1 . As much of the world is slowly reopening following the pandemic, it’s time to take those long-postponed travel plans off the shelf and make them a reality. This year, Lonely Planet highlighted its top 10 cities, regions and countries — see part of lists below.
Belize
Want to explore Mayan ruins, swim in electric-blue waters and view rich wildlife? Belize has all of this and more, accessible via direct flights from multiple North American cities. If you’re waiting for Australia to open up its borders, try Belize instead. US travelers won’t need to worry about jet lag (时差). Meanwhile, the language-cautious will appreciate that Belize’s national language is English.
Egypt
Egypt is home to the Pyramids of Giza, one of the seven wonders of the world. Despite their more than 4, 500 years of history, we are still learning more about these architectural marvels every year. The 207-foot-tall Pyramid of Dozer, the oldest of the group, was reopened to the public just last year.
Oman
In Musandam, Oman, bordering the Strait of Hormuz, mountains reach heights of 2, 000 meters to create an amazing backdrop for narrow stretches of Water. Within the same trip, you can also experience “the Empty Quarter,” a wide area of desert where Oman meets Yemen, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Anguilla
Anguilla is an overseas British territory (领土) and the attractive Caribbean Island deserves a closer look. CNN contributor Hannah Seligson once spoke highly of the island’s “greenish sea, 33 public beaches, 26℃, amazing hotels and food”.
1. What can US travelers do in Belize?| A．Adjust to time difference. | B．Enjoy beautiful desert scenery. |
| C．Fly straight to Australian borders. | D．Communicate with local people freely. |
| A．Belize. | B．Egypt. | C．Anguilla. | D．Oman. |
| A．Convenient transport. | B．Water-related activities. |
| C．Ancient civilizations. | D．High-quality accommodation. |
2 . DOWN TO THE WOODS
To mark Earth Day on 22 April, consider a trip that celebrates all the natural beauty and variety of the world’s forests.
Isle of Wight
A safe bet for spotting the active red squirrel is Brighstone Forest where, in the summer, you might also hear the call of the nightjar, a bird known for its frightening call. Stay in a log cabin (原木小屋) near Calbourne and enjoy breakfast — with eggs laid on site by free-range hens from a farm. Tom’s Eco Lodges at Tapnell Farm Park has several options for families, from £900 per week, including log cabins and travelling tents.
Sweden
The vast pine forests of central Sweden are an ideal place to enjoy a true back-to-nature experience. In the daytime, you can hike, swim or canoe before returning to enjoy a campfire dinner of local ingredients. You can also set off on a guided trip for seeing large deer at dusk. Responsible Travel has a three- night eco-lodge (生态旅馆) break from £630 per adult, children (12-15) from £303, international flights not included.
Ecuador
In Ecuador’s Choco cloud forest, more than 3,000ft above sea level, follow misty trails around species of plants found nowhere else on the planet. You’ll also spot hummingbirds as you pick your way between huge trees. Black Tomato offers five nights in Ecuador, from £3,875 per person including international flights and three nights’ full-board, at the eco Mashpi Lodge.
Carmarthenshire
In the foothills of the Cambrian Mountains, you’ll find a mixed woodland of various trees. Activities include mountain biking in the Tywi Valley and waterfall hikes with views across the Brecon Beacons. Book the beautifully Glan-yr-Afon Riverside Cottage, surrounded by grasslands and mountain streams. From £597 for three nights, based on four sharing.
1. If Jane is interested in riding bicycles in mountains, she can go to ________ .| A．Ecuador | B．Isle of Wight |
| C．Sweden | D．Carmarthenshire |
| A．Responsible Travel pays for visitors’ international flights. |
| B．In Ecuador’s Choco cloud forest exist some rare plants. |
| C．The Glan-yr-Afon Riverside Cottage is located in Sweden. |
| D．In Brighstone Forest the frightening call of the squirrel can be heard. |
| A．Education. | B．Travel. |
| C．Environment. | D．Geography. |
3 . 
