Expat Living’s CHERRY LAI checks into the sparkling new M Social Hotel Phuket, located just steps from the iconic Patong Beach, for a weekender full of food, fun and relaxation. Need ideas for what to do in Phuket? Read on!
My stay in the heart of Phuket’s Patong Beach
FRIDAY AFTERNOON: Arrival and unwind
Known for its busy streets and eclectic vibes, the heart of Phuket’s Patong Beach may not be the first spot that comes to mind when you crave a little laid-back rejuvenation. But that’s certainly about to change with the launch of M Social Hotel Phuket. This new five-star lifestyle hotel under Millennium Hotels and Resorts blends the best of both worlds. And all in a gorgeously chic package!
First, though, you’ll hop on an hour-long hotel-arranged ride after an easy two-hour flight from Singapore, with the quaint fields and little street vendors on the way reminding you that you’ve left your work week behind.
Upon arrival at the hotel’s open-air lobby, you’re instantly greeted by warm, smiling staff and the signature aesthetic. There’s a playful mix of contemporary design and colourful accents, with lush greenery against wooden gazebos and a large vibrant mural by a local artist. Beyond are two wings of accommodation, with 418 well-appointed options, from pool-facing rooms to family suites.
I loved my Social Signature Room, in the Sunkissed wing. The spacious 45-square-metre room is an extension of the free-spirited and welcoming vibes in the lobby. It is decked out in colourful mosaic tiles, the comfiest king-sized bed (with silky, breathable 300 thread count sheets), a 4K ultra HD TV, a bathtub with Christian Lacroix amenities, and the best part – my own private plunge pool. I felt instantly rejuvenated.
The modern and tech-savvy touches also shine through, with eco-friendly elements such as waste reduction measures and your own AI control system. Simply say, “Hello AI!” and it can help you with everything from checking the weather to adjusting the temperature and recommending restaurants. How cool is that?
FRIDAY EVENING: In the heart of the action on Patong Beach
Speaking of restaurants, Phuket’s dining scene has something for everyone. A highlight is M Social Hotel Phuket’s own Bincho Izakaya, a lively Japanese sushi and sake bar over at the Afterglow wing. Dine on amazing lobster miso soups, refreshing sushi and miso-glazed Patagonian toothfish prepared by award winning chef Welmor Menguillo Relox, paired with a creative cocktail or three by the resident mixologist Ben Nakhjavan.
After dinner, stroll down the famous – or infamous! – Bangla Road that’s pulsating with energy. Only a five-minute walk from the hotel, it feels like a world away. And when you decide to call it a night, the hotel’s buggy can come pick you up. Staying with family? Have a dip in your private plunge pool or the oversized bathtub – the largest I’ve seen in any hotel – that easily fits both parents and a baby!
SATURDAY MORNING: Start the day with a feast
Rise and shine with a decadent buffet breakfast at the hotel’s fusion restaurant Beast & Butterflies, cleverly designed for its dining area to be separated from the live food stations so you get a nice, calm start to the day. I especially loved the homemade kombucha. There are also fresh juices, local Thai delicacies, freshly baked pastries and international favourites.
In the late morning, why not try something different? As part of its cutting-edge approach to hospitality, M Social is the first hotel brand in the world to launch in the metaverse. There, you’ll find its virtual hotel, M Social Decentraland. You can play (at the hotel or even before you arrive) to earn points that translate into real-life rewards. It’s a cool way to get the little ones involved and earn some perks too.
SATURDAY NOON: What to do in Phuket? Food, fun and a little pampering
One of the best things about M Social Hotel Phuket is the plethora of thoughtfully curated activities on offer for those looking to spend more time within the cosy comfort of the hotel. Each can be customised to your group, whether you’re travelling with family, friends, as a couple or solo. For lunch, throw on an apron and join the hotel’s cooking class (THB 899 per person; around S$35). You’ll learn to make authentic Thai dishes like tom yum soup and papaya salad under the guidance of the hotel’s executive chefs. If you’re feeling competitive, challenge your fellow guests to a MasterChef-style cook-off. So fun!
After lunch, head to Patong Beach for some water sports. Whether you’re into parasailing, banana boating or scuba diving, there’s something for everyone. If relaxation’s more your style, the hotel has the popular Let’s Relax Spa right on its premises to offer its signature treatments and massages. I tried my first Thai massage here with hot herbal compress (THB 1200, two hours). It eased the tension in my tired muscles without leaving me too sore, which I appreciated! The spa is right next to the state-of-the-art gym and expansive outdoor pool (one of two) so you can go for a swim to soothe your muscles.
If your preferred workout is a little retail therapy, it’s perfect (and dangerous!) that Jungceylon Mall, Phuket’s second-largest shopping mall, is located right next door to the hotel. You can spend hours here browsing international and local brands. I may or may not have stuffed my luggage with skincare products from Thann and Phutawan.
SATURDAY EVENING: Crafted cocktails and culinary delights
At sunset, head back to the hotel for the specially curated Shake, Sip and Stir experience (cost: THB 980 per person). For those looking for a pre-dinner tipple, this cocktail mixology class held at the stylish bar at Bincho Izakaya is not to be missed. Mixologist Ben is passionate about his craft and a joy to learn from. He walked us through the history of the spirits and every step of whipping up classic cocktails like negronis, espresso martinis and amaretto sours. It’s a great way to kick off the night with friends.
For dinner, save a night for Beast & Butterflies, especially if you’re here to celebrate a special occasion. The hotel puts together a feast of freshly caught local seafood as well as a live barbecue station for grilled meats and more. A true showing of the famous Thai hospitality, the hotel can even arrange some entertainment from cabaret shows to live bands. Alternatively, venture into town to catch the famous Simon Cabaret Phuket ladyboy show.
SUNDAY: Last moments of serenity and bliss
What to do on your last day in Phuket? Today is about taking it slow. Start with a floating breakfast delivered right to your private plunge pool for the ultimate Instagram moment. Enjoy fresh coffee, tropical fruits and fresh pastries as you splash around under the sun. Ah, bliss.
Before packing up and heading back to the hustle and bustle of Singapore, join a meditation class at one of the many wellness studios nearby. Even better, ask the hotel in advance to arrange a private sound bath session for just you and your group right in the hotel. Lay on the lush mats and let the soothing sounds of singing bowls calm your spirits.
Then, if your flight’s in the early evening, you’ll have time to head to Old Phuket Town just a 30-minute drive away for lunch and explore the Sino-Portuguese shophouses, colourful murals and cool cafés. Or, simply grab a bite to enjoy along Patong Beach’s pristine waters. It’s a perfect way to soak in the last bit of that Phuket charm and serenity.
In just 48 hours, thanks to M Social Hotel Phuket’s warm, lively and wonderfully personalised hospitality, I felt like I experienced the best of modern Phuket, from fun entertainment to luxurious relaxation.
M Social Hotel Phuket
199 Soi Rat Uthit 200 Pi 1, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket
+66 76 601 999 | msocial.com/phuket | msp.info@millenniumhotels.com
This article about M Social Hotel Phuket next to Patong Beach first appeared in the November 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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