1 . Japan’s biggest airline is betting that the future of travel isn’t traveling at all. For the last month, a married couple has been interacting with a robot—called an Avatar—that’s controlled by their daughter hundreds of miles away. Made by ANA Holdings Inc., it looks like a vacuum cleaner with an iPad attached. But the screen displays the daughter’s face as they chat, and its wheels let her move about the house as though she’s really there.
“Virtual travel” is nothing new, of course. Storytellers, travel writers and artists have been stimulating the senses of armchair tourists for centuries. It’s only in recent decades that frequent, safe travel has become available to the non- wealthy.
Yet even as the world’s middle classes climb out of the armchair and into economy-class seat, there are signs of a post-travel society emerging. Concerns about environmental sustainability cause loss to airlines which release much carbon. And the aging of abundant societies is both restricting physical travel and creating demand for alternative ways to experience the world. For the travel industry, virtual reality offers an attractive response to these trends.
Of course, new technologies encourage far-out claims. ANA doesn’t plan to start selling Avatars until next year. Profits, too, will probably be difficult to make: By one estimate, the global market for this kind of technology will be worth only about $300 million by 2023. By contrast, ANA’s traditional travel business brought in more than $19 billion last year.
But if the business value for virtual vacations is still weak, the market for technologies that bridge physical distances between families and coworkers seems likely to only expand. ANA’s robots may not replace its airplanes any time soon, but they’ll almost certainly be a part of travel’s high-tech future.
1. Why does the author use the example of a couple interacting with a robot?| A．To show the Japanese are crazy about travel. |
| B．To indicate virtual travel begins to enter people’s real life. |
| C．To show the couple are very enthusiastic over robots. |
| D．To express the close relationship between the couple and their daughter. |
| A．Storytellers, travel writers and artists have been using it for centuries. |
| B．Frequent and safe travel has become available to the ordinary people. |
| C．People are worried about the air pollution caused by airlines. |
| D．More and more people lose interest in travel. |
| A．Visibility. | B．Availability. |
| C．insignificance. | D．Continuousness |
| A．Your Next Travel May Be Virtual. |
| B．Easy Travel in the Future. |
| C．Virtual Travel Benefits. |
| D．Air Travel Disappearing. |
2 . Do you like travelling? Do you want to travel with less money? OK, let me introduce something about couch surfers(沙发漫游)to you? They are travelers who spend the night in an Internet friend’s house. Let’s share some of their stories.
After spending the whole day traveling in Paris, I met Theo at the bus station. At his apartment I met his roommate Roger. Both of them were very friendly. They took me to a party the next day. I went back to Theo’s apartment on the back of his bicycle. Peter |
When I traveled in Vienna, I stayed with Artur, a college student. One day I forgot to turn off the tap after having a bath. The bathroom was full of water. However, Artur did not get angry with me. Henri |
I got off the bus at the wrong station, so I had to take a taxi to Judit’s apartment. Judit was a reporter and she was always busy. The next day we went shopping together and she bought a dress for a party. In the evening she went to the party and I stayed at the apartment alone. Lucy |
| A．To London. | B．To Paris. | C．To Vienna. | D．To Budapest. |
| A．got on the wrong bus | B．couldn’t find his partner |
| C．forgot to turn off the tap | D．did not know how to use the tap |
| A．By bike. | B．By taxi. | C．By train. | D．On foot, |
| A．Peter. | B．Judit. | C．Theo. | D．Lucy. |
3 . The following beach destinations range from ocean-side to lake-side locations, each one offering unique and quality experiences.
Channel Island
You’ll have difficulty finding a more scenic and adventurous beach getaway with an abundance of sea life. Whales and dolphins visit the area every year. You can also camp on one of the islands in Channel Islands National Park. Hiking, exploring tide pools, diving, surfing-the activities are boundless.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Imagine cotton candy-blue water, sugar-white sand and lots of lemonade-yellow sun and the picture will look a lot like Gulf Islands National Seashore. Spend a day at Perdido Key or overnight at Fort Pickens campground. Or consider the “Coastal Curiosities” activity at historic Fort Pickens.
Indiana Dunes National Park
The park hugs 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan. From camping to flying kites to a sunset stroll, this lakeshore will continually attract you. You will enjoy 45 miles of trails over rugged dunes (沙丘), mysterious wetlands, and peaceful forests. There are eight beach access points along the shoreline and most parking lots are open from 7 AM until 30 minutes after sunset.
