Rambutan Resort - Phnom Penh

The slouchy lobby is dotted with bicycles, plants in earthen pots and bold artwork - your first clue about Rambutan's quirky style. The restaurant follows suit with a fresh, al fresco setting and the menu is a tasty mix of Khmer staples and international dishes. Shaded by trees, the saltwater pool is small but lovely. A few steps away, the bar will serve something cool as you relax on colourful, recessed couches. The spa offers aromatic massages and traditional Khmer treatments for a little R&R.

The hotel has just 19 rooms, each room is unfussy but eclectic with industrial-style concrete floors (topped with cosy rugs), unique artwork and bright pops of colourful decor. The deluxe rooms have a balcony or private garden with an open-air Terrazzo bathtub. The Penthouse Suite comes with a king-sized bed, cushy red lounge area and rooftop terrace with sun loungers and a large jacuzzi. Other amenities include a writing desk, TV and tea and coffee facilities.

Head out market trawling to find the best Khmer cuisine at the confusingly-named Russian Market or pick up handcrafted items in the vast domed halls of the Central Market. The shining Royal Palace is hard to miss with its spirals and columns set against the river and its neighbour, the Silver Pagoda is worth a visit. Learn about the country's history at the National Museum where centuries of Khmer artifacts are held before returning for a cold brew by the pool.