip. Given the short amount of time, we were unable to travel outside of Dili, where the landscape is more virgin than the city's surroundings. Nonetheless, I loved the relaxed and happy nature of the Timorese people and the delicious influences of Portuguese, Indonesian and Chinese cuisines.
I am looking forward to the next time we can go back and explore more of what beauty the country has to offer.
