Hotel Esplanada

Guests praise the clean, comfortable rooms and friendly staff. The complimentary breakfast and fantastic beach views are also highlighted. Convenient location and well-functioning air conditioning are additional advantages.

Hotel Esplanada is one of the most welcoming and special places I've stayed in, and my visit to Timor Leste was beyond expectations. I've been fortunate enough to visit over 80 countries and this trip is the most memorable I've had, starting with the unparalleled hospitality I received from Hotel Esplanada's owner and team. I flew into the airport on a rough, delayed red eye flight and the transportation they arranged for was waiting for me despite the long arrivals process and 4 hour delay, and from there, I felt so well taken care of. I was concerned before visiting that there is little information on the internet about Timor Leste since it's visited by so few people. All my concerns evaporated by the warmth and consideration of the community, and the immaculate island vibes. Dili, and Timor Leste in general, feels the complete opposite of other "overtouristed" places in the world - completely authentic and undiscovered with warm, welcoming people who are forward thinking despite a recent, brutal history. The hotel itself was founded by a wonderful Australian gentleman, Ash, who opened the hotel over twenty years ago and who is still very hands on with the hotel and is deeply invested and giving to the community and culture, and personally ensures that all guests are warmly welcome. There is a wonderful rooftop covered deck overlooking the sea with live music and a great varied menu with ice cold beers on tap, and also where the free breakfast is served. My room had a boutique feel with powerful AC, a comfortable bed, many outlets, and a great bathroom. There were yoga classes next to the pool in the morning which I wished I could have joined for - looked very peaceful. They helped organize all transport and logistics to an ambitious overnight stay at gorgeous Atauro island in partnership with Compass Diving - all flawlessly organized over WhatsApp. Atauro is so worthwhile to visit - only stayed one night but went on 3 snorkeling expeditions with the most epic pristine underwater coral wonderland imaginable and found it deeply relaxing. All in all an outstanding value for money and even though a short visit, left with the best memories.

Hotel Esplanada was a lovely place to spend the last night of my Timor trip, an oasis to arrive at after a five hour trip from Hatobuilico in the mountains in Ainaro district. The welcome was warm, staff were helpful and friendly, and the pool was a jewel. Really comfortable!