Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang Review

First Impressions – Why I Went to Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang

I’m Eugene, the co-founder of Travelution Holidays, and this is my Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang review, based on my first visit to the property. I went partly out of curiosity as I’d heard about the “Urban Oasis” version of Club Med and I wanted to see how it stacks up against the more familiar, resort-style destinations. But honestly, I was also just really curious about the indoor ski park. I’d never tried an indoor slope before, so that alone felt like a good enough reason to make the trip.

I was hoping for a quick break, something that didn’t require too much effort, maybe just a weekend escape that felt fresh and different. And of course, I wanted to assess whether it’s the kind of place we could confidently recommend to clients at Travelution Holidays. Something accessible, easy to reach, and ideally a little unexpected.

And honestly? It delivered. The stay was relaxing, the setup was polished, and while it definitely feels more like a stylish city hotel than a full-blown Club Med resort, that’s part of what makes it interesting. It’s a different kind of experience, and in some ways, that’s what makes it worth writing about.

Location & Getting There – Easy Escape or Too Far Out?

Let’s get the obvious out of the way, where exactly is Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang?

Well, it’s in Taicang, a small, low-key city just north of Shanghai. If you’ve never heard of it before, you’re not alone. It’s not a big tourist hotspot, and that’s kind of what makes it charming. Things feel calmer here. Slower. But you’re still close enough to the city if you need a day trip or some buzz.

One of the reasons this Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang review is so positive is because of how easy it was to get there, especially compared to other Club Med resorts in China that might require an additional domestic flight or long road trip.

If you’re flying from Kuala Lumpur, there are direct flights to Shanghai. From Shanghai Pudong International Airport, the most straightforward route is by private transfer, which usually takes around 1.5 hours. Ours took just under 2 hours due to rain, but on a clear day, it’s smooth all the way.

Now, if you’re flying into Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, or coming from central Shanghai, it gets even easier. Just hop on the high-speed train, and in about 20 minutes, you’ll arrive at Taicang South Station. The resort is literally right across the road. You can walk there in just a few minutes.

Do note: Club Med does not offer airport transfers for this property. If you’re booking through Travelution Holidays, we can help sort it out for you, no stress.

Once you arrive, everything’s conveniently close. You’re near the train station, right opposite the Alps Snow World Live indoor ski park, and not far from a small shopping area. It doesn’t feel isolated, but it’s definitely quieter than Shanghai, ideal if you’re after a breather without being too remote.

What to expect at check-in

Check-in starts at 2pm. When you arrive, you’ll be given a Club Med digital wristband that doubles as your room key. It’s simple, efficient, and avoids the whole key-card situation. After that, you’re basically left to settle in on your own.

Now, if you’ve been to resorts like Club Med Phuket or Club Med Bali, you might be expecting that signature Club Med welcome, smiling G.Os waiting to greet you, maybe a welcome drink, someone walking you to your room with a little intro to the resort. That’s not quite how it works here.

At Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang, the vibe is more toned down, self-service style. You’ll check in at the front desk, get your wristband, and unless you ask for help, you’re expected to find your room yourself. The staff are friendly and happy to assist if you need it, but they won’t be tagging along automatically. It’s not a bad thing, just a bit different from what some regulars might expect.

What’s Included in the Stay?

Now this is where it gets a little different from your usual Club Med experience. Club Med Urban Oasis resorts doesn’t come with the typical all-inclusive package by default.

The Club Med Urban Oasis base package includes:

• Bed and breakfast
• Access to the gym
• Use of the family play area (kids need supervision)
• Evening Club Med show (yes, there’s still a bit of that familiar GO fun)

And that’s about it. If you want the full Club Med experience, you’ll need to upgrade to the all-inclusive package. The good news? It’s flexible. You don’t have to commit for your whole stay, some guests only upgrade for one or two days, especially if they plan to ski or stay in for meals. Others go all-in from the start.

Please take note: If some people in your group are on the all-inclusive package and others aren’t, you won’t be able to sit together in the restaurant. That can be awkward. Best to keep everyone on the same plan if you’re travelling as a group.

