1 . The cost of living in countries like the U.S., Britain, Australia or France has skyrocketed in recent years. However, if you're willing to leave your country and explore life in other areas, there are many countries boasting an extremely cheap and low cost of living. Check out the following countries when planning your next move.

Ecuador

Ecuador is similar to the United States in many ways, and as a result has become a popular American getaway. They even use the U.S. Dollar for their currency. In this country, it's cheaper to eat out every day than cook for yourself on a budget in the U.S. You can even buy a property for around $50,000 and hire someone to tend to it while you're away.

Mexico

Although the country is known for its poverty-ridden streets, there are many wealthier areas that provide every facility you might need. You can live off a mere $700 to $800 a month in Mexico, and this includes rent for a nice place, facilities, food, and any sightseeing.

Argentina

Argentina has been a popular tourist destination for many years. It has great restaurants, a rich history, and many places to explore. Not to mention, it's not very expensive to live here. A decent sized home can cost around $139,000, which is relatively cheap in relation to homes in the United States.

Vietnam

Vietnam has also become a popular tourist destination in recent years. There are many million-dollar luxury homes by the beach, but you can find a modest flat or small home for around $25,000 to $50,000 if you search in the right areas.

1. Why has Ecuador become a holiday destination for Americans?

A．Because housing is very cheap.

B．Because it has a low cost of living.

C．Because it is similar to America in many ways.

D．Because it has lots of nice places for sightseeing.

2. What do all of the four countries have in common?

A．All of them have great restaurants.

B．All of them have a low cost of living.

C．All of them are poor developing countries.

D．The middle-sized homes are a little expensive.

3. In which country is the U.S. dollar used for its currency?

A．Ecuador.

B．Mexico.

C．Argentina.

D．Vietnam.

2 . Washington D.C. is the capital of the United States. It’s the center of national government. It’s a busy, working city with a large population. But what is more, Washington is also a city of history and culture.
Washington was created in 1790, when the Congress (the highest lawmaking body of the U.S.A.) decided to place the nation’s new capital in the east of the country. It was built half-way between the northern and southern states of America. And of course it was named after George Washington, the first President of the United States.
There are many tourist sights in Washington. Perhaps the most important tourist sight is the Capital Building. This house is where the Congress is.
Another world-famous building in Washington is the White House. This is the home and office of the President of the United States. Most visitors are, however, surprised by how small the White House actually is.
Washington is also a great culture city. The Library of Congress contains one of the largest library collections in the world. The Smithsonian Museum holds the nation’s largest collection of cultural materials. And the John F. Kennedy Center is a famous center of art and culture. It has many great musical. and theatre performances throughout the year.
Now fill in the table with some information about Washington D.C.(注意：每空不要超过3个单词)

Washington D.C.

History and location	Created in     1    when the Congress decided that, and named after     2	Lies halfway between     3    and     4     states of   America
A capital city	Center of the     5     government
A popular tourist attraction	6    the most important tourist sight	Another important tourist sight is     7
A     8    city	9     has the nation’s largest collection of cultural materials	John F. Kennedy Center is a center famous for     10