Skip to content

Travel More, Spend Less! The Mad Pass is Your Ticket to Unlimited Stays in Southeast Asia

What’s new?

Top Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Get Lost in the Old Quarter First things first: Old Quarter. Picture narrow streets packed with scooters, street vendors, and locals doing their thing. Each street sells something different, like silk on one, herbs on another. Just walk around, grab a bowl of noodles, and let the Old Quarter vibe pull you in. This is Hanoi’s heartbeat – chaotic, loud, and absolutely awesome. This is where Hanoi feels the most alive, and it’s definitely a must on the list of top things to do in Hanoi. Stuff Your Face with Hanoi Street Food You can’t say you’ve been to Hanoi without trying a bowl of Pho—the noodle soup everyone’s heard of. Still hungry? Grab a famous Banh Mi from Banh Mi 25, packed with fresh herbs and crispy pork. And don’t forget the Egg Coffee, a must-try that you’ve probably seen on Instagram. It’s coffee topped with whipped egg. It sounds odd but tastes amazing. The street food alone is one of the top things to do in Hanoi. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum This one’s serious but worth it. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is where Vietnam’s most famous leader rests. Ho Chi Minh is a huge deal here, so visiting his mausoleum is kind of like a rite of passage. The place is super strict, so be mindful. No shorts, no talking, no phones allowed. If you want a deeper look at Vietnam, this one should be on your list of top things to do in Hanoi. Chill Out at Hoan Kiem Lake Need a break from the madness? Head to Hoan Kiem Lake in the center of town. This spot is peaceful, with locals doing Tai Chi and a great view of the water. Check out Ngoc Son Temple on the lake’s tiny island. According to legend, an emperor gave a magic sword back to a turtle here. Yep, a turtle. It’s weird, but it’s Hanoi. Experience the Adrenaline on Train Street Train Street is a tiny alley with a full-sized train track running down the middle. The train comes through close enough to touch, and everyone clears out to let it pass. Grab a coffee, wait for the train, and watch it zoom by – it’s wild. Just make sure to check first before going, as it sometimes closes. Is it one of the most unforgettable top things to do in Hanoi? A solid yes.  Get Cultured at the Temple of Literature One of the coolest historic sites is the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s very first university, built back in 1070. Walk through the peaceful courtyards and snap some pics of the ancient architecture. It’s a nice breather from the busier parts of town and a solid spot to get some zen. Have a Beer at Bia Hoi Corner (Junction) Bia Hoi Corner is where locals and travelers gather at night to drink fresh, light beer for about 25 cents a glass. It’s loud, casual, and a lot of fun. Just find a plastic stool and jump in. For nightlife, this is one of the top things to do in Hanoi – no fancy stuff, just good times. Learn Something at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology Curious about Vietnam’s diverse cultures? The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is where you’ll find out about all 54 ethnic groups in the country. The outdoor area has life-sized replicas of traditional homes, and the whole place is like a quick crash course in Vietnamese culture. Up for something different? This is worth a visit and  one of the top things to do in Hanoi.  Day Trip to the Perfume…

READ MORE >

Ha Giang vs Sapa: A Backpacker’s Guide

read more

Best Hostels in Hanoi for Backpackers

read more

Itinerary in Indonesia for 30 Days: Ultimate Guide for Backpackers

read more

Itinerary in Vietnam for 60 Days: Ultimate Guide for Backpackers

read more

Budget Travel

Group Trips  vs. Mad Pass: The Best Way to Explore Southeast Asia

Group Trips: All Planned, No Surprises Group trips offer a set itinerary, with accommodation and transport sorted out for you. You follow a schedule, see the main sights, and move along with the group. It’s straightforward, but it comes with limits. Pros of Group Trips Stress-Free Planning Everything’s pre-arranged. How to get from A to B won’t be a worry for you. The tour company handles it. Good for New Travelers  First time backpacking? A group trip can be less intimidating. With everything taken care of, you’ll have a guide and a built-in group of travelers to hang with.  Instant Friends Making friends is a breeze! You’ll be with the same group throughout the entire trip, sharing experiences from start to finish. Cons of Group Trips Stuck to a Schedule You don’t have much say in the itinerary. Early mornings, set time limits, and no flexibility if you want to stay longer somewhere awesome. Tourist Traps Group trips often focus on popular spots, which can mean missing out on the more authentic, local experiences that independent travel allows. More Expensive All-inclusive tours come with a price tag. You’ll pay upfront for convenience, and there’s usually little wiggle room to control your spending. Mad Pass: Total Freedom, Your Way With the Mad Pass, you’re in control. Unlimited stays at Mad Monkey Hostels for 30, 60, or 90 days. No fixed schedules, no rushing, just your own adventure, on your own terms. Imagine having one pass with unlimited access to Mad Monkey Hostels in six countries Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. Pros of the Mad Pass Full Flexibility There’s no set route. Want to spend a week in Gili T or a quick getaway in Hanoi? You have full control. Move as fast or as slow as you want. Unlimited Stays Stay at any Mad Monkey Hostel across Southeast Asia. One payment, no worries about booking new places. Just show up. Meet New People Everywhere Mad Monkey Hostels are social hubs. Every new location means fresh faces, new friends, and epic hostel events like pub crawls and pool parties. Budget-Friendly The Mad Pass saves you cash. Pay once and your accommodation is covered for up to 90 days. That leaves more budget for street food, adventures, and fun. Real Local Experiences Because you’re not locked into a set plan, you can explore beyond the tourist trail. Follow local tips from fellow travelers and hostel staff, and dive into the culture. Cons of the Mad Pass No Fixed Routine Some people thrive on structure, and the Mad Pass doesn’t come with a daily plan. If you prefer having a strict itinerary with everything mapped out, the freedom of the Mad Pass might feel a little overwhelming at first. So, What’s the Verdict? If you want someone else to plan your trip and like the idea of traveling with the same group, a group tour might work for you. But if you want total freedom, flexibility, and the chance to meet new people everywhere you go, the Mad Pass is hands down the better option. With unlimited stays, the freedom to travel at your own pace, and a budget that works for real backpackers, the Mad Pass offers the adventure you’re really looking for. When it comes to group trips vs Mad Pass, there’s no contest—grab a Mad Pass and start your ultimate Southeast Asia adventure. Need planning tips? Check out our itinerary blogs to make your Southeast Asia adventure planning a breeze. Itinerary in Cambodia for 30 Days: Ultimate Guide for Backpackers 30 Days Itinerary in Thailand: The Ultimate Guide for Backpackers 60 Days Itinerary in…

