1 . Luisa Yu, a 79-year-old woman from Miami, dreamed about traveling as a young girl. Now she completed visiting every UN nation in the world, all 193, in November 2023.
“When I went to the movies, I saw this beautiful background about the scenery, the nature, the rivers, the mountains, and that fascinated me,” Yu said. “That’s why I always thought someday I will 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 didn’t allow her to travel outside of the country. She decided to explore the US via Greyhound buses. She saved her vacation time from working at Miami, Florida hospitals and was able to take long trips across the US. There are only two states that Yu has yet to visit — Kentucky and Oklahoma.
It took Yu 15 years to get her green card that would allow her to travel internationally and there were times that she worked three jobs to save money to travel. The Miami resident eventually took a part-time job as a travel agent, which gave her many more opportunities to travel to new places around the globe.
In the past 50 years, Yu has been visiting countries across the world, even some that are very tough to get into. She has tried several kinds of meat when she visited North Korea, explored the beaches of Somalia, and even skydived in Dubai when she was 73.
Yu’s advice to people who are fond of traveling is to just do it. She said, “Don’t wait for anybody. If I keep on waiting, it will never happen, because the opportunity sometimes comes only once.”
1. What inspired Luisa Yu to travel?A.Reading books. | B.Watching movies. |
C.Friends’ suggestions. | D.Work experience. |
A.Because of visa limits. | B.Because of tight finances. |
C.Because of short holidays. | D.Because of safety problems. |
A.Dubai. | B.Miami. | C.Somalia. | D.North Korea. |
A.Apply for the travel visa in advance. |
B.Try various jobs to get colorful experiences. |
C.Look for friends with shared interest in travel. |
D.Catch every chance to do what they want to do. |
2 . Museums feature eye-catching spotlights and masses of collections in noisy downtown areas. However, many museums showing the unique local culture can now be found in the villages.
Located near a wide piece of cornfields in Xinjia Village is a museum about Mahu Opera, a traditional art of the Northeast China. Developed on a site formerly used as a primary school, this museum has five exhibition rooms with nearly 2,000 objects on show, including masks, costumes, instruments and books, most of which were donated by a local inheritor(继承者) of intangible cultural heritage. “By exhibiting them in the village, I hope to let more people know about the ancient form of art originating in the region,” said the inheritor.
In Xinjia village, with a population of only about 2,800, there are now five museums built near local houses. The museums are helping them know more about the past and record local history and encouraging tourists from cities to visit such regions. Villagers hope to promote the development of cultural tourism in the village and deliver a better living environment and also higher incomes to them.
Museums serve as cultural centers for villagers in rural regions. Besides a museum about cultural artworks related to Mahu Opera, there are other museums reflecting the history of this village situated in Shuangyang district in the city of Changchun, Northeast China. Shuangyang District, with more than 300 years of history in the field of deer breeding, has a “sika deer museum”. Wandering through the 7,200-square-meter building, people can learn in detail about this local history and tradition of raising deer, and its industry development process.
“We intend to preserve the cultural roots of Shuangyang and let people know about its civilization. People here have gone through hardships in developing the deer industry , and we need to pass on the qualities of hard work to our future generations through the museum.” said a founder of the museum.
1. What can we learn about the museum built in a former primary school?A.The objects focus on a local traditional art. |
B.The tourists are mainly from local villages. |
C.The museum covers an area of 7,200 square meters. |
D.The exhibitions were all donated by a cultural inheritor. |
A.The high grain production. | B.The high income from tourism. |
C.The spread of their traditions. | D.The protection of the environment. |
A.To teach villagers to raise deer. | B.To display artworks of local villagers. |
C.To show the development of raising deer. | D.To inspire future generations to protect deer. |
A.Tourism. | B.Culture. | C.Philosophy. | D.Environment. |
3 . Danube River Rhapsody: A European Tapestry
Your adventure starts in Munich, Germany, where a guided city tour introduces the city’s rich heritage. Sail (航行) through charming towns like Emmersdorf, Austria, where you’ll taste local wines. You will see the artistic and music al beauty of Vienna. As the ship travels towards Linz, prepare for an unforgettable evening at the Captain’s Gala Dinner.
Discovering the Wonders of the Nile: An Egyptian Odyssey
You will start your adventure in Cairo, where a city tour introduces you to the famous Egyptian Museum. Sail past ancient temples, hidden cities, and breathtaking landscapes. Your journey ends in the beach of Hurghada, where you can see the sun on the golden sands of the Red Sea coast.
