Bamboo Hostel

This hostel is basic but clean enough; there are 3 large connected dorm rooms with air conditioning, lockers and a smoking balcony but the toilet/shower rooms aren't too special. There are no windows in the rooms but this is perfect for sleeping all day after partying all night! The large rooms and the open area downstairs (adjoined to a tattoo parlour!) are great to predrink and meet other backpackers going to the full moon party. The location is the other highlight; it is in Haad Rin and is only a 5 minute walk from the beach where the full moon party takes place, which is obviously perfect for staggering home! At the time of booking, the price is one of the best value on the island (450THB/night), particularly considering the location and that you only need to book 3 nights, whilst most have a minimum of 5 nights. The price was double the normal rate for the night of the full moon party (900THB), which is fair enough, but the lovely owner does throw in a free BBQ and neon face paint on this night to make up for it! I was a little apprehensive when, after booking and paying the HostelWorld deposit, I received an email from the hostel asking for a further 50% of the total as a deposit. Although, I dislike this slightly deceptive method, I paid this via PayPal and all was fine upon arrival where I paid the remainder. TLDR: If you're a backpacker, don't stay anywhere else for the full moon party - great sociable hostel in a great location