Dili, East Timor 🇹🇱
#1070
,
Nomad Score:
49%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Dili is the capital city of East Timor, located on the northern coast of the island. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 271,000 people live in Dili. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is about 10 Mbps, with some locations offering up to 25 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency used is the US Dollar (USD), and East Timor has a cash-based economy, although cards are accepted in larger establishments. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is not considered drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is 220V, 50Hz, with type C and F sockets commonly used. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Main mobile providers include TIMOR Telecom, Telkomsel, and DST. SIM cards are widely available. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | International credit cards are accepted at major hotels and some shops. ATMs are available, primarily in the city center. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options range from guesthouses and budget hotels to serviced apartments and Airbnbs. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Not very cashless friendly; preferred payment method is cash. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental services are available, with rates starting around $30 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Backpacker-friendly guesthouses such as 'The White Elephant' start at about $15 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The Delta area and beachfront are popular for tourists due to proximity to attractions. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Nicolau Lobato area is favored by digital nomads for its coworking spaces and vibrant atmosphere. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The 'Dili Coworking Space' offers a vibrant setting with reliable internet and community events. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Afonso is popular among remote workers for its ambiance and free Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Digital nomad meetups are hosted frequently at the local coworking spaces and cafes; check Facebook groups. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Community events are often organized on weekends; join 'Dili Expat Network' on Facebook for updates. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Dili currently lacks ride-hailing apps, but taxi services are available; agree on a fare beforehand. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Scooter rentals are offered by various local shops, with rentals starting around $10 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Cristo Rei Beach, famous for its giant statue and great sunsets, is about 30 minutes away. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Timor operates domestic flights to several regional islands. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | LATAM and AirAsia provide services to major international cities. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Dili is well-connected by a coastal road to other regions of East Timor. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Dili does not have a train system; bus services run within the city. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport is minimal; most travel is by taxi or scooter rentals. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Bus services connect Dili with other cities and towns; services may be infrequent. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Dili Hospital is the primary healthcare facility, but private clinics are also available. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes can be found at local studios, including 'Yoga in Dili' with ocean views. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Several gyms offer facilities, with prices around $40 per month. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services are available at many hotels and small local businesses. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Dili does not have a dedicated food delivery app; local restaurants may offer delivery services. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Batar Da'an,' a traditional Timorese corn and vegetable dish. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Restaurants such as 'Vegetarian Cafe' provide solid vegan options. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Check out 'Gelato Dili' for local ice cream flavors. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | The local market at Mercado Municipal offers fresh produce at low prices. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Online shopping is limited; Try importing goods via platforms like eBay. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Limited grocery delivery services; local supermarkets allow online ordering. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The beachfront offers bars like 'Bar Dili' that are popular for nightlife. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Try the local 'Bairo Pite' beer, brewed in Dili. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited wine bars; many restaurants offer wine by the bottle. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street food stalls are common near markets; try 'sambosa' for a quick snack. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants like 'Casa da Crianca' offer a mix of Italian and local cuisine. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The 'Christ the King' statue and the 'Resistance Museum' are essential visits. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The National Museum of East Timor showcases the country's history. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Visit the historic 'Motael Church' to learn about the local culture. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Cathedral of Dili is an important landmark for visitors. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Independence Day celebration in May is a must-see event. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Explore the local artisans' district to see traditional crafts. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Cultural performances are hosted at the Dili Cultural Center. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The Municipal Market is lively and offers a blend of local products and crafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Check the local cafes for live music events featuring Timorese artists. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Dili has a growing street art scene; murals can be found throughout the city. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Local cooking classes are available, focusing on traditional Timorese dishes. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Galleries such as 'Artisan Timor' highlight local artists' work. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The old Portuguese buildings along the waterfront are noteworthy attractions. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Cultural symbols like the UDT flag are celebrated at various events. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Mount Ramelau is accessible for hiking and offers breathtaking views. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Nino Konis Santana National Park is a short drive from Dili and offers diverse ecosystems. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Coastal paths along the Dili beach are popular for walking and cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint at 'Cristo Rei' offers stunning panoramic views of the coast. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching can be enjoyed at the coastal areas near the national park. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas at beaches allow for campfires—check local regulations first. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL offers parcel delivery services in Dili. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops provide basic tech repair services; larger issues should seek specialized stores. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers may have table tennis facilities available for public use. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools offer Tetun and Portuguese language classes. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The Dili Public Library offers a quiet space for reading and study. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Various community centers host events and activities for expats and locals. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming lounges are available; many residents play at home. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Gambling is not prevalent; casual games may be hosted locally. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $60,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $48,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $108,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,400 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $84,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $160,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,600 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $128,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Corporate tax rate is approximately 10%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Withholding tax on dividends is approximately 10%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | The tax system is based on a territorial basis for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 10%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Value Added Tax rate is currently 10%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | There are no strict CFC rules in place. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Property tax is minimal; there are no annual property taxes. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Property transactions incur a tax of around 2%. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Digital nomads benefit from a 0% tax on foreign income. |