1 . This is the last Christmas that Faye and Matthew have spent in their house, which has already been sold. Faye and Matthew Gooding and their five young sons appear to have perfect lives. For the couple themselves, however, this “materially perfect world” was lacking in something—so now they are giving up all their possessions to travel around the world with their children. Most of their belongings have been given to their neighbors. Faye said, “It is a relief to get rid of so many possessions. Thankfully, our parents understand and support us.”
“I hesitated for a while because some friends think Faye and I are mad to give up so much. When we told the older boys, they were so excited that they were going to have so much time as a family. It made me realize the amount of toys or material possessions can’t replace time spent with our children. They’ve had to give away so many toys, bikes and books. My wife Faye was so determined to keep to our plan,” said Matthew.
They will leave this month and plan to start their travels in Sweden where they have friends. Faye said, “My older boys plot where we go next but we hope to see Europe and over two years travel as far as Japan, America, Bali and Thailand. We don’t plan to hire any tour guides. We just depend on a compass and local people to move in the right direction.”
Faye, who posts on Instagram as a mother of five boys, added, “It is a risk because we are giving up so much. I, however, even plan to quit my job after the travel. We can’t wait to spend more time with our sons without the stresses of everyday routines. We don’t know what will happen, but we do know if we didn’t do this we would always regret it.”
1. How will Faye and Matthew cover the travel costs?| A．By selling their house. | B．By doing part-time jobs. |
| C．By asking parents for help. | D．By borrowing from neighbors. |
| A．Worried | B．Excited | C．Uncertain | D．Firm |
| A．Faye | B．Matthew | C．The children | D．The tour guide |
| A．A travel guidebook | B．A life journal | C．A paper | D．A diary |
2 . On many travelers’ lists of things to do before they die, you’ll find “See the northern lights” written down. Rightfully so these lights are one of nature’s most jaw-dropping views.
In Sweden, the northern lights usually appear from late March or early April. Your best chance of catching a glimpse of them is on cold winter nights when the sky is clear, dark with little to no moonlight, and cloudless. You need to be away from city lights and go to the countryside. For those willing to brave the cold on winter nights, here are some of the best locations.
Abisko National Park
Abisko Natinal Park is a main location. The scientifically confirmed “blue hole”, a piece of sky over the Tornetrask lake that usually remains clear despite cloudy weather nearby, gives Abisko its own microclimate (局部地区气候), which is suitable for catching the lights.
Jukkasjarvi
The village of Jukkasjarvi only has about 550 people. But don’t let the small population size fool you: Jukkasjarvi owns the world’s first ice hotel and is one of the best places to view the northern lights. The ice hotel organizes guided tours for guests to the Esrange Space Center. There you can eat at a camp outside and see the Arctic winter sky for aurora borealis (北极光). Or why not try to get closer to the northern lights and watch them through an aeroplane window? The ice hotel arranges flights for the amazing northern lights experience.
Gallivare
You can drive a snowmobile to the mountain top in Gallivare for a private light show, or head a few kilometers to nearby villages to watch those lights shining across the dark winter sky. But remember if you do get the chance to see the northern lights in person, never whistle to them. According to ancient Sumi fairy, it brings you bad luck.
1. When are you likely to best enjoy the northern lights in Swede?| A．On cold winter nights with clear sky and a little moonlight. |
| B．On freezing winter nights in the rural area without moonlight or cloud. |
| C．On chilly winter nights in the city center with few lights and little cloud. |
| D．On winter nights when the sky is dark with little moonlight and no cloud. |
| A．It has up to 550 people. |
| B．It owns the world’s first hotel. |
| C．It is among the best places to view the northern lights. |
| D．You can eat at a camp inside and see the aurora borealis. |
| A．A science report. | B．An art magazine. | C．A travel guide. | D．A botanical book. |
3 . Pamukkale, which means “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a natural site in Denizli in southwestern Turkey. The area is famous for a carbonate mineral left by the flowing water. Throughout thousands of years, this mineral has formed white water pools famous around the whole world for their healing properties.
Bath e in the travertine (石灰华) pools
Sit in the theater of Hierapolis
The theater is the main attraction to see if you visit the ruins of Hierapolis.
Bathe in Pamukkale’s antique pool near the Temple of Apollo
There are a few more pools worth exploring near the Temple of Apollo.
