1 . Europe’s historic islands offer travelers insights into the past.

Malta

Though English is still widely spoken as one of Malta’s official languages — set during 150 years of British rule, which also left behind left-hand driving — calls for revival saw Maltese become the official language again in 1934. There’s hardly a time of year when the Maltese aren’t celebrating something, but modern history lovers should head out for 21 September, which marks Malta’s Independence Day. The island nation’s sovereignty (主权) was hard-fought for and finally won in 1964.

Crete, Greece

The Minoans — a Cretan people widely credited as Europe’s first recorded civilisation — are believed to have brought olive oil production to Europe around 4,500 years ago. See for yourself on a cookery experience with Minoan Tastes, where you’ll wolf down the food inspired by old recipes. If you’re hungry for more history, head for the Olive Tree Museum in Vouves, which dives into the history of the industry.

Sardinia, Italy

The Giants of Mont’e Prama — 15 large sandstone heads said to be 3,000 years old — were unearthed in 1974 by two farmers who worked in the field. Their age connects them to the island’s mysterious (神秘的) Nuragic civilisation. See the figures at Cagliari’s National Archaeological Museum. Within the same museum lie other important finds, which help to paint a picture of the civilisation’s livelihoods.

Isle of Skye, Scotland

It’d be a surprise that a lyre said to be about 4,000 years old was found on Scotland’s Isle of Skye in 2012. The discovery tugged (拨动) on the heartstrings of islanders whose past has been underpinned by a love of traditional folk music, often featuring stringed instruments. The islanders host many live music events every year. See a variety of acts at Skye Live, the island’s annual music festival with hours of traditional Scottish songs.

1. When did Malta become independent?

A．In 1814.

B．In 1934.

C．In 1964.

D．In 1974.

2. Who discovered the ancient stone figures in Sardinia?

A．Painters.	B．Local farmers.
C．Tourists.	D．Museum workers.

3. Which might attract music lovers?

A．Isle of Skye.

B．Sardinia.

C．Crete.

D．Malta.

2 . New York City has many remarkable parks and open spaces that are perfect for hanging out in warm weather. Here are four of our favorite places to take a scenic walk, plus where to eat nearby.

Louis Valentino, Jr. Park

Don’t let all of the factories fool you — Louis Valentino, Jr. Park has the best view of the Statue of Liberty. When you get hungry, stop by Red Hook Lobster Pound for mayo-coated lobster (龙虾). Sit at one of the cafe’s first come, first served outdoor tables, or eat on the waterfront.

Riverside Park

Stretching 4 miles from 72nd to 158th St, Riverside Park is perfect for hanging out along the Hudson River, enjoying beautiful views of New Jersey. If walking the whole way isn’t your thing, there’s a bike path too. Daily Provisions offers fantastic sandwich choices, like juicy chicken and smoked bacon.

Central Park

There are many reasons to walk through Central Park this spring: historic landmarks, great bird watching spots, and hanging out with friends. And while these are enjoyable activities, they’re even better with a pastrami sandwich from Pastrami Queen.

Ridgewood Reservoir

At Ridgewood Reservoir, you’ll find an easy hiking spot with a peaceful nature preserve and skyline views of Manhattan. After hiking, head to Rolo’s for various sandwich options. It has outdoor tables but no heaters, so you can take everything to go if it’s too cold out.

1. What is the best spot for enjoying views of the Statue of Liberty?

A．Louis Valentino, Jr. Park.	B．Ridgewood Reservoir.
C．Riverside Park.	D．Central Park.

2. What makes Riverside Park an attractive destination?

A．It features a bike path for leisurely rides.

B．It provides various sandwich options at Rolo’s.

C．It is known for its iconic status and historic landmarks.

D．It provides a scenic walk with options for bird watching.

3. Where is this article most likely sourced from?

A．An online cooking advertisement.

B．A local New York City travel guide.

C．The lifestyle section of a local newspaper.

D．An official tourism design for New York City.

3 . Floating Markets in Bangkok, Thailand

One might feel as though they are entering a different world upon visiting a Thai floating market. While some countries in Asia have their own floating markets, none compare to Thailand’s, and the special experience is one you cannot miss while visiting the country.

