1 . Researchers say these little-studied structures, which can stretch for up to 50 meters and last for hundreds of years, could help our cities adapt to rising temperatures associated with the climate crisis. “It’s really incredible how strong they are. They don’t have any negative impact on the environment,” said Ferdinand Ludwig, professor for green technologies at the Technical University of Munich.

The bridges stretch across rivers in India’s mountainous Meghalaya area, connecting villages. They’re all constructed from the aerial roots of the same kind of. tree: the Indian rubber tree. Unlike bridges made from wood or bamboo, they aren’t easily swept away and they don’t rot — a common problem in what is often described as the world’s wettest region. They’ve also proven more durable than bridges made from modern steel structures that quickly rust and decay in the damp climate.

The bridges are made and kept in good condition by individuals, families and communities from Khasi and Jaintia people. “In many cases it’s a cooperation of all the inhabitants of two villages. This gives hope that this tradition can survive because it’s on many shoulders.” said Ludwig. While some of the bridges have become tourist attractions, seeing up to 2,000 visitors a day, not all of the bridges they studied were in active use, with some at risk of being cut down for firewood.

1. What does Ludwig think of the bridges in Meghalava?

A．They have been studied thoroughly.

B．They aren’t as strong as wooden bridges.

C．They can’t compete with steel structures.

D．They are totally nature-friendly.

2. How are the bridges in Meghalaya different from modern bridges?

A．They are usually taller.

B．They can be swept away more easily.

C．They are longer in most cases.

D．They can survive the wet climate better.

3. How might Ludwig feel about many people building the bridges together?

A．Indifferent.

B．Disappointed.

C．Relieved.

D．Confused.

4. Which is the best title for the text?

A．Special bridges in India.	B．Disappearing bridges in India
C．Ways to preserve old bridges.	D．Methods of building green bridges.

2 . Here are four beautiful lakes in the world, each of which can be your next destination.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Few lakes in Europe come as postcard-ready as Slovenia’s Lake Bled. Located in the snow-capped Julian Alps about a 45-minute drive outside of the capital city of Ljubljana, it’s best known for the fairytale-like Church of the Assumption, which sits on a pocket-sized island in the lake and has been attracting visitors for centuries.

Lake Annecy, France

Thanks to strict environmental rules set in place in the 1960s, Lake Annecy is an undamaged body of water that’s often called the cleanest lake in Europe. As a home base, you can't beat Annecy, which has been called the Venice of the Alps for its series of canals, and the Imperial Palace, which has more than 100 years.

Lake Vattern, Sweden

During a Swedish summer, there are few better places to enjoy the endless summer nights than sitting by the nation’s lakes. Among the lakes, the most charming is this finger-shaped lake about a 3-hour drive southwest of Stockholm, surrounded by historic settlements like Hjo, a beautifully preserved town on the lake's western shore.

Qinghai Lake, China

Located in northwest China, Qinghai Lake enjoys a climate with low rainfalls. When looking into the distance from a high place, you can enjoy a photographic view of the revolving evergreen mountains, clear and glittering water, beautiful grassland and groups of sheep.

1. What can we learn about Lake Annecy?

A．It is under good protection.

B．It is located on an island.

C．It’s the cleanest globally.

D．It is known for an old church.

2. What does Lake Vattern look like?

A．A circle.

B．A pocket.

C．A finger.

D．a foot.

3. Which can give you the view of the attractive grassland and groups of sheep?

A．Lake Bled.	B．Lake Annecy.
C．Lake Vättern.	D．Qinghai Lake.

3 . Italy’s Attractive Towns

Whether you’re looking for historical adventures or attractive walks along the coast, Italy’s fascinating towns can be your choices.

Positano

Featuring houses of different colors well layered on the cliffs (悬崖), Positano is also charming with the blue sea, blue sky, white clouds, flowers dotted with the town. Lined with umbrellas, beach chairs and yachts, the town’s beach transports you to a beautiful setting. When the sun sets, the town bathes in golden sunshine, creating a perfect photograph opportunity.

Alberobello

Nestled in the Itria Valley countryside, the small town Alberobello awaits. It features a kind of whitewashed round houses like mushrooms from a distance, the unique trullo architecture, listed as a World Heritage Site. If you’re in the mood for more fun, the Itria Valley is a great starting point for picturesque bike rides and scenic walks, with the Castellana Caves being only a short drive away.

