Timor Leste 2024 Trip A Blog

Day 3 was a big day so sorry for the late blog! The day began early in the morning with a mass held at the orphanage, which Bernadette, Ben, Teangi and Fr. Olek attended. 

Our first outing of the day included a visit to the kindergarten where we were greeted by a lot of crazy kids. They welcomed us by performing their traditional Timorese dance which was followed by the national anthem. We then looked around at the classrooms of the kindergarten, played soccer, played with balloons and bubbles and I bet we can all say that this was definitely a hightlight of our day. 

When leaving the orphanage the children did not want us to leave and Nikielmae was a bit unhappy that he couldn't come with us (as you can see in the picture). He also didn't like to get photos with Lisa! 

When we were lucky enough to visit the Resistance Museum where we learnt about the massacre that happened here in 1991. Eddie then took us to the Santa Cruz cemetery where the film that shown proof of what was happening in Timor around this time was taken. 

We then went to the Tais market where we spent our time buying gifts and souvenirs to take him. We finished our time at the beach where we brought food and drinks and relaxed. Some people also went on kayaks where nearly everyone capsized! 

Our last night at the orphanage included a shared dinner, performances by the girls at the orphanage, and lots and lots of dancing. Xan Stephens was particularly popular with the sisters and girls at the orphanage! 

We hope you enjoyed our stories of Day 3! We will publish photos later on today as there is quite a few!