This coastal enclave, also known as Ambeno, is about 25 mi/40 km west of the border that divides Timor. The first Portuguese settlements were in Oecussi, making the territory politically and historically important to East Timor. The residents, however, have more in common with their West Timor neighbors.
Most of Oecussi was destroyed in 1999, but the monument at the original landing site of Lifau still stands. In the territorial capital of Pantemakassar (also known as Oecussi town), go up to the old hilltop fort for great views. Some of East Timor's best snorkeling is just off the beach at Pantemakassar.
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