Press Releases
Apr
The 50K Milestone: Why Mad Monkey Chose Authenticity Over Algorithms
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SOUTHEAST ASIA — While most travel brands are still trying to reverse-engineer the algorithm, we quietly did something different. We stopped chasing it altogether. The result? 50,000 Instagram followers, an organic monthly reach of over one million people, and an engaged community that actually books beds — not just double-taps photos. It is a milestone worth paying attention to, not because of the number itself, but because of how we got there. Ditching the Viral Playbook For years, the travel industry has operated on a simple assumption: the more content you push, the more you grow. Trending audio, repurposed Reels, and influencer gifting campaigns have become a formula so familiar that it is almost indistinguishable from brand to brand. At Mad Monkey, we decided to opt out. “We were producing content that looked like everyone else’s and getting the same results, which is to say, not much,” says Lexie Hadley, Head of Marketing. “At some point you have to ask yourself whether you’re building a brand or just feeding a machine.” Our pivot was deliberate. Rather than optimizing for reach at any cost, we focused on three things: partnering with creators who genuinely connect with their audiences, posting content relevant to the way our guests actually travel, and committing to storytelling that stops people mid-scroll for the right reasons. We aren’t posting because it is trending, but because the content is genuinely beautiful, funny, or true. Sometimes even laughing at their own expense. The Creator Shift The change in how we approach creator partnerships has been one of our most significant drivers of growth. We moved away from high-follower, low-engagement influencer deals in favor of a more selective model, working with creators whose audiences are smaller but deeply invested. “A creator with 20,000 followers who genuinely loves hostels and Southeast Asia is worth ten times more to us than someone with 200,000 followers who is just passing through for a free night,” Hadley adds. “Our guests can tell the difference. They always can.” The results have backed that instinct. Our engagement rates have climbed, our reach has expanded organically, and critically, the content feels like it belongs to us rather than being grafted onto the brand. An In-House Team That Actually Lives the Brand What makes our approach unusual in the hospitality space is that the people behind our content are not outsourced to an agency in a different time zone. The social media managers and editors running our accounts are embedded within the brand; many of them are based across Southeast Asia, living the same experience they are documenting. “You cannot fake the energy of a Mad Monkey hostel from a desk in London,” continues Hadley. “Our team is on the ground. They are at the beach clean-ups, the rooftop parties, and in the dorm rooms talking to guests at midnight. That is what the content looks like, and that is why it resonates.” That proximity to the product has translated into a monthly reach that now exceeds one million people. This growth is entirely organic and built on the back of content that prioritizes substance over spectacle. What This Means for the Industry Our growth is a small but telling signal in a broader conversation about where travel marketing is heading. As audiences become increasingly resistant to polished, performative content, the brands that cut through will be those willing to trade the safe bet of trend-chasing for the harder, slower work of building something real. Fifty thousand followers is not a vanity metric for us. It is a community — one that was built one…
Apr
Mad Monkey Records Surge in Long-Stay Travellers Seeking Genuine Connection
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SOUTHEAST ASIA – As the travel industry enters the second half of 2026, a fundamental shift is occurring in how young people move across the globe. The era of the curated itinerary is being replaced by a desire for unscripted, human-centric experiences. Mad Monkey Hostels has identified this shift as the primary driver behind a significant increase in guest stay durations across Southeast Asia and Australia. Recent data from American Express and Amadeus confirms that 83% of Gen Z now prioritize unique, authentic experiences over popular tourist attractions. At Mad Monkey, this isn’t just a statistic; it’s a daily reality. The brand is reporting that travelers are increasingly bypassing “must-see” landmarks to stay longer in one location, build genuine community, and participate in local social impact projects. Rejecting the Performative “The travel industry has spent a decade selling a fantasy designed for a phone,” says Kyle Kenny, Commercial Director at Mad Monkey. “But travelers in 2026 are experiencing digital fatigue. They are rejecting performative travel—the kind done just for social media—and are instead seeking to connect in real life. They want to meet people who challenge their perspectives, not just people who like their photos.” This shift toward regenerative travel marks a turning point for the industry. Rather than treating a destination as a backdrop for content, Mad Monkey guests are increasingly engaging in: The New Currency: Community over Luxury While traditional hospitality brands have doubled down on luxury and aesthetics, Mad Monkey’s growth suggests that the new traveller’s currency is belonging. Modern travel is less about where you go and more about the quality of the people you meet once you arrive. “The brands that will thrive in 2026 are those that provide the infrastructure for human connection,” continues Kenny. “Our guests aren’t looking for a perfect sunset; they’re looking for someone to watch it with. That’s a subtle but massive difference in how we approach hospitality.” Key 2026 Travel Insights: As Mad Monkey continues to expand its footprint across Southeast Asia and Australia, it remains committed to being the home of the authentic traveller—the one who seeks the real, the raw, and the unscripted. 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.