Despite being located in a bustling urban part of Huanggang in Hubei, Xiao Yaqin’s apartment block stands out because of its green appearance resulting from being wrapped in green plants. “ It makes me feel very comfortable. When you open the window, fresh air keeps rolling in, ” the 65-year-old said excitedly.
He was one of the first group of residents that recently moved into China’s first “ vertical (垂直的) forest ” residential project, consisting of two 80-meter-tall, 25-story buildings.
The project is the result of cooperation between Easyhome and Italian architect Stefano Boering, often called “ the father of the vertical forest ” . There are 404 trees and 4,620 shrubs (灌木丛) in the vertical forest, which is classified as the “ fourth generation ” of housing. Grasses, flowers and climbing plants cover 2,408m2 of the floor area. The plants are estimated to be capable of absorbing 22 metric tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere per year, while generating 11 tons of oxygen.
However, its development hasn’t been met without doubt. For example, mosquito infestations (感染) are one of the reasons why people are reluctant to move in. The irrigation system required to ensure the survival of the plants in the vertical forest and the need to have gardeners cut the branches mean much higher maintenance costs than in regular buildings.
It is not yet known what the future of fourth-generation housing will be in China, but it has at least brought urban residents a new life experience. Xiao, the retiree, said his new apartment has met his expectations for better quality of life. “ You feel you are close to nature, even if you don’t open the window, ” he said.
1. How does the author introduce the topic?| A．By presenting Xiao Yaqin’s example. | B．By describing features of the apartment. |
| C．By imagining Xiao Yaqin’s life. | D．By showing the apartment’s popularity. |
| A．Easyhome designed and built the project. |
| B．Its plants produce 22 metric tons of oxygen. |
| C．It faces problems of mosquitoes and high costs. |
| D．The residents have to look after the plants. |
| A．Critical. | B．Concerned. | C．Supportive. | D．Unclear. |
| A．To predict the future way of living. | B．To introduce a new type of housing. |
| C．To discuss problems facing residents. | D．To advertise the vertical forest project. |
4 . Whether you want to absorb yourself in luxury (奢华) or make memories that will last a lifetime, consider South Carolina for your next beach vacation!
Folly Beach
Sometimes called one of America last true beach towns, Folly Island is charming, with clothing shops and seafood restaurants of every kind along Center Street. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a surfer, cyclist, boater, you love fishing, or you’re interested in the island’s rich sea-wildlife, complex history, Folly Beach is a great place for culture too.
Hilton Head
Famous for its luxury accommodations, low country-beaches, and 30 world-class golf courses, and 300 tennis courts, Hilton Head was the first eco-planned destination in the United States. While Hilton Head is famous for its expensive offerings, there’s plenty of exploring for families and nature lovers.
Edisto Beach
Edisto Beach is a great place for nature lovers. A vacation at Edisto beach includes adventure in the great outdoors. Hike, fish, and explore the beach. Edisto Beach provides affordable beach fun, like oceanfront and forest campsites.
Bull Island
Bull Island is known for its bird-life, with more than 293 species recorded there. Kids love spotting an American Bald Eagle. Naturalist-guided tours are great for all ages if observing black foxes is on your bucket list.
1. Which beach best suits those who are eager to get experience in various activities as well as local culture?| A．Folly Beach. | B．Hilton Head. | C．Edisto Beach. | D．Bull Island. |
| A．Safety. | B．Cost. | C．Location. | D．Activities. |
| A．Its sea-wildlife. | B．Its golf-course. | C．Its bird-life. | D．Its campsites. |
5 . I have always loved food. At home, I do the things that every foodie does. I regularly attend food festivals, I cook five-course meals for my friends, and I watch Top Chef and dream of another life in which I might have become a chef.
However, it was not until five years ago, when my husband and I traveled to South Africa, that I combined my love for traveling with food. South African cuisine is a mixture of many different subcultures. If we have only been there to see the elephants,we would not have learned as much as we did about the vast and dynamic culture of the country if we had not taken into account its food. Sure, we could have opened a textbook and read of the history that brought all of these cultures together, but we would not have experienced it firsthand and taken home all of the priceless memories we did. Until then, I had no idea about the limitless benefits that one could gain from traveling for food.