Cefalù

Cefalù is the example of old-town elegance. Stone streets, a sandy beach, and local crafts shops make the town so attractive as a destination. Whether you want to go on a historic exploration or want a city-style break, the small town has it all. The main church of Cefalù, Duomo di Cefalù, built in the 11th century, is the most recognizable landmark in the city.

Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is a picture-perfect old town on a hilltop. The beautiful whitewashed houses spread out along the curving (弯曲的) shore, transporting you to a simpler time. Visitors are invited to swim to explore the natural wonders. If swimming isn’t your thing, then the famous Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series will definitely take your breath away.

1. When is the best time for visitors to take pictures in Positano?

A．In the morning.

B．In the afternoon.

C．At dusk.

D．At midnight.

2. What makes Alberobello world-famous?

A．The local house design.	B．Various mushrooms.
C．Coastal caves.	D．An ancient church.

3. Which place may appeal to adventurers most?

A．Positano.

B．Alberobello.

C．Cefalù.

D．Polignano a Mare.

5 . Whether you’re traveling with teens or kids, there’s an option for you below.

Jamaica

Jamaica is a preferred place when it comes to family vacations for a reason. Yes, there are amazingly blue waters and extensive sandy beaches—also there’s plenty of adventures to be had. Putting up nights at the Royalton Negril, you don’t even need to leave the resort to entertain your family, since there’s a mini water park and kids’ club on site.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is great for American families in need of an easy getaway, since US citizens don’t need a passport to visit. After some time on the island’s beautiful beaches, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old San Juan, which is just two hours from Miami and less than four hours from New York City, by plane.

Dominica

Families with active teens should head to Dominica for an off-the-beaten-path experience. The youngest Caribbean island at just 26 million years old, it’s nicknamed the Nature Island for its thick rain forests, plentiful waterfalls, and volcano-fed hot springs. The island is also home to one-of-a-kind attractions like the Waitukubuli Sea Trail—the only sea kayaking （皮划艇） trail in the Caribbean.

Barbados

If you want your beach vacation with a side of history, head to Barbados. Beyond its great natural setting, the island has an abundance of cultural experiences that are engaging and educational for adults and children alike. Explore the colonial architecture in Bridgetown, tour the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, or appreciate works by local artists in the Gallery of Caribbean Art in Speightstown.

1. What can kids do at the Royalton Negril?

A．Have fun in the water park.	B．Appreciate works by local artists.
C．Experience off-the-beaten-path.	D．Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. What makes it easy for American families to visit Puerto Rico?

A．The similar culture.	B．The same language.
C．Convenient traffic means.	D．No request for passports.

3. Those who want to experience cultural beach travel can choose ______.

A．Jamaica

B．Puerto Rico

C．Barbados

D．Dominica

6 . Here are some fantastic parks in San Antonio.

Brackenridge Park

The park was first established in 1899 and has been popular with both locals and visitors ever since. Towering trees and peaceful riverbanks will greet guests along the park’s paths, and the facilities include playgrounds, museums, a miniature train, a Japanese tea garden, and one of the oldest golf courses in the city.

Friedrich Wilderness Park

In the park, you’ll find about 10 miles of paved(铺过的)and unpaved trails(路线), with a little something for everyone. From rocky climbs to deep canyons, and enchanting forests to open views, there’s no shortage of natural beauty. The area is nationally famous for birdwatching.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

The park is the state’s only one on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers quite a large area, so it’s best to make it a full-day or at least a half-day trip so you can be sure to cover everything. While the Alamo is a separate attraction, you will get to enjoy the architectural wonders of Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. They’re all connected by a hike and bike trail, with plenty of stops along the way to picnic, climb trees, and refill water. Admission is free!

Eisenhower Park

Just a 20-to 30-minute drive from the city center, the park puts the best landscapes in the Texas Hill Country on full display, holding 6 miles of hiking trails, both paved and unpaved. Explore dried creek beds, look out over plunging canyons, and enjoy full views of San Antonio down below. You can also find playgrounds for the little ones, picnic tables, and barbecue facilities.

1. What is Friedrich Wilderness Park well-known for?

A．Birdwatching.	B．Ancient buildings.
C．A Japanese tea garden.	D．Unpaved hiking paths.

2. Which park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

A．Brackenridge Park.

B．Friedrich Wilderness Park.

C．San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

D．Eisenhower Park.