Feb
Bringing the Team Together Through Adventure
Our team members have been absolutely crushing it lately. They have gone above and beyond to make sure every guest who walks through our doors feels like they have found their tribe. To say thanks, we decided to return the favor. We packed our top-performing team members off on an all-expenses-paid, dust-in-your-teeth, soul-on-fire adventure through the Ha Giang Loop in Northern Vietnam. Why We Invest in the Vibe People often ask us why we spend so much energy on these kinds of trips. The answer is simple. At Mad Monkey, we know that if you want to give people the time of their lives, you have to start with a team that actually has a life worth talking about. Sending our crew to the Ha Giang Loop was not just a reward. It was a strategic move to remind everyone that we are all part of the same wild story. When our team is inspired and connected, that energy naturally flows directly to our guests. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so we made sure their cups were overflowing with mountain air and adrenaline. Real Connection Drives Real Experience In our world, “Customer Experience” is not a corporate KPI. It is a feeling. It is the energy that ripples through a hostel when the team is genuinely connected and fired up. By bringing our team members together on the road, we are doing more than just sightseeing. We are building the engine that drives our brand. “Just got back from the Ha Giang Loop with the Mad Monkey crew, and it was unreal. Riding through the mountains with Fiatz (Chiang Mai), Randy (Nusa Lembongan), Izzy (Gili T), Jessica (Phuket), Lin (Phnom Penh), and Alex, the founder, was an absolute laugh. Stunning views, endless “happy water,” and plenty of chaos along the way. Huge thanks to my driver (Mao) , who made the roads feel safe while letting us have a proper blast. By the end, we were all tight as a crew, making memories that’ll stick for years and the song ‘“just the way you are” is still stuck in my head.” – Harry Slynn, Guest Experience Manager of Mad Monkey Koh Sdach “My Ha Giang Loop experience with Mad Monkey was nothing short of extraordinary. From the very beginning, the team created an environment that felt welcoming, led by Nicky and Chris, where we met our other Mad Monkey friends Izzy, Harry, Jessica, Randy, and Lin. As another surprise, Alex, our founder, joined us for an amazing time hanging out with the boss. The journey itself was breathtaking, with dramatic mountain passes, endless winding roads, and landscapes that felt almost surreal. The Ha Giang Loop is already an iconic adventure, but Mad Monkey elevated it into something truly memorable. It wasn’t just a trip. It was an experience I’ll carry with me long after the ride ended.” – Fiatz, Guest Experience Manager of Mad Monkey Chiang Mai The ROI of the Extra Mile Some might look at an all-expense trip as a luxury, but we see it as an investment in our secret weapon: our people. Returning from the mountains, our team members aren’t just “refreshed”—they are inspired. That glint in their eyes says this crew is ready to take our guest experience to a level the big hotel chains haven’t even dreamed of yet. They have shared the meals, the breakdowns, the sunsets, and the local rice wine. That is the energy they are bringing back to the floor. To our guests: Get ready. The crew is back, they are bonded, and they are more pumped than…
Feb
Mad Monkey Hostels Selected for the Cloudbeds Collection for Excellence in Community-Driven Hospitality