Long-tail boats, ancient and traditional houses, and shouting vendors (商贩) are the major elements of floating markets in Bangkok. They are excellent options for experiencing the unusual culture and life of Thailand. Here are the top 8 floating markets in Bangkok, where you can experience the chaotic and charming atmosphere.

Name	Distance from Downtown Bangkok	Open Times	Features
Damnoen Saduak	80 km (50 mi)	Every day from 7 a. m. to 5 p. m	Long-tail boat cruises, remote villages, plantations
Amphawa	90 km (55mi)	11 a. m. to 9.30 p. m., Friday to Sunday	Thai food, little wooden houses, temples
Wat Sai	23 km (14 mi)	8 a. m.-6 p. m., Tuesday-Saturday	A mixture of Chinese culture and Thai culture
Taling Chan	12 km (7 mi)	8 a. m.-6 p. m., Saturday-Sunday	Temples, massages (按摩) on boats, foot massages under trees
Bangkhla	100km (60 mi)	8 a. m.-6 p. m., Saturday-Sunday	Remote countryside, charm, biking
Bang Nam Pheung	20 km (12 mi)	8: 30 a. m.-5p. m., Saturday-Sunday	Fruit, food, a nature sanctuary (避难所)
Bang Phli	38 km (24 mi)	11 a. m.-5:30 p. m., Tuesday-Saturday	Oldest, historical buildings, temples
Khlong Lat Mayom	21 km (13 mi)	7 a. m.-5p. m., Saturday—Sunday	Food, fruit, boat noodles

1. Which floating market only opens on weekends with the shortest opening hours?

A．Taling Chan.	B．Bang Phli.
C．Bang Nam Pheung.	D．Khlong Lat Mayom.

2. What is the unique characteristic of the market closest to Bangkok?

A．Delicious Thai food.	B．Numerous temple buildings.
C．Various massage services.	D．The traditional countryside life.

3. Which statement about Wat Sai is correct?

A．It is influenced by Chinese cultural elements.

B．Its number of open days in a week is the largest.

C．It is the centre of cultural exchange around the world.

D．It is a must-see tourist destination for Chinese tourists.

4 . It’s time to put your worries aside and pack your bags for some of the top most relaxing places for holidays for 2024.

Kos

Relaxing holidays in Kos are all about blending soft sand beaches, sparkling water, lush green interiors, and history hunting. The coast is perfect for long leisurely walks on the beach, sunbathing in the Greek sunshine, and wallowing in the warm water. History buffs are in for a treat with some of the best historic architecture in Greece. Kos is home to abundant Roman ruins and a 15th-century castle that is ideal for an afternoon of exploring.

Lanzarote

The vast untouched landscape has made Lanzarote one of the most popular holiday destinations because it is truly somewhere you can relax in peace, with nothing but soft sandy beaches and the ideal water for first-time ocean swimmers. Family holidays to Lanzarote are as accommodating as parents could wish for, offering a host of fantastic family-friendly fun for all ages.

Corfu

As the greenest of the Greek islands, you’re in for a treat with over two million olive trees, rolling green hills, and pine forests that blanket the island in emerald beauty. Finding the perfect mix of history hunting, nature exploration, and relaxation is all within reach on a luxury Corfu holiday. The old towns, harbours, and traditional hostels will have you relax and enjoy the best of the Greek islands in no time.

Rovinj

For a cultural holiday filled with exquisite architecture, national parks with untouched natural wonders, and long stretches of coastline, look no further than holidays in Rovinj. Located in the north of Croatia, Rovinj offers some of the best opportunities to explore the unique and moving culture. The town is home to narrow cobbled streets overlooking the ocean, with shops, galleries, and restaurants dotted throughout, bringing you the best of Croatia.

1. What can visitors do at Kos?

A．Visit art galleries.	B．Enjoy family-friendly fun.
C．Walk in national parks.	D．Admire historic architecture.

2. Which of the following is most suitable for parents with children?

A．Kos.	B．Lanzarote.
C．Corfu.	D．Rovinj.

3. What do the four destinations have in common?

A．They all have sea view.

