Mad Monkey in the news
Dec
Mad Monkey Launches ‘Takeovers’: A Zero-Fee Group Travel Platform for Creators
To kick off the launch, Mad Monkey has unveiled its first pilot route: The Cambodia Kingdom Run. True to the program’s promise of “9 Days. 3 Cities. Zero Worries,” this route provides the blueprint for creators to lead high-energy, immersive journeys without the logistical headaches or the high commissions of third-party platforms. Key Benefits of the Takeovers Program: The Pilot Route: The Cambodia Kingdom Run The Cambodia Kingdom Run showcases the power of the Takeovers model. This 9-day journey through the heart of Cambodia offers a seamless blend of adventure, culture, and social connection: “Creators are the engine of modern travel, and we believe they should spend their time building connections, not chasing commissions,” says Kyle Kenny, Commercial Director at Mad Monkey. “Through the Takeovers program, we provide the ultimate social infrastructure and local expertise, while the creators bring the vision. We’ve simplified the process: we provide the beds and the bookings, they provide the tribe, and together we create an unforgettable experience. The Mad Monkey Creator Ecosystem The launch of Takeovers serves as the monetization arm of Mad Monkey’s broader commitment to talent. The brand also continues to host its established Creative Hub, a creator exchange program that offers digital creators, photographers, and musicians a way to trade their skills for stays and share their work with a global audience. Host Your Own Takeover Applications are now open for creators ready to lead their community on The Cambodia Kingdom Run as the pilot route, or to collaborate with Mad Monkey to build their own custom route across Southeast Asia. About Mad Monkey Hostels Mad Monkey is a leading hostel operator in Southeast Asia, known for experience-driven stays that blend affordable accommodation with community, adventure, and unforgettable social energy. With locations across Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Laos, and Australia, Mad Monkey is more than a place to stay – it’s a place to belong.
Dec
Community Spirit and Siem Reap Sprints: Mad Monkey and ADA Global Raise $18,700 for Cambodia’s Rabbit School
The fundraising effort kicked off with an epic collective race through the heart of Siem Reap. Participants pushed through a total of 700 kilometers, with every single kilometer earning $10 for the cause. This collective hustle brought in $7,000, showcasing the incredible stamina and spirit of the local community and the ADA Global team. The momentum didn’t stop at the finish line. In an incredible show of leadership and commitment, ADA Global leaders auctioned off their own bikes, bringing in an additional $11,700. “We wanted to show that travel can be a force for good,” said Alex Darroch, Co-founder of Mad Monkey. “Seeing the community come together to smash a 700km goal and then bid so generously on the bikes shows the deep connection we have with the people of Siem Reap.” For over a decade, Mad Monkey has supported Rabbit School, an NGO dedicated to providing vital education and therapy to children with autism, Down syndrome, and other intellectual disabilities. Despite their success, the demand is higher than ever. The primary goal of this year’s “Big Push” is to clear the school’s extensive waiting list, ensuring that no child is left without the support they deserve. This initiative goes beyond a single race; it embodies a shared belief that travel and community engagement must be a force for positive change. This is the ‘Mad Monkey way’—a philosophy that proves every level of effort counts. Whether it’s through a collective 700km sprint or a high-stakes bike auction, every bit of effort goes toward giving these children a future. Support the Rabbit School Mission The incredible funds raised are just the starting point. To help clear the current waiting list and support the ongoing operational needs of the Rabbit School, you can contribute in the following ways. Mad Monkey will be matching every dollar donated, effectively doubling your impact. 1. Make a Monetary Donation 2. Donate Resources The school welcomes donations of resources such as books, toys, art supplies, sensory items, and educational games. 3. Amplify the Message Share this story widely to help spread awareness and reach more potential donors and supporters worldwide. About ADA Global: ADA is a pioneer in data and AI solutions, digital commerce, and customer engagement, driving digital transformation for enterprises across Asia. With a commitment to using technology for good, ADA proudly supports community initiatives that create a lasting positive impact. About Rabbit School: The Rabbit School is a Cambodian NGO that has been a pioneer in providing education and vocational training to children and youths with intellectual disabilities since 1997. About Mad Monkey Hostels Mad Monkey is a leading hostel operator in Southeast Asia, known for experience-driven stays that blend affordable accommodation with community, adventure, and unforgettable social energy. With locations across Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Laos, and Australia, Mad Monkey is more than a place to stay – it’s a place to belong.
