1 . Harbin has witnessed a significant boom that has caused it to trend on social media this winter. By December 30, 2023, the city airport’s annual passenger throughput had gone beyond 3000 million. According to a new report, during the three-day New Year holiday, Harbin received 3.05 million tourists and made income of 5.91 billion yuan, both of which reached record highs.

Harbin, also known as China’s “ice city”, is famous for its ice and snow culture. For over 60 years, the city has had a tradition of holding an annual ice lantern exhibition, presenting the creativity and skill of its artists. Recently, the Ice and Snow World, recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest ice and snow park, is just one of many attractions in the city. It features amazing ice and snow sculptures, including replicas(复制品) of famous landmarks, animals, and cartoon characters. In addition, visitors can also enjoy different kinds of snow sports, such as ice skating, ice fishing, and sledding.

Harbin spared no effort to show its sincerity and hospitality(热情好客) to tourists. At the Ice and Snow World, a lot of new experiences have been provided, such as hovercrafts and bicycles on ice, Ferris wheels, and hot air balloons. Tourists were welcomed with live performances at the airport, and dressing rooms were set up for them to change into warm clothing. Local residents supported by traveling during off-peak hours to reduce traffic and offering tourists free rides. For those unable to book hotels, the government opened the Provincial People’s Congress Service Center for low-cost stays.

“For individual travelers, a city’s infrastructure(基础设施) and public services form the foundation of tourism competitiveness. It is only when tourists feel the warmth of the city and the goodwill of its citizens that they blend into the lives of a travel destination,” said Dai Bin, president of China Tourism Academy.

1. What are the figures in the first paragraph mainly about?

A．The boom in Harbin’s tourism industry.

B．The popularity of Harbin’s new attractions.

C．The big investment in Harbin’s Ice and Snow World.

D．The local people’s great passion for the New Year holiday.

2. What do we know about the Ice and Snow World from Paragraph 2?

A．It is famous for its ice lantern exhibition.

B．It is the first ice and snow park in the world.

C．It offers various snow-centered activities for visitors.

D．It holds snow sculpture competitions for skilled artists.

3. What is Paragraph 3 mainly about?

A．New sporting events in the Ice and Snow World.

B．The measures to ensure tourists’ safety in Harbin.

C．Kind residents’ support for relieving traffic pressure.

D．Harbin’s efforts to improve tourists’ travel experiences.

4. Where does this text probably come from?

A．A diary of cultural tours.	B．A news report on tourism.
C．An advertisement for scenic spots.	D．A review of newly emerging cities.

2 .

Chile (智利) is famous for its many attractions, including Torres del Paine National Park and Easter Island . If you’re planning a visit, be sure to add “Mano del Desierto” or “Hand of the Desert”to your must-see list.

Standing 11 meters tall and made of iron and cement (混凝土), this sculpture (雕像) of a hand emerges (出现) from the sand in the Atacama Desert , which is known as the driest desert in the world outside of polar regions. The sculpture was created by Mario Irarr á zabal in the early 1980s and was financed by a local nonprofit organization called Corporaci ó n Pro Antofagasta. The sculpture is not only famous for its size and design but also for the message it expresses. Many people believe that the hand represents the weakness and helplessness of human beings, as well as their strength and determination to overcome hardships.

If you’re interested in visiting the Hand of the Desert, take Route 26 or 28 from Antofagasta, a port city in northern Chile. The sculpture is located between mile markers 1309 and 1310. The desert’s flatness (平坦) makes it easy to spot the sculpture from far away. But some people mistake it for a mirage (海市蜃楼) caused by tiredness from driving a long way to the sculpture.

Visitors should take precautions (预防措施) before leaving , such as filling their gas tanks , taking plenty of water, and wearing sunscreen. They should also avoid driving too quickly, as many car accidents happen in the desert each year.

For those who are worried about driving alone, working with an agency (机构) like Plan South America is a good option. The founder of the agency, Harry Hastings, said that he always tries to join a visit to the sculpture with guests traveling to the desert.

1. What makes the Hand of the Desert a famous attraction?

A．Its material.

B．Its location.

C．Its designer.

D．Its size and design.

2. What can we infer from the third paragraph?

A．The sculpture attracts millions of visitors every year.

B．Tired travelers often see mirages in the desert.

C．The sculpture can be reached very easily.

D．The sculpture can be seen from far away.

3. What can we know about Harry Hastings from the passage?

A．He built the sculpture “Hand of the Desert”.

B．He gave the financial support to the sculpture.

C．His agency can help lonely travelers travel to the desert.

D．He can avoid driving accidents in the desert.

4. Which column does this passage belong to in a newspaper?

A．Travel.

B．Environment.

C．Culture.

D．Entertainment.

3 . 听下面一段独白，回答以下小题。
1. Who is the speaker?

A．A tour guide.

B．An official.

C．A farmer.

2. What are the listeners visiting?

A．A farm.

B．A museum.

C．A workshop.

3. What will the listeners do next?

A．Go to the garden.

B．View the farmhouse.