Also be aware that Club Med Great Members benefits don’t apply here. No loyalty points, no status perks. And the pricing is split: room rates are per room, per night, but the all-inclusive upgrade is per person, per night.

Still, if you’re planning to ski, enjoy the Snow Park, join activities, or simply want meals and drinks sorted, the upgrade is worth it. You’ll get:

• Full-day access to Alps Snow World Live
• Lunch, tea, and dinner
• Free-flow drinks
• Activities and experiences
• Childcare for kids aged 4 to 11

So it’s not just about unlimited food and drinks, the snow access alone makes the upgrade a pretty solid value if you’re planning to make the most of your stay.

Rooms – Stylish, Compact, & Cleverly Designed

There are three room types at Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang: Superior, Premium, and Suite. All of them follow a similar Alpine-inspired design, but with some key differences.

The Superior and Premium Rooms both sleep up to two adults and one child under 12. The Premium Rooms are a little bigger (around 41 to 47 sqm), and sit on higher floors. You also get 3-hour access to Alps Snow World included. The Suites, on the other hand, are larger at 84 sqm and can fit two adults and two kids under 12. Some of the suites and premium rooms even come with a fun Spaceflight or Jurassic theme, which would be a hit with younger kids.

We stayed in the Superior Room, and honestly, it felt spacious for three of us. At 41 sqm, it’s nearly double the size of the rooms at Club Med Cherating, which was a nice surprise. The bathroom was thoughtfully designed too. Bathtub, twin sinks, a separate shower, and toilet all within one space. It’s not the separated toilet layout you’d find in some Club Med resorts, but more like a well-planned city hotel. The toiletries were from AHAVA, which was a nice touch.

Sleep quality was solid. The beds were comfy, and the room stayed quiet throughout the night. There was enough space to lay out three medium-sized luggages without feeling cramped. Plus, they’ve even added a ski/snowboard hanging space in the room. A clever and practical detail, especially if you’re visiting for the indoor slope.

In terms of facilities, you’ve got a stocked mini bar, good ambient lighting, and these beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light. Our view looked out to the expansion site of Alps Snow World, which is expected to become the world’s largest indoor ski park in 2027, and opposite that, you can see Taicang South train station, making it feel very connected yet not overly urban. The room’s design blends warm wood tones with soft lighting, kind of like an Alpine chalet, but in a city setting.

A couple of small things to note, all rooms do not have a balcony, which might be a dealbreaker for some. And unlike the typical Club Med resort welcome, there was no GO to greet us or handle baggage delivery. So it definitely feels more like a hotel than a full resort.

Overall, the Superior Room works well for couples, business travellers, or small families. If you’re travelling with more than one child, you’d probably need to book a Suite or two rooms. Just bear in mind, there are no interconnecting rooms, which could be a bit inconvenient for larger families.

Food – Surprisingly Varied, Sometimes Hit-and-Miss

There’s one main restaurant at Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang called L’Alps, located on the 2nd floor. It usually serves buffet-style meals, but when occupancy is low, they close the restaurant and instead offer à la carte dining at U Bar downstairs. It’s a bit of a surprise the first time, but honestly, it worked out pretty well for us.

On our first night, since the main restaurant wasn’t operating, we had dinner at U Bar, and to our surprise, it was actually really good. You can order as many dishes as you like, and one of the standouts was the lobster (limited to one per person, per meal, understandably). We tried a bit of everything: truffle fries, spaghetti bolognese, salad, fried chicken, seafood platter, mushroom soup… and yes, they had vegetarian options too. The portions were generous and the flavours were pretty spot-on. Not gourmet, but definitely satisfying.The next night, L’Alps was open again and served a buffet with an Asian theme of Thai, Indonesian, Chinese dishes, along with the usual international staples like pizza, pasta, local soup noodles. Some of the Asian flavours didn’t quite suit our palate, but the variety helped balance things out. They had seafood too, which was a nice bonus.

By the third night, it was the weekend and the restaurant was fully operating. The buffet leaned more towards local Chinese dishes, including things like pork blood sausage and chicken feet. Not really my thing. Thankfully, the pizza, pasta, and noodle stations were still around to save the day. Again, it really depends on your preferences.

