Around Balibo, Timor-Leste (September 2023)

Two weeks ago we had a weekend away staying at Balibo Fort Hotel and looking around Balibo town. There is a strong affinity between the town of Balibo and Australia as a result of the Timorese struggle for independence and the death of the 'foreign' journalists and cameramen in 1975 at Balibo at the hands of Indonesian special forces, as they tried to report on the conflict. In Balibo there is a memorial to the Balibo 5 and many people visit the memorial to pay their respects.
The fort stands on a hill looking out towards the sea in the distance at Batugarde and is surrounded by a picturesque hill environment. The historic Portuguese fort, originally built hundreds of years ago, is a great place to stay for one or two nights and even has a small infinity pool where you can relax and enjoy the scenery and sunsets.
We took advantage of a special deal that Balibo Fort Hotel had on offer which cost only $110 per person for: a double room, including breakfast; 20% off any food orders; transport to and from Dili with a driver/guide, including sightseeing along the way; a walking tour of Balibo with a local guide ... great value! Go check it out!