Kigali Serena Hotel

From the boulevard, enter the hotel's polished granite atrium lined with some of Rwanda's best cultural artworks. Later, enjoy the variety of restaurants and light eateries that cater for every taste. The Milima, for example, offers an all-day buffet; the Sokoni Café, with its indoor and poolside seating, has a more relaxed atmosphere and menu. On Sundays, experience Rwandese life as local families throng to the Sokoni Restaurant for long, relaxed lunches. A bar overlooks the swimming pool. Wi-fi throughout.

The 148 rooms cater for all budgets, from standard and superior to suites and the grand Presidential Suite. Whatever your choice, all the rooms are spacious, with aircon, satellite TV (check it's working before accepting the room), twin or king-sized beds, and an en-suite bathroom with both tub and a good shower. The style is pan-African, the rooms are clean and the atmosphere is relaxed.

If you're simply overnighting, you'll probably only have time to enjoy the food, the pool and maybe a treatment at the spa. For families with young children, there's also a baby pool. Staying a little longer? Explore Kigali (ask for advice at reception), visit the sobering Kigali Genocide Memorial and admire the bright artworks at the Inema Gallery.