Group trips to Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste is in the East Timor Time (TLT) time zone, which is 9 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+9). It does not observe daylight saving time.

If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 9pm in Timor-Leste.

If it is 12pm on the US East Coast, it will be 1am the next day in Timor-Leste.

The currency used in Timor-Leste is the United States Dollar (USD). As of the latest rates:

• 1 GBP equals approximately 1.22 USD
• 1 EUR equals about 1.06 USD
• 1 USD is, of course, 1 USD

You can exchange your money at local banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels in the capital, Dili. Keep in mind that while USD is widely accepted, smaller denominations are more practical for everyday transactions.

In Timor-Leste, you can pay using cash or credit cards. Credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted in major hotels and some restaurants, but cash is king in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in larger towns, dispensing US dollars, which is the official currency. It's a good idea to carry enough cash for smaller purchases and in case you find yourself in areas where card payments are not an option.

Tipping in Timor-Leste is not a common practice, but it's appreciated if you choose to do so. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for excellent service is a nice gesture. For hotel staff or tour guides, a small tip is also appreciated if you receive exceptional service. Keep in mind that wages can be low, so any extra you give is often welcomed.

In Timor-Leste, the internet can be a bit spotty, especially in rural areas. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and some cafes in Dili, the capital, but it might be slow. We suggest you buy a local SIM card for better connectivity. Timor Telecom and Telkomcel are popular providers offering prepaid plans with data packages. This way, you can stay connected more reliably while traveling around the country.

In Timor-Leste, they primarily speak Tetum and Portuguese. If you're traveling there, here are some useful expressions in Tetum you might hear or use:

• Hello: Ola
• Thank you: Obrigadu
• Yes: Sin
• No: Lae
• How much?: Hira?

While Portuguese is also widely spoken, knowing a bit of Tetum can make your interactions more meaningful and appreciated by the locals.

In Timor-Leste, the plugs are Type C, E, and F, similar to those used in many European countries. The standard voltage is 220-240 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. If you're traveling from the UK or the USA, you might need a universal adapter to fit these plugs. Make sure your devices are compatible with the voltage to avoid any issues.

The main religion in Timor-Leste is Roman Catholicism, with the majority of the population being Roman Catholic. Important religious holidays include:

• Christmas on December 25th
• Easter (date varies each year)
• All Saints' Day on November 1st

These holidays are celebrated widely across the country, often with public ceremonies and family gatherings.

Packing for Timor-Leste involves preparing for a tropical climate, so focus on lightweight and breathable items. Here’s a handy list to help you pack your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Light t-shirts
  • Shorts
  • Long-sleeve shirts for sun protection
  • Swimwear
  • Lightweight rain jacket
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking sandals
  • Flip-flops
  • Lightweight hiking shoes
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunhat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Power bank
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
  • Travel adapter (Timor-Leste uses European plug types C and E, 220V, 50Hz)
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Anti-diarrheal medication
  • Motion sickness tablets

Timor-Leste's tropical climate can mean sudden rain showers, so be prepared for wet conditions, and remember that sun protection is essential.

The weather in Timor-Leste is generally tropical and can vary by region. Here's a breakdown:

• Coastal areas: Hot and humid year-round, with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F) during the day. The wet season is from November to April, bringing heavy rains.
• Mountainous regions: Cooler temperatures, especially at night, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Rainfall is also more frequent in these areas during the wet season.

The best time to visit Timor-Leste is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is more pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.