B．They all have old castles.

C．They all belong to the same country.

D．They all have untouched landscape.

5 . How to choose a hiking trail (路径)

If you’re a keen hiker, chances are you have your favorite trails mostly because they’ re easy to reach and fit into your schedule. If you desire to set foot in hiking in depth, this guide may walk you through the steps of how to choose a hiking trail to your next great adventure.

    1     , defining how many miles the hike covers before departure. Next, ask yourself if you can reasonably walk that far. You can just walk as far down a trail as you want, and then turn back when you’re ready.    2    , such as a waterfall or standing stones, you’ll ideally make sure you can reach it.

Know what’s going to be underfoot.     3     On a hike you might encounter all different types of land, and the climbing is going to be dangerous or stable. So do research and understand what type of terrain (地形) you’re likely to encounter. There’s a big difference between walking through a forest and stair-stepping up a steep rock. When you’re using route finding apps, trails are usually rated us easy, moderate or difficult. Make sure you understand exactly what the hike involves from a skill to equipment    4    

For hikers, a thundering waterfull falling over a cliff can be a breathtaking climax to a forest hike.     5    , the things you’ll see along the way are a great reason to choose one hiking trail over another so long as the rest of it falls within your ability level of course.

A．Master your hiking equipment

B．Even if they are worth visiting

C．Check the total distance involved

D．But if there’s a waymark you’re hoping to see

E．It helps you decide between hiking shoes or boots

F．Although not all hikes lead to a fantastic viewpoint

G．Don’t rush into the journey without the investigations above

6 . Four Powerful US National Parks

Glacier

Montana

The Crown of the Continent is a playground of peaks, lakes, hiking paths and, of course, glaciers. Twenty-five of the original 150 remain, and scientists warn they may begone by 2030. Don’t miss Going-to-the-Sun Road, with a stop at Logan Pass to stretch your legs on the 2. 8-mile Hidden Lake Overlook Trail.

Yosemite

California

Not only is Yosemite home to the world’s tallest granite monolith (花岗岩巨石), but also North America’s largest waterfall (Yosemite Falls). The park has many 3, 000-year-old giant sequoia trees, so it’s easy to see why this 1, 100-square-mile wilderness is Eden for nature lovers.

Grand Canyon

Arizona

The power of nature on display at the Grand Canyon both humbles and excites the park’s 5 million annual visitors. There are many heart-stopping overlooks on the South Rim, but don’t miss the descent (斜坡) into the mile-deep gorge (峡谷) for adventures on foot, by mule or in a white-water raft.

Denali

Alaska

Travel to this remote park, which celebrated its 100th birthday in 2017, and mark two major items off your list: North America’s highest peak: 20, 310-foot Denali; and Alaska’s “big five”: moose, Dall sheep, caribou, wolves and grizzlies. See it all from the comfort of a bus tour, or explore 35. 5 miles of official hiking paths.

1. Which national park should you visit if you want to travel Going-to-the-Sun Road?

A．Glacier.

B．Yosemite.

C．Grand Canyon.

D．Denali.

2. What can you do in Yosemite national park?

A．Watch Alaska’s “big five”.	B．Explore the mile-deep gorge on foot.
C．Hike on the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail.	D．Admire North America’s largest waterfall.

3. Where is the national park having North America’s highest peak located?

A．In Montana.

B．In California.

C．In Arizona.

D．In Alaska.

7 . From displays of budding local creative minds to famous artists, airports are stepping up their game to share more of what their city is known for within the terminal. Visit our site and the most surprising, engaging, and inspiring art museums within an airport are just a click away.

Athens Eleftherios Venizelos Airport

Ancient Greece travels to you when you arrive at Athens Eleftherios Venizelos Airport. Before security, travelers can explore 172 pieces of archaeological artifacts from the Neolithic and Early Helladie to the Post-Byzantine period. Some of the pieces were actually uncovered during the construction of the airport. Even those not traveling through the airport can explore the displays thanks to an online 3D gallery.

