Rote is the most southern
island of the Nusa Tenggara island chain in Indonesia. It lies a
few miles south of West Timor and 150 miles from the coast of northern
Australia and has a population of 60.000.
The Rotenese are very respectful, charming, mostly Christian people.
Traditionally their main activities are the exploitation of the
Lontar Palm, which they use for everything, from nutrition to building
materials. Fishing also provides food and income for the local people,
and recently the cultivation of seaweed.
During the traditional surf season (May to November), trade winds
are consistent and offshore.
Average daytime high temps are 86-88F and nighttime lows are around
75F. The ocean clocks in at a soothing 80F