This small museum has an interesting collection of antiquities from Hierapolis and is located in a former Roman bathhouse. It showcases beautiful art, stone reliefs, and ancient sarcophagi (石棺) for which the region is famous. Visiting the museum will help bring the city of Hierapolis to life.
| A．Unlike the natural travertine pools, these were carved into the rock by the Romans. |
| B．The museums closer to the top are the hottest. |
| C．Visit the museum of Hierapolis. |
| D．There are quite a few things to see and do in and around Pamukkale. |
| E．The one thing you should absolutely do is bathing in the white travertine pools. |
| F．The ruins of the city have beautiful long roads surrounded by towering columns. |
| G．It stands on top of a hill and overlooks the rest of the ancient Greek colony. |
4 . Unlike other major destinations, Rome doesn’ t have a huge number of hostels (旅社). In fact, there are less than 40 listed on Hostelworld. So we’ ve analyzed each hostel to bring you detailed information about hostels in Rome.
TYPICAL ROME HOSTEL PRICES
Hostels in Rome are generally reasonably priced. Most hostels, regardless of quality, will start around € 25 -- € 32 / night in the summer. You might be able to find some around € 20 / night but those are tough to snag (抢先获得). The cheapest hostels will cost around € 18 / night -- but don’t expect very good quality.
Check Hostelworld to get exact prices for your dates as prices are always varying.
QUICK FACTS ABOUT ROME HOSTELS
Cheap Beds & Good Hostels Go Early : Hostel prices are fairly standardized but the quality does vary. The best options get booked up quickly (especially in the summer).
Tourism Tax : Rome requires all hotels, hostels and apartment rentals to collect a tourist tax from all guests. It’ s usually € 3.50 / night / person so don’ t be surprised by this extra fee.
Areas & Neighborhoods : Most of Rome’ s hostels are located near Rome’ s Termini train station. It’ s not the best part of town but it’ s not that bad ( just be a little extra careful at night ).
Check the Hostel Type : Every hostel has its own personality so we suggest picking a hostel that matches up to your travel style. For example, some hostels are “party” hostels so these are great for having a fun time but not great for sleeping.
Check-In Times : A lot of hostels have late check-in times ( around 2 pm — 4 pm ) but nearly all will let you store your luggage if you arrive before check-in.
1. What might be the minimum cost if you stay in a Rome hostel for two nights ?| A．€ 18. | B．€ 32. | C．€ 43. | D．€ 47. |
| A．Comfort. | B．Security | C．Price. | D．Transport. |
| A．Quality service. | B．Tourism tax relief |
| C．A quiet sleeping environment. | D．Luggage storage before check-in. |
5 . A trip to the capital wouldn’t be complete without seeing the following attractions in London.
The London Eye (Tickets from £ 24.50)
Explore London from above on the London Eye. Your ticket includes a 30-minute flight with breathtaking views over London as well as an amazing 4D experience. Book ahead to save money and skip most of the queues with a fast-track entry ticket.
Tower of London (Tickets from £ 25)
Hear the many stories of the Tower of London on a Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) tour. See the famous Crown Jewels, the White Tower and find out what it was like to be a prisoner in the Tower of London.
Kidzania London (Tickets from £ 18.50)
Test out a range of professions and activities including journalism, animal care, cabin crew and tour guiding at KidZania London. Work to earn KidZos and save them for next time or spend them in the Airport Shop. Great for kids to learn and have fun.
The Royal Observatory Greenwich (Tickets from £ 16)
Visit the home of time and explore outer space at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. See and stand astride the Prime Meridian line(子午线), the reference point for Greenwich Mean Time. Learn about the history of longitude(经线), touch a piece of rock from outer space, and enjoy amazing views over London.
Coronavirus information: London is currently subject to a four-week national lockdown from 5 November, which means attractions are temporarily closed. You can still book tickets in advance ready for when they reopen with social distancing and other safety measures in place. Cycle or walk to these attractions where possible.
1. Which trip can you experience London in the high air?| A．The London Eye. | B．Tower of London. |
| C．Kidzania London. | D．The Royal Observatory Greenwich. |
| A．Booking ahead The London Eye is a waste of time to enter. |
| B．A prisoner once died in Tower of London. |
| C．There are many jobs in Kidzania London. |
| D．The Royal Observatory Greenwich offers chances to experience an alien rock. |
| A．You can visit London at any time. | B．Keeping a safety distance is a must. |
| C．Driving is not allowed here. | D．Avoid booking tickets in advance. |
The best time to visit Toronto is typically in the spring (April and May) or during the fall (September to early November). At these times, you’ll likely find fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations, and the best weather for sightseeing as it is neither too hot nor too cold.
Getting AroundThe Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) makes it easy to get around the city via many buses, subway, and streetcars. Figuring out how to get where you want to go is easily done using the TTC’s convenient Trip Planner.