Discovering the Beauty of the Mekong: A Journey Through Vietnam and Cambodia
Board a seven-night Mekong River ship, where you’ll find floating villages and markets, endless rice paddies (稻田), and breathtaking scenery. You will see the beauty of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and experience one of the most unforgettable sunsets you’ll ever see.
Yangtze River Ship: A Voyage Through China’s Heart
The journey allows you to see the country’s ancient traditions with its modern wonders. Your exploration begins in Beijing. Continue your journey to Xi’an, where you will see the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, and the Giant Panda Breeding Centre in Chengdu. Conclude your unforgettable adventure in Shanghai, experiencing the city’s energy and modern skyline.
If you’re interested in learning more about a river cruise, click here to our website to see what you can receive when you set sail.
1. Where does Danube River Rhapsody begin?A.Munich. | B.Emmersdorf. | C.Vienna. | D.Linz. |
A.Yangtze River Ship. | B.Danube River Rhapsody. |
C.Discovering the Wonders of the Nile. | D.Discovering the Beauty of the Mekong. |
A.By sending a mail. | B.By making a phone call. |
C.By visiting the website. | D.By asking the journeys’ guides in person. |
4 . Set 40 kilometers northeast of the city of Ambatondrazaka, Madagascar, the Zahamena National Park has overall land coverage of 643 square kilometers, but only about 420 square kilometers is open to the public. It receives an average rainfall level of around 6 feet every year and experiences frequent rain showers even during the dry season between April and October. And elevations (海拔) inside the park range from 250 to 1,560 meters, which has resulted in a diversity (多样性) of climates.
One really interesting thing about the Zahamena National Park is its unique highland landform (高地地貌). The development of several ecosystems that all together exist within its area greatly depends on it. And this is also the reason why the types of wildlife living in one area of its wide range are different in another, which makes it quite exciting to explore.
This protected region’s main area is divided into two parts: the eastern and western areas, with a separate piece of ground in the middle where many small villages are located. Zahamena means “red trees”, which suggests a tree species scientifically called Diatum unifoliatum. It lives only in Zahamena and is characterized by its typically deep reddish-orange color.
Established as a strict natural highland habitat for nature conservation (保护) in 1927, the Zahamena National Park was officially awarded the honorary title of national park in 1997 and was finally opened to the public. Due to its amazing landform and unique local biodiversity, this national park was later listed as a key part of the Rainforests of the Atsinanana in 2007.
Unluckily, there are no hotels or restaurants around the national park. So Zahamena is not an easy rainforest—this national park needs people with a high level of fitness and people with low requirements concerning accommodations. Everyone who is not discouraged by this will be able to expect an amazing rainforest experience in a location which has a small number of tourists.
1. What do we know about the Zahamena National Park?A.It is hard to reach due to conservation rules. |
B.It has changeable weather all year round. |
C.It has a great difference in elevations. |
D.It is famous for its traditional villages. |
A.The complete food chain of wildlife there. |
B.The wet weather condition there. |
C.The conservation efforts there. |
D.The special landform there. |
A.A cultural belief. | B.A local tree species. |
C.The unique geography. | D.The local village group. |
A.The tough condition of Zahamena. | B.People’s high level of fitness. |
C.Its geographical location. | D.The diversity of climates. |
5 . Here are the best summer destinations to travel to for an amazing summer vacation with your folks! Read on to know more about all these exciting places.
London — Gape at the Big Ben TowerLondon is world-famous for its nice summer weather, strict British guards that stand outside the honourable Buckingham Palace, and the delicious fish and chips that will keep you coming back for more! Plus, it’s attractive festival s like St. Patrick’s Day, and Beer Week that take awesomeness to a new level altogether!
Suggested Duration: 4 — 7 days
New Zealand — Scenic Landscapes for Nature LoversNew Zealand is surely one of the best summer destinations in the world owing to the fact that it enjoys summer y weather when it is winter in Asia, giving us a perfect excuse to go there to escape the colD.It’s also one of the most scenic and beautiful destinations in the world owing to the splendid landscapes that appear to be from another planet altogether!
Suggested Duration: 3 — 4 days
Iceland — Watch Colours Blend BeautifullyIceland is where every traveller needs to go if nature and adventure is what they love. This place offers not only breathtaking views but also refreshing experiences that are enough to enjoy relaxation from the humidity(湿度) and heat.