Doha Hamad Airport

Social media enthusiasts have surely seen people posing for photos with the famous yellow “Lamp Bear” inside Doha Hamad Airport. You’ll also find 10 other giant statues and displays within the terminal. These include “A Message of Peace to the World,” a striking sculpture honoring the work of a local nonprofit organization, Reach out to Asia, that supports education in underprivileged Asian countries. The carefully-selected art on display is a cooperation between the airport and Qatar Museums.

Seoul Incheon Airport

Beyond traditional pieces of art, Seoul Incheon Airport takes things a step further by offering interactive experiences and classes for travelers. Within the airport is a branch of the National Museum of Korea exhibiting many pieces from its collection. There are rotating (轮流的) exhibits that allow frequent travelers to see a different selection of local artifacts and art pieces on different visits. There are traditional music concerts, ancient relic exhibitions and contemporary art displays.

Singapore Changi Airport

You may have seen the famous Jewel at Changi Airport in Singapore with its garden-enveloped waterfall. It is part of a larger shopping complex that encourages visitors, including those that are not traveling. Besides, there is other museum - quality art to explore like magnificent sculptures suspended from the ceiling, paintings lining the walls and even a rotating propeller (螺旋桨) that looks like a blossoming flower.

1. Which airport’s artworks can be appreciated both physically and virtually?

A．Athens Eleftherios Venizelos Airport.	B．Doha Hamad Airport.
C．Seoul Incheon Airport.	D．Singapore Changi Airport.

2. What do Doha Hamad Airport and Singapore Changi Airport have in common?

A．They support charity causes.	B．They boast splendid sculptures.
C．They cooperate with local museums.	D．They possess large shopping malls.

3. Where can the text possibly be found?

A．In an art magazine.	B．On a travel website.
C．In a geography textbook.	D．In a museum guidebook.

8 . 4-Day Tour of Zurich

If you only have 4 days to spend in Zurich, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here. Welcome to our group tour of Zurich!

Day 1 The guide will first lead us to the splendid Mountain World of the Bemese Oberland. Then we plan to board the Cogwheel train at Lauterbrunnen to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. The most exciting part of this train trip is the beautiful Ice Palace on the way and we’ll have a chance to overlook (俯视) the Aletsch Glacier.

Day 2 After breakfast, we will drive along the beautiful Lake Thun to the capital Berne. The city sits against the impressive Alps at the bend of the Aare River. After visiting the old district of the city, we will head to scenic Gruyeres. where we will visit the cheese factory and taste the famous Gruyere cheese. Later we are heading to Vaud Riviera, arriving at today’s destination Geneva.

Day 3 First of all, we will visit the beautiful lakeside park and the famous Palace of Nations in Geneva. Then we’ ll leave Geneva and drive to Montreux. On the way. we’ ll see Chillon Castle. the 13th-century building which is famous for Lord Byron’s poem. After arriving at Tasch in the afternoon. we will take the train to Zermatt and stay for one night there.

Day 4 For the last day in Zurich, you might be tired from the previous days. Zurich is known for their shopping, so this day could be shopping or window shopping! Each quarter of the city offers a unique shopping experience. You can explore Zurich’s Old Town which has smaller. traditional stores &. boutiques. Or maybe you are interested in expensive items in which you can stroll through Bahnhofstrasse. Walking through different streets you will stumble upon cafes and restaurants so you can easily find a spot for lunch and dinner.

1. What is the highlight of the first day trip?

A．Visiting the Cogwheel train.	B．Hiking the Bernese Oberland.
C．Appreciating the beautiful Ice Palace.	D．Going boating on Lake Thun.

2. What is the shared part on both Day 2 and Day 3?

A．Tasting delicious cheese.	B．Visiting Lord Byron’s residence.
C．Having a short stay in Geneva.	D．Enjoying the natural scenery of Berne.

3. Which activity is included in Day 4?

A．Buying souvenirs in Chillon Castle.	B．Enjoying a dinner in Gruyere .
C．Visiting cheese factory in Zurich’s Old Town.	D．Hanging out through Bahnhofstrasse.

