Some content was translated automatically. Show original
Germany
I had the most amazing time at the guest house! I loved the vibe of the place and it was a lot of fun working behind the bar and doing the check ins. Everybody was so nice and Fred really is the best! I love this place with my whole heart and I am definitely gonna miss it a lot!
7 months ago
France
I had the chance to spend a month with Fred in his wonderful hostel. Everything was fine, from beginning to end. You will be greeted with a smile (and beers), and will want to help him develop his little paradise. If you like a quiet atmosphere, but also with atmosphere, good music, and the best boss, I can only recommend.
Thanks again Fred!
10 months ago
Ireland
I had a nice time at the guest house, everybody was friendly and welcoming, Fred is a funny guy who cares a lot about his place. I enjoyed my shifts, they weren't hard, being at the bar to check in guests, make drinks and keep it clean. The beach is lovely and quiet mostly, due to it being the end of the season. There are many local restaurants around and the food is great! I expected a slightly more chill vibe from the island than what it was, so consider this when you will visit, if that's not for you, otherwise enjoy! &Thank you to Eric for showing me everything and making me feel comfortable! :)
6 months ago
United Kingdom
Unfortunately, this volunteer position didn't work out for me. Fred was understanding, and I left earlier than planned. From early on, it was clear this is more of a party hostel. There was loud music late into the night on several occasions, which affected my sleep. The facilities are very basic. My main issue was the inaccurate listing. WiFi is not provided, you're expected to use your own hotspot for guest access and even for tasks like check-ins and check-outs. While there is a kitchen, meals are not included despite what the advert suggests. Overall, not what I expected
6 months ago
Belgium
The most unique experience on the coolest island. The hostel is beautiful, Fred is a great and funny boss. The island attracts a cool crowd and its in the middle of beautiful jungle and beaches, with a calm athmosphere but also some nice events around the village. I recommend this to everyone. Its important to have good communication tho, and to be able to talk about tasks and expectations. Thanks Fred for everything !!
12 months ago
New Zealand
This had to be my favourite experience out of my whole travels, Fred and Snow the cat truly made me feel so welcome and I instantly fell in love with the place. Because it was low season The work was a lot less, it was so special to feel part of a community and to get to interact with the coolest travellers. The kind of visitors this Hostel attracts as some of the best people I've met throughout my travels and I wish I could've stayed longer. You do need to prepare yourself a little bit for the mosquitoes and sleeping conditions but other than that, I would do this 1 million times over!
over 1 year ago
Germany
The guest house is a lovely place to volunteer at. I was there during low season so there wasn't a lot to do. The atmosphere of the hostel is very chill and comfortable and it's located right at the beach in paradise! Fred is a super chill and lovely host. Very understanding and adaptable to unexpected situations and tries to make everyone feel included. Working at the bar is super chill. Pouring a few drinks and talking to the customers while also making sure the bar area and seating area stays clean. Check ins are also very easy to do and the system doesn't take long to understand. :)
over 1 year ago
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a real pleasure having you with us at Koalama. Even during the quieter season, your positive energy and friendly attitude made a big difference. I'm really glad you enjoyed the vibe here and found the work easy and enjoyable. You're always welcome back in our little beach paradise anytime. Safe travels and hope to see you again soon!
😊
Canada
The guest house is truly the place to go if you want to have the best volonteering experience. I made a family there: Fred, the owner, welcomes everyone as a family, with so much kindness, flexibility and understanding. He's making sure everyone is having a good time. The island is lovely, as the people who lives there. As volonteers, we can either sleep in a comfy bed or on a hammock, which both are very comfy. AND dont get me started on Snow, the cat, the love of my life. Im writing this review with tears in my eyes as im leaving my the guest house Family ❤️
over 1 year ago
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! ❤️
Reading your words truly moved us.
From the very beginning, you became part of the Koalama family, and your warmth, positivity, and kindness made a real difference here. You’ve been a golden volunteer — reliable, caring, and full of good vibes.
It’s people like you who make this place so special. Know that you’ll always have a home here — the comfy bed, the hammock, and we will be waiting for you 🐾🌴
With all our love,
The Koalama Team
Portugal
I had an amazing experience at the guest house Hostel. I loved how Fred (the owner) was super easygoing and cool, always saying "no pressure" to learning new things and giving out free dinners and drinks 😁. This is the best volunteering if you are looking for some chill beach time, because the island is a small, calm paradise, especially Mpay Bay.
over 1 year ago
France
A promising start with a host who seemed friendly. But the situation became unacceptable: Fred invented a rumor claiming that we had slept together, completely false. He even described my body without ever having seen it. This behavior is inappropriate, intrusive, and close to harassment. I do not recommend this volunteering opportunity: respect must remain a priority.
7 months ago
