Press Releases
Nov
Mad Monkey Expands into Koh Sdach, Cambodia, with a Vibrant New Beach Hostel Opening in Late 2024
The Fisherman’s Cove: A Blend of Energy and Relaxation The vision behind Mad Monkey Koh Sdach is to create the ultimate tropical escape, where the vibrancy of a beach club meets the tranquility of meditation and rejuvenation. The hostel’s unique location boasts a large private sandy beachfront with colorful hammocks, string lights, and a breezy open-air bar and restaurant that overlooks the calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand. Guests can take in breathtaking sunsets at the hostel’s hillside pool or enjoy fresh seafood and Khmer BBQs in a casual beachside setting. For those seeking relaxation, the wellness side of the hostel offers a sauna, steam room, yoga space, and a gym. This seamless integration of health-focused amenities with modern comforts provides the perfect balance between energetic socializing and peaceful solitude. We’ll also be adding a hot plunge pool and ice bath for those who want to take their recovery to the next level. Positioning Koh Sdach as the Premier Island Destination Located in a charming, off-the-beaten-path fishing village, Mad Monkey Koh Sdach is set to become the island’s ultimate social and wellness hub. Known for its rustic local charm, the island offers travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the Cambodian culture while enjoying modern comforts. Whether guests are looking to party until the early hours at the island’s only late-night spot or wake up to energizing yoga sessions by the ocean, Mad Monkey Koh Sdach has something for everyone. “We’re thrilled to be opening our newest hostel on the beautiful island of Koh Sdach. Our vision is to create an unforgettable social experience while offering spaces for relaxation and recovery. Mad Monkey Koh Sdach is the perfect escape for travelers looking to explore one of Cambodia’s hidden gems, where the island’s beauty and vibrant community come together for the ultimate adventure.” said Brian Edward Bowers, Mad Monkey’s Business Development Manager. Unparalleled Social and Wellness Experiences Mad Monkey Koh Sdach offers flexible accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs, including dormitories and private bungalows. With a capacity of 80 dorm guests and 10 private rooms, the hostel is designed to create a community-focused atmosphere, encouraging interaction while also providing the comfort of privacy. Guests can look forward to experiencing the island’s signature events such as daytime beach sessions and exhilarating late-night beach parties, set against the backdrop of Cambodia’s crystal-clear waters. The hostel’s signature 360-degree beach bar is the centerpiece of daytime activities, offering refreshing drinks, lively music, and unforgettable memories. For those looking to recharge, the wellness amenities are unmatched. From morning yoga sessions to afternoon ice baths and sauna relaxation, guests can easily transition from high-energy activities to peaceful retreats. The hillside pool with views of the Gulf of Thailand is the perfect spot for unwinding before gearing up for the next night of beachside revelry. Explore Koh Sdach: A Gateway to Adventure and Cambodia’s Best Diving Spots In addition to the vibrant social scene and wellness offerings, Koh Sdach is renowned for its natural beauty and proximity to Cambodia’s best diving spots. Adventure seekers can explore the coral reefs teeming with marine life or take a boat trip to nearby islands for a truly off-the-grid experience. Whether travelers are looking for an adventure-filled escape or a place to relax and recharge, Mad Monkey Koh Sdach provides the ultimate island getaway. About Mad Monkey Hostels Mad Monkey is a leading social hostel brand in Southeast Asia, offering unforgettable experiences for young travelers across Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and soon in India, Japan, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. Known for our lively social atmosphere, community-driven approach, and…
Oct
Mad Monkey Hoi An Achieves Hostelworld Level 2 Sustainability Badge – Leading Eco-Friendly Travel in Vietnam
Hoi An, Vietnam – October 2024 – We’re excited to announce that Mad Monkey Hoi An proudly earned the Hostelworld Level 2 Sustainability badge! This makes us one of the first hostels in Hoi An, and possibly all of Vietnam, to achieve this milestone in eco-friendly travel. Our commitment to sustainability drives our efforts to protect the environment and support the local community. We’ve made impactful changes to our operations. From using biodegradable packaging and reducing plastic waste to running an electric shuttle and sourcing eco-friendly products. It’s not just about individual actions—it’s the collective effort of our entire team. How We Got Here The road to this award wasn’t easy, but it was worth every step. Thanks to Brett, Hương, Paris, Mai, Mr. Chau, and our Vietnam Regional Team, we’ve implemented wide-ranging sustainable practices. Here’s a glimpse into how we’ve transformed our hostel: Plastic-Free Commitment We’ve replaced single-use plastic with biodegradable packaging and paper straws (on request). We recycle and transform the remaining plastic waste into sustainable products through our reusable bottle program and Not Just Plastic partnership. Eco-Friendly Products We stock eco-friendly cleaning supplies and buy in bulk to reduce waste, staying committed to our sustainability goals. Energy & Water Conservation Our energy-saving initiatives include timed lighting in public spaces and individual room controls for heating and cooling. Additionally, we’ve installed systems to reduce water consumption and ensure proper wastewater treatment. Supporting Local Moreover, we work with local suppliers, boosting the local economy while keeping our carbon footprint low. The Mad Monkey Mission At the heart of Mad Monkey Hoi An is our commitment to the community and environment. Ultimately, this badge is more than just recognition—it’s a testament to our belief that responsible travel can be fun, immersive, and impactful. It reflects our belief that responsible travel can be fun, immersive, and rewarding. What’s Next? With this milestone behind us, we’re not stopping here. We’re excited to continue our sustainability journey. From new eco-friendly initiatives to engaging guests in reducing waste, our efforts to keep Hoi An and Vietnam beautiful are just beginning. Join us at Mad Monkey Hoi An, where adventure meets sustainability, and let’s build a greener future together.
