Experience China, a popular week-long holiday program, took place online for the first time starting from Monday. It was organized by the Confucius Institute in Frankfurt in
2 . Did you know you can visit the Great Wall of China, see famous paintings or check in on your favourite zoo animals without leaving home? That’s good news any time. Here are some of explore-the-world-from-home ideas.
THE GREAT WALL, CHINA
This incredible landmark is a collection of walls. It’s often said it’s the only human-made structure that can be seen from the Moon but that claim was made many years before anyone had been to the Moon. Today, the Great Wall is generally recognized as one of the most impressive architectural feats in history.
VISIT thechinaguide.com/ destination/ great-wall-of-china
CINCINNATI ZOO, US
This famous zoo is offering virtual home safaris. “We’re bringing the zoo to people who are stuck at home,” said zoo director Thane Maynard. “The goal of the daily live sessions is to provide fun and educational content to people who are staying at home.”
VISIT cincinnatizoo.org/home-safari-resources
SMITHSONIAN, US
The Smithsonian Museum and National Zoo has a large range of exhibits available to view online, including Animal Cams—live streams of their animal enclosures so you can get up close with lions, pandas, elephants and more.
VISIT si.edu/kids
MUSEE D’ORSAY, FRANCE
Take some time to study the paintings of Monet, Cezanne, and Gauguin at the Musee D’Orsay, Paris.
VISIT m.musee-orsay.fr/ en
MARS
And for a truly out-of-this-world experience from the comfort of your own home, take a virtual tour of Mars. The tour images are recorded by NASA’s Curiosity rover.
VISIT accessrmars.withgoogle.com
1. How can we describe the Great Wall according to the second paragraph?A.Antique. | B.Tremendous. |
C.Well-organized. | D.Popular. |
A.They require visitors to fill out forms. |
B.They educate people to protect animals. |
C.They provide live streams of their paintings. |
D.They offer visual feasts about animals. |
A.THE GREAT WALL | B.MUSEE D’ORSAY. |
C.MARS. | D.SMITHSONIAN. |
3 . After months of deliberation, we can finally reveal the shortlist for our beloved 100-word-story competition. Now it’s up to you to vote for your winners in the under-12 category.
“The Shelf” by Li v Packer, 11, London
I have sat on this dusty shelf for decades—33 years to be exact. Everyday, people enter the library, hoping to find a book to occupy themselves with. No one seems to want me though. Young children walk across the aisles ignoring me and running to their favorites. Considering I haven’t been touched for at least 20 years, I’m shocked that I haven’t been moved to the back yet. That’s where the forgotten books go. Oh! I spoke too soon!
“Moon Land” by Amelia Jacobs-Moronta, 6, Kent
I wanted to get to the moon so I decided to jump, but that didn’t work so I used the tallest ladder but it reached even higher so I slid down the ladder and jumped onto the moon. The moon was bumpy and hard. I did space cartwheels and jumped around. The moon was made of every single food you can imagine so I ate a bit but I can’t eat too much because if I eat too much the moon will disappear.
“The Mysterious Duck with A Moustache” by Jana Ramsey, 9, Angus
There once was a duck who had a moustache. He had a secret that he was lonely. Days went by, the duck decided to explore. He went from California to Egypt to Columbia and Scotland. The duck made many friends. He was happy and that’s all that matters.
Voting will close on April 29 and the winning entries will be published in our May 2024 print issue. Good luck to all of our shortlisters, and thank you for your entries and votes!
1. Who writes a story related to a lunar exploration?A.Liv Packer. | B.Amelia Jacobs-Moronta. |
C.Jana Ramsey. | D.Mysterious Duck. |
A.Ridiculous. | B.Humorous. | C.Childish. | D.Instructive. |
A.Share three stories with readers. | B.Ask readers to submit their stories. |
C.Inform readers of the best shortlisters. | D.Appeal to readers to vote. |
4 . Los Angeles County Museum of Art
What to know?Next door to the La Brea Tar Pits sits the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the linchpin of the Los Angeles museum district. Since its opening in 1965, LACMA has showcased thousands of pieces, from Islamic artifacts to European impressionist paintings to modern art. With constantly shifting exhibitions and unique architecture, LACMA offers a rewarding experience for both serious art lovers and casual travelers.
