Venture Hotel
Lots of plants, a vibrant bar and an alluring pool help overcome architecture that will be familiar to anyone who's worked in a remote mining camp. The Spartan rooms don't have TVs; the cheapest share bathrooms.
Dili hotels and hostels
Hotel Turismo
Step back in time at this genteel veteran of the 1970s. The rooms are a bit faded, but you won't notice from the balconies where you can enjoy views of Atauro Island, the sound of the surf and the smells of the fish vendors' stalls.
Villa Harmonia
About 3km from town, this reliable old-timer has been here for over a decade. The 10 basic rooms, with bathrooms attached, form an 'L' around the garden. You're free to use the kitchen.
East Timor Backpackers
Dili's only hostel is a charmer with 11 beds in three rooms. It's not posh by any means but there's a fun bar-cafe out back and plenty of characters milling around. The owners are helpful and welcoming.
Hotel Dili
A rambling place of disparate buildings served by a great staff, this is the best choice for business travellers to Dili. The cheapest rooms share bathrooms; all have highspeed (by local standards) Internet and satellite TV.
Rocella
On a street with several rather grotty yet expensive hotels, this family-run charmer is a nice retreat from the important yet shabby street outside. The rooms face a central courtyard and although small, are great value.
Casa Minha
An unassuming compound set back from the shore road, it's in hailing distance of the New Zealand embassy. There's a serene pool area and 15 rooms, each with their pluses and minuses although all are very quiet.
Hotel Esplanada
The one place to stay in Dili that actually garners the high praise of 'nice', the Esplanada has a great location right on the water and an excellent restaurant that makes the most of the views.