1. Which destinations are ocean-side locations?| A．All the three destinations. |
| B．Channel Islands & Indiana Dunes National Park. |
| C．Channel Islands & Gulf Islands National Seashore. |
| D．Gulf Islands National Seashore & Indiana Dunes National Park. |
| A．Channel Islands | B．Gulf Islands National Seashore |
| C．Perdido Key | D．Indiana Dunes National Park. |
| A．Surfing in the ocean | B．Going camping |
| C．Watching sea life | D．Hiking over dunes. |
4 . Europe is a fabulous destination for the first-time solo traveller. Here are some best places to visit in Europe as a solo traveller.
Bruges, BelgiumPicture-postcard perfect Bruges is a beautiful destination for those travelling alone in Europe. It is picturesque, safe, easy to get to and there are lots of things to do. As it is a small and walkable city, it is simple to navigate. Bruges is famous for its winding canals that lace their way through its perfectly preserved medieval centre, its magnificent Belfry, world-class museums and, of course, Belgian beer.
Brussels, BelgiumThe Belgian capital is one of Europe’s liveliest cities. With just one day in Brussels, you can soak up its medieval architecture and stuff yourself silly with beer and tasty chocolate. On the eastern side of the city, old architecture gives way to modern skyscrapers, including the headquarters of the European Union. Lovers of cartoons should follow the Comic Strip Walk or visit the Belgian Comic Strip Centre.
Budapest, HungaryBudapest is a safe city to visit, even at night. However, as with any big city, take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Also, Budapest is easy to navigate. The trams and buses are simple to use. Budapest has great hostels and hotels, world-class attractions and first-rate restaurants and pubs that won’t break the bank. As a solo traveller, you can find anything within your budget.
Cologne, GermanyFor a German city with a rich historical legacy, visit Cologne. It is best known for the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral, one of the greatest churches in Christendom. The other highlights of Cologne include the Old Town’s squares and buildings and its popular Chocolate Museum.
1. Which of the following places will a fan of cartoon prefer?| A．Bruges, Belgium. | B．Brussels, Belgium. |
| C．Budapest, Hungary. | D．Cologne, Germany. |
| A．Travelling there isn’t costly. |
| B．Travelling on its canals isn’t easy. |
| C．It has a medieval architecture. |
| D．It has a UNESCO-listed church. |
| A．Tourists can enjoy delicious chocolate. |
| B．Tourists can drink beer in good quality. |
| C．They have world-class restaurants and pubs. |
| D．They have cathedrals in the city centres. |
5 . When searching for something fun and educational to do in Maryland, why not visit the Maryland Science Center? It is located at 601 Light Street, Baltimore. The ticket prices vary depending on ages, groups and the exhibits you choose. Click here for more information.
Introduction
The Maryland Science Center is basically a museum, but it gives everyone a chance to learn through experience and play, rather than just glance at an exhibit.
Activities
You can learn about various topics, including outer space, the human body, dinosaurs, electricity, marine (海洋的) biology, energy, and much more. You can also take part in the interactive activities, such as racing bubbles, digging for dinosaur fossils, using puzzle pieces to construct cars, and so much more.
The Davis Planetarium (天文馆)
At the Davis Planetarium, you can be back in a chair and look at the stars while still inside the Science Center. The stars will appear on the ceiling of the theatre as you watch them.
There are different shows to catch at the Davis Planetarium. You can learn about the galaxy and astronomy during the Dark Matters show. Learn about the stars and planets during the Sky Live show. The One World One Sky show allows children to explore the stars. The Live from the Sun show will teach you all about the hot sun.
The Kids Room
For children, they can’t miss the Kids Room. They will be able to play in a water area, construct dams and water towers, push buttons, ring doorbells, build with blocks, and more, and definitely they will learn a lot. In addition, there is also an area for kids of two years old and under, where they can crawl, walk and explore safely with soft toys.
1. What do we know about the Maryland Science Center?| A．It charges different prices for adults and kids. |
| B．It is regarded as the most popular museum in Maryland. |
| C．It is a museum where there are many famous exhibitions. |
| D．It is mainly designed for children and their families to play together. |
| A．The Dark Matters show. | B．The Sky Live show. |
| C．The Live from the Sun show. | D．The One World One Sky show. |
| A．A travel plan. | B．An academic column. |
| C．An educational magazine. | D．An online advertisement. |
6 . Travel with Kids to Pittsburgh
This is an exciting time to visit Pittsburgh. The city and surrounding region is now perfect for family fun. Here are some of Pittsburgh’s must-visit family attractions:
Eat Pie at Sand Hill Berries
The homemade pies at Sand Hill Berries are better than what’s found on any kids menu, and everyone loves fresh fruit pie! The family farm has been growing strawberries and blackberries since 1981, using the fruit for homemade jams and pies. It’s worth a drive to the farm’s lovely outdoor Cabin Cafe. Kids and adults will enjoy a slice of pie in what feels like a secret garden.
Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
For active kids with energy to burn, the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh is a perfect place. Kids can play in the Garage—an interactive area that includes a parachute (降落伞) launcher and toy car raceways. At the Makeshop, kids use skills to create a take-home piece of woodworking or sewing. Museum exhibits change often and make for fresh repeat visits.
Fort Ligonier
History comes to life at Fort Ligonier, a re-created fort (兵营) from the French and Indian War located in Ligonier—about an hour’s drive east of the city. Here, kids can learn about George Washington—he served at the fort more than 250 years ago! Costumed (装扮的) soldiers demonstrate daily life, including welcoming visitors to where they slept, ate and prepared for battle. In October, the village of Ligonier hosts the annual Fort Ligonier Days with live music, performances, fireworks and more.
Just Ducky Tour
Pittsburgh’s Just Ducky Tour takes riders from land to water on one boat! The jeep-like boats start on land for a driving tour of the business and cultural districts of downtown, before driving into the river! The tour guide makes an effort to tell fun stories about the landmarks. Kids will love the group participation and enjoy the excitement of driving right into the river!
1. Where can kids make things with their own hands?| A．At Fort Ligonier. |
| B．On Just Ducky Tour. |
| C．At Sand Hill Berries. |
| D．In the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. |
| A．Costumed soldiers. |
| B．George Washington. |
| C．The French and Indian War. |
| D．Performances by the villagers. |
| A．It is kid-friendly. |
| B．It is a historic site. |
| C．It offers delicious food. |
| D．It involves both land and water. |
7 . Morocco Family Journey
Discover the magic of Morocco on a seven-day journey that takes your family group from markets to the desert. Meet musicians and storytellers absorbed in Amazigh heritage, and try your hand at cooking up colourful local dishes. Hike past amazing rock formations, walk windswept sands, and uncover ancient secrets.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
● Accommodations: Hotels (8 nights); 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
● Transport: Private air-con coach, 4×4 vehicle
● Journey Highlights: Sahara trips and cultural explorations in Merzouga, the tour of Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate
● Five-star travel directors
● Walk in Jemaa el-Fna Square
●Free time to explore Marrakech
● All transport to and from included activities
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
● Visas
●Flights to and from Morocco
● Basic medical and emergency insurance(You will not be permitted to travel with our agency until you have provided evidence of adequate travel insurance. )
● Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance
● Meals on your own
● Any activity not described in WHAT’S INCLUDED
Emergency Fund
Please make sure you have access to at least an additional USD 200 or the equivalent as an emergency fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control require a change in our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Requirements
Family journeys are designed for groups traveling with kids between the ages of 7 and 17. Your group must include a kid to book, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
1. Where can visitors experience local culture?| A．In Marrakech. | B．In Ouarzazate. | C．In Merzouga. | D．In Jemaa el-Fna Square. |
| A．Transport between attractions. | B．Round-trip flight tickets. |
| C．Accommodation in the journey. | D．Quality guide services. |
| A．Having at least a child and an adult. | B．Being charged money for emergencies. |
| C．Being in good physical condition. | D．Buying insurance through the agency. |
8 . In the late 1800s, industrialization had driven urban populations and land prices up, making tall buildings increasingly cost-effective. Skyscraper construction exploded across the US after the turn of the 20th century. In New York, the record for the world’s tallest building was broken six times between 1908 and 1931. The development of steel frames made it easier and cheaper to build tall. The invention of the elevator, meanwhile, made inhabiting higher floors far more convenient.
However, today’s skyscrapers look little like those built in the first half of the 20th century. This is mostly thanks to architecture’s next major technological change: the curtain wall. Soon, glass was produced quickly and uniformly, and glass windows soon became the choice for skyscrapers. Glass windows have many advantages. In addition to allowing for greater floor space and letting natural light come in more easily, glass is much more flexible. The usage of glass could also help buildings stand greater wind as well as huge swinging caused by earthquakes and typhoons.
“The role of skyscrapers has two parts,” explains Simon Chan, an experienced architect. “Every city wants to have this landmark that gives that sense of unique culture, but they also need places for people to live and work in urban settings,” he adds. A typical example is Hong Kong — one of the world’s most expensive housing markets. Land there is very limited, and going high is almost the only solution. But there comes along the next big challenge. The buildings and their construction account for more than 1/3 of the world’s energy consumption, and contribute to almost 40% of greenhouse gas emissions.