Nov
How Social Hostels Are Redefining Gen Z Travel and Modern Tourism
Hostels used to be known purely as a cheap place to crash. Today, they’re booming for a totally different reason: travelers actually want to be there. Social hostels have evolved into high-energy hubs where friendships form instantly and adventure feels built into the walls. For Mad Monkey, this isn’t a trend — it’s their entire identity. “Gen Z travelers don’t just want to see the world — they want to belong to it,” said Niall Charles, Chief Operating Officer at Mad Monkey Hostels. “Everything we create is built around that idea. Our spaces, our events, our partnerships, it’s all designed to help travelers connect with the places they visit and the people they meet.” Each Mad Monkey property brings its own flavor, but the ethos stays the same: shared spaces, open energy, and curated events that make meeting people effortless. Morning yoga, island-hopping tours, Khmer cooking classes, sunset rooftops, live music nights, and hostel-wide games bring travelers together in ways that feel natural and unfiltered. This social-first approach taps directly into Gen Z’s shifting travel values. They’re less interested in polished luxury and more drawn to experiences that feel authentic, human, and culturally grounded. Mad Monkey meets that demand with a mix of adventure, local partnerships, and laid-back chaos that captures the magic of being young, curious, and on the road. Beyond the social vibe, today’s travelers also care deeply about impact, and Mad Monkey weaves that into everyday operations. Across all properties, the brand runs sustainability-minded initiatives, community partnerships, and guest-led efforts to give back. Whether it’s supporting local suppliers, hosting coastal clean-ups, fundraising events, or collaborating with grassroots organizations, the focus remains the same: leave every destination better than you found it. These efforts aren’t marketed as grand campaigns. They’re woven into how the team works, lives, and connects with local communities. That authenticity resonates deeply with Gen Z, who want to have fun but also want their choices to reflect what they care about. Mad Monkey creates a space where both can happen at the same time. The rise of social hostels signals a broader industry shift: travel is no longer about consuming a destination; it’s about connecting with it. Young travelers aren’t chasing luxury, they’re chasing a sense of belonging. They want to meet people, dive deeper, create memories, and walk away with stories they’ll tell for years. With its ongoing expansion across Southeast Asia and beyond, Mad Monkey is at the front of this movement, shaping the future of modern tourism and proving that travel can be wild, meaningful, and community-driven all at once. About Mad Monkey Hostels Mad Monkey is a leading hostel operator in Southeast Asia, known for experience-driven stays that blend affordable accommodation with community, adventure, and unforgettable social energy. With locations across Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Laos, and Australia, Mad Monkey is more than a place to stay – it’s a place to belong.
