Cycling is kind to the environment so it is an excellent way to take in the city. Here are 4bike-friendly cities having adopted this green mode of transport to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Montréal, Canada
Montréal has already established protected bike paths since the 1980s. BIXI is the city’s bike-sharing system with 9, 600 bikes and almost 800 stations. Cyclists can make their visit to the Tour de L’lle Montreal, a yearly bike ride where cyclists take to the streets for a day without any other vehicles being allowed on the roads.
Malmö, Sweden
Cycling in Malmö is enjoyable due to the relaxed and easy-going manner of most cyclists. The calming atmosphere makes it a great experience, even for nervous riders. A highly recommended bike route is from Ribersborg park to Limhamn Harbour, where riders can take a few good photos of the famous Oresund Bridge.
Beijing, China
In the 1970s, bicycles were the main mode of transportation for people in Beijing. However, dedicated (专用的) cycle paths for cyclists were limited. Only in May 2019, did the city launch its first specific cycle path. This achievement in cycling facility is worth a shout-out for a city with over 21 million people.
Bogota, Colombia
Bogota first introduced the concept of cycle path in 1974. The idea sees cars being banned from city roads every Sunday from 7 a.m.to 2 p.m., helping cyclists, runners and walkers exercise safely. Since then, the city has slowly but steadily expanded the program, including setting up dedicated cycle paths. As a result, Bogota now has 550km of bike paths and is the most bike-friendly city in Latin America.
1. What make(s)Montréal different from other cities?A.A well-developed bike-sharing system. |
B.The oldest protected bike paths. |
C.An annual bicycle event. |
D.The most calming effect on cyclists. |
A.Beijing. | B.Malmö. | C.Montréal. | D.Bogota. |
A.Improvement in cycling facility. |
B.Shift in primary means of transportation. |
C.Regular investment in building bicycle paths. |
D.Multiple specific cycle paths connecting districts. |
2 . It’s said that architecture should speak of its time and place, but long for timelessness. It’s no wonder that some of the most creative designs are implemented on college campuses, where students learn from the past and grow from new perspectives. As students from all over the world meet again for the school year, these campuses offer different points of view, not only through their courses, but also through their unconventional building styles. Here are college buildings around the world that present different angles.
On Island Time
Venice International University
VENICE, ITALY
At VIU, located in a lagoon(泻湖) on the island of San Servolo, the only way to get to campus is by water. The architecture is symbolic of the island’s rich history—transformed from monastery(修道院) to hospital, with remains of the vineyards and gardens that once covered much of the land.
Mountain Construction
University of Cape Town
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Nestled just below Devil’s Peak, this university uses geography as architecture, with the buildings melding(融合) into a mountainous backdrop. It’s a setting that comes with risk, though; last year, a wildfire on the slope raged through the campus, destroying several historic buildings, including the library and its special collections. Restoration efforts are still in progress.
Dean of Dumplings
Nanyang Technological University
SINGAPORE
If this student center has you desire dumplings, you’re not alone—the building, actually named The Hive, is also referred to as the “dim sum building” for its similarity to piles of steamer baskets. Not everyone agrees though; The Architectural Review compared the building to “something of a deserted car-park aesthetic(美感,美学).”
1. How can you get to Venice International University?A.By bike. | B.By train. | C.By taxi. | D.By boat. |
A.The campus was damaged by accident. |
B.The buildings survived a natural disaster. |
C.The library and collections were restored. |
D.The campus was built below Devil’s Peak. |
A.Simple. | B.Lonely. | C.Historical. | D.Lifelike. |