Once considered a dangerous place, the United Nations has been painstakingly rebuilding East Timor as well as providing security forces during the reconstruction. Following the invasion by Indonesia in 1975, East Timor became synonymous with refugees and barbed wire.
Today, Dili is a modern city with miles of undeveloped coast; the diving is excellent. The large number of Westerns living and working in Dili during the reconstruction has effectively eliminated all hassle to tourists. Dili is one of the few places in Southeast Asia where tourist walk unnoticed. Residents will not try to sell you anything - you are free to explore with little stress as daily life unfolds.
- Read more about East Timor and East Timor travel requirements.