You are wondering how food can be powerful. right? It is simple. Eating used all five sense. Not only do we taste our food, we also touch it, smell it, see it with our eyes, and listen to it sizzling (咝咝作响) in the pan. We are in a heightened state of being whenever we interact with food. Personally. the taste of Malbec transports me to a tasting room (品酒室) in Argentina. The smell of lime (酸橙) instantly brings to mind the Thai cooking class I took in Chiang Mai.
You see, food has the ability to shape your journeys and define your memories. Food is also an essential par of life and community, It is what makes us who we are as a people I read a lot of travel articles about how to save money on food while traveling and how to avoid street food so as not to get sick. I seriously question whether you can experience the authentic side of a culture without trying some of its local food. After all, what is Thailand without a plate of Pad Thai, Canada without poutine (肉汁乳酪薯条), and Mexico without tacos (玉米薄饼卷)? I am exaggerating a little.but you get the point.
The world is full of incredible foods beckoning to be eaten and they are all just a plane ride or road trip away. Even if you are not a foodie, well, you still have to eat. So why not eat a little, learn a little, and take home the leftovers?
1. What does the underlined word “dynamic” in paragraph 2 mean?| A．Popular. | B．Traditional |
| C．Energetic. | D．Political |
| A．Demanding. | B．Multi-sensory |
| C．Powerful | D．Well-received. |
| A．Tasting allow visitors a better understanding of its culture. |
| B．It's wise of you to stay away from street food while traveling. |
| C．Food should be last thing to consider in order to save money. |
| D．Without characteristic foods, countries mus lose appeal to visitors. |
| A．To encourage people to enjoy food. |
| B．To stress the culture behind local foods. |
| C．To advocate traveling involving local foods. |
| D．To explain the benefits we gain from foods. |
6 . As Ginni Bazlinton reached Antarctica, she found herself greeted by a group of little Gentoo penguins (企鹅) longing to say hello. These gentle, lovely gatekeepers welcomed her and kick-started what was to be a trip Ginni would never forget.
Ever since her childhood, Ginni, now 71, has had a deep love for travel. Throughout her career (职业) as a professional dancer, she toured in the UK, but always longed to explore further. When she retired from dancing and her sons eventually flew the nest, she decided it was time to take the plunge.
After taking a degree at Chichester University in Related Arts, Ginni began to travel the world, eventually getting work teaching English in Japan and Chile. And it was in Chile she discovered she could get last-minute cheap deals on ships going to Antarctica from the islands off Tierra del Fuego, the southernmost tip of the South American mainland. “I just decided I wanted to go,” she says. “I had no idea about what I’d find there and I wasn’t nervous, I just wanted to do it. And I wanted to do it alone as I always prefer it that way.”
In March 2008, Ginni boarded a ship with 48 passengers she’d never met before, to begin the journey towards Antarctica. “From seeing the wildlife to witnessing sunrises, the whole experience was amazing. Antarctica left an impression on me that no other place has,” Ginni says. “I remember the first time I saw a humpback whale; it just rose out of the water like some prehistoric creature and I thought it was smiling at us. You could still hear the operatic sounds it was making underwater.”
The realization that this is a precious land, to be respected by humans, was one of the biggest things that hit home to Ginni.
1. Which of the following best explains “take the plunge” underlined in paragraph 2?| A．Try challenging things. | B．Take a degree. |
| C．Bring back lost memories. | D．Stick to a promise. |
| A．Lovely penguins. | B．Beautiful scenery. |
| C．A discount fare. | D．A friend’s invitation. |
| A．It could be a home for her. | B．It should be easily accessible. |
| C．It should be well preserved. | D．It needs to be fully introduced. |
| A．A childhood dream. | B．An unforgettable experience. |
| C．Sailing around the world. | D．Meeting animals in Antarctica. |
7 . Brilliant Spring Breaks
The bees are buzzing and flowers are blooming. Take a look at these destinations and grab a relaxing getaway while making the most of the UK countryside.
