Atauro – Saturday 28 June

By Astrid & Odele

Today started with a very early wake up as we had to leave the Plaza Hotel at 5:45am in order to arrive at the ferry in time. We arrived first in line shortly after 6 o’clock and had a long wait at the dock to board the ferry which was due to leave at 9 o’clock. The ferry was very crowded and there was limited space on the boat. We chose to sit outside where we sat all together in a small space on the floor. We braced ourselves for a 3hr boat ride that did involve some sea sickness and uncomfortable moments, and although it was a challenging experience for us all, it brought us closer together and gave us a new perspective and experience.  

As we pulled into Atauro Island we were all very eager get off the boat and to arrive at our accommodation which is called Barry’s place. Barry’s place is on the edge of the beach with beautiful landscaping and environmentally friendly facilities. All of the buildings are made from locally sourced grass and wood.

Upon arrival Barry introduced himself and we were served a delicious lunch with consisted of foods such as noodles, local fish, local vegetables, vegetable fritters and rice (a Timorese staple!). Some of us were even able to purchase a whole coconut alongside our meal to drink and eat.

We then went to the local markets. People purchased items such as bracelets, necklaces and baskets. Back at Barry’s place we were also able to purchase coconut bowls and handmade wooden goods made by the staff. It was here that Barry mentioned that we may have the opportunity to go to a community soccer match to spectate and play against the Timorese people. We all agreed that this would be an amazing opportunity, so we decided that we would go along in the afternoon. 

We quickly got ready to go and play soccer and hopped into our transport – an anguna. The road we drove down was quite bumpy but everyone was filled with excitement. We arrived at the soccer field where we were welcomed to play in a match against some Timorese women. 

The game was very hot but was super fun and everyone had a smile on their face. Although we were on different teams it felt as though we all made a strong connection with each other, bonding over our shared enjoyment of the game. 

We watched a game after our first half and then we took to the field for our second half.

At the end of our game we all shook hands and gave each other hugs and had a group photo with the other team.

Kaiya, Connor and Santos said a special thank you and were presented with Timorese tais. Santos also presented one of the men’s soccer teams with some shin pads and socks that we had brought with us to continue to strengthen our relationship.

The little kids that were watching the games were eager to learn from us and play with us, so we taught them some dance moves and games. 

On the ride back to Barry’s place we were all euphoric in discussing the amazing experience we had just had. Something as simple as a soccer match had turned into a much bigger metaphor for the connections we have made and are continuing to make in Timor.

We got back to Barry’s place and had dinner and then had reflection time with Barry. He told us about what drew him to Timor and why he wants to make a difference. This inspired a whole group conversation where we reflected on what we had learnt so far and how valuable these experiences have been. 

Though today was full of ups and downs it has been one of the most empowering days in Timor so far. We can’t wait for what the rest of the trip brings