Travel More, Spend Less! The Mad Pass is Your Ticket to Unlimited Stays in Southeast Asia
Travel tips for while you’re backpacking Southeast Asia and Australia, or some travel inspiration if you’re sat at a desk wishing you were here. Written by backpackers living or traveling around this side of the world. We’ve got travel advice for Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.
What is Mad Loyalty? It’s simple. There are three levels: MAD, MADDER, and MADDEST. The more nights you stay, the bigger the perks! MAD As soon as you book your first stay, you’re in. You’ll get a free welcome drink, access to our exclusive membership only Facebook community, and 5% off private rooms and dorms at every Mad Monkey location. MADDER After booking your second hostel, you level up. Now, you get everything from MAD plus 10% off private rooms and dorms, free morning coffee with any breakfast item, and 5% off Mad Monkey Signature Tours. MADDEST Stay in all the hostels in one country or any four in the same region, and you will unlock MADDEST. Perks like 15% off private rooms and dorms, 10% off food, 10% off Mad Monkey Signature Tours, and early check-in/late check-out (when available) await you. What makes it more exciting? You’re entered into a monthly prize draw for free stays and other rewards. Download the Mad Loyalty app and start unlocking exclusive rewards! How to Maximize Your Perks Want to get the most out of Mad Loyalty? Here’s how to make the most of your travels and rack up the rewards: Book Direct: Every booking through Mad Monkey gets you closer to MADDER and MADDEST status. The more you stay, the better the perks. Join the Fun: Attending events like foam parties, pub crawls, and tours not only makes your stay more fun but helps you earn more rewards. Use Your Discounts: As you level up, use your discounts on rooms, food, and drinks. You’re already saving money just by staying with us, so why not make it count? Pro Tips to Hit MADDEST Faster Stay in Multiple Hostels: Plan your trip through countries like Laos or Vietnam where it’s easy to visit multiple Mad Monkey locations. You’ll hit MADDEST status quicker and unlock the biggest perks. Extend Your Stay: Planning to stay for a while? Consider extending your booking to take full advantage of the room discounts. If you’re MADDER or MADDEST, those extra nights can save you a lot. Mix Up Your Experiences: Try to experience a variety of Mad Monkey events and tours across different hostels. Not only does this rack up points, but each unique event or location adds to the fun. Leverage Early Check-In/Late Check-Out: MADDEST travelers get priority check-in and check-out, so use this perk to give yourself more flexibility with your travel schedule—no more waiting around! Take Advantage of Low-Demand Periods: Travel during off-peak times to snag free stays through the monthly prize draw. Fewer people traveling means better odds for you to win a free night or awesome tour. Plan Country-Hopping Trips: Maximize your points by planning country-hopping trips through regions with several Mad Monkey locations. Southeast Asia is packed with destinations, and it’s the perfect way to hit MADDEST status in no time. What’s Next? Ready to unlock all the perks? With Mad Loyalty, you can make the most of your stay, enjoy discounts, and experience more for less. Book your stay, join the fun, and start racking up those rewards. Pack your bags and explore these countries Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. Stay mad, stay rewarded – get the Mad Loyalty app today!
Welcome to Manila, a bustling hub that promises an adventure for your palate without straining your wallet! Known for its vibrant street life and colorful history, Manila also boasts a culinary scene that’s as diverse as its culture. Here, food isn’t just sustenance; it’s a journey through flavors that span both traditional Filipino fare and global cuisine. This guide is dedicated to all you thrifty foodie travelers out there—whether you’re a curious backpacker or a savvy digital nomad looking for your next great meal. We’re diving into the city’s best budget-friendly restaurants where the vibes are laid-back, the food is top-notch, and the prices are just right. Get ready to eat your way through Manila without breaking the bank! Top Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Manila, Philippines Manila’s food scene is a kaleidoscope of flavors, a vibrant tapestry woven from generations of tradition and global influences. From the smoky char of grilled meats to the tangy zing of citrus-infused soups, every bite is an adventure for the senses. But for young travelers like us, navigating this culinary landscape can sometimes feel daunting, especially when budget is a factor. Get ready for a mouthwatering food adventure with these top 6 budget-friendly restaurants in Manila: 1. Locavore and Manam: A Taste of Authentic Filipino Cuisine When comparing Locavore and Manam for a taste of authentic Filipino cuisine, both restaurants offer unique experiences. Locavore stands out for its progressive take on traditional Filipino dishes, presenting elevated versions of familiar favorites with a modern twist. Known for dishes like the sizzling Sinigang and Oyster Sisig, Locavore provides a sophisticated dining experience that appeals to those seeking a more refined palate. On the other hand, Manam impresses with its innovative approach to Filipino comfort food, showcasing classics like its signature Sinigang soup memorably and deliciously. Whether you choose Locavore for its upscale interpretation or Manam for its creative flair, both restaurants promise a delightful journey through the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine. Location: Locavore, H269+282, Three Central, Valero, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines – VIEW MAP Contact: | Instagram Hours: 10:00 AM – 09:00 PM 2. Local Restaurants: Exploring Authentic Street Food in Poblacion Area In the vibrant Poblacion area, a culinary adventure awaits as authentic Filipino street food delights are easily accessible and readily available. From the iconic fishballs and flavorful qwek-qwek to the adventurous balut and mouth-watering BBQ skewers, the streets around the hostel offer a diverse array of local treats. Indulge in the classic combination of green mangoes with bagoong or savor the comforting sweetness of taho as you wander through the bustling streets of Poblacion. This immersive experience provides a taste of traditional Filipino street food culture, allowing visitors to engage with the heart and soul of Filipino gastronomy right at their doorstep. Location: Poblacion Street food local Restaurants– VIEW MAP 3. Makati Avenue: Fusion Flavors on a Budget Along the bustling Makati Avenue, foodies can indulge in a diverse array of budget-friendly restaurants that offer a fusion of flavors. One standout option is Next Door Noodles by North Park, known for its delectable Chinese-inspired noodle dishes at affordable prices. Just a stone’s throw away, Mendokoro Ramenba Makati serves up authentic Japanese ramen that satisfies the craving for slurp-worthy noodles without breaking the bank. For those seeking a taste of Little Tokyo, Menya Ippondo provides a convenient noodle fix close to the hostel. These Makati Avenue establishments cater to the diverse palates of budget-conscious travelers, delivering a flavorful culinary experience that won’t strain the wallet. For a convenient and budget-friendly stay, consider booking with Mad Monkey Hostels, located just a short distance from these…
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…