Nov
Mad Monkey Rolls Out ‘Ask for Angela’ to Boost Safety for Solo Travelers
It’s a simple code with a powerful purpose: ensuring everyone can have fun and feel safe while traveling. “Backpacking is all about meeting people and creating memories — but that should never come at the cost of feeling unsafe,” said Alex Baker, Global Operations Manager at Mad Monkey Hostels. “Ask for Angela gives our guests the confidence to enjoy the community vibe that Mad Monkey is known for, knowing support is always there if they need it.” The rollout is part of Mad Monkey’s Solo But Never Alone campaign — a long-term initiative focused on empowering solo travelers, especially women, through safety programs, community-driven events, and staff training. The campaign also includes safety-focused signage, awareness drives, and a commitment to expanding safety practices beyond bar areas — into dorms, social spaces, and tours. Visible Ask for Angela posters are now displayed throughout all Mad Monkey properties, reminding guests that help is just one question away. Every team member, from reception to bar staff, has undergone training to recognize and respond with care and discretion. Mad Monkey has always been about connection,” added Baker. “The Ask for Angela program helps us make sure those connections happen in a space where everyone feels welcome, respected, and safe.” The introduction of Ask for Angela underscores Mad Monkey’s commitment to creating spaces built on connection, respect, and care — all while keeping the fun, social energy the brand is known for. For more information on Ask for Angela, visit: https://madmonkeyhostels.com/ask-for-angela-safety-for-solo-travelers/ About Mad Monkey Hostels Mad Monkey is a leading hostel operator in Southeast Asia, known for experience-driven stays that blend affordable accommodation with community, adventure, and unforgettable social energy. With locations across Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Laos, and Australia, Mad Monkey is more than a place to stay – it’s a place to belong.
Oct
Mad Monkey Hostels Levels Up Travel Safety and Connection with New Tech Features
Southeast Asia – October 2025 – Mad Monkey Hostels, one of Southeast Asia’s leading social hostel brands, has unveiled a suite of new digital features designed to make backpacking both safer and more connected. The update integrates seamlessly into the Mad Monkey website and app, reimagining how travelers experience hostels — from booking to check-out. As travel continues to evolve, Mad Monkey’s tech-driven approach focuses on enhancing connection, transparency, and safety, while keeping the fun and community spirit the brand is known for. 1. Join Group Chats Before You Even Arrive Each Mad Monkey hostel now has a dedicated WhatsApp group where upcoming guests can chat, share travel tips, and plan meet-ups before check-in. Whether it’s finding a buddy for the sunrise hike or coordinating a night out, connection starts before you even drop your bags. 2. See Who’s Staying When You Are — Coming Soon Through guest profiles, travelers can see who else will be at the hostel during their dates. It’s a simple way to build trust and familiarity, helping solo travelers feel safer and giving everyone a head start on making friends. 3. Discover What’s On — Instantly The new “See What’s On” section showcases all upcoming events and experiences in real time — from pool parties to cooking classes — so guests can join safely organized activities and never miss a moment of the fun. 4. Digital Check-In for a Smoother, Safer Arrival Mad Monkey’s digital waiver system replaces traditional paper forms with a secure online check-in. This speeds up arrivals, ensures guest verification, and keeps essential information accessible in case of emergency. 5. Add Your Social Handles to Stay Connected Guests can now link their Instagram handles to their profile to make it easier to stay in touch with new friends they meet on the road — turning fleeting travel friendships into lifelong connections. 6. See Who’s Leading the Adventure A new “Leaderboard” feature highlights the most-traveled guests — those who’ve stayed at multiple Mad Monkey locations across regions. It’s a fun, gamified way to celebrate loyalty, inspire exploration, and build community across borders. 7. Meet the Mad Monkey AI Bot — Now in Uluwatu Currently live at Mad Monkey Uluwatu and rolling out across all hostels soon, the new AI bot helps guests with everything from event info to maintenance requests. Guests can ask what’s happening that night, find out weekly activities, or maintenance issues directly through the system — ensuring faster response times and safer, more seamless stays. “Our mission has always been to create meaningful connections — and these features take that to a whole new level,” said Luke Coleman, Head of Technology at Mad Monkey Hostels. “These updates make it easier for travelers to connect, feel safe, and have fun. That’s what travel is really all about.” All features are now live across Mad Monkey hostels and integrated into the new version of Mad Monkey app and website, giving guests more ways to connect, explore, and feel at home anywhere in the world. About Mad Monkey Mad Monkey is a leading hostel operator in Southeast Asia, known for experience-driven stays that blend affordable accommodation with community, adventure, and unforgettable social energy. With locations across Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Laos, and Australia, Mad Monkey is more than a place to stay – it’s a place to belong.