Oct
Mad Monkey Leads the Charge in Hostel Sustainability: Coogee Beach Achieves Level 2
Sydney, Australia, October 2024. At Mad Monkey, sustainability isn’t just a goal—it’s a movement. With eco-conscious travelers at heart, we’re stepping up our game and leading the way in creating sustainable travel experiences across all our properties. The latest triumph? Our Mad Monkey Coogee Beach hostel has proudly achieved Level 2 in Hostelworld’s Staircase to Sustainability program, paving the way for our other locations to follow suit. What is Level 2 Sustainability? Hostelworld’s Staircase to Sustainability outlines four key pillars that hostels must master to achieve sustainability certifications: Sustainable Management, Socio-Economic Impact, Cultural Impact, and Environmental Impact. Achieving Level 2 means we’ve demonstrated a strong commitment across all these areas. Additionally, we go beyond the basics to make a tangible impact on both the local and global environment. At Mad Monkey, hostel sustainability is a centerpiece of our efforts. For Coogee Beach, this achievement reflects the hostel’s dedication to sustainable business practices, community support, and eco-friendly purchasing. Furthermore, we engage with local culture—all while delivering an unforgettable experience for our guests. How Mad Monkey Coogee Beach Leads in Sustainability Here’s how our Coogee Beach property exemplifies Level 2 compliance: 1. Sustainable Management We’ve implemented a clear sustainability strategy, measuring and documenting our progress, and ensuring our team members are fully trained. Guests are encouraged to give feedback, which we actively incorporate to improve our sustainability efforts. Plus, legal compliance is top priority, and all documents are readily available to maintain hostel sustainability. 2. Environmental Responsibility At Coogee Beach, we’ve made eco-friendly purchasing a priority. We’ve switched to biodegradable cleaning products, reduced plastic in our bathrooms and kitchens, and are sourcing products with recyclable or returnable packaging. We’ve also installed systems to measure energy and waste consumption. Moreover, we make sure to reduce, reuse, and recycle wherever possible. Our team is committed to conserving water and protecting local biodiversity—no small feat in a bustling beachside location. This contributes greatly to hostel sustainability. 3. Support for the Local Community Coogee Beach fosters close relationships with local businesses and encourages guests to engage with the community. We work with local vendors and support community groups, providing spaces for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products. Whether it’s local art, food, or crafts, our hostel ensures backpackers also get a true taste of Coogee’s vibrant culture. This community focus is integral to our hostel sustainability approach. 4. Cultural Impact To enrich our travelers’ experience, we provide information on the local heritage and cultural significance of Coogee and surrounding areas. Guests can access this information in-hostel and digitally through our website and social media. Plus, we educate guests on respectfully visiting sensitive sites and leaving no trace. These measures support our cultural impact and overall hostel sustainability. Coogee Beach Sets the Example for All Mad Monkey Properties With Coogee Beach setting the bar high, we’re working to bring all Mad Monkey hostels up to Level 2. This is part of our bigger plan to become a leader in sustainable hostels worldwide, ensuring that eco-conscious backpackers can enjoy amazing travel experiences with a clear conscience. As of writing, Mad Monkey Coogee Beach is the only hostel in Sydney to reach Level 2, making it a true trailblazer in hostel sustainability. We’re excited to expand these initiatives, train team members, refine our environmental strategies, and engage more with local communities at each Mad Monkey property. From energy conservation to zero plastic goals, each hostel will have a tailored roadmap to reach Level 2, and Coogee Beach has provided us with a shining example of what’s possible for hostel sustainability. Why This Matters for You, The Traveler Travel is…
Sep
Mad Monkey Continues Mad Love CSR Events Across Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, and the Philippines
