When you have friends visiting from abroad, the first question they ask is where should they stay? Chelsea Chapman and Eloise Florence check out the best accommodation options

THE WILLOW BOUTIQUE HOTEL If you’re looking for somewhere neat, clean and spacious with a touch of Khmer style, the rooms at The Willow fit the bill. Situated on top of the bar and restaurant, the building is adorned in paintwork by a resident artist. During the day, the outdoor area is perfect for relaxing and reading a book. At night, when the restaurant gets busy, it creates a friendly atmosphere. Centrally located, your friends will be just a five-minute walk from Independence Monument, Wat Langka and many fantastic restaurants. Standard double rooms are $55 in low season with continental breakfast included. The Willow Boutique Hotel, #1 Street 21. Phone: 023 996 256. Website: thewillowpp.com

SOFITEL PHNOM PENH PHOKEETHRA Few establishments can rival Sofitel in luxury or class. With 201 rooms, a sprawling ballroom, and a plethora of bars, restaurants, shops and cafes, guests are spoilt for choice without having to set foot outside the hotel’s sprawling grounds. The drive ensures a tranquil setting and the stunning rooms offer private balconies overlooking the Tonle Sap. Although a far cry from what one would expect on a Southeast Asian adventure, Sofitel is a welcome respite from the heat and noise of Phnom Penh’s busy streets. Rates start at $171 for a superior room, excluding VAT and breakfast. Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, #26 Old August Site, Sothearos Boulevard. Phone: 023 999 200. Website: sofitel.com

ROYAL INN A clean and comfortable haven on bustling Sothearos Boulevard, the Royal Inn is a good option if your friends are looking to escape the hostel crowd without busting their budget. Rooms are a decent size with a touch of elegance, although some face the street and could be noisy. All have air-con, free Wi-Fi and satellite television. Staff are warm and friendly while the location is central and close to the sights. The downstairs restaurant is also cosy and quiet. But the highlight is the rooftop bar – a great place to see the sun set and listen to the Phnom Penh hubbub. Rates start at $24 for a standard single room through online booking with breakfast included. Royal Inn, #128D8 Sothearos Boulevard. Phone: 023 214 824. Website: royal-inn.net

TEAHOUSE HOTEL This is the capital’s new kid on the boutique hotel block and is already making waves despite only opening a year ago. Its décor and dining options are something different in the centre of Phnom Penh’s main tourist and shopping area – close enough to Street 240 to be convenient but far enough away from Street 51 to be peaceful. Guests can savour the 30 different types of tea on offer by sinking into soft cushions around low tables in their sprawling lobby or The TeaLounge restaurant. If that is not to your taste, you can sunbathe by the newly installed pool. Rates start at $38 for a standard double room through online booking. Breakfast costs extra. TeaHouse Hotel, #32 St 242. Phone: 023 212 789. Website: theteahouse.asia

VILLA LANGKA This distinctive hotel pays tribute to both traditional Khmer style and modern hotel living. Set in a big, old house, the enchanting Cambodian-styled suites will make a lasting impression. Still using the original tiling, they are completely furnished with antique pieces, making each room unique. Across from the luscious tree lined pool is the modern hotel accommodation. This opens up onto a vibrant lobby room and has the city’s best view of Wat Langka. Villa Langka will make your friends feel at home and stimulate their imaginations at the same time. Deluxe rooms with big baths are $85. This includes a buffet breakfast. Village Lanka, #14 Street 282. Phone: 023 726 771. Website: villalangka.com

MAD MONKEY HOSTEL If your pals are the type that are keen to spend their time in Phnom Penh drinking, dancing like zombies and making friends with other party animals, this is the place for them. Thronging with a young and mostly backpacker crowd, the Mad Monkey’s staff will keep their guests busy with nightly parties and tours around the city into the late hours. Dorm beds start from as little as $5 which will keep your friends from having to run to an ATM machine too soon. Private rooms are more expensive and start from $16. Breakfast is not included in the deal. Mad Monkey Hostel, #26 Street 302. Phone: 023 987 091. Website: madmonkeyhostels.com