The island of Timor has been officially divided—East Timor became its own nation in May 2002 and changed its name to Timor Leste. West Timor remains part of Indonesia. The island was colonized because of its sandalwood forests.
Desa Rasa merits a visit to see its traditional houses (similar to those in Sulawesi) and the fort at Lautem. Most visitors spend their time in Kupang, the capital of West Timor. Attractions include the museum (ikat cloth and traditional arts), the Loka Binkra Crafts Center (a great place to buy handicrafts) and the nearby Bolok Caves.
Out in the countryside there are traditional markets and thatched houses around Soe and Boti (northeast of Kupang).
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