1 . Travelling seemed like falsehood to me. I grew tired of backpackers expressing too much praise about how petting a baby elephant in Thailand “transformed” them. Globe-traveling to me held no more promise than finding a few bills in the pocket of an old coat. I needed something deeper than an Eat, Play, Love moment.

One day, Vasilis, my Greek best friend, reminded me of our decade-old promise: after our final exams, I would visit his hometown in Athens. Maybe, it was time to make good on that promise.

I finally boarded the plane. Vasilis picked me up at the airport. I smiled, thinking how improbable this moment seemed all those years ago.

The decade-long wait proved to be well worth it. Every step through the ancient streets revealed new wonders. However, none of them truly mattered. What would forever alter my perception of travel was a chance encounter with a local.

Vasilis and I were wandering Athens when a special sound caught our attention — a rhythmic clinking disturbing the quietness of the residential street. Curiously, we followed the sound to a humble workshop. Inside, a welder (焊工) gave no mind to our presence behind him. He wore no flashy protective suit — this was just another day for him, another dance with fire and metal that had become second nature. Under the sunshade, his orange cat rested in the comforting warmth...

As the man continued welding, I felt a bit of envy. I envied his peace and contentment. I admired the simplicity he embodied. I imagined the welder happy, finding fulfillment in his craft (手艺) and returning to his loving family...The moment moved me to tears. Leaving the workshop, rain blending with tears, I realized how easily life’s poetry could pass unnoticed.

Home again in Montreal, I stop simply pursuing better things, better experiences and better people that are never grasped. I realize the real journey is inward — to appreciate life’s ordinary magic. That sure beats petting any baby elephant. I may not have returned home “transformed,” but I’ll always think of the welder and his cat.

1. Which aspect of travelling makes the author feel uneasy?

A．Shortage of adequate funds.	B．Discomfort in dietary habits.
C．Overstatement of travel’s effects.	D．Danger of petting baby animals.

2. What drove the author to go to Athens?

A．Meeting a commitment.	B．Exploring a unique landscape.
C．Receiving further education.	D．Escaping from the current life.

3. What does the underlined word “poetry” in paragraph 6 probably refer to?

A．Poems written by masters.	B．Peace and simplicity.
C．Spirit of craftsmanship.	D．Special sound in the street.

4. Which of the following can be a suitable title for the text?

A．Friendship Lasts Forever	B．Travelling Shapes a Better Self
C．Pursuit of Happiness Never Stops	D．The Ordinary Makes Extraordinary

2 .

Revel in the Wonders of Spring From April 10 through May 31, 2024, Shanghai Disney Resort will be filled with a breathtaking display of blossoming flowers. Come and join us as we celebrate the spring season with a color and wonder!
Springtime In-Park Offerings
Springtime Décor With spring in full swing, Shanghai Disneyland blossoms with the magic of the season. There will be delicate hanging vines, and delightful flower beds. Throughout the spring season, the park and Disney town will be beautified with large egg sculptures, which have been thoroughly decorated to represent the charm of beloved Disney characters, providing the perfect accompaniment for memorable photos.	Disney Characters in their Spring Festival Costumes Our Disney Characters are all dressed up for the season in stylish new outfits. Enter the magical field and take a selfie with Minnie Mouse and all the residents of Mickey Avenue! In order to allow our Disney characters to share time with more guests, please keep your greeting short and sweet. Guests in the queue can ask for one autograph from each Disney character.
Disney Color-Fest: A Street Party! In celebration of the beautiful spring season, our parade route will come to life with a brilliant street party celebrating color, music and Disney characters! When the parade comes to a stop, a vibrant performance featuring bright lights, lively music and vivid colors will blossom. Come dance to the music!	Zao Shang Hao Every morning, beloved Disney Characters will gather on Mickey Avenue and bring the park to life with their performance. These performances may be impacted due to bad weather or other unforeseen conditions. During poor weather we will temporarily delay or cancel the show.
Important Details Each Guest (age 3 and older) is required to have both a park reservation and valid ticket or Magic Key pass, for the same date and same park, for each day of their visit. Theme park reservations for select dates and parks may be made in advance for a period of time, on a rolling basis. Theme park reservations are subject to the availability of applicable park reservation allocations and theme park capacity; and are not guaranteed for any specific dates or park, no matter the ticket or pass type. Buy Ticket and Get Park Reservation online or through the Disneyland app.

1. During which holiday can you enjoy the celebration of spring in Shanghai Disney Resort?

A．Tomb Sweeping Day.	B．Mid-Autumn Day.
C．Labour Day.	D．Children’s Day.

2. What can visitors do in the spring season according to the text?

A．Decorate the park with large egg sculptures.

B．Chat with their favourite characters on Mickey Avenue.

C．Take pictures with each character as many as they please.

