We moved to Dili just over nine months ago and throughout this time there have been three constants in my life: 1. Its always hot 2. I always smell like 'RID' (mossie repellent) 3. I am always studying the local language - 'Tetum' (or Tetun) I am relieved that the latter constant has come to an end, as I have just completed an Intermediate course through a local language school. That's 100 hours of face to face Tetum language classes since January...

"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!" Hunter S. Thompson. It's been a while since I tapped the keyboard with my traveller's perspective on our new home and since I last wrote we were fortunate enough to zip over to Darwin and Bali for a beautiful rela...

So I need to get the crap stuff out of the way first. Understandably, a bought of Dengue Fever is enough to put a dint in even the chirpiest of dispositions. As someone who prides myself on being a 'glass half full' kind of gal, prepared for my first (and hopefully last) Tropical Infectious Disease I was not. Eeeek. I will spare you the ins and outs as its simply isn't pretty, or entertainment worthy, but if you are curious 'Wikipedia away' for more information...

It would be fair to say that the last few weeks in Timor have revolved around 2 main topics: cars and food. For a start you really need to understand the driving in Dili. (Insert song 'She Drives Me Crazy' - The Fine Young Cannibals) Due to the kindness of new friends we have been loaned an enormous 20 year old Pajero while we continue the search for our own wheels. I am sure this car has lived to tell many a frightening tale, and the first time I turned the e...

In searching for a song to describe how I am feeling at the moment, I need look no further than the theme from that timeless Disney classic Aladdin: "A whole new world…!" So let's flash back to a week ago… After months of planning, stressing, packing and dreaming there I was; Air North Flight TL 512's fasten seatbelt sign was on and we were preparing for landing. I noted necks craning around the plane looking out the window, which signalled to me that we...