Enchanting Motael: The Heartbeat of Dili

• HelloBondia
  [bon-dee-ya]
• GoodbyeAdeus
  [ah-deh-oos]
• YesSim
  [seem]
• NoLae
  [lie]
• Please/You're welcomeFavor
  [fah-vohr]
• Thank youObrigadu
  [oh-bree-gah-doo]
• Excuse me/SorryDeskupa
  [des-koo-pah]
• How are you?Di'ak ka lae?
  [dee-ahk kah lie]
• Fine. And you?Di'ak. Ita?
  [dee-ahk. ee-tah]
• Do you speak English?Ita sei hatene Ingles?
  [ee-tah say hah-teh-neh een-glehs]
• I don't understandHau la komprende
  [hah-oo lah kohm-prehn-deh]

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

• Help!Ajuda!
  [ah-joo-dah]
• Go away!Ba oin!
  [bah oh-een]
• Call the Police!Hara Polisia!
  [hah-rah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Hara dotora!
  [hah-rah doh-toh-rah]
• I'm lostHau mate
  [hah-oo mah-teh]
• I'm illHau moras
  [hah-oo moh-rahs]

• I'd like to buy...Hau hakarak sosa...
  [hah-oo hah-kah-rahk soh-sah]
• I'm just lookingHau deit hakerek
  [hah-oo deh-eet hah-keh-rek]
• How much is it?Kuantu nia prenu?
  [kwan-too nee-ah preh-noo]
• That's too expensiveIha barak liu
  [ee-hah bah-rahk lee-oo]
• Can you lower the price?Ita bele hama prenu?
  [ee-tah beh-leh hah-mah preh-noo]

• What time is it?Oras hira agora?
  [oh-rahs hee-rah ah-go-rah]
• It's one o'clockOhin oras ida
  [oh-heen oh-rahs ee-dah]
• Half past (10)Oras ne'e nia isin (10)
  [oh-rahs neh-eh nee-ah ee-seen (10)]
• MorningTarde
  [tah-deh]
• AfternoonTuku leten
  [too-koo leh-tehn]
• EveningTuku kalan
  [too-koo kah-lahn]
• YesterdayHoriseik
  [hoh-ree-sake]
• TodayOhin loron
  [oh-heen loh-rohn]
• TomorrowAban loron
  [ah-bahn loh-rohn]
• 1Ida
  [ee-dah]
• 2Rua
  [roo-ah]
• 3Tolu
  [toh-loo]
• 4Apat
  [ah-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Neen
  [neh-ehn]
• 7Hitu
  [hee-too]
• 8Ualu
  [wah-loo]
• 9Sia
  [see-ah]
• 10Sanulu
  [sah-noo-loo]

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

Motael, located in the heart of Dili, bears the marks of Portuguese colonial history that began in the 16th century. The colonial architecture, including churches and administrative buildings, reflects the European influence that shaped the region's identity. The Motael Church, built in the 19th century, stands as a testament to this era and continues to serve as a focal point for the local Catholic community.

Motael played a significant role during the struggle for East Timorese independence from Portuguese rule and later Indonesian occupation. In 1975, the invasion by Indonesia led to widespread violence and displacement. Motael was a site of resistance, where local activists organized protests and gatherings. The area remains important for commemorating the resilience of the Timorese people during these turbulent times.

One of the most pivotal events in Motael's recent history is the Santa Cruz Massacre, which occurred on November 12, 1991. While the massacre took place at the Santa Cruz Cemetery, the impact resonated throughout Dili, including Motael. Thousands of people mourned and protested, and the event became an international symbol of the struggle for human rights in East Timor, leading to increased global attention and support for the independence movement.

Following the restoration of independence in 2002, Motael has experienced a cultural renaissance. The neighbourhood has become a hub for local artists, musicians, and cultural events. Traditional dances, music, and art exhibitions celebrate Timor-Leste's rich heritage, while community centers and local markets foster an atmosphere of collaboration and cultural exchange. The revitalization efforts aim to preserve the unique Timorese identity while embracing modern influences.

Today, Motael is characterized by its vibrant community life, where local markets and social gatherings reflect the resilience of the Timorese people. The area is known for its friendly atmosphere and the strong sense of community among residents. Local initiatives, including educational programs and community development projects, aim to empower the youth and ensure the continuation of cultural traditions in the face of globalization.

Motael is easily accessible from various neighbourhoods in Dili. From the airport, you can take a taxi directly to Motael, which typically takes around 15-20 minutes. If you are in the city centre, local minibuses (known as 'microlets') frequently travel to Motael, with stops along the way. Alternatively, walking from nearby areas such as Praia dos Famosos and Colmera can also be an enjoyable option as they are within a reasonable distance.

Motael is a compact neighbourhood and can be explored on foot. However, if you prefer, you can use local taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab for convenient transport. There are no trains or subways in Dili, but local minibuses are available for longer distances. Bicycles can also be rented from local shops, providing an eco-friendly way to explore the area.

Motael is generally safe for tourists, but it is wise to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, particularly around the waterfront. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when approached by strangers.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 118 for medical emergencies. Hospitals and clinics are available in Dili, with the Hospital Nacional Guido Valadares being the main facility. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health concerns, local pharmacies are accessible in Motael.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat for the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a smile. A slight bow of the head shows respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept invitations to share meals. Don't refuse food, as it may offend your host.

To experience Motael like a local, explore the vibrant markets where you can find fresh produce and traditional goods. Make sure to visit the local cafes and eateries to sample local dishes like 'bifana' (pork sandwich) and traditional coffee. Engaging in conversations with locals can provide insights into their culture and history. For a unique perspective, consider joining a local cooking class or cultural workshop.