More informationLACMA’s collection is housed in multiple buildings. The Ahmanson Building, the Hammer Building, and the Art of the Americas Building are historical structures that have long been part of the museum’s landscape. Currently, the museum is constructing a new building for its permanent collection, called the David Geffen Galleries, which is scheduled to open in 2024. For now, pieces will be on display in the Broad Contemporary Art Museum (BCAM) and the Lynda and Stewart Resnick Exhibition Pavilion. The Urban Light and Levitated Mass exhibits remain open to visitors. There is a restaurant and grab-and-go eatery on-site. Many visitors appreciated both the indoor and outdoor art exhibits and were impressed with the size of the collection of modern and contemporary art.
When to visit?Situated on Wilshire Boulevard in west Los Angeles, LACMA is open from 11 am to 6 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays; from 11 am to 8 pm on Fridays and from 10 am to 7 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. It is closed every Wednesday.
PriceAs for residents outside the county, general admission tickets cost $25 for adults, $10 for those aged 3 to 17 (children aged 2 and younger get in for free) and parking will set you back $21. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum’s ticket office.
1. Which building is under construction?A.The Hammer Building. | B.The Ahmanson Building. |
C.The David Geffen Galleries. | D.The Art of the Americas Building. |
A.At 10 am on Tuesdays. | B.At 3 pm on Fridays. |
C.At 8 pm on Saturdays. | D.At 11 am on Wednesdays. |
A.$35. | B.$56. | C.$71. | D.$81. |
5 . For high schoolers, a career goal can help them choose a major and college. They may find a career that fits for the first try. Therefore, do encourage the career exploration below. It describes a few new ones that will be available when your teen reaches adulthood.
Next-generation psychological helpUnfortunately, psychological health issues are unlikely to decrease soon. The existing research is far from a cure-all. Psychological help will likely be an ever more interesting and in-demand profession.
Intermediate health care providerThe U. S. is facing an overburdened health care system. So, an ever-higher percentage of health care will be provided by intermediate-care providers such as physician assistant, dental assistant, etc. The good news for career-seekers is that the training is much shorter.
Software developers and engineersExperts in database architecture, artificial intelligence, and machine learning will stay in demand. New applications may include AI-assisted diagnosis (诊断) and treatment recommendations, individualized education, and advanced embryo (胚胎) selection to ensure absence of genetically influenced diseases and so on.
Precision medicineIn your teen’s lifetime, major diseases will likely be prevented and/or treated with molecules custom-matched (定制) to the very specific disease. Your math-centric teen who can picture getting a PhD could help make that happen.
TipsIt’s great when teens are able to explore careers on their own. You might want to sit alongside, but let your teen sit in the driver’s seat. Only help as much as needed.
1. Which career focuses on mental issues?A.Next-generation psychological help. | B.Software developers and engineers. |
C.Intermediate health care provider. | D.Precision medicine. |
A.Database architecture. | B.Medical health. |
C.Math knowledge. | D.AI education. |
A.Teens. | B.Employers. | C.Teachers. | D.Parents. |
6 . The Booking Notes of the Play The Age of Innocence
Price: $10
DISCOUNTS:
Saver: $3 off for any seat booked any time in advance for performances from Monday to Thursday. Savers are available for children under 15, people over 65 and full-time students.
Supersaver: Half-price are available for people with disabilities and one companion. It is advisable to book in advance. There is a maximum of eight wheelchair spaces available and one wheelchair space will be held until an hour before the show.
Standby Tickets: Best available seats are on sale for $6 from one hour before the performance for people suitable for Saver and Supersaver discounts and thirty minutes before for all other customers.
Group Bookings: There is a ten percent discount for parties of twelve or more.
School: School parties of ten or more can book $6 standby tickets in advance and will get every tenth ticket free.
Please note: We are unable to exchange tickets or refund (退还) money unless a performance is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
BOOKING: There are three easy ways to book seats for the performance:
—In person: The Box Office is open from Monday to Saturday between 10 a. m. and 8 p. m.
