September 2024 – Southeast Asia — In response to the devastating typhoon that has severely impacted Northern Laos and Northern Vietnam, Mad Monkey Hostels has made a heartfelt decision to pivot the focus of its upcoming Mad Love: Celebrating 13 Years of Impact events. Instead of the planned celebrations, the events will now prioritize urgent relief and recovery efforts for those affected. This decision comes as these natural disasters have created overwhelming needs in both regions.
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A Call to Action: Supporting Typhoon Relief in Laos & Vietnam
The typhoons have left a devastating trail across both regions. Thousands of people have been displaced, homes destroyed, and necessities like water have become scarce. For Mad Monkey Hostels, which always prioritizes community, redirecting event proceeds toward disaster relief and rebuilding efforts was essential.
- In Northern Laos, Typhoon Yagi caused widespread damage. Several communities, including those in Luang Prabang, have suffered greatly. Many of our team members in Luang Prabang have lost their homes or are facing severe property damage. As a result, Mad Monkey is directing funds, previously allocated for events, toward providing immediate relief like shelter, clean water, and food. Long-term rebuilding efforts will also be supported by these proceeds.
- In Northern Vietnam, Typhoon Yagi’s impact has been catastrophic. It has led to the tragic loss of 325 lives, destruction of over 188,000 homes, and left 3 million people without access to clean water. Some of our team members have also been deeply affected by this disaster. To aid in recovery, Mad Monkey will host a Fundraiser Weekend on September 21-22. Importantly, all proceeds will go to UNICEF’s relief efforts in Northern Vietnam.
Fundraiser Weekend for Northern Vietnam: September 21-22
Mad Monkey Hoi An is organizing a weekend of fundraising events, aimed at rallying the community to provide much-needed support for those affected by Typhoon Yagi. Participants can enjoy a range of activities, knowing that every contribution will make a difference:
- Fundraiser BBQ
- Karma Karaoke Night
- Pool Party with Fundraiser Free-Flow
- Charity Pub Crawl
- Charity Bicycle Tour
The event highlights include Karma Karaoke on Saturday night, and a Live DJ and Live Music on Sunday. All proceeds will go to UNICEF, which is actively providing aid to the typhoon-affected communities.
Mad Monkey Luang Prabang: Adventure Meets Culture
September 22, 2024 — In Laos, the Mad Love Adventure Challenge at Mad Monkey Luang Prabang will offer participants a unique opportunity to explore the historic beauty of the city while contributing to the region’s recovery efforts. The event includes a guided walking tour through Luang Prabang’s iconic sites, including the Old Bridge and Wat Sensoukharam, paired with a scavenger hunt through the vibrant Night Market. All proceeds from the event will benefit disaster relief and rebuilding efforts in Northern Laos.
Mad Monkey Vang Vieng: Music, Food, and Fun by the Pool
September 27, 2024 — Later in the month, Mad Monkey Vang Vieng will host the Mad Love Music Festival and Pool Party, a lively celebration featuring live music from local artists, food stalls offering Southeast Asian cuisine, and interactive cultural workshops. The festival will also include a raffle with exciting prizes, with all proceeds donated to Vientiane Rescue, an emergency response service working tirelessly to support the local community.
Mad Love in Action: Why These Events Matter
The decision to shift the focus of our Mad Love events came from a place of deep empathy for the people of Northern Laos and Vietnam, many of whom are facing unimaginable hardships in the wake of these disasters. While the original purpose of these events was to celebrate 13 years of community and sustainability, it became clear that what’s needed now is action and support.
“Typhoon Yagi has left a trail of destruction, taking lives and leaving many of our team members and their families in profound grief and hardship,” said Nicky Vo, Mad Monkey Pan-Regional Operations Manager for Vietnam & Indonesia. “Now, more than ever, we must stand together as a family and extend our support in a meaningful way.”
How You Can Help
We invite our community—travelers, locals, and supporters around the world—to join us in our efforts to support the people of Laos and Vietnam. Whether by attending the Fundraiser BBQ in Vietnam, participating in the Mad Love Adventure Challenge in Luang Prabang, or simply spreading the word, your involvement will make a direct impact in helping these communities rebuild.