Breakfast also varied depending on occupancy. On our first morning, there was a smaller buffet and most items had to be ordered from the menu, which actually meant freshly made eggs, noodles, and sides, so no complaints there. When the buffet was in full swing, they served the usual suspects: fruits, waffles, sausages, hash browns, fried rice, fried noodles, eggs any style, bacon, basically all the breakfast comfort foods you’d expect.

One quirky little touch that stood out at dinner, they had a popcorn machine and a huge bowl of gummies just sitting there by the buffet. It’s a simple thing, but somehow it made the whole experience feel more playful, almost like a gentle reminder that you’re still at a Club Med, even if the setting is more city hotel than resort.

If I had to pick one thing I’d go back for, probably the à la carte meal at U Bar. Not just for the lobster, but the overall experience felt cosy, unrushed, and genuinely enjoyable.

Bar & Social Areas – Chill Vibes or Party Mood?

The main bar at Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang is called U Bar, and you’ll find it on the first floor. It’s a relaxed, open space with plenty of seating and a decent variety of drinks. We found ourselves gravitating towards their signature cocktail, the UR Oasis, a bit fruity, a bit refreshing, and just easy to like.

If you’re on the all-inclusive package, a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are included. Otherwise, if you’re booked under the bed and breakfast package, drinks are chargeable and start from CNY28 per glass. So if you plan to hang out at the bar more than once or twice, the all-inclusive option might be worth it.

If you’re not sure what to order, just tell the bar team your taste preference- sweet, sour, fruity, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, and they’ll happily shake something up just for you. It’s a nice, personalised touch that brings in a bit of the Club Med warmth.

There’s also the Summit Lounge up on the rooftop. It’s a quieter space with stunning views, especially at sunset. A perfect spot to wind down with a drink and just take in the city skyline and it really adds to the “urban oasis” feel of the place.

The overall vibe depends on the day. During our first two nights, it was quiet, no live music or entertainment. Just guests relaxing at the lounge, sipping drinks, maybe playing a board game or two. But by the third night, things picked up. They hosted a comedy night, and the lounge was buzzing with weekend guests, families, and couples. Still chill, but with a lot more energy.

There are also a few quiet corners near the bar that are ideal for working. Some tables are perfectly fine for setting up a laptop, great if you’re doing a bit of work in between relaxing.

Facilities – No Swimming Pool, But Plenty Else to Keep You Busy

Let’s get this out of the way first, there’s no swimming pool at Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang. If you’re hoping for a place to swim laps or float around with a cocktail, that’s not on the menu here. Instead, there are gender-separated jacuzzis, which feel more like a spa amenity than a central resort feature. Not a dealbreaker, just something to know upfront.

There is a Club Med Spa, and they use AHAVA products. The space looked relaxing and well put together, but we ended up skipping it as the prices were on the steep side, and with so much else to do, it didn’t feel essential.

The gym is open 24 hours, clean, and had everything you’d need for a quick workout. If you’re into classes, they also offer spinning, and for something a little more cultural, there’s even a mahjong room and karaoke, but those are for guests on the all-inclusive package. Everything is located on the 5th floor, and it’s easy to find your way around.

There’s also a family space on the first floor that’s good for younger kids to unwind or play a bit. Upstairs, more surprises, billiards, table tennis, and yoga room, all nicely designed and clean.

Outside, there’s a man-made beach area right in front of the resort, complete with real sand. It’s not huge, but it’s enough to give you that light-hearted, “I’m on holiday” feeling. Right beside it, there’s also an outdoor play area for kids, a nice bonus for families looking to burn off a bit of energy before dinner.

But if we’re being honest, the one thing that really stands out, the feature that gives Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang that unexpected wow factor, is what’s waiting just across the street.

Alps Snow World – A Winter Playground Right Outside

Directly opposite the resort is Alps Snow World Live, and this place is a game changer. A massive, fully indoor snow and ski park that feels like it was pulled straight out of a winter dream. And if you’ve booked the Club Med all-inclusive package, access is already part of the deal, no extra tickets required. You get to pick between skiing/snowboarding or the Ice and Snow Park experience.