Handpicked from tens of thousands of properties globally, Mad Monkey was specifically honored in the “Designed for connection” category. This distinction is reserved for properties built around people and place—businesses that prioritize shared experiences, community, and fostering meaningful connections between travelers. “We are honored to be included in the Cloudbeds Collection,” said Kyle Kenny, Commercial Director at Mad Monkey Hostels. “Our focus has always been on creating more than just a place to stay; we build environments where travelers can truly engage with each other and the local culture. This recognition highlights our commitment to staying true to our independent roots and our mission of social impact.” The Cloudbeds Collection highlights properties that push the boundaries of traditional hospitality to create authentic, community-focused stays. Mad Monkey stood out among hundreds of global nominations for its commitment to: As Mad Monkey continues to grow its global footprint, it remains dedicated to being a sanctuary for the curious and the adventurous. Moving forward, the brand will continue to be a primary place for connection, ensuring that every guest leaves with more than just photos, but with new global friendships and a deeper sense of community. Travelers can explore the full Cloudbeds Collection and view Mad Monkey’s featured profile at cloudbeds.com/cloudbeds-collection. 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. About Cloudbeds Cloudbeds is the leading platform powering hospitality, serving tens of thousands of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals in over 150 countries. The Cloudbeds platform helps partners grow revenue, streamline operations, and deliver memorable guest experiences.
Jan
Mad Monkey Celebrates Major Wins at 2026 HOSCAR Awards: Voted Among the World’s Best Hostels
Now in their 24th year, the HOSCARS are uniquely determined by the global backpacker community. This year’s winners were distilled from reviews of over 7 million bookings, with travelers rating hostels on their social atmosphere, staff energy, value, and ability to create a “home away from home.” As solo travel continues to surge, with 58% of travelers now prioritizing human connection above all else, Mad Monkey has proven itself as the ultimate destination for those seeking adventure with a soul. The Standout: Mad Monkey Chiang Mai Leading the charge with a spectacular performance, Mad Monkey Chiang Mai solidified its status as a global icon of social travel. The property swept four major titles, proving that its blend of legendary parties and Northern Thai charm is unmatched: Adventure Capital King: Mad Monkey Vang Vieng Securing its place as the heart of adventure in the region, Mad Monkey Vang Vieng took home two major titles this year. Voted as both the Best Hostel in Laos and the Most Popular Hostel in Vang Vieng, it continues to be the definitive base for travelers exploring the karst mountains and lagoons of Laos. City Landmark: Mad Monkey Phnom Penh In the vibrant heart of Cambodia’s capital, Mad Monkey Phnom Penh was celebrated for its electric atmosphere and consistent guest satisfaction. The property was officially ranked as the 2nd Best Hostel in Cambodia, cementing its status as a must-stay destination for travelers exploring Southeast Asia. Social Powerhouse: Mad Monkey Phuket Taking the title of Most Popular Hostel in Phuket, Mad Monkey continues to set the pace in Thailand’s busiest coastal destination. From legendary pool parties to a massive social scene, the property has cemented itself as the essential home base for travelers who want to be in the center of the action. “We are incredibly honored to receive these awards, as they are a direct reflection of our guests’ voices and the electric energy they bring to our properties.” said Niall Charles, Chief Operating Officer of Mad Monkey. “The HOSCARS are the gold standard of social travel. To be recognized as the ‘Best’ and ‘Most Popular’ across three different countries is a testament to our teams’ unwavering passion for creating a sense of belonging for every traveler who walks through our doors.” Looking ahead, Mad Monkey is set to build on this momentum by expanding its footprint into new territories and enhancing its digital experience to connect travelers even before they check in. With upcoming locations and a continued focus on immersive social events and legendary parties, the brand remains dedicated to defining the future of social travel and ensuring that the Mad Monkey community continues to thrive across the globe. 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.