Funky Flashpacker, Siem Reap, Cambodia
★★★★★
Bravo Funky Flashpacker!!! THIS is what a hostel experience is all about! FFP is a place for all types of travelers. From the absolute second we arrived to the bittersweet drive away, everything was exceptional.
Location: Absolutely cannot be beat! Flashpacker is located less than a 5 minute drive to the Angkor Night market & approximately a 30 minute ride to the temples. Right outside the compound are tuktuk drivers waiting at all times of the day to help you get where you need to go and there is parking for scooters. Safety is something to consider when choosing a place to stay in Siem Reap and FFP had no cause for concern.
Arrival: Extremely welcoming staff even during the check-in rush. The staff was happy to answer our slew of questions we had about getting around and when was best to visit the temples. We arrived around 9pm and were suggested to throw our bags down and go upstairs to the bar to relax for the evening. And we did just that! Within an hour of us checking-in we were invited to play beer-pong with other backpackers and found ourselves in the final 2!!! I cannot say how much fun we had and were able to just chill-out after our previous journeys.
Accommodation: First off, let me just say... $9USD per night! Private room with ensuite bathroom for two at $9USD per night. The accommodation was very basic in terms of what was provided in the room, but that was expected and we don't mind. The decor was modern and our room had the face from V for Vendetta painted across from our bed. (A local artist paints around the entire hostels property.) The shower was warm and everything worked properly. The bed was like most beds in Asia... it's just a place to lay your head. And no need for a comforter because even though there was aircon, this is Cambodia... it's very very hot. On a funny side-note, I'd like to request the removal of the chicken from somewhere outback that blurts out nonsense at all times of the day. With LOVE, Room #16.
Food/Bar: The food was top-notch. They had a huge menu with a selection of all things from spaghetti to a few traditional asian dishes. Even though we considered it "perfect hang-over" food, it was still executed really well! The bar was awesome because the staff was awesome! These guys work their buns off being kind, extending their advice, answering questions, getting the crowds together, etc. Give this staff a raise!
Laundry: I cannot speak on this topic, which I know is usually helpful. We were only there for 2 nights, 2 days and didn't make time to do laundry. I believe I saw a sign for a laundry room, but I'm not 100% sure.
Pool: YES they have a pool and it is the center of the action! First off, pools at hostels are usually over used and neglected... this one was not. It was well kept and very clean. There was a bar behind the pool serving food and alcohol during the day. They had fun floaties in the water and frisbees and basketballs to entertain everyone. If you're up early enough, you can snag a poolside bean bag to lay on all day to cure the travel pains. Towels were available. Music was provided and necessary in this type of setting. (Note: The music from the pool did not mess with my sleep, but we did have a room away from the action.) Overall, the pool makes this place!
Overall: What can I say besides "Stay Here!" If you're a backpacker looking for other backpackers to hang with, then this is your spot. The best part is it's "not too much." Some "party" hostels can get rowdy and raunchy and uncomfortable, but not here. The staff keeps an eye on everyone and the crowd we had while we were there were respectful but knew how to have a good time. One of the main reasons we travel is to meet people and FFP is designed exactly for that. If you're looking for a Cambodian escape with jungle trees and an infinity pool, that is a whole different vibe. But at FFP, you can get your rest, meet new friends, see all the sights, party at a safe location, and get in some chill time. Usually, my boyfriend and I like to get out and explore the city as much as possible, but Funky Flashpacker made us never want to leave the grounds. We had to force ourselves not to just hang-out because of our short stay. That's how I knew this place won us over.
THANK YOU FUNKY FLASHPACKER STAFF!!! Keep up the good work and in the meantime, we will continue to send some of our friends that way!