Travel TipWhile you may choose to base yourself near many of the city’s main landmarks, it’s also worth taking some time to explore some great neighborhoods that each offer their own unique charms, including colorful Kensington Market, the Junction, Leslieville, and Little India.
Things to DoGet a Dose of Art & Culture: The Royal Ontario Museum is Canada’s largest museum and showcases everything from art and archaeology to natural science in over 30 galleries. Or, stop by the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), one of the largest art museums in North America with a collection of more than 90,000 works of art.
Take in the Views From the CN Tower: High-speed elevators send visitors to the top of the tower in just 58 seconds for full views over the city. You can even try EdgeWalk to experience a hands-free walk around the main pod of the tower, 116 stories above the ground.
Spend a Day in the Distillery District: Explore the historic Distillery District to walk casually among Victorian-era buildings on pedestrian-only cobblestone streets filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
1. If a tourist travels to Toronto in October, what is he likely to find?| A．Free attractions. | B．Discounted hotels. |
| C．Extreme weather. | D．Crowded scenic spots. |
| A．Help people buy tickets. | B．Help tourists in urgent situations. |
| C．Guide people to their destinations. | D．Introduce scenic spots to tourists. |
| A．It is home to over 90,000 artworks. |
| B．It’s noted for its Victorian-era buildings. |
| C．It’s one of the largest museums in Canada. |
| D．Its displays range from art to natural science. |
| A．Little India. | B．EdgeWalk. | C．The Junction. | D．The Distillery District. |
| A．Planning Your Trip in Toronto |
| B．Some Hidden Truth about Toronto |
| C．The Main Tourist Attractions in Toronto |
| D．The Reasons for the Popularity of Toronto |
7 . Four best scenic paths near London
Goring Gap and the Thames PathLength: 5 miles
Start: Goring & Streatley station
End: Pangbourne
This path is far from boring for a rural walk. The footpath follows the curve of the river as it flows south, winding past wildflower grassland, and the Hartslock Nature Reserve, which is home to red kites and rare orchids.
Post-walk pub: The Swan serves these days. Order a table or keep warm by one of its open fires.
Box HillLength: 6.8 miles
Start and end: Westhumble station
Admire the glorious views and escape the crowds. But first you’ve got to climb 272 steps to the top of Box Hill. The endorphins are definitely pumping—maybe that’s how it got the nickname “Happy Valley”.
Post-walk pub: The spacious Tree on Box Hill has an enticing menu and huge beer garden.
The Kentish CoastLength: 9.8 miles
Start: Ramsgate
End: Margate
Following the path, you’ll pass plenty of former smugglers’ (走私者) caves and there are beachside cafes dotted along the route at regular intervals.
Post-walk pub: Order a pint of beer at Xylo, a pub with wonderful views over Margate Sands.
Chess Valley in the ChilternsLength: 9.9 miles
Start: Chorleywood station
End: Chesham station
It isn’t home to any chess masters, but it did used to produce n lot of watercress, fed by its sparkling chalk stream. This walk follows the river, whose bank is covered with the rolling grass and woods.
Post-walk pub: The George & Dragon is an old coaching inn with a log fire and real beer.
1. Which path is a circular route?| A．Goring Gap and the Thames Path. | B．Box Hill. |
| C．The Kentish Coast. | D．Chess Valley in the Chilterns. |
| A．They serve beer all the time. | B．They include different animals. |
| C．They provide river scenery. | D．They are of the same length. |
| A．Drink coffee at the seaside. | B．Relax yourself in The Swan. |
| C．Learn from famous chess masters. | D．Meet smugglers along the way. |
8 . Long Walks in Europe
Waldstätterweg Trail, Lucerne, Switzerland
Distance 71 miles
The Waldstätterweg Trail (路线) is one of the safest when it comes to snowy conditions, and the views and the colours of the trees are breathtaking at the end of October. This seven-stage route trails the shore of Lake Lucerne, with the glaring blue water being a constant companion. Old paths and elegant trails through woods link lakeside settlements.
Harz Witches Trail, Lower Saxony, Germany
Distance 58 miles
The Harz Mountains have long been associated with German folklore (民俗). Harz Witches Trail runs along forest tracks through Harz National Park and can be walked throughout October and beyond. The route takes in forests, Germany’s largest wooden church, and a 439-metre rope suspension bridge. It also follows the poet Goethe’s hiking route up the Brocken.
GR141, Andalucía, Spain
Distance 68 miles
Autumn isn’t just a good time to walk in Andalucía. The weather stays warm long after winter starts to bite further north. It’s cheaper and less crowded, too. In November, conditions are milder here and some plants continue to flower. And two newly created GR routes begin here: both are well marked, reasonably challenging, divided into six stages and walkable in a week.
