Timor-Leste

A former Portuguese colony that endured centuries of colonial rule followed by a brutal Indonesian occupation, Timor-Leste only gained full independence in 2002, making it one of the world’s newest countries. After flying in from nearby Bali, I based myself in the capital, Dili, a small, laid-back city where colorful waterfront cafés and government buildings sit against a backdrop of rugged green mountains. On my first evening, I climbed the towering Cristo Rei statue overlooking the sea. Watching the sun set from the hilltop, with the coastline stretching out in every direction, was a magical experience.

Wanting to see more of the country beyond the capital, I joined a group of Portuguese expats for a day trip to Baucau, the country’s second-largest city. With its quiet streets, faded Portuguese colonial buildings, and relaxed pace of life, Baucau offered another glimpse into Timor-Leste’s unique blend of Portuguese and Southeast Asian influences. Timor-Leste was still a young country, and I left hoping its future would prove far brighter than its past.