Disappointing Experience at Mad Monkey Hostel Hoi An
Unfortunately, my experience at Mad Monkey Hostel Hoi An was far from what I had hoped for. This is my first negative review after three weeks of traveling through Vietnam, during which I have otherwise only encountered amazing hospitality and welcoming atmospheres in hostels.
Unfriendly Staff: The biggest issue was the behavior of the staff, particularly the security guard in charge of the bikes. When we tried to adjust the saddle height on the bike, he became extremely aggressive, even threatening to hit us with the saddle. His attitude was rude and intimidating, and it left a very negative impression.
Overpriced Amenities: • The tours offered by the hostel were overly expensive compared to other options available in the area. • The bar prices were also high, making it less appealing to hang out there. • Even the “included” breakfast fell short—no drinks, coffee, or tea were included, so we had to pay extra.
Location Inconvenience: The hostel is located quite far from the city center, making it inconvenient for those who want to explore Hoi An or enjoy nightlife. To get around, you either have to take a Grab or rent a bike, but bike rentals are not available after 8 PM. This limits your options significantly.
Lacking Authenticity: If you’re looking for an authentic hostel experience with the warmth and friendliness that Vietnamese people are known for, this is not the place. The hostel feels more like a commercialized operation focused on quick turnover rather than creating a community. While it might be okay for partying, even that felt underwhelming, as many people preferred joining their own plans via Hostelworld chats instead of participating in the overpriced programs offered by the hostel.
Disappointing Bus Booking: We also booked a “VIP sleeper bus” to Ho Chi Minh City through the hostel for 1 million VND each, and it was a nightmare. Instead of a seamless trip, we were shuffled between minivans multiple times before finally reaching the bus. The “VIP sleeper bus” dropped us off far outside Ho Chi Minh City (almost 50 minutes away from District 1), forcing us to arrange additional transportation. Worse, our luggage was repeatedly unloaded during the journey, becoming dirty and possibly tampered with (straps were loose and bags left open and one shoe is missing).
In summary, I cannot recommend Mad Monkey Hostel Hoi An. For those seeking an authentic and friendly Vietnamese experience, this hostel will disappoint. While it might work for some as a party base, the lack of community, high prices, and poor service make it a poor choice. There are far better options in Vietnam that provide much more value and...
Read moreWhere do I even begin? Hoi An Mad Monkey Hostel is an absolute gem and quickly became one of our favorite spots during our travels. Originally, we only planned to stay a few days, but we loved it so much that we ended up extending our stay to nearly two weeks! This particular hostel was one of the highlights of our entire 12-month world travel.
In terms of the on-site restaurant, they also have plenty of vegan options
The atmosphere here is incredible—super friendly, vibrant, and filled with fellow travelers, making it easy to connect with people from all over the world. We really enjoy the experience of staying in hostels for the interaction you get with other guests, but we also appreciate the option to stay in private rooms for some added comfort and privacy. Thanks to this hostel, we met some amazing friends who we know will be a part of our lives for a long time. The hostel organizes regular events, so there’s always something fun going on, from pool parties to local tours. It’s a fantastic place if you’re looking to meet people, have a great time, and experience Hoi An from a social base.
The staff are friendly, helpful, and go out of their way to make your stay memorable. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the amenities are great for the price. Plus, the location is ideal, giving easy access to Hoi An’s beaches, city center, and nightlife.
If you’re a backpacker looking for a lively, social place to stay in Hoi An, Mad Monkey Hostel is perfect. It’s no wonder we just couldn’t bring...
Read moreI had the most amazing time at Mad Monkey! From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with warm smiles and a vibrant atmosphere. The hostel’s strategic location made it incredibly convenient to explore both the stunning Ang Ba Beach and the enchanting Old Town.
One of the highlights of my stay was the opportunity to meet people from diverse countries and backgrounds. The hostel’s communal areas fostered an atmosphere of camaraderie, making it easy to strike up conversations and forge new friendships. It was a delightful experience to exchange stories, learn about different cultures, and bond over shared adventures.
The staff at Mad Monkey deserves special recognition for their exceptional hospitality and attentiveness. Whenever I needed assistance or information, they were more than willing to help, providing valuable insights on local attractions, transportation options, and the best places to eat. Their genuine care and dedication truly made my stay all the more memorable.
The hostel’s cozy and well-maintained facilities added to the overall comfort of my stay. The dormitories were clean, and the common areas were inviting spaces to relax and socialize. It felt like a home away from home, where everyone was welcome and embraced.
I highly recommend this Hostel to anyone seeking an unforgettable experience of cultural exchange, along with the perfect balance of beachside relaxation and exploration of the...
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