READ MORE >

Best Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Manila for Foodie Travelers

read more

Top Affordable Activities in Manila for Young Adventurers

read more

Budget-Friendly Travel Tips: Getting Around Manila Like a Local

read more

Top 8 Hostels and Homestays in Manila for Budget Travelers

read more

Sustainable Travel

World Ocean Day 2024: Sustainable Travel Tips for Backpackers

World Ocean Day, celebrated every June 8th, is a global event that unites people in protecting and preserving our beautiful oceans. As backpackers, we often get the chance to explore the world’s most stunning coastlines and pristine beaches. But with great adventure comes great responsibility. This World Ocean Day, let’s dive into sustainable travel practices and discover how Mad Monkey Hostels are making a splash with their weekly beach clean-up activities. Sustainable Travel: Why It Matters Traveling sustainably is about making choices that benefit the environment, local communities, and future travelers. It’s about leaving the places we visit better than we found them. When we backpack across coastal regions, our actions can have a profound impact on marine ecosystems. Here’s how you can contribute to the cause: Tips for Sustainable Travel Reduce your carbon footprint by packing only what you need. Lightweight backpacks mean lighter loads for transportation, which translates to lower emissions. Opt for biodegradable toiletries, reef-safe sunscreen, and reusable items like water bottles and shopping bags. This minimizes plastic waste that often ends up in the oceans. Whenever possible, use public transport, cycle, or walk. These options are not only eco-friendly but also provide a richer travel experience. Eat, shop, and stay local. Supporting local businesses helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with imported goods and contributes to the local economy. Mad Monkey Hostels are a great example of eco-conscious accommodations. They implement sustainable practices such as reducing water usage, minimizing waste, and supporting local conservation efforts. Beach Clean-Up: A Hands-On Approach to Conservation One of the most direct ways backpackers can contribute to marine conservation is by participating in beach clean-ups. These activities help remove harmful debris from coastal areas, protect marine life, and raise awareness about ocean pollution. Weekly beach clean-up at Long Set Beach. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Koh Rong. Mad Monkey’s Weekly Beach Clean-Ups Mad Monkey Hostels are not just about providing a place to stay—they’re about creating a community that cares for the environment. Every week, Mad Monkey organizes beach clean-up activities at various beach locations. Here’s why you should join: Each piece of trash you pick up is one less hazard for marine life. Beach clean-ups have immediate, tangible results that contribute to healthier oceans. These events are a fantastic way to meet fellow backpackers who share your passion for sustainability and marine conservation. Who knows, you might find a new travel buddy! Beach clean-ups often include educational sessions about the impact of pollution and how to reduce it. This knowledge is invaluable and can be shared with others to amplify the impact. Spending time on the beach, doing something positive, and enjoying the natural beauty is a rewarding experience. It’s a perfect blend of leisure and activism. Swimming with a turtle from a safe distance in Apo Island. Photo courtesy of Mad Monkey Dumaguete. Marine Conservation Tips and Etiquette Being a sustainable traveler means respecting the places you visit. When it comes to marine conservation, here are some tips and etiquette to keep in mind: Observe marine animals from a distance and avoid touching or disturbing them. Remember, we are guests in their home. Plastics are a major pollutant in our oceans. Reduce your use of single-use plastics by carrying reusable alternatives. Whatever you bring to the beach, take it back with you. This simple rule ensures that you leave the beach as pristine as you found it. Share your knowledge about marine conservation with fellow travelers. The more people are aware, the bigger the impact we can make. Join local initiatives like those organized by Mad Monkey Hostels. Your…

READ MORE >

Mad Monkey Hostels: Making Waves with Community Impact – Q4 2023 Highlights

read more

Offsetting your Carbon Footprint as a Traveller

read more

Mad Monkey CSR Corporate Social Responsibility Report | Q2 2023

read more

These are the Most Amazing and Radical Places to Visit in 2023

read more

Browse by country

Australia

BACKPACKER'S GUIDE

Cambodia

BACKPACKER'S GUIDE

Indonesia

BACKPACKER'S GUIDE

Laos

BACKPACKER'S GUIDE

Philippines

BACKPACKER'S GUIDE

Thailand

BACKPACKER'S GUIDE

Vietnam

BACKPACKER'S GUIDE