Mad Monkey Hoi An

Mad Monkey Hoi An is a sociable hostel at 250 Cua Dai Street in Cam Son, on the road that links the old town with the coast, and it describes its location as perfectly placed between the UNESCO-listed old town and the beaches.

Accommodation is split between shared dorms and private rooms, so it works for solo backpackers on a tight budget as well as couples or friends who want their own room in a lively setting. Towels are provided at reception, hot showers and Wi-Fi throughout the room floors and common areas are included, and laundry is available for a fee. Breakfast is not included in the room rate.

The social side is the main draw. The hostel has a swimming pool, a terrace garden and a bar and restaurant that opens from 07:00 to 23:30, with snacks and drinks still available after that. There are nightly events for guests, and even an on-site barbershop. Reception is staffed 24 hours a day, which is useful for late arrivals and early departures, and the reception and the travel desk each have their own phone number.

The travel desk, which has its own phone line, offers daily tours and a wide range of experiences, which makes it easy to book trips to My Son Sanctuary, the Cham Islands or the Marble Mountains without searching around town. Group tours booked at the desk also suit solo travellers who prefer not to explore alone.

This is not the place for a quiet night, given the bar and nightly events, but it is good value for young travellers and solo visitors who want company and organised activities. Light sleepers should consider a private room, and anyone looking for peace and quiet may prefer a small hotel such as Hoi An Chic.

From Cua Dai Street, the old town is reachable by bicycle or taxi, and the beaches at Cua Dai and An Bang are within easy reach in the other direction. Contact the hostel through its website or reception phone for bookings and current events, and check the travel desk's programme on arrival to plan your days.