C．Learn the history of the place.

4. Whom does the Johnson’s Village belong to?

A．The Johnson family.

B．Gorden’s Milk Company.

C．The local government.

5 . Xishuangbanna, one of the eight autonomous prefectures (自治州) in Southwest China’s Yunnan province, has made it to the list of Lonely Planet’s top 10 regions to visit in 2022.

With the China-Laos railway scheduled to open on December 2, 2021, trips to Xishuangbanna Dai autonomous prefecture would be more accessible. Along with neighboring Myanmar and Laos, the exotic region is best known for dense tropical rainforest and distinct ethnic culture.

A paradise for plants and animals

Xishuangbanna boasts the most intact tropical ecosystem in China, which harbors a quarter of the country’s animal species and one sixth of plants. There are quite a few spots to get a glimpse of this animal and plant paradise, and Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG) always comes first.

XTBG, situated in the south of the province, is not only the country’s top level tourist attraction, but also a research institution affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Home to over 13,000 species of plants, it is one of the largest tropical botanical gardens in the country.

The site is divided into two areas: one in the east, and the other in the west. The western area has 20 small botanical gardens that contain a wide variety of peculiar plants. The eastern area is three times bigger than the other, featuring dense tropical rainforests and giant waterfalls.

If tropical plants are not enough, the Wild Elephant Valley would be a great option for animal lovers. The nature reserve is the only place in China to observe Asian elephants at close quarters and it shelters other rare wild animals, too.

Dai ethnic culture

The Dai ethnic group has lived in Xishuangbanna for centuries, accounting for around 30 percent of the region’s population. A visit to the tropical paradise would never be complete without experiencing the local culture.

Manting Park is the oldest park in the region that dates back 1,300 years, which is also one of the main venues for the annual Water Splashing Festival (WSF), the most important traditional occasion for the Dai people to welcome the New Year.

The festival usually falls in mid-April and involves three days of festive celebrations, including religious rituals, water splashing, boat racing and releasing sky lanterns.

1. What makes trips to Xishuangbanna easier?

A．That Xishuangbanna is a paradise for plants and animals.

B．That Xishuangbanna is one of the eight autonomous prefectures.

C．That The China-Laos railway is scheduled to open on December 2, 2021.

D．That Xishuangbanna features dense tropical rainforests and giant waterfalls.

2. Where is Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG) located?

A．In the east of Yunnan province.	B．In the west of Yunnan province.
C．In the south of Yunnan province.	D．In the north of Yunnan province.

3. What can we learn about the annual Water Splashing Festival?

A．Manting Park is the only venue for the annual WSF.

B．Celebrating WSF is of vital importance for Dai people.

C．Only the Dai ethnic group can celebrate the annual WSF.

D．A visit to XTBG would be perfect without experiencing the annual WSF.

6 . Where to travel solo across the U.S.

More and more people are interested in solo adventures, so we list some best destinations in the U.S. for solo travelers.

New York City

Here, you can expose yourself to classics like the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Whitney Museum of American Art, catch a Broadway show, or treat yourself to afternoon tea at The Plaza Hotel where you can people-watch. Or, you can visit some of the city’s newest attractions. All around town, tourists will love the diverse culinary (烹饪) scene, from street foods to top-rated restaurants.

Hawaii

If you’re looking for total relaxation here, we’ve got two Hawaiian recommendations for you, which offer an immersive wellness experience, combining traditional healing practices with cutting-edge technology, and you can enjoy activities such as meditation, yoga, and fitness program.

Alaska

If you’re planning to take a solo trip, but don’t want to be alone, a boat tour may be the right choice for you. You can count on seeing the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. Many lines provide solo travelers with events and group activities, such as dance classes, game nights, and cocktail parties, making connection with other passengers easier.

Key West, Florida

The laid-back atmosphere of Key West makes it a dreamy destination for solo travelers to seek a peaceful getaway. The island’s streets are lined with cozy cafes, fresh seafood restaurants, and tropical bars like Smokin’ Tuna Saloon, a “good place to spend a few hours” according to one recent reviewer, who noted the venue also has live music.

1. What can people do in New York City?

A．Make afternoon tea.	B．Attend yoga classes.
C．Cook diverse dishes.	D．Visit classic museums.

2. Which suits travellers who want to be sociable?

A．New York City.	B．Hawaii.
C．Alaska.	D．Key West.

3. Where is the text probably taken from?

A．A book review.	B．A travel magazine.
C．A science report.	D．A biology textbook.

7 . Entertainment in Vancouver

Vancouver offers a variety of entertainment options, from movies to live theatre and concerts. Stay at Sunset Inn & Suites and discover exciting concerts, plays, films and special events, all within walking distance. Here are some options our guests most frequently enjoy.

Queen Elizabeth Theatre

Officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1959, Queen Elizabeth Theatre is modern and spacious and among the largest “soft seat” houses in Canada. It is home to the Vancouver Opera and Ballet British Columbia.

