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Beachside or in the city: South-east Asian stays that discerning travellers bookmark for later

Whether it is the laid-back charm of Phuket and Penang or the vibrant energy of Singapore, M Social hotels blend bold design, local culture and elevated comfort into your stay

    • From lounging by the pool to exploring the city after dark, retreat to the comfort of your stay at M Social – your sanctuary to rest and recharge.
    • From lounging by the pool to exploring the city after dark, retreat to the comfort of your stay at M Social – your sanctuary to rest and recharge. PHOTOS: M SOCIAL
    Published Fri, Jul 25, 2025 · 05:50 AM

    SEASONED GLOBETROTTERS KNOW THIS: THE perfect holiday should start right at the hotel. After all, it is your first real touchpoint with the destination after your journey from the airport.

    Whether you are drawn to bright city lights or seeking a tranquil retreat, the M Social brand of seven lifestyle hotels around the world offers design-forward stays with personality and flair. From the sleek sophistication of M Social Hotel Suzhou to the bold energy of M Social Hotel New York Times Square, each property brings its own creative energy to the table.

    “M Social is made for the young and the young at heart – adventurous, free-spirited travellers who crave vibrant design, artistic energy and authentic social connection. It’s a brand for those who live boldly, seek the unexpected and value community over convention,” says Saurabh Prakash, interim chief operating officer and chief commercial officer at Millennium Hotels and Resorts.

    For those planning a getaway closer to home – or even a weekend staycation – M Social’s South-east Asian portfolio includes M Social Hotel Singapore, M Social Hotel Phuket and the newly launched M Social Resort Penang. Each property offers a fresh, distinct personality that reimagines the stay experience – whether by the beach or in the heart of the city.

    Ease into the day with slow, sun-drenched mornings and scenic swims at M Social Resort Penang before stepping into Penang’s rich tapestry of sights and flavours. Photo: M Social

    Adding to the experience is Aiello, the in-room voice assistant across all M Social properties in South-east Asia. Replacing the traditional hotel phone, Aiello offers guests a hands-free way to enhance their stay. Simply say “Hello, AI” and be connected to the front desk, request for amenities or get recommendations to nearby attractions.

    A coastal getaway with a Peranakan twist

    The latest to join the M Social portfolio this month is M Social Resort Penang, located in the heart of Tanjung Bungah in George Town, and along the northern coast of Penang. Its bold Peranakan-inspired design elements will elevate the popular Batu Ferringhi beachfront, offering guests a playful yet relaxed seafront ambience.

    There are 318 rooms across two buildings to ensure lots of breathing space for guests. These include terrace rooms that offer direct beach access and beachfront views. A short car ride will take you to popular places of attraction such as Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon Mall, as well as Penang Hill and the Instagram-worthy Penang Street Art enclave.

    Soothing palettes and Peranakan-inspired touches add personality to your stay at M Social Resort Penang. Photo: M Social

    Or stay in to enjoy amenities including the rooftop pool and Breezy Bites, where you can tuck into small bites, have a drink and chill out with friends and family while enjoying a bird’s eye view of Penang.

    If you have a bigger appetite, head to the in-house Beast and Butterflies for authentic Asian cuisine such as fruit rojak, belacan chicken wings and slipper lobster sambal bawang.

    Indulge in local Penang cuisine at Beast and Butterflies such as Nasi Lemak with Chicken Rendang and Hokkien Prawn Mee. Photo: M Social

    It is indeed the epitome of what Jasmine Keh, general manager of M Social Resort Penang, calls “a vibrant escape where guests dive into immersive local experiences”.

    Keh adds: “M Social Resort Penang offers resort-style rooms with stunning beach views, wrapped in modern, sleek design that beautifully blends Penang’s rich culture – perfect for free spirits who want to live in the moment.”

    Unlock exclusive rewards with every stay

    To make your stay even sweeter, enjoy up to 20 per cent off room rates at all M Social hotels until March 31, 2026. MyMillennium members who make their booking under The Millennium Way promotion can receive additional benefits such as room upgrades, complimentary high tea set and 3,000 bonus MyPoints for a consecutive three-night stay, and up to 30,000 bonus MyPoints for a combined stay of nine nights over different periods. 

    Sun-kissed days meets Thai nightlife glam

    Located just a 10-minute stroll to Patong Beach, M Social Hotel Phuket is the perfect hybrid of contemporary architecture and lush natural surroundings with 418 rooms and suites.

    Be welcomed by a striking mural and chic lounge area when you enter M Social Hotel Phuket. Photo: M Social

    The hotel enjoys direct access to Jungceylon Shopping Centre, while Banzaan Market and the vibrant Bangla Road lie just across the street – the latter coming alive after dark with its energetic nightlife scene.

    After you have done the dining, shopping and partying circuit, relax and recharge at the hotel’s state-of-the-art facilities. These include a day spa, fitness centre and two outdoor pools with scenic mountain views.

    Unwind in your private cabana or take an afternoon dip and soak in the sun. Photo: M Social

    Urban reset in the heart of the city

    Closer to home, M Social Hotel Singapore located along the historic Singapore River lets travellers experience local life along the vibrant Robertson Quay as well as the nearby Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and the Central Business District.

    Floor-to-ceiling windows bring in natural light and greenery at M Social Hotel Singapore. Photo: M Social

    But when you need to retreat from the big city buzz, cocoon yourself in the hotel’s Philippe Starck-designed space and the cosy comfort of its unique rooms that channel modern living. Think creative loft or alcove rooms with artistic decor and floor-to-ceiling windows that welcome you back for a rejuvenating rest – day after day.

    Plan your next escape and explore vibrant stays at an M Social destination near you.

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