—By telephone: Dial 0132476 to reserve your tickets.
—By post: Simply complete the booking form and return it to Global Theatre Box Office.
1. According to the notes, who can get $3 off?A.A disabled person. | B.A 60-year-old man. |
C.A 20-year-old college student. | D.The people who book the tickets on Sundays. |
A.There are only 8 wheelchair spaces in the theater. |
B.A group of 10 persons can get a 10 percent discount. |
C.The money will be refunded before the performance is on. |
D.A school party of 15 students should pay $90 for the standby tickets. |
A.The standby tickets for school parties of ten or more. | B.The tickets for the saver discount. |
C.The tickets for group booking. | D.The standby tickets. |
7 . Four Best Zoos in the US
Saint Louis Zoo
Saint Louis Zoo is devoted to research and conservation. In 2022, it received the Worldwide Conservation Award from the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums for research and work in the Galdpagos Islands. The zoo is home to more than 16,000 animals, which are kept in clean and spacious natural habitats (栖息地). Open year-round and free to visit, Saint Louis Zoo houses Andean bears, polar bears and Surnatran orangutans, to name a few.
Zoo Atlanta
Opened in 1889 and one of the oldest zoos in the US, Zoo Atlanta is one of the top zoos worth visiting in Atlanta. Home to giant pandas, Sumatran tigers and western lowland gorillas (猩猩), the zoo participates in local and global conservation programs. Visitors say the gorillas and giant pandas are two of the highlights here. Adults (12-64): $34; Seniors (65 & over): $ 32; Children (3-11): $26; Children (3 & under): free.
Bronx Zoo
With more than 700 species and an area of 265 acres, Bronx Zoo in New York City is the largest urban zoo in the US. Since it’s hard to see the entire zoo in one day, prioritize must-see attractions like the Wild Asia Monorail (单列车) and the Congo Gorilla Forest during your visit. Adults (13 & over): $33. 95+; Seniors (65 & over): $28. 95+; Children (3-12): $23. 95+; Children (2 & under); free.
Oakland Zoo
Oakland Zoo is situated about 20 miles east of downtown San Francisco, It is home to more than 850 native and foreign species. Visitors can see African lions, American alligators and grizzly bears in large natural habitats, Zoogoers say they like the hillside layout and the Sky Ride that affords bird’s-eye views of the animals. Children under 2 years and seniors (76+) : free; Children (2-14) and adults (15-75): $15.75.
1. Which zoo is awarded for its research?A.Saint Louis Zoo. | B.Bronx Zoo. | C.Zoo Atlanta. | D.Oakland Zoo. |
A.Take the Sky Ride. | B.Ride the Wild Asia Monorail. |
C.Admire giant pandas | D.Walk through the Congo Gorilla Forest. |
A.$15.75. | B.$31.5. | C.$33.95. | D.$47.9. |
8 . Noteworthy Theme Parks
Peppa Pig Theme Park, the US
The world’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park opened in February 2022 in Florida.
Devoted to the classic British animated TV show, the park welcomes guests with well-designed activities. The Daddy Pig ride takes families on a windy road in the show’s red car. They can also enjoy a dinosaur ride, and play games at the Fairground.
Tickets from $34.
Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Thailand
Thailand’s Columbia Pictures Aquaverse opened in October 2022.
The movie-themed water park features rides and experiences inspired by popular films like Zombieland. In addition to the rides, the park hosts performances at its Mega Wave Pool, where guests can hang out in the pool while enjoying movie screenings and pop concerts.
Tickets from $41.
Katmandu Park, Dominican Republic
Opened in March 2023, the park is full of mystery (奥秘).
The 4D dark ride is brought to life by lighting and projection effects. Another key attraction is EtherQuest, an interactive walk-through experience. Aside from the rides, guests can also check out a sky-high ropes course, and climbing walls for younger adventurers.
Tickets from $120 for adults: $85 for children for a one-use pass.
Legoland Korea Resort, South Korea
Opened in May 2022, the park is designed for 2-to 12-year-olds.
This playful wonderland is devoted to all things of Lego, with more than 40 rides and attractions across seven thematic zones. Guests can get on family-friendly rides, visit Legoland Lookout for great park views, and get hands-on experience with creative workshops.