D．Enjoy an exciting parade followed by a performance.

3. What should you do first if you want to make a reservation?

A．Check for updated availability.	B．Buy a Magic Key pass.
C．Select a day you’d like to visit.	D．Have a valid ticket.

3 . North Rim to reopen on June 2 with limited services available

News Release Date: May 17, 2023
Contact: Joëlle Baird, 928-606-3154
Grand Canyon, Ariz

The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park will open as scheduled, on June 2, with limited visitor services and water conservation measures due to a break in the North Rim water pipeline. A landslide from winter storms destroyed more than 300 feet of the North Rim water pipeline.

Visitor Services

The Grand Canyon Lodge will operate day-use services with limited food and beverage service beginning on June 2. No overnight accommodations will be available until at least July 23,2023.

The North Rim Campground, managed by the National Park Service, will operate as scheduled beginning on June 9 with potable drinking water and toilets available. The public laundry and shower facilities will not be open at least through July 23, 2023.

The North Rim Visitor Center and Grand Canyon Conservancy’s bookstore open as usual, 8 am to 6 pm daily, with a variety of ranger programs offered.

Visitors exploring the North Rim this summer should be self-sufficient and should bring adequate food and water for the day as services are limited and may be subject to change. Nearby, accommodating is available at the Kaibab Lodge and food services and fuel at the North Rim Country Store. Year-round accommodating, food services and fuel are located 45 miles north of the North Rim at Jacob Lake. As a result of substantial winter rockfall and landslides, trail (步道) repair work on the North Kaibab Trail continues. There is a trail closure in effect on the North Kaibab Trail and it will officially reopen on June 16, 2023.

1. Which was not affected and opens as usual?

A．The public laundry.	B．The Grand Canyon Lodge.
C．The North Kaibab Trail.	D．The North Rim Visitor Center.

2. What can we learn about the North Kaibab Trail from the text?

A．It offers food service.	B．It is around Jacob Lake.
C．It is under repair now.	D．It opens all the year around.

3. What is the purpose of the text?

A．To warn visitors of the oncoming landslide.

B．To inform visitors of schedules of some attractions.

C．To appeal to more visitors to the Grand Canyon National Park.

D．To advertise the products of the Grand Canyon National Park.

4 . Washington Irving once wrote, “…Europe held forth the charms of storied and poetical association.     1     Her very ruins told the history of times gone by, and every moldering (腐朽的) stone was a chronicle (编年史).”

    2     Cultural tourism becomes a new landmark in the tourist enterprise. For a tourist guide, it is an easy job to introduce or describe the natural scenery to the visitors, but it is not that easy for them to explain the culture.     3    

    4     From the ancient times, the ancestors of Chinese laboured, lived, and multiplied on this vast land and have created splendid culture. As one of the four birthplaces of world’s earliest civilizations, it has a recorded history of nearly 4, 000 years. Throughout the history of Chinese civilization, its agriculture and handicrafts have been famous for their high level of quality. During these 4, 000 years, China has raised many great thinkers, inventors, statesmen, strategists, men of letters and artists, resulting in a rich cultural heritage and fine cultural traditions.

    5     Click the links below to know each aspect specifically, which offer introduction, culture, and history of every division.

A．Tourism is always closely related to culture.

B．Europe was rich in the treasure of age.

C．China is a large country with time-honored history.

D．Of all the global tourist attractions, China tops the list.

E．Topchinatravel here collects some treasures of Chinese culture for your reference.

F．Therefore, visitors have to study the culture themselves in order to gain an impressive trip.

G．Therefore, we cooperate with tourist agencies throughout the world offering unforgettable travels.

5 . My family and I had set out on a day trip from Shillong to Cherrapunji, a town known for being one of the wettest places on Earth. However, after we had been stuck in traffic for more than four hours, one of my sisters proposed going back to the city as a last attempt to save whatever remained of the day. A quick online search revealed other must-visit spots around Shillong. Most were familiar, but one caught our attention—Nartiang with its mysterious monoliths (独石碑). The photo showed tall stones piled together in a strange formation, appealing to us to explore further despite the lack of details provided.

That is how I found myself standing in the shadow of the huge monoliths of Nartiang, which is home to the thickest and largest collection in the region. Curious to uncover their history, I approached Maryo Symblai, a village elder I met later that day, who told me the story of the monoliths that has been orally passed down over generations. She said, “Back in the day, Nartiang didn’t have a bazaar (集市) and the nearest one was at Raliang. On one such bazaar, a giant named Mar Phalyngki was caught in heavy rain on his way back. He requested to borrow an umbrella from the Raliang chief’s youngest daughter, but she wanted to test his legendary strength instead. ‘Why don’t you go lift that huge stone in the bazaar and use it as an umbrella?’ she said dismissively. Emboldened by her challenge, he just did that, but before reaching Nartiang, he placed it in a forest when the rain had stopped.”