Glass skyscrapers, for example, will probably change the look of our skylines, adding beauty to our city. However, they rely on energy-consuming air conditioning to tackle heat-and-airflow problems. So, encouraging natural ventilation (通风) or using buildings themselves to produce solar or wind energy to reduce carbon emissions is the frontier for skyscraper architects. There should be many new developments in skyscraper design and technology with the aim of making skyscrapers something that saves energy.
1. What is the first paragraph mainly about?| A．Major building equipment for skyscrapers. |
| B．Fast developing history of skyscrapers. |
| C．Introduction to the world’s tallest skyscrapers. |
| D．Factors contributing to the rise of skyscrapers. |
| A．Their enough light. | B．Their greater floor space. |
| C．Their main functions. | D．Their building materials. |
| A．To solve the shortage of land. |
| B．To balance the construction cost. |
| C．To save the energy consumption. |
| D．To show the place’s particular culture. |
| A．Disapproving | B．Objective. |
| C．Optimistic. | D．Uncertain. |
9 . Thank you for choosing OTT Travel Agency. In order to have a pleasant journey, please read the following notes carefully.
Booking Regulations
1. There is a necessary booking process. We will confirm that with you within 1—2 working days.
2. Please book a ticket as soon as possible because the rates may vary at different times. For example, rates rise during holidays.
3. Please carefully read our Customer Agreements before booking.
Booking Procedures and E-tickets
1. You will receive a booking receipt by e-mail immediately after submission of booking information.
2. You will receive the confirmation e-mail we send within 1—2 working days after submission.
3. Once the booking details are confirmed, you will receive your e-ticket by e-mail. We will provide the contact information of local tourism offices for your convenient use during tour or as required.
4. Next, you only need to print the e-ticket and present it with photo ID to the tour guide on the departure day.
Special Notes
If the flight is delayed for over 45 minutes due to weather condition or other cases, please go to the hotel by yourself. You can contact the local travel agency and ask for help. You are strongly recommended to contact the airline and local travel agency to confirm the flight arrival time and airport pickup.
For your safety, please lock your door whenever and wherever you leave. Do not hang any clothes on lights. Do not smoke in bed. Leave the hotel immediately if you hear a fire alarm.
Please observe all dos and don’ts mentioned by the tour guide.
Thank you for your cooperation. Sorry for any inconvenience.
1. Why should travelers book tickets immediately?| A．The rates probably change with time. | B．There are few tickets on holidays. |
| C．The booking process is complicated. | D．The confirmation wastes much time. |
| A．Before filling in a confirmation form. | B．After sending out a booking e-mail. |
| C．Before receiving a confirmation e-mail. | D．After submitting booking information. |
| A．Lock the door. | B．Run out of the hotel. |
| C．Hang clothes on lights. | D．Put out your cigarette. |
10 . Gap Year Sailing Programs
A gap year spent sailing will show you more of the world than most people see in their whole lives. So hoist the anchor, throw off the bowlines, catch the following wind, and set sail on a voyage of discovery to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Where to Go
The beauty of a sailing gap year is that you don’t just visit a single place. These unique adventures can take you across oceans and whole regions to experience dozens of countries in a single gap year. Some programs combine several regions including the Indian Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, etc. while others stick to just one.
Costs
How much a sailing gap year costs varies greatly depending on the type of program and the length of the voyage. A program lasting a few weeks may cost S$ 5,000 or more. Months long adventures may be as much as $20.000, especially if they involve college credit or other coursework.
Visa
Visa requirements will vary depending on where your voyage takes you. Your program will inform you of which visas you’ll need. Make sure you obtain your visas well in advance.
Housing
Housing will consist of a berth (铺位) aboard your boat. Don’t expect anything fancy. You’ll likely have little more than a bed and a small storage locker in a two-or three-person cabin. Given the limited size of your living space, expect to stay close to your crewmates at all times with little real privacy.
Health & Safety
Living aboard a ship means that you can’t always count on having medical facilities (设施) nearby. You may be asked to provide a note from your doctor confirming that you are in good health before being accepted into your program. Most programs include medical emergency insurance as part of their fees. See what it covers and what it doesn’t when making your decisions.
1. What do the sailing programs provide for participants?| A．Journeys by land. |
| B．Chances to study abroad. |
| C．Courses of famous universities. |
| D．Opportunities to travel around the world. |
| A．Ask parents for advice. | B．Save as much as $ 20,000. |
| C．Obtain your proper visa. | D．Have a medical examination. |
| A．Tough. | B．Fancy. | C．Noisy. | D．Comfortable. |
