Discover the Charm of Baucau: Timor-Leste's Hidden Gem

• HelloBondia
  [bon-dee-ya]
• GoodbyeAdeus
  [ah-deh-oosh]
• YesSim
  [seem]
• NoLa'e
  [lah-eh]
• Please/You're welcomeFavor
  [fah-vor]
• Thank youObrigadu
  [oh-bree-gah-doo]
• Excuse me/SorryDeskulpa
  [des-kool-pah]
• How are you?Diak ka lae?
  [dee-ahk ka lah-eh]
• Fine. And you?Diak. O ita nia?
  [dee-ahk. oh ee-tah nee-ya]
• Do you speak English?Ita koalia Ingles?
  [ee-tah koh-ah-lee-ya een-glehsh]
• I don't understandHau la kompriende
  [how lah kohm-pree-ehn-deh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHau hakarak hare menu, favor
  [how hah-kah-rak hah-reh meh-noo fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatHau la manan karne
  [how lah mah-nahn kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Saude!
  [sow-deh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHau hakarak selu, favor
  [how hah-kah-rak seh-loo fah-vor]

• Help!Ajuda!
  [ah-joo-dah]
• Go away!Ba oin!
  [bah oh-een]
• Call the Police!Liga Polisia!
  [lee-gah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Liga dotor!
  [lee-gah doh-tohr]
• I'm lostHau laran
  [how lah-rahn]
• I'm illHau moras
  [how moh-rahs]

• I'd like to buy...Hau hakarak sosa...
  [how hah-kah-rak soh-sah]
• I'm just lookingHau de'it hare
  [how deh-eet hah-reh]
• How much is it?Hira ona?
  [heer-ah oh-nah]
• That's too expensiveNe'e barak
  [neh-eh bah-rak]
• Can you lower the price?Ita bele hatama hira?
  [ee-tah beh-leh hah-tah-mah heer-ah]

• What time is it?Oras ne'e hira?
  [oh-rahs neh-eh heer-ah]
• It's one o'clockHira ida
  [heer-ah ee-dah]
• Half past (10)Tolu nulu resin
  [toh-loo noo-loo reh-seen]
• MorningKalan
  [kah-lahn]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningTuku leten
  [too-koo leh-tehn]
• YesterdayHoriseik
  [hoh-ree-sayk]
• TodayOhin
  [oh-heen]
• TomorrowAban
  [ah-bahn]
• 1Ida
  [ee-dah]
• 2Rua
  [roo-ah]
• 3Tolu
  [toh-loo]
• 4Apat
  [ah-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Hatu
  [hah-too]
• 7Nee
  [neh-eh]
• 8Ualu
  [wah-loo]
• 9Sia
  [see-ah]
• 10Sanulu
  [sah-noo-loo]

• Where's a/the...?Iha ne'e...
  [ee-hah neh-eh]
• What's the address?Enderecu saida ne'e?
  [ehn-deh-reh-soo sah-ee-dah neh-eh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ita bele hatudu hau (iha mapa)?
  [ee-tah beh-leh hah-too-doo how (ee-hah mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Bainhira bus dahuluk?
  [bah-een-hee-rah boos dah-hoo-look]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilhete (ba ....)
  [beel-eh-teh (bah)]

Baucau, like much of Timor-Leste, has a long history of human settlement dating back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by Austronesian and Papuan-speaking peoples. These early communities were engaged in subsistence farming, fishing, and trade with neighbouring islands.

In the 16th century, Portuguese explorers arrived in Timor-Leste, establishing colonial control. Baucau became an important administrative and military center for the Portuguese. The colonial architecture from this period, including churches and administrative buildings, still stands today, reflecting the city's historical significance.

During World War II, Baucau was occupied by Japanese forces. The occupation had a significant impact on the local population, including forced labor and harsh reprisals. The legacy of this period is evident in the local oral histories and some remaining wartime structures.

In 1975, following Timor-Leste's declaration of independence from Portugal, Indonesia invaded and occupied the country. Baucau was heavily affected by the conflict, with many residents displaced and significant infrastructure damage. The Indonesian occupation lasted until 1999, leaving a lasting impact on the city's social and economic fabric.

Following a UN-sponsored referendum in 1999, where the majority of Timorese voted for independence, Baucau experienced a period of turmoil and violence. The city was eventually stabilized through the intervention of international peacekeeping forces. Timor-Leste officially gained independence in 2002, and Baucau has since been on a path of recovery and development.

Baucau is rich in cultural heritage, with a blend of indigenous Timorese traditions and Portuguese influences. Traditional dances, music, and crafts are an integral part of the local culture. The city is also known for its vibrant festivals and ceremonies, which reflect the diverse heritage of its inhabitants.

In recent years, Baucau has seen significant development, with improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The city's natural beauty, including stunning beaches and lush landscapes, has made it an emerging destination for tourism. Efforts are ongoing to preserve its historical sites while promoting sustainable development.

Baucau is located in the northeastern part of Timor-Leste. The nearest international airport is Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport in Dili, approximately 123 kilometers away. From Dili, you can take a taxi or a minibus (microlet) to Baucau. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours by road. Alternatively, you can rent a car for more flexibility in your travel.

Baucau is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions are accessible on foot. For longer distances, local taxis and minibuses (microlets) are available and reasonably priced. Renting a car is also an option, which allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Be aware that road conditions can vary, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.

The official currency in Timor-Leste is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Baucau, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available, but they might not be as widespread, so ensure you have sufficient cash on hand.

Baucau is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Baucau. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your head when entering churches and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Baucau like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Timorese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Baucau Old Town, which offers a glimpse into the colonial past with its Portuguese-era buildings. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the Baucau market and try some of the local street food.