“There is a certain overlap of ancient story and memory in the case of the Nartiang monoliths. The locals’ account of how the place came to be is based on ancient stories or folk customs. But they also remember it because it served their ancestors as a weekly marketplace, a memorial, and a place for political gatherings. That is how oral history works. It mixes fact and fiction into collective memory”, said Dr Reeju Ray, a local writer.

Today, even though the traditional customs and more confirmed historical accounts offer some insight into the site, the mystery(奥秘)of the stone giants lasts.

1. Why did the author and his family come to visit the monoliths of Nartiang?

A．It was in their original trip plan.

B．They had to choose it as an alternative.

C．It was the only remaining place to visit.

D．An elder village r gave them the suggestion.

2. Which does the underlined word “Emboldened” in paragraph 2 mean?

A．Threatened.

B．Moved.

C．Stimulated.

D．Frightened.

3. Why are Dr. Reeju Ray’s words mentioned?

A．To info rm what the monoliths served as.

B．To illustrate how the mysterious story came into being.

C．To introduce the feature of Nartiang monoliths.

D．To deny the overlap of ancient story and memory.

4. What is the best title for the text?

A．A Trip to the Monoliths.	B．The Mystery of Shillong.
C．The Formation of the Monoliths.	D．A Disappointing Travel Experience.

7 . Having been based in Thailand for seven years, I was informed my visa was no longer legally acceptable, which meant that I had to quit the job that I was succeeding in and leave behind this wonderful life I had built. I felt very, very down. Then, a friend, aware of what I was going through, messaged: “I can see you walking around Great Britain and then writing a book on it.”

Three weeks later, I did just that. Another friend suggested that I set up an Instagram account to document my journey, which I did, and so I set off with just a sleeping bag. When I took those first steps, I knew this journey would change my life, but not in the way it did. All of a sudden, I started to feel better, clearer and happier out in nature, walking. I remember what the first days were like. I walked the southwest coastal path for 635 miles. Its rough land and beautiful scenery were in equal measure, and it challenged me every day.

I met so many people who became my friends very quickly and supported me in many ways. Mentally, I felt stronger at this point. Of course, with the enormous amounts of miles walked and the challenging weather conditions that I faced, I had the occasional hesitation. But when this did happen, I’d just remind myself of what I’d achieved and the overwhelming support that I’d had to get me through. Finally, in April, I finished my walk around the UK.

I was cheerful, I felt proud, and I never imagined in my wildest dreams I could do it. But quickly after, I realized I had more in me. The walk had changed my life so much that I wanted to pay it forward and help people like the previous version of me that had been left in the past. So I decided to do it again—this time in 12 months, and for 12 charities. And that’s what I’m doing now.

1. Why did the author walk around the UK?

A．To find inspiration.	B．To remove depression.
C．To meet a friend’s request.	D．To escape from reality.

2. What can we know about the author’s journey from paragraph 2?

A．It was refreshing.	B．It was documented by a friend.
C．It turned out smooth just as expected.	D．It proved more challenging than satisfying.

3. Which word best describes the author?

A．Modest.

B．Outgoing.

C．Smart.

D．Determined.

4. What can be the best title for the text?

A．Step Out of Your Comfort Zone	B．Something beyond Walking in Life
C．Walk around the UK for Charities	D．A Life-Changing Tour around the UK

8 . The Best Maldives Island for Your Travel Style

Every resort (度假地) in Maldives is its own private island but choosing the right one for you can be difficult. Want to kick off your Indian Ocean holiday in style? Our guide will help you know what to look for in the hunt for your ideal island.

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

You’ll never go hungry at the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, which has 11 restaurants, including ones specializing in garden-to-table cuisine. There are regular food-themed events, too — our favorites include Arabian Night and the Twilight Seafood Barbecue.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives

Considered one of the best spots in the Maldives for honeymoons, the Four Seasons Resort Maldives has a huge range of room categories and offers a brilliant selection of packages, including Island Romance packages that feature fantastic extras designed with couples in mind.

Fairmont Maldives

There are numerous reasons to visit the Fairmont Maldives, including the fact that it’s a great place to learn about sustainability, whether it’s at the Sustainability Lab, where guests can turn discarded plastic bottles into jewelry or during excursions with marine biologists from a charity created to protect sea turtles.

Heritance Aarah

Heritance Aarah recently opened its Live Maldivian Village Museum, which focuses on 4,000 years of Maldivian history. Guests can learn about the art of coral stone carving and find out why locals are known as some of the world’s best boat builders.

To ensure you experience the Maldives’ best bits, schedule a holiday every month without fail. We’re joking, but you get the point: think what you want to see and do, and brush up on the different areas’ seasonal selling points.