9 . Insider Flight Tips for Your Journey

Anyone can book a trip, but not everyone can plan an ultimate adventure that is affordable, accommodating and fun. At www. tripinsiders. org, we aim to provide you with the best insider secrets in the travel business. And on this website, we also offer a state-of-the-art travel comparison tool to make planning easier than ever. Here are some insider tips that we'd like to share with you about flights.

Look for Glitch (小故障) Fares

Online booking systems for airfare don’t come without a pricing mistake every once in a while. Follow deal-minded travel sites and blogs to learn about pricing mistakes that work in your favor. This is the most useful if you live near a major airport and have a flexible schedule.

Consider Alternate Airports

Some major cities have more than one airport, so make sure to check them all for the cheapest fares. For example, if you’re planning to visit the Bay Area of California, check for rates in both San Francisco International Airport and Oakland International Airport.

Cross the Border by Land

Domestic flights are often cheaper than international ones, so if you live near a border and want to fly to a neighboring country, you can save by crossing the border by land and then catching a domestic flight. For example, Toronto residents may save by crossing the American border into Buffalo and then flying to another American city.

Use a Digital Luggage Scale

There’s nothing more frustrating than learning that your bag is too heavy to fly or that it’ll cost you extra when you arrive at the airport. Digital luggage scales are great for making sure that you’re not going over the baggage limit with your new souvenirs.

1. What is the main purpose of www.tripinsiders.org ?

A．To recommend travel websites.	B．To fund the travel business.
C．To advertise a travel agency.	D．To uncover travel business secrets.

2. What is advised for air travel?

A．Selecting airports.	B．Flying the border.
C．Carrying more baggage.	D．Having a fixed schedule.

3. What do the four tips have in common?

A．They cover all aspects of a trip.	B．They help travelers save money.
C．They merely apply to businessmen.	D．They are only for Toronto residents.

10 . Some people travel because they want to go to warm places for winter vacations or because they want to visit art museums in Europe. But other people travel simply because they have a passion for it.

Luisa Yu, a 79-year-old woman, fell in love with travel as a young girl in the province of Leyte in the Philippines when she watched movies. “I saw the beautiful scenery, the rivers and the mountains, and that fascinated me,” Yu said. “That’s why I always thought someday I would go to these places and travel.”

At 23, as an exchange student studying medical technologies in the US, Yu decided that she wanted to visit all of the countries in the world, but visa restrictions (限制) didn’t allow her to travel outside of the country.

It took Yu 15years to get her admission allowing her to travel internationally and there were times when she worked three jobs to save money to travel. She eventually took a part-time job as a travel agent, which gave her many more opportunities to travel to new places around the globe.

For the past 50 years, Yu has been visiting countries across the world, even some that are very difficult to get into. She has tried dog meat when she visited the DPRK, explored the beaches of Somalia, and even skydived in Dubai when she was 73. “Everyone said, ‘Don’t go to Somalia, that’s dangerous,’” Yu said. “If I want to go somewhere, nobody can stop me. I want to do everything.”

Yu achieved her goal to visit all of the 193 countries that are recognized by the UN, in November 2023. To date, there have only been around 400 people who have set out to achieve this amazing cause.

Yu’s advice to people who love to travel is to just do it. “Don’t wait for anybody. If I keep on waiting, it will never happen, because the opportunity sometimes comes only once,” she said.

1. What inspired Luisa Yu’s passion for travel?

A．The wonderful settings of the movies.	B．The desire to take a winter vacation abroad.
C．The dream of visiting art museums in Europe.	D．The studying opportunities while taking trips.

2. What can we learn about Luisa Yu from paragraphs 4 and 5?

A．She searched for fortune through travel.	B．She longed to be a travel agent.
C．She shot to fame by accident.	D．She was fond of challenges.

3. Which of the following can best describe Luisa Yu?

A．Tough-minded and devoted.	B．Considerate and gifted.
C．Humorous and knowledgeable.	D．Responsible and powerful.

4. What can be a suitable title for the text?

A．Meet Luisa Yu: One of 400 People Recognized by UN

B．Follow Luisa Yu’s Example: Seeking Adventure on Traveling

C．79-Year-Old Woman Has Traveled to 193 Countries Around the World

D．Travel Agent Surprises the World with the Longest of Travel Experience