Phuket Hostel

One of the newest places in Siem Reap, the Phuket Hostel is the most central of all the budget guesthouses with lively staff and an atmosphere to match. It's only small, but the rooms and dorm are tastefully done and prices are very reasonable.

Phuket Hostel is owned and run by the people responsible for the popular Dead Fish Tower restaurant and guesthouse, though we think the rooms here are both superior and cheaper than at Dead Fish. Set around an atrium-style stairway that welcomes loads of natural light, every room is different. Those on the top floor are right under the French-era tiled roof - note that these can get pretty warm. The spacious five-bed dorm has its own bathroom and particularly comfortable beds. The downstairs bar serves food and has a free pool table.

The location - right behind the Angkor What? bar in one of the lanes dividing the historic French Quarter of Siem Reap - is perfect for anyone with enough energy to party after perusing the temples. Bar St is within crawling distance, as is the shopping and eating at Psar Chaa.