Esplanada

This boutique hotel is a favourite spot for repeat visitors to Timor-Leste: its pleasant accommodation blocks surround a palm-tree-shaded pool. The upstairs bar-restaurant serves pricey meals (US$12) to go with its water views, but come during an event, or when there's live music on a Thursday night, and be swept up in the fun of Dili. Rates can often be negotiated.