Trefeddian Hotel
At the Trefeddian Hotel you can expect a warm welcome whether you are booking a family holiday, or romantic escape. Our beautifully located coastal hotel in Mid-Wales has something for everyone to enjoy: all-around sea views, miles of golden sandy beaches and a heated indoor pool.
St Moritz Hotel & Garden Villas
Escape to our Miami inspired luxury hotel or coastal villas on the north Cornish coast. With our Shorecrest restaurant serving seasonal dishes with ingredients sourced from Cornwall’s markets; Cowshed spa; indoor and outdoor pools; a bunch of local attractions and surrounded by the sea, St Moritz Hotel is the place for relaxation and adventure.
Greenwood Grange
Welcome to a collection of 17 luxury, stone built, self-catering holiday cottages in Dorset. There’s so much to offer, whether it’s relaxing in your own private cottage (some have hot baths), swimming in the indoor pool, or playing the volleyball on the seashore, we’ve got it all—you can even pick your own fruit or vegetables from our kitchen garden. Contact us for more information.
Skye Shepherd Huts
Looking for a holiday offering peace and quiet? Choose Skye Shepherd Huts, with amazing wildlife, donkeys and hens for company. Set in a lovely traditional village by the sea, ideal for walkers, boating nearby and eagle-spotting. Pet friendly. Comfortable with beautiful views, but electricity and hot water are not ready for use.
1. Which destination best suits people who enjoy cooking?| A．Trefeddian Hotel. | B．Skye Shepherd Huts. |
| C．Greenwood Grange. | D．St Moritz Hotel & Garden Villas. |
| A．There is always bad smell. | B．It only admits pet owners. |
| C．Vehicles are banned except boats. | D．Hot showers are not accessible. |
| A．Ocean views. | B．Golden beaches. |
| C．Seasonal dishes. | D．Adventurous activities. |
8 . Paris is the most wooded (树木茂森的) city in Europe, and around one quarter of its area is taken up by parks, gardens and other green spaces.
Jardin des Plantes: over 28 hectares
This impressive botanical garden is home to four museums, including the Natural History Museum, which houses a variety of African animals. The gardens themselves boast thousands of species of plants. This is a lovely place to relax and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: over 24 hectares
If you want to get off the tourist trail and hang out with true Parisians, this park is the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic or a leisurely wander. It is in the 19th district and is one of the largest parks in Paris. Cross its lake on the suspension bridge, or admire the waterfalls and attractive temples.
Jardin du Luxembourg: over 25 hectares
These beautiful gardens were first laid out in 1612 as the gardens of the Luxembourg Palace. They include a geometric (结合图形的) forest, French and English style gardens, as well as a large pond. There is so much to see and do with activities especially for children, such as slides, rides and puppet shows, as well as leisure and sporting activities for adults. The gardens are home to more than one hundred sculptures.
Le Parc de la Villette: 55 hectares
This urban cultural park is so much more than just a park as it is home to numerous music venues, exhibition spaces and cafes. It is also home to no less than 12 gardens, which all follow different themes. The Passenger Gardens, for example, which are built on what was once the sheep market, support a variety of ecosystems, demonstrating the importance of biodiversity.
1. Which green space probably suits students who are interested in botany?| A．Jardin des Plantes. | B．Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. |
| C．Jardin du Luxembourg. | D．Le Parc de la Villette. |
| A．They feature American style gardens. | B．They are favorite gardens for the French. |
| C．They house a variety of African animals. | D．They used to be royal gardens. |
| A．Visiting museums. | B．Attending concerts. |
| C．Admiring waterfalls. | D．Watching puppet shows. |
9 . 72 Hours in Beijing
Traveling to China is no longer a luxury for many foreign passport holders. The Chinese government has permitted a 72-hour visa-free policy that offers access to visitors from 53 countries including the US, France and Austria. Let’s start with the capital of China, Beijing. Here’s a pick of the best in Beijing!
