Exploring the Vibrant Heart of Comoro, Dili

• HelloBondia
  [bon-dee-ah]
• GoodbyeAdeus
  [ah-deh-oosh]
• YesSim
  [seem]
• NoLae
  [lie]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor
  [por fah-vor]
• Thank youObrigadu
  [oh-bree-gah-doo]
• Excuse me/SorryDeskulpa
  [dess-kool-pah]
• How are you?O di'ak?
  [oh dee-ahk]
• Fine. And you?Di'ak. Ita?
  [dee-ahk ee-tah]
• Do you speak English?Ita koalia Ingles?
  [ee-tah koh-ah-lee-ah een-glees]
• I don't understandHau la kompriende
  [how la kohm-pree-en-deh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHau gosta hare menu, favor
  [how goh-stah hah-reh meh-noo fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatHau la haka'u katu
  [how la hah-kah-oo kah-too]
• Cheers!Saude!
  [sow-deh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHau gosta selu, favor
  [how goh-stah seh-loo fah-vor]

• Help!Ajuda!
  [ah-joo-dah]
• Go away!Ba malu!
  [bah mah-loo]
• Call the Police!Liga Polisia!
  [lee-gah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Liga dotora!
  [lee-gah doh-toh-rah]
• I'm lostHau mate
  [how mah-teh]
• I'm illHau moras
  [how moh-rash]

• I'd like to buy...Hau gosta hola...
  [how goh-stah hoh-lah]
• I'm just lookingHau deit hakarak hare
  [how dayt hah-kah-rak hah-reh]
• How much is it?Kuantu kustu?
  [kwan-too koos-too]
• That's too expensiveIda ne'e masa kareta
  [ee-dah neh-eh mah-sah kah-reh-tah]
• Can you lower the price?Ita bele baixu prezu?
  [ee-tah beh-leh bah-ee-shoo preh-zoo]

• What time is it?Oras ne'e ki'ak?
  [oh-rahs neh-eh kee-ahk]
• It's one o'clockOras ne'e ida
  [oh-rahs neh-eh ee-dah]
• Half past (10)Metade (10)
  [meh-tah-deh (10)]
• MorningManha
  [mah-nyah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningTuku tarde
  [too-koo tahr-deh]
• YesterdayOhin loron
  [oh-heen loh-rohn]
• TodayOhin
  [oh-heen]
• TomorrowAban
  [ah-bahn]
• 1Ida
  [ee-dah]
• 2Rua
  [roo-ah]
• 3Tolu
  [toh-loo]
• 4Apat
  [ah-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Nein
  [nayn]
• 7Hitu
  [hee-too]
• 8Ualu
  [oo-ah-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?
  [en-deh-reh-soo sah-ee-dah]
• 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 ba dala ruma?
  [bah-een-hee-rah bah dah-lah roo-mah]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilhete (to ....)
  [beel-yeh-teh (to ....)]

Comoro's history is deeply intertwined with the colonial era, particularly during the Portuguese colonial period, which began in the 16th century. As one of the earliest European settlements in the region, the Portuguese established trade routes and fortified outposts, with Comoro serving as a strategic point for maritime activities. This led to the introduction of Portuguese culture, language, and religion, significantly impacting the local populace.

In 1975, following the Portuguese withdrawal, Timor-Leste was invaded by Indonesia, leading to a brutal occupation. Comoro, being part of Dili, witnessed significant conflict and military presence during this time. The area became a focal point for resistance movements, with many locals becoming involved in the fight against oppression. The Indonesian regime's impact on Comoro was profound, as it reshaped the social and political fabric of the community.

The late 1990s were pivotal for Comoro as the struggle for independence intensified. In 1999, a referendum was held in which the people of Timor-Leste voted overwhelmingly for independence from Indonesia. Comoro was affected by violence and destruction during this period, as pro-Indonesian militias targeted neighborhoods in Dili, including Comoro. The resilience of the community was evident as they worked to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the turmoil.

Following Timor-Leste's formal independence in 2002, Comoro has been part of the nation-building process, witnessing significant infrastructure development and growth. The area has evolved into a vibrant community, blending traditional Timorese culture with modern influences. Initiatives focused on education, health, and economic development have transformed Comoro, making it a crucial part of Dili's ongoing progress.

Comoro is a melting pot of cultures, showcasing the rich heritage of Timor-Leste. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and community gatherings. Festivals and cultural events are commonplace, reflecting the blend of indigenous traditions and influences from Portuguese and Indonesian histories. This cultural vibrancy contributes to the unique identity of Comoro within the broader context of Dili and Timor-Leste.

Comoro is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Dili. From the city center, you can take a taxi or ride a local 'mikrolet' (shared minibus) heading towards Comoro. The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. If you're coming from the airport, a taxi is the most convenient option, taking approximately 10-15 minutes.

Comoro is primarily navigated by foot, taxi, or mikrolet. There are no trains in Dili, and public transport mainly consists of shared minivans. Taxis are available and can be flagged down or booked via local apps. Bicycles can be rented for a more adventurous way to explore the area, although be cautious of road conditions.

Comoro is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be observed. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in poorly lit areas. Some neighborhoods adjacent to Comoro may experience higher crime rates, so it is advisable to stay vigilant and avoid displaying valuables in public.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance and 118 for medical emergencies. Local hospitals and clinics are available, and it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical needs. For minor ailments, pharmacies are scattered throughout the neighborhood.

Fashion: Do dress modestly; avoid shorts and sleeveless tops when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; always ask for permission before photographing people or religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a smile and handshake; don’t be overly familiar with personal space. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offers; don’t refuse hospitality, as it may offend your hosts.

To experience Comoro like a local, visit the markets where fresh produce and local goods are sold. Engage with vendors and locals to learn about their culture and traditions. Consider participating in community events or festivals if they coincide with your visit, as these provide a great insight into local life. Additionally, try to learn a few basic Tetum phrases to enhance your interactions.