Southeast Asia — Following its commitment to boost corporate social responsibility (CSR) across Southeast Asia, Mad Monkey Hostels continues its Mad Love initiative with a powerful series of events in Cambodia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Building on the momentum of previous efforts supporting typhoon relief in Laos and Vietnam, Mad Monkey is doubling down on its mission to blend epic experiences with purpose-driven actions that benefit the communities it serves. This September, Mad Monkey Hostels will transform into hubs of music, culture, and sustainability. They will offer travelers unforgettable experiences while raising funds for local charities, schools, and community development projects. Mad Monkey Cambodia: Party with a Purpose Mad Monkey Phnom Penh: Mad Love Mega Bash & Pool PartyDate: September 28, 2024Location: Mad Monkey Phnom Penh, Cambodia Mad Monkey Phnom Penh is hosting the Mad Love Mega Bash on September 28 to support the Cambodian Children’s Fund. This event invites guests to a poolside extravaganza featuring a Wet & Wild Pool Party, live DJ sets, and a charity raffle. With prizes ranging from hostel stays to exclusive merchandise, every raffle ticket sold will directly support underprivileged children in Cambodia, helping fund educational and health initiatives. Event Highlights: Why join? Every raffle ticket and portion of the event’s proceeds goes toward providing education, care, and better futures for local children. Mad Monkey Siem Reap: Salsa Night + Party with a PurposeDate: September 28, 2024Location: Mad Monkey Siem Reap, Cambodia Over at Mad Monkey Siem Reap, the Mad Love movement takes on a lively rhythm with Salsa Night + Party with a Purpose. Aimed at raising funds for Angkor Children’s Hospital, this event will mix vibrant music with sizzling salsa dance sessions. The party kicks off at 7:00 PM, with part of the proceeds from all tickets going directly toward the hospital’s life-saving medical initiatives. Event Highlights: Mad Monkey Koh Rong: Mad Love Beach Bash with a PurposeDate: September 27, 2024Location: Mad Monkey Koh Rong, Cambodia Mad Monkey Koh Rong will celebrate with an epic beach party in support of Animal Mama, an organization that provides veterinary care and rescues animals in Cambodia. Guests can enjoy beach games, inflatables, face painting, and a stunning fire show. Every shot and bucket sold will help raise funds for Animal Mama’s ongoing efforts in Cambodia. Event Highlights: Mad Monkey Indonesia: Mad Love Carnival Mad Monkey Gili T: Mad Love CarnivalDates: September 27-29, 2024Location: Mad Monkey Gili Trawangan, Indonesia Over at Mad Monkey Gili T, the island gets a carnival twist with the Mad Love Carnival. This three-day event will feature a Foam Party, Pizza Festival, and Pool Party, with proceeds going to the Gili Elementary School. Guests can also get involved in activities like beach cleanups and tattoo sessions, all while contributing to the community. Schedule: A portion of all proceeds will support the Gili Elementary School. Mad Monkey Kuta Lombok: Music FestivalDate: September 28, 2024Location: Mad Monkey Kuta Lombok, Indonesia Get ready for Sundaze Live Music Festival at Mad Monkey Kuta Lombok, where local bands will bring the vibe, and an All You Can Eat BBQ will keep guests fueled for the fun. All proceeds from the exclusive Purple Rain cocktail will go to the Lombok Care Foundation, helping provide vital resources for local communities. Event Highlights: Mad Monkey Philippines: Fun, Music, and Sustainability Mad Monkey Panglao: Mad Love Volleyball TournamentDate: September 28, 2024Location: Mad Monkey Panglao, Philippines In the Philippines, the Mad Love Music Festival kicks off at Mad Monkey Panglao. This event will feature a Pool Volleyball Tournament, BBQ by the pool, and Panglao Got Talent. As the day turns to night,…
Sep
Mad Monkey Hostels Shifts Focus of Mad Love Events to Support Typhoon Relief Efforts in Laos & Vietnam
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. 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. 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: 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. 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.