48 Hours in Patong

CHERRY LAI checks into the sparkling new M Social Hotel Phuket for a weekender full of food, fun and relaxation.

FRIDAY AFTERNOON:

Arrival and unwind

Known for its bustling streets and eclectic vibes, the heart of Phuket's Patong 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, a new five-star lifestyle hotel under Millennium Hotels and Resorts that blends the best of both worlds - 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 openair lobby, you're instantly greeted by warm, smiling staff and the signature aesthetic: 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, 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 Al!" 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