Contact at: (604) 665-3050
Orpheum Theatre

The Orpheum is one of North America’s finest concert halls. It is a National Heritage Site and home to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Vancouver Bach Choir, Vancouver Chamber Choir and Vancouver Cantata Singers, offering entertainment year round.

Contact at: (604) 665-3028
Vancouver Art Gallery

This gallery houses a collection of more than 10, 000 artworks, including a major collection of photo-conceptual work.

Contact at: (604) 662-4719
Fifth Avenue Cinemas (Cineplex)

Vancouver’s Fifth Avenue Cinemas has joined the list of theatres serving wine to movie-goers, meaning youth under 19 are no longer allowed at one of the city’s largest theatres.

Contact at: (604) 734-7469
1. Which of the following is based at Queen Elizabeth Theatre?

A．The Vancouver Opera.	B．The Vancouver Bach Choir.
C．The Vancouver Cantata Singers.	D．The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

2. If you want to enjoy some painting works, you should contact at __________.

A．(604) 662-4719.	B．(604) 665-3028.
C．(604) 665-3050.	D．(604) 734-7469.

3. What do you know about entertainment in Vancouver?

A．There are 10,000 artworks in Vancouver Art Gallery.

B．Queen Elizabeth Theatre offers entertainment year round.

C．Orpheum Theatre is one of America’s largest concert halls.

D．Fifth Avenue Cinemas serves wine to movie-goers above 19.

8 . Hersheypark, an amusement park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone. You can have fun riding roller coasters that range from mild to wild. There are also classic family rides, a water park, a zoo, and of course, chocolate.

Now its new section, Hershey’s Chocolatetown, is open! There is Candymonium, the tallest, fastest, longest, and sweetest coaster in the park. It offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

Opening hours for this week

Oct 12-15, Monday – Thursday, closed

Oct 16, Friday, 5 pm – 9 pm

Oct 17, Saturday, 2 pm – 9 pm

Oct 18, Sunday, 2 pm – 9 pm

Tickets:

Buy tickets at www.hersheypark.com

1-Day tickets:   ＄49.95 (Ages 3+)       Free (Children ages 2 or younger)

2-Day tickets: ＄47.50 per day (Ages 9-61)

＄40 per day (Ages 3-8/ Ages 62+)

Free (Children ages 2 or younger)

Tips:

1. Please book your tickets before you visit at www.hersheypark.com.

2. You can download the Hersheypark app to help you plan your visit.

Safety rules:

1. All guests over the age of 2 are required to wear face coverings.

2. Guests should also be prepared to undergo a touchless temperature screening before entering Hersheypark.

3. Follow directions from our team members by keeping 6 feet away from other guests at all times.

Address:

100 West Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA 17033

Contact:   717-534-3900

1. Which of the following is new at Hersheypark?

A．Classic family rides.	B．The water park.
C．The zoo.	D．Candymonium.

2. How much can Mr. Smith (age 38) save if he buys a 2-Day ticket instead of two 1-Day tickets?

A．＄2.45.	B．＄4.90.
C．＄9.95.	D．＄19.90.

3. What do guests have to do before entering the park?

A．They should reserve their tickets by phone.

B．They need to download the Hersheypark app.

C．They need to have their temperature taken.

D．They have to enter the park in groups of six.

10 . The hardest thing about planning a big European vacation is actually narrowing down where to go—there are just so many amazing places. That's why we've put together what we think are the best cities in Europe.

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Amsterdam is the kind of city that you can't help but fall in love with. It's the kind of place where you dream about moving and buying an apartment that overlooks (俯瞰) a peaceful river. It's relaxing and you get a sense that the locals have an amazing quality of free life. We love simply walking around the canals and exploring the city's neighborhoods.

BERLIN, GERMANY

Berlin is said to be “poor but charming” and we think that's a pretty good description. Actually, Berlin is becoming more expensive as its popularity grows, but it's still the top spot for Germany's artistic scene. Berlin isn't particularly pretty but it's an energetic city with cool people and cooler graffiti-covered (涂鸦) neighborhoods.

LISBON, PORTUGAL       

Lisbon is a hot destination and I doubt it will be quickly moving up in the ranks of Europe's most visited cities. Lisbon is a popular coastal city that's famous for its unique buildings and charming café culture. It's also very friendly on the wallet when compared to other Western European cities—food and lodging are both priced reasonably and attractions are about average.

FLORENCE, ITALY

Florence may be touristy but that’s no reason to ignore this birthplace of the Renaissance (文艺复兴). If you do your research, you can find plenty of excellent Italian restaurants and world-class ice cream. And, of course, the city is beautiful and home to top museums so it's a dream for art and history lovers.

1. Which city best suits people holidaying on the cheap?

A．BERLIN, GERMANY.	B．FLORENCE, ITALY.
C．LISBON, PORTUGAL.	D．AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS.

2. What do BERLIN and FLORENCE have in common?

A．They are famous for food.	B．They are attractive to artists.
C．They are cities of scenic beauty.	D．They are of political importance.

3. Where is the text probably from?

A．A news report.	B．A travel magazine.
C．A restaurant advertisement.	D．A science column.