3. What are some of the features of Eisenhower Park?

A．Golf courses and bicycle trails.

B．Museums and no entrance fee.

C．Birdwatching and playgrounds.

D．Hiking trails and barbecue facilities.

7 . 听下面一段较长对话，回答以下小题。
1. How long does the man plan to stay in South America?

A．About three days.

B．About one week.

C．About three weeks.

2. How will the man go to Rio?

A．By bus.

B．By plane.

C．By ship.

3. Who is the man going to meet in Chile?

A．His customer.

B．His friends.

C．His family.

4. Where will the man go for fun on the beach?

A．Santiago.

B．Lima.

C．Valparaiso.

8 . 阅读下面短文，在空白处填入1个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。

Hangzhou is the capital city of Zhejiang Province. It     1     (lie) in the east of China, near Shanghai. With a long and rich history, Hangzhou is one of China’s Seven Ancient Capitals. Italian traveler Marco Polo once described it as the     2     (fine) and the noblest (最壮丽的) city in the world. As a city of gardens, lakes, and temples, Hangzhou’s     3    (beautiful) has been admired in all ages. There is an old saying     4     goes like this, “There is Paradise (天堂) above and Suzhou and Hangzhou below.”

Hangzhou has been listed as the “Happiest City” in China many times. It     5    (regard) as one of the most livable     6     (city) in China, too. Tens of millions of tourists from home     7     abroad come to visit it every year.

Hangzhou is also the host city of the Asian Games 2022. It is aiming at     8     (become) a “zero-waste city” and has made the “Zero-waste Asian Games Improvement Action Plan”.   Everyone is taking measures     9     (reduce) waste in the city. Let’s hope for     10     more beautiful Hangzhou.

9 . The romantic Rhine, which flows more than 700 miles from Switzerland to the North Sea, is one of the most popular cruising(巡游) rivers in Europe, with many options available. Take a look at things to do in Rhine River!

Amsterdam

Many Rhine River Cruises begin or end in Amsterdam. This city is popular among multiple age groups and types of travelers for its relaxing atmosphere. Grab a bicycle and enjoy an afternoon of cafes, art, and historical sites. The Anne Frank House is a popular attraction in Amsterdam. Be sure to check if your river cruise can help with advance tickets as the lines are consistently long, though.

Neuschwanstein Castle

This fairytale castle is in the heart of Bavaria, Germany. Situated in the Black Forest, and conjuring up (唤起) visions of princes and princesses, it is an extremely popular tourist attraction. It was in fact one of the inspirations for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. If your Rhine River cruise includes a stop in Munich, there’s a good chance that visits to Neuschwanstein will be available.

Strasbourg

If you’re looking for a classic European country town, this is the stop for you Strasbourg has a typical French feel, with cobblestoned streets, small shops, and of course a cathedral. Be sure to visit picturesque Petite France, the historic quarter of town, and Rohan Palace to walk in the footsteps of Marie Antoinette, the last queen of France before the French Revolution. Strasbourg is also a delightful place for visit for Christmas markets.

Basel

Sharing three international borders: Switzerland, Germany, and France, Basel presents a fascinating combination of cultures, cuisines, and languages. You can enjoy several wonderful historic sights in Basel, within a short distance from each other, and don’t miss a walk through the Botanical Gardens.

1. What do Amsterdam and Strasbourg have in common?

A．They have historical sites.

B．They have a relaxing French style.

C．They are home to big shopping malls.

D．They are famous for the picturesque scenery.

2. What might be the reason for Neuschwanstein Castle’s popularity?

A．Its mysterious story.	B．Its favourable location.
C．Its fairytale romance.	D．Its inspiration for films.

3. Which stop would you recommend most to those who want to experience diverse cultures?

A．Amsterdam.	B．Neuschwanstein Castle.
C．Strasbourg.	D．Basel.

10 . 听下面一段独白，回答以下小题。
1. Why did the speaker want to leave his home?

A．To leave his job.

B．To move to Central Asia.

C．To follow his uncle’s dream.

2. Where will the speaker start his trip?

A．In France.

B．In China.

C．In the UK.

3. How will the speaker spend the winter months?

A．By riding through China.

B．By staying with his parents.

C．By working at a ski mountain.

4. Who will ride a bicycle with the speaker on his trip to Shanghai?

A．His father.

B．His friends.

C．His cousin.