Mad Monkey Downtown

I loved the staff and the events, would recommend to solo travellers

Amazing staff and really fun events, especially on weekends!

leaving

The staff were so helpful and friendly! The location was perfect for getting around Sydney and the events were so cool!

I didn't like that I had to leave so soon! Wish I could have stayed longer

Staff was friendly. We arrived after the reception had closed (~18:30) and they requested to keep our passports overnight (I assume as security before the formal check-in). I did not feel comfortable with handing it over, so upon request they accepted my driver's license as guarantee instead. I think for a solo traveller/backpacker looking to meet new people it would be a nice place - there was a fair amount of shared activities organised by the hostel.

My main complaint is the NOISE. The typical Australian single-pane window did nothing to keep the sounds of the street out. Because it is a lively area, people are talking, laughing and singing outside and it doesn't quiet until around midnight. Then at 6am there is a noisy street cleaning truck coming around. Even with ear plugs I struggled to get more than 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep. 0/10 do not recommend for people that struggle to sleep when it's noisy. I was happy to leave after a week. Other than that it was pretty standard hostel -> bit worn out, cramped room with bunk beds, shared bathrooms. Not amazing but about what you expect when you want to save on money and pick a hostel.