With an accelerating pace of life and increasing work pressure, many urban residents opt for visiting farms at weekends to experience a natural and relaxed lifestyle. Two holiday resorts in Taicang – Gorgeous Phoenix Resort and Goose Green Farm – offer people fresh delicacies, a relaxing atmosphere and interesting activities.

Gorgeous Phoenix Resort

The resort is located in the northwest of Taicang, 25 kilometers away from the downtown area. It covers an area of 1,200 mu (80 hectares) with an investment of 200 million yuan ($33 million)．

The resort includes meadows, villas, pavilions and farms. After two years' construction, it is now equipped with restaurants, guest-rooms, a barbecue area, farms, and a fishing area.

The ecological farm features different fruit and vegetables as well as seafood. Tourists can pick fruit, taste fresh dishes and enjoy fishing. They can have a barbecue at dusk or have a drink at night. Gorgeous Phoenix Resort will provide a wonderland for visitors.

"Most tourists now come from Shanghai. All the rooms will be fully booked at weekends during peak time," a staffer said. "It is suitable for families to spend their holidays with a reasonable price ranging from 300 ($48.77) to 600 yuan per night."

Location: Huali Avenue, Shuangyuan Road, Shuangfeng Town

Tel: 0512-53437777

Goose Green Farm

Surrounded by water on three sides, the farm is an ecological garden with lush trees and a pastoral courtyard.

The houses have been decorated with traditional Chinese furniture. A staffer at the farm said that the atrium is used for guests to chat over a cup of tea and they also provide writing brushes, ink sticks, paper and ink stones for guests to write and paint.

The farm also offers fresh dishes with local characteristics. Two villas in different styles are provided for visitors to enjoy a comfortable atmosphere.

The farm used to be a personal habitat of the owner. Early this year, it opened to the public. But only two to three dining tables are available for visitors every day to keep the farm's quietness. It is suggested that visitors make reservations in advance.

Location: No.56 Zhangqiao Village, Xintang District, Liuhe Town

Tel: 0512-33008588