Menalon Trail, Peloponnese, Greece
Distance 47 miles
The Menalon Trail is an excellent option for autumn. Temperatures are pleasant and autumn colours are wonderful well into November. It’s a quiet time to visit, too. Nights in mountain villages are a highlight. Dimitsana, surrounded by pine forests and snowy peaks, is a particular jewel; In Stemnitsa, there is a folklore museum showcasing the village’s jewellery-making heritage.
1. Which trail may attract people who are interested in folk and local religious culture?| A．Harz Witches Trail. | B．Waldstätterweg Trail . |
| C．GR141. | D．Menalon Trail. |
| A．Admire colorful flowers. | B．Learn about local festivals. |
| C．Enjoy wonderful nights. | D．Explore the forests. |
| A．They cover similar distances. | B．They require no charges. |
| C．They feature snow scenery. | D．They suit autumn walks. |
9 . Must-See Destinations in 2024
Are you ready to explore the world in 2024? Whether you dream of sailing down famous European rivers or exploring unique places, our list of must-see destinations is here to inspire your travels.
SpainThrow yourself into the rich culture and history of Spain. From the sunny beaches of Tenerife to the Moorish architecture (建筑物) of Andalucía, there’s so much to explore in this lively country. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage (遗产) city of La Laguna and become amazed at the beauty of Cordoba, Seville, and La Alhambra, or relax on a beach holiday to Majorca or Tenerife.
MontenegroDespite its size, Montenegro has beautiful beaches, rich history, and a breathtaking channel. Experience the beauty of the Montenegrin coast — Dalmatia’s jewel (宝石) is the UNESCO World Heritage listed oasis of Dubrovnik, famously praised by Lord Bryon as The Pearl of the Adriatic.
CroatiaDiscover the beauty that is Dubrovnik. Explore the 16th-century city’s defensive walls and red-roofed buildings. Sail along Croatia’s Adriatic Coast, where attractive villages and beautiful towns like Pula, Rovinj, and Poreč are just waiting to be explored...
South AfricaExplore the wonders of South Africa, from the Garden Route’s nature reserves to the thrill of a Safari drive in the Kariega Game Reserve. Discover the different plants and animals while searching for the “Big Five” on an unforgettable South Africa holiday.
With over 25 years of experience creating holidays for the curious, Travel Department ensures that your journey is in good hands. Plus as a trusted Reader’s Digest Travel partner, you can get special deals when you travel with them across lots of different 2024 holidays. If you want to know more information, please click here.
1. What do Spain and Montenegro have in common?| A．They are both praised by tourists. |
| B．They both have world heritage cities. |
| C．They are known for their architectures. |
| D．They both own beaches and rich history. |
| A．Spain. | B．South Africa. |
| C．Montenegro. | D．Croatia. |
| A．A website. | B．A guidebook. |
| C．A novel. | D．A magazine. |
10 . Best Alternatives of Top Travel Booking Sites
After losing two precious years to COVID, everybody is desperate to travel and explore the world. However, planning a dream trip is not easy as it demands carefully spending your money on flights and accommodation. Let’s see what best travel booking sites in the UK has to offer and what alternatives we have:
Travelhouseuk
It has been dedicated to serving its important clients for more than two decades now by using the expertise of travel agents. It is an element of human interaction with your travel agent that allows you to discuss your requirements in depth for personalization and look for customer support even after the booking is made.
Skyscanner
It is a user-friendly interface that compares flight prices from all over the globe and brings out the best deals on flights. Not only flights but you can use this metasearch engine for hotels and car rentals too. It is a great tool for everyone, but some alternatives may help you even better in finding the cheapest trip to your destination.
Cheap Flights
When Skyscanner considers known carriers to maintain the quality, Cheapflights takes the lead with the cheapest flight options worldwide. The online site serves up the cheapest time to fly, reasonable hotel rates, low-cost car rentals and vacation packages. The aim is to promote and simplify your travel experience by offering it all in one place.
Google Flights
It is a renowned name that facilitates online sales of air ticket through third-party suppliers. The best feature of using Google Flights is based on no predetermined time limits. You can look for the cheapest flying dates within the next two months of search dates.
1. What makes Travelhouseuk special?| A．Its price. | B．Its convenience. |
| C．Its booking time. | D．Its personalized service. |
| A．Travelhouseuk and Google Flights. | B．Google Flights and Cheap Flights. |
| C．Skyscanner and Cheap Flights. | D．Cheap Flights and Travelhouseuk. |
| A．Travel. | B．Culture. | C．Lifestyle. | D．Business. |