1. Who are the target readers of the article?

A．Sports lovers.	B．Travel enthusiasts.
C．Wilderness explorers.	D．Travel agents.

2. What do you know about the four islands recommended?

A．They are the first four most-visited sites.	B．They have their own unique characteristics.
C．They are just tailored for young couples.	D．They feature absolute peace and tranquility.

3. Why does the author make suggestions in the last paragraph?

A．To persuade you to journey to Maldives.	B．To urge you to start a holiday early.
C．To remind you not to miss selling points.	D．To help you choose the ideal island.

9 . If you want to help kids get creative and use their imaginations, a family trip to one of the best kids’ museums in Sydney will do the trick!

Powerhouse Museum

The Powerhouse Museum is the perfect place for inquisitive kids to have a hands-on, interactive experience. This kids’ museum in Sydney boasts a unique and diverse collection of objects that spans history, science, technology, and programs designed to engage children and young people. Plus, it’s FREE.

Sydney Tramway Museum

The Sydney Tramway Museum stands as a cherished homage to the city’s iconic tram network. From the elegant wooden carriages of the early 20th century to the sleek and modern designs of later years, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through the evolution of tram transport. There, you’ll have a chance to ride on one of the historic trams during your visit!

Newcastle Museum

The Newcastle Museum provides a fascinating insight into the region’s history, culture, and industry. Engage with interactive displays, learn about the city’s coal mining heritage, and discover exhibitions that highlight the diverse stories of its people. It has an exciting calendar of events that change regularly and include free exhibitions and kids’ activities.

Questacon, Canberra

Generations of Australians is r have enjoyed the delights of this fascinating science and technology museum, which opened in 1988. Highlights include feeling the force of an earthquake, seeing lightning illuminate the room and peeking inside a beehive. Younger kids will enjoy Mini Q—a custom-built play space for children up to six years old.

1. Which museum offers the rail ride experience?

A．Questacon, Canberra.	B．Powerhouse Museum.
C．Newcastle Museum.	D．Sydney Tramway Museum.

2. What do Powerhouse Museum and Newcastle Museum have in common?

A．They set activity calendars for visitors.	B．They help explore how the locals live.
C．They offer some interactive fun.	D．They give visitors an insight into mining.

3. What can visitors do at Questacon, Canberra?

A．Learn the cultural heritage.	B．Experience natural phenomena
C．Enjoy fascinating collections.	D．Engage in some space games.

10 . 4 Really Strange Beaches

Sandy stretches of gray, brown or even white are the world’s norm. Even rocky beaches or those with sheer cliffs barring passage for everyone save the bravest adventurers are not rare. These unique beaches are some of the best treats nature has to offer.

Papakolea Beach, Hawaii, USA

Papakōlea Beach is a green sand beach located near South Point, in the Ka’ū district of the island of Hawai ’i. One of only two green sand beaches in the World, the other being in Galapagos Islands.

Papakōlea Beach is associated with the southwest rift (裂谷) of Mauna Loa. Since its last eruption, the cinder cone has partially collapsed and been partially swallowed by the ocean.

San Alfonso del Mar Beach, Chile

This beach is located between the largest artificial pool. San Alfonso del Mar Beach is an essential part of the luxurious resort of the same name.

It seems a strange spot for the world’s largest swimming pool. But the pool’s remarkable spaciousness (宽敞) complements the ocean beyond rather effortlessly, and jumping in the pool’s 79℉(26℃) water is a much more attractive prospect than venturing into the 63℉(17℃) seawater nearby.

Maho Beach, Sint Maarten

Maho Beach is a beach on the Dutch side of the Caribbean island of Saint Martin, in the country of Sint Maarten. It is famous for the Princess Juliana International Airport next to the beach.

Arriving aircraft must touch down as close as possible to the beginning of Runway 10 due to the short runway length of 380 metres, resulting in aircraft on their final approach flying over the beach at minimal altitude.

Ocean Dome, Japan

This is an artificial beach constructed in the Seagaia re son along the coastal highway outside the city of Myazaki in Japan it has a fully controlled indoor climate throughout the year.

The Ocean Dome, which was a popular part of the Sheraton Seagaia Resort, measures 300 meters in length and 100 meters in width.

1. What has Papakōlea Beach experienced in Hawaii?

A．One mineral.	B．One connection.
C．One fierce rift.	D．One severe outbreak.

2. What’s the most exciting in San Alfonso del Mar Beach, Chile?

A．Jumping into the pool’s water

B．Learning to jump water in the pool

C．Building a spacious swimming pool

D．Taking a risk of swimming in the pool

3. What do Maho Beach and Ocean Dome have in common?

A．They lie beside good places built.	B．They both lie on an island.
C．They are both artificial beaches.	D．They are both well-known.