The
trip from Dili to Kupang takes 12 to 14 hours. Travel companies make the
trip every day with mini buses but they were booked through Christmas so I caught a lift in the back of a truck.
For 18 dollars Timor Travel will pick you up and drop you off at your destination in Kupang, a sprawling city that is hard to navigate, especially at night.
I caught a cab for 1.50 from the Backpackers Guesthouse in Dili to Tasatolu west of Dili where there are usually buses lined up to west bound destinations.
There were no more buses because it was already 10 am and the Saturday before Christmas. One of the passing trucks had room and offered to drop me off at the border for 4 dollars.
It is not overly pleasant riding in the back of a truck swerving around the corners with scorching sun beating down on you but we got there in one piece.
The Indonesian embassy in Dili has been more flexible handing out 60 day visas lately but that trend could change. It was a quick stamp through and a short walk between the border. There is a quick inspection of your luggage but it's not too much of a hassle.
I took an ojek (motorbike) to Atambua for 3 dollars and caught a bus to Kupang from there (3 - 5 dollars) It takes about 8 hours from Atambua to Kupang and you arrive at night.
At night the buses drop every person off at their destination so that takes an additional 2 hours.
The Lavalon Guesthouse in Kupang has rooms for 30,000 rupiah. The
Maliana Hotel has rooms starting at 70,000 rupiah up to 125,000 rupiah
for rooms with air con. Next door the Susi Hotel starts at around
55,000 rupiah. There are many other more expensive options in Kupang
Stop in and say hello to Edwin at the Lavalon Bar on the waterfront on Jalan Sumatera for local information and a cold beer.
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