If you’re heading to the slopes, everything’s provided: skis (with poles) or snowboard, boots, helmet, jacket, and pants, all included.  The only thing you’ll need to bring (or buy) is gloves. Trust me, you don’t want to skip those. Your fingers will thank you.

There are four slopes in total, with a modest elevation range of around 15 metres, all serviced by magic carpets instead of chairlifts. There’s also a Kids Village, which is a great space for little ones to ease into it without pressure. Just note that lessons aren’t included, so if you’re new to the sport and want some guidance, you’ll need to book separately.

But what if you’re not into skiing? Still absolutely worth going.

The Snow Park ticket is also part of the all-inclusive package, and includes winter wear and boots. Again, just remember to bring gloves. Even if you never touch the slopes, there’s plenty to enjoy: daily shows, a carousel in the snow, ice bumper cars, a zipline, and even Lucy’s House, home to actual penguins. Yes. Real penguins. It’s cute. And somehow, also kind of surreal.

That’s not all. You’ve also got the Ice Palace Bar, snow bikes, polar slides, a mountain trail, ATV rides (CNY138 per round), and classic winter fun like snow tubing. It’s lighthearted, silly fun, and surprisingly addictive. You’ll probably go in just to take a look, and end up riding those inflatable tubes down the hill over and over again.

And that, really, is the charm of Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang. You walk in expecting a sleek city hotel. And next thing you know, you’re in snow gear, zipping across an indoor slope with a massive grin on your face. It’s unexpected, in the best possible way.

Family-Friendly? Or Better as an Adult Getaway?

You might be wondering, is Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang more of a romantic city escape or something you’d bring the kids along for? Honestly, it works either way. It’s not a full-on family resort, but there are definitely enough kid-friendly features to make it a solid choice for a short family holiday.

For starters, yes, there’s a proper Club Med Mini Club for kids aged 4 to 10 years old, and it’s included in the Club Med all-inclusive package. So if you’re looking to sneak in a little downtime while the kids are entertained, this is a great option.

There’s also a family space on the ground floor where younger kids can play freely. Just note that this area isn’t staffed, so adult supervision is required. It’s accessible to all hotel guests, regardless of room category or package.

Facilities-wise, the resort is stroller-friendly. Most areas are flat and easy to move through, so getting around with small children is manageable. Lifts are available, and the layout is pretty compact, which helps.

Would I bring my own kids here? Yes, definitely, especially if it’s their first snow experience or if they’re just getting started with skiing. The slopes at Alps Snow World are gentle, and it’s more about fun than technical skill. That said, if your child is already an advance skier or snowboarder, they might find the elevation and slope options a little limited.

So in short, it’s a great option for families, especially those with younger kids or first-time skiers. But it also works perfectly well as a couples’ getaway or even a solo trip if you’re just looking for something a bit different and refreshing.

Meeting Spaces & Group Events

If you’re planning a company retreat, workshop, family celebration, or even a wedding, Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang actually has the space to pull it off. There’s a large ballroom for bigger gatherings, along with four smaller meeting rooms that work well for breakout sessions, presentations, or more intimate events.

Now, it’s not your classic dreamy wedding destination, there is no beach sunsets or mountaintop vows. The vibe here is more business-casual than romantic escape. But for team-building trips, corporate incentive groups, or private events with a fun twist, it works surprisingly well.

The layout is compact, so you’re never far from your room, the meeting spaces, or the bar. Everything’s within easy reach. And the overall atmosphere strikes a good balance, polished enough for business, but relaxed enough that no one feels like they’re at a conference centre.

So no, it might not be your honeymoon spot. But if your group wants comfort, convenience, and a little snowy fun thrown into the mix, this place ticks all the boxes.

Highlights – What Made It Memorable?

What really stood out? Always the people.

We were lucky enough to bump into some familiar faces. Lucy, an Indonesian Club Med G.O. we’d met previously in Club Med Phuket, was here and looked after us throughout the stay. Then there was Amir, a ski instructor from Club Med Beidahu, who happened to be in between assignments. He joined us for dinner two nights in a row. Casual, spontaneous, and very much in that unmistakable Club Med spirit.