Tickets from $38 for adults; $30 for children.
1. What can visitors do at Columbia Pictures Aquaverse?A.Go to the Fairground. | B.Try the 4D dark ride. |
C.Attend a pop concert. | D.Experience a workshop. |
A.$68. | B.$106. | C.$205. | D.$325. |
A.Take a ride. | B.Climb a wall. | C.Watch a film. | D.Visit an attraction. |
9 . Things to Do in Northern Ireland This Autumn
WEE BINNIAN WALKING FESTIVAL (SEPTEMBER)
The exact dates of this annual walking festival are still to be confirmed, but if it’s similar to last year, it’ll offer a choice of ten walks and hikes around the Mourne Mountains, ranging from easier lowland routes to tough, multi-summit challenges. Evening social events are also included.
GREAT NORTH LINKS CHALLENGE (18-20 OCTOBER)
Calling all golfers. You can enter this three-day event-spread along the north coast between Ballyliffin, Portruth and Portstewart, as an individual or team of four. A perfect opportunity to play three Irish Open links courses in three days.
ARMAGH FOOD AND CIDER WEEKEND (SEPTEMBER)
A four-day feast of authentic food and artisan ciders (苹果酒) in Ireland’s “Orchard County”. This celebration is also coupled with the traditional apple harvest. You can taste local food from the country’s most inventive chefs.
OULD LAMMAS FAIR (LAST WEEK OF AUGUST)
People have been flocking to the seaside town of Ballycastle since the 17th century to celebrate this fair. Attractions include a Heavy Horse Show, horse speed events on the beach, funfair, outdoor concert and a fireworks display, as well as unique local produce and handmade arts and crafts.
1. What is the best date to arrive if you want to attend GREAT NORTH LINKS CHALLENGE?A.17th October. | B.18th August. | C.20th October. | D.1st September. |
A.Play golf. | B.Go hiking. | C.Watch horse races. | D.Taste apple ciders. |
A.Tourism. | B.Sports. | C.Education. | D.Arts. |
10 . China is one of the world’s ancient civilizations and has the earliest outstanding bronze casting technology. Here we’ve created a list of 4 museums where you can gain an in-depth understanding of Chinese bronze.
Sanxingdui Museum
Address: Sanxingdui Ruin Site, 133 Xian Road, Guanghan, Deyang, Sichuan province
Hours: Comprehensive Gallery (the first exhibition hall): 8:30-18:00; Bronze Gallery (the second exhibition hall): 8:30-18:30. Last tickets sold at 17:00. Closed on the morning of Chinese New Year’s Eve
Ticket booking: 0838-5651526
General admission: Gallery ticket 80 yuan
Note: Children shorter than 1.2m (including 1.2m) can visit the gallery free of charge. The ticket must be used on the day it is sold and authorizes one visit to each gallery.
National Museum of China
Address: East side of Tian’anmen Square, Dongcheng district, Beijing
Hours: 8:30-17:00 (no entry after 16:30)
General admission: Free (passport required for entry), Closed Mondays (except for national holidays)
E-mail: webmaster@chnmuseum.cn
Shanghai Museum
Address: 201 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu district, Shanghai
Hours: 9:00-17:00 (no entry after 16:00), Closed Mondays (except for national holidays)
E-mail: webmaster@shanghai-museum.org
General admission: free (a max of 8, 000 admitted daily)
Hunan Museum
Address: 50 Dongfeng Road, Changsha, Hunan province
Hours: 9:00-17:00 (no entry after 16:00), Closed Mondays (except for national holidays) and the eve of Chinese New Year
Tel: (+86-731) 8415833, 84475933
E-mail: web@hnmuseum.com
General admission: Free (passport required for entry)
1. Which museum should you choose for your family to visit next Monday?A.Sanxingdui Museum | B.Hunan Museum |
C.Shanghai Museum | D.National Museum of China |
A.They are all free of charge. | B.They all set a deadline for entry. |
C.They all lie in the south of China. | D.They can all be available through E-mail. |
A.Science | B.Today’s News | C.Entertainment | D.History and Culture |