Suggested Duration: 6 — 7 days
Bali — Honeymooner’s ParadiseOffering postcard-like views of the sunset, Bali is also famous for shopping and its yoga retreats. The attractive culture, the picturesque islands, and the awesome food are enough to make you believe that it’s one of the best summer holiday destinations in the world.
Suggested Duration: 2 — 3 days
1. Where will you go back if you like chips and fish?A.London. | B.New Zealand. | C.Iceland. | D.Bali. |
A.December. | B.September. | C.May. | D.June. |
A.A textbook. | B.A report. |
C.A travel brochure. | D.An education paper. |
6 . Plan a day-trip to Little Switzerland for some wintertime fun
Jim Thorpe, about 30 miles from Allentown, will hold its annual Winter Fest from Thursday, Feb. 15, through Sunday, Feb. 18. The celebration will feature ice carvings, live entertainment, train rides, horse-drawn carriage rides and a luminaria walk through its downtown area.
In honor of an Olympic gold medalist, who is buried in a grave on North Street, the mountain town changed its name to Jim Thorpe in 1954. Whichever side you land on, Jim Thorpe — known for whitewater rafting, cycling and music festivals — is a unique destination any time of year, with winter bringing its own unique pleasures.
The festival features concerts, yoga and horse and buggy rides. Mauch Chunk Opera House, 14 W. Broadway, will hold a Rush Experience tribute concert at 8 p. m. Friday. Tickets cost $ 24. On Saturday, an ELO and Jeff Lynne tribute concert will begin at 8 p. m. Tickets cost $ 37.
You can check out the yoga class at 10 a. m. Saturday with Stacey Valdez of Fairy Moon Yoga at 41 W. Broadway. Admission is $ 20. The class, suitable for all levels, is one hour and bring your own mat.
Also Saturday: various bands performing in Josiah White Park along with a live ice carving at 5 W. Broadway. The Jim Thorpe Trolley Company will offer trolley rides (weather permitting) on Saturday and Sunday. Or you can horse around on a carriage ride by Crystal View Carriage Company on Friday through Sunday. No reservations are being taken, so arrive early.
For something more scenic, catch a train ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway Thursday-Monday. Advanced tickets are highly recommended.
1. What do we know about the town Jim Thorpe?A.It is located by the seaside. | B.It is named after an athlete. |
C.It holds the festival twice a year. | D.It is a good tourist attraction only in winter. |
A.$61. | B.$40. | C.$48. | D.$74. |
A.To ride a horse to wander around. | B.To book train tickets ahead of time. |
C.To reserve seats in Josiah White Park. | D.To take a taxi for something more scenic. |
7 . Londoners love a market. It’s the combination of eating, chatting and browsing. Lovely stuff. Locals and tourists continue to rush to the capital’s best stalls and these days there’s a huge range of markets across London. Below you’ll find the very best markets in London.
Broadway Market
Since being reopened in 2004, this Hackney Street market has become attractive to fashion lovers. It is packed every Saturday from 9 a. m. to 5 p. m. with arty students and East End creative types filling their large handbags with organic groceries, vintage clothes, fresh flowers, coffee, books and unusual handmade gifts.
Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road Market is really five markets in one, with different sections dedicated to second-hand goods, clothing and fashion, household essentials. You’ll find the greatest range of antiques stalls on Saturdays.
Borough Market
Next to London Bridge, this food market has existed in some form since at least 1014. It’s now best known as a foodie’s paradise where Londoners come to buy top-quality meats, fish, fruit and veg, fresh-baked bread, cakes and sweet treats, oils and vinegar, and pretty much anything else they desire. Borough Market is open Monday to Saturday, with Saturday the busiest day.
Brick Lane Market
The streets of East London’s Brick Lane are lined with stalls selling anything and everything on Sundays. You can find bargain fruit and veg, and electrical products, but this market’s Unique Selling Point is its unpredictability (不可预测): You could bag a second-hand bargain, or spend hours selecting through inexpensive goods.
1. Who would most likely enjoy Broadway Market?A.Poor people. | B.Art lovers. |
C.Those who like used items. | D.Those who have no time. |
A.They show cultural relics. | B.They sell the cheapest goods. |
C.They sell second-hand goods. | D.They are busy on the same day. |
A.Borough Market. | B.Brick Lane Market. |
C.Broadway Market. | D.