Kitty from the Kids Club joined us for lunch one afternoon. Warm, friendly, and genuinely curious about how we were finding the resort. A special shoutout also to the local G.E. at the restaurant, not only did she give us helpful tips for visiting Shanghai, she even assisted us when we had trouble making a payment by credit card. It’s those quiet, thoughtful gestures that really stay with you.

Cherry, one of the local G.Os from China, and Patti, the Thai G.O. at the U Bar, were both absolute stars. Patti made our drinks and brought over little snacks during tea time, always cheerful. Cherry was warm and attentive from the moment we arrived. None of it felt rehearsed, just genuine hospitality, the kind you don’t always find in a city setting.

Design-wise, the resort feels modern with playful touches. Vintage skis mounted along lift corridors, ski hooks in the rooms, warm tones and soft lighting, just enough to make it feel like a ski holiday, minus the freezing temperatures. It’s subtle, but clever.

And yes, even though you’re technically in a city, it does feel like a break. Maybe it’s the snow park just across the road. Maybe it’s the fact that everything is so easy to access. Or maybe it’s simply the kindness of the team. Whatever the reason, this Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang review wouldn’t be complete without saying, it surprised us, in the best way. We left feeling refreshed, recharged, and glad we came.

Any Downsides?

Let’s be honest, while Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang has a lot going for it, there are a few things that might not work for everyone.

If you’re expecting the full Club Med experience with non-stop activities, daily performances, or the Crazy Signs before lunch, this isn’t quite that. It feels more like a stylish hotel that’s sprinkled with some Club Med DNA. You’ll see a few G.Os around, but the energy is a lot more low-key.

One thing that could use improvement? The check-in process. It was a little cold, to be honest. The staff were polite, but they mostly stayed behind the counter. A bit more warmth or a proper welcome, even just a simple explanation of what’s included, where the facilties are, would’ve made the arrival feel more like Club Med and less like a business hotel.

Another thing worth mentioning is the booking process. At the moment, reservations is not available outside of China. However, Travelution Holidays can help with reservations, and guide you with our own first-hand experience, so you won’t be navigating it alone.

Verdict – Would We Recommend It?

If you’re after a short “winter” escape without the usual hassle, something a little different, with skiing, snow play, and city convenience, then yes, this one’s worth a look.

I’d recommend Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang to:

• Families looking for something fun and snow-themed but close to Shanghai
• Couples who want a relaxing break with light adventure
• Corporate groups or incentive trips that want something unique but easy to organise

Would I go back? Yes, definitely. The indoor ski park alone is worth another visit, and I’d love to explore more of the Taicang area. It’s also close enough to Shanghai that you could add on a day trip, no problem. I also appreciate the flexibility of the bed & breakfast concept, you don’t have to go all-in every day if you don’t need to.

So overall, this Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang review is a thumbs-up from me. Stylish, stress-free, and honestly, a refreshing little escape I didn’t know I needed.

Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang Promotions & Pricing

Unlike other Club Med resorts that open up bookings up to a year in advance, this one works a little differently. As we found out during our own Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang review, availability is usually released just a few months ahead, and at the moment, it’s only bookable within China. That’s where Travelution Holidays comes in. We can help you check availability, secure your room, and guide you through the best package options based on your plans.

In terms of pricing, the best value is on weekdays. You’ll enjoy a quieter stay, more relaxed vibes, and better rates overall. Weekends and Chinese public holidays, on the other hand, get noticeably busier, and prices go up, too. Still enjoyable, just something to factor in when choosing your dates. If your calendar’s flexible, midweek is your sweet spot.

Want to know the latest promos or flash deals? Check our dedicated Club Med Urban Oasis Taicang page. We keep it updated with current offers and insider tips.

Booking with Travelution Holidays

We’ve stayed there ourselves, tried the food, explored the rooms, and even skied in the indoor ski dome. So when you book through Travelution Holidays, you’re not just getting a room, you’re getting local insight and real advice from people who’ve actually been.

Need airport transfers? Curious which package suits your family best? We can help with all of it. Our goal is simple: make your trip smoother from start to finish.