Mutianyu Great Wall
Your trip to Beijing isn’t really complete without seeing one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World”, the Great Wall of China. The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall is by far the most well-preserved of all. Taking a one-hour bus ride, Mutianyu would be your ideal location for a half day of hiking away from the large crowds in the city. Also, the authorities have allowed tourists to paint graffiti on a specific section of the Great Wall since 2014. The Great Wall was designated (把......定名为) a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
Summer Palace
Located in northwestern Beijing, the Summer Palace is by far the city’s most well-preserved royal park. With its huge lake and hilltop views, the palace offers you a pastoral escape into the landscape of traditional Chinese paintings. The Summer Palace was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998.
798 Art Zone
This would be on the top of my list! Named after the 798 factory that was built in the 1950s. The art zone is home to various galleries, design studios, art exhibition spaces, fashionable shops and bars. You could easily spend half your day wandering around the complex, feeling the contrast of the present and the past.
Sichuan Provincial Restaurant
While in Beijing, apart from trying the city’s best-known Peking duck the Sichuan provincial restaurant is one of the places where you can enjoy regional delicious food. It offers one of China’s eight great cuisines, Sichuan, which ranges from Mapo tofu to spicy chicken.
1. Who is the passage intended for?| A．The tourists who prefer to travel for free. |
| B．The visitors coming from every comer of China. |
| C．The foreigners to stay in Beijing for 3 days. |
| D．The foreigners coming to Beijing for the first time. |
| A．Tourists need a half-day to arrive there. |
| B．It is the most well-maintained part of the Great Wall. |
| C．Tourists are allowed to paint graffiti anywhere. |
| D．It was named a UNESCO World Heritage site 20 years ago. |
| A．798 Art Zone. | B．Summer Palace. |
| C．Mutianyu Great Wall. | D．Sichuan Provincial Restaurant. |
10 . Four Winter Spots
Here are four spots around the world worth a winter trip.
Christmas Island, Australia
On Christmas Day of 1643, Captain William Mynors sailed past this tropical (热带的) island 224 miles south of Java and named it, of course, “Christmas”. Consisting of rainforest, sand beaches, coral reefs and one oceanic mountain, two thirds of this 52-square-mile island is a national park, home to pipistrelles, flying foxes, endangered seabirds and sea turtles. Many of the 2,000 local people celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year every year.
Quito, Ecuador
In Quito, the sun always sets at six. As the second biggest city in Ecuador and the second highest capital in the world, Quito makes a convenient access point to the Amazon rainforest, the thrill-seekers’ paradise. In only three hours, travelers can travel from the best-preserved historical city center in Latin America to the land of giant tortoises, lava lizards and blue-footed boobies.
Sun Peaks, Canada
Snowshoeing, dogsledding and storm-watching all make British Columbia a favorite winter destination. But if you're planning on skiing, ski-biking or snow-limo-riding, please head for Sun Peaks, Canada’s second largest ski area.
Lijiang, China
A winter trip to the southwest Chinese province of Yunnan promises mild, dry and sunny weather —excellent conditions for skiing the trails of China’s highest ski resort, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Home to plenty of wildlife and 400 types of trees, the mountain is located about 10 miles from the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town of Lijiang, an important center for the fascinating Naxi people whose 1,000-year-old Dongba characters are the only living pictographic (象形文字的) writing system worldwide today.
1. What makes Quito one of the best winter destinations?| A．The various rare animals. | B．The beautiful sunsets there. |
| C．The closeness to the rainforest. | D．The thrilling winter activities. |
| A．Ice sculpture (雕塑) fans. | B．Winter sports lovers. |
| C．Experienced adventurers. | D．Mountain-climbing enthusiasts. |
| A．Extreme sports. | B．Traditional Chinese cultures. |
| C．Oceanic plants and animals. | D．A variety of wildlife. |
