M Social Singapore

Upon entering M Social, guests are greeted by what amounts to a thesis statement on the hotel as a whole: a mind-bending mix of patterned floor tiles, marble tables with metallic details, and neon-colored tinted glass surfaces. The property is a camera-ready kind of place that begs its clientele -- mostly millennials -- to document everything on social media. The striking design elements seen throughout the property are typical of French designer Philippe Starck, who conceptualized and created this riverside boutique-inspired property. M Social also sets itself apart from other hotels with its cool, tech-ready features, like having a room service robot named AURA, and another autonomous machine in the hotel's restaurant that cooks eggs during breakfast. The unusualness of it all makes the hotel fun and extremely modern, with a vibe that's completely unstuffy. 

M Social is set in along the Singapore River in Robertson Quay, an area next to the much wilder nightlife spot, Clarke Quay. The hotel is surrounded by residential buildings and numerous food and drink options -- including restaurants, cafes, and laid-back bars. This makes M social an ideal choice for guests who don't want to be based anywhere too loud or busy. However, the one trade-off is that the Clarke Quay and Fort Canning MRT train stations are 20 minutes from the hotel on foot -- not exactly close and convenient by Singapore standards. If walking isn't feasible, you can take a taxi to popular districts like Little India, Marina Bay, and Bugis (all 15 minutes away, tops). The hotel also runs a free daily shuttle service to areas like Orchard Road, which is a five- to 10-minute ride, depending on traffic. Getting to Changi Airport by taxi takes about 30 minutes. 

There are a total of six room types here, but they are essentially split into two categories: Loft and Alcove. Loft rooms have two levels -- where one holds the sleeping area and the other is a living room -- while Alcove rooms include high cathedral ceilings. Configurations differ from room to room (some even have a small, private outdoor garden in the back), but all feature floor-to-ceiling windows. The sharp and contemporary interiors are fitted with plenty of wood and concrete, all accented by sleek metal finishings. Even with this surplus of style, compact floor plans may be a deal-breaker for some. In fact, the lack of storage space can be an issue for those with multiple bags or extended-stay guests with big suitcases.

Standard amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, safes, hairdryers, bathrobes, bedroom slippers, and coffee- and tea-making facilities (Loft rooms come with Nespresso machines). All rooms also have wall-mounted flat-screen TVs with cable channels and free smartphones with unlimited data. The bathrooms are simple, with chocolate-colored wall tiles, sleek Grohe rainfall showerheads and handheld showers, and quality toiletries. However, do note that the sinks are located in the sleeping area of rooms -- separate from the shower and toilet areas.

The hotel offers a few great features, including Beast & Butterflies, a swanky, futuristic restaurant and bar that's popular with guests and locals alike. There's always a buzzy atmosphere in the restaurant, which serves fusion fare that combines Asian and Western flavors. Breakfast is served here daily and although it's generally not included in room rates, guests might find the local offerings and interesting extras (like having one's face printed on a coffee) too tempting to pass up.

M Social also has an outdoor pool that can accommodate lap swims, plus two wading areas on each end and umbrella-shaded lounge chairs for those who want to take it easy. Next door to the pool is the bright fitness center that includes several machines, free weights, and other equipment like exercise balls and yoga mats. Towels and water can be found between the fitness center and the pool.

For business travelers, there are meeting rooms and spaces available for bookings. Aside from the cookie-cutter meeting room with audiovisual equipment, there's a meeting space on the second floor that has additions like a pool table and is best for larger, more easy-going corporate gatherings. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.