Press Releases
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 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.
Sep
Mad Monkey Hostels Announces New Riverside Resort in Kampot, Cambodia
What to Expect: Stay your way: From private riverside bungalows big enough for the whole crew to sleek dorms designed for comfort and privacy. Poolside & chill zones: A dreamy riverside pool and plenty of spaces to lounge, recharge, and connect. Wellness reimagined: Building on Mad Monkey’s growing wellness-first properties – a gym, ice plunges, and sauna – giving guests the chance to balance connection, adventure, and recovery. Adventure on tap: Kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing, and more – the Kampot river is your playground. Signature Mad Monkey experiences: Daily games, cultural activities, and the legendary events we’re known for. Bigger, bolder events: A brand-new event space for music, local and international DJs, and collaborations that will light up Kampot’s riverside. Local exploration made easy: From Kampot pepper farms to the Kep crab market, Bokor Mountain to the Green Cathedral, adventure starts at your doorstep. “We’re building more than just beds – we’re creating a space where travelers, locals, and expats can connect, explore, and celebrate life together. With riverside adventures, wellness facilities, and unforgettable events, Kampot is set to become one of our most exciting destinations yet,” said Alex Darroch, Co-Founder of Mad Monkey Hostels. The Kampot Riverside Resort will carry forward Mad Monkey’s values of connection, culture, and contribution – offering authentic local experiences while promoting sustainable tourism and supporting community initiatives in Cambodia. With development already underway, Mad Monkey looks forward to welcoming guests to Kampot’s newest riverside destination in late 2025. 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.
Mar
Mad Monkey Uluwatu Opens This March: A Game-Changer for Bali’s Backpacker Scene
The Ultimate Stay for Travelers Who Want It All Perfectly placed near Uluwatu’s best surf breaks and beach clubs, the hostel combines adventure, relaxation, and a buzzing social scene. It’s got everything travelers need to make the most of their time in Bali. Mad Monkey Uluwatu is built for travelers who love adventure but also know the importance of a solid recharge. Whether you’re riding barrels, sweating out last night’s tequila shots, or just here to meet like-minded backpackers, we’ve got you covered. Grab a drink at our Poolside Cave Bar, where the bar is literally built into a cave, or hit the Sauna, Ice Bath & Jacuzzi for the ultimate reset—sweat it out, take the plunge, and repeat. Need to keep up your fitness routine? Our on-site gym has you covered before you hit the waves or the next beach party. When it’s time to crash, choose between social dorms or private rooms, all designed for comfort, whether you’re here to meet people or just need a solid night’s sleep. Fuel Up with Fresh, Flavor-Packed Eats At Mad Monkey Uluwatu, great food isn’t just an afterthought—it’s part of the experience. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before a surf session or settling in for a lazy, post-beach feast, our menu is stacked with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Start your morning with smashed avo on toast, then dig into Indonesian favorites like mie goreng and nasi goreng, or treat yourself to a juicy gourmet burger after a long day in the sun. Pair it all with a signature cocktail from our Poolside Cave Bar, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for good vibes and great eats. Uluwatu: Surf, Sunsets & A Social Scene Like No Other If Bali is the backpacker dream, Uluwatu is where it all peaks—stunning cliffs, some of the best surf spots in the world, and an unbeatable nightlife scene. Mad Monkey Uluwatu is just minutes from Padang Padang, Bingin Beach, and Uluwatu Beach, plus iconic spots like Single Fin and Savaya for nights you won’t forget (or maybe won’t remember). With daily events, a built-in travel community, and everything you need in one place, this isn’t just a hostel—it’s your launchpad for the best of Bali. Opening March 2025 – Get Ready to Book! Mad Monkey Uluwatu is set to welcome travelers in March 2025! Whether you’re a backpacker, surfer, or just here for the epic Bali vibes, our newest hostel is the perfect spot to stay, socialize, and explore Uluwatu. For more information and bookings, visit www.madmonkeyhostels.com/uluwatu. About Mad Monkey Mad Monkey is the largest hostel operator in Southeast Asia, with locations spanning Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Thailand, the Philippines, and Australia. The company is dedicated to creating meaningful and sustainable travel experiences for guests while fostering positive relationships with local communities. Whether you’re a backpacker, digital nomad, or simply a traveler seeking adventure, Mad Monkey offers a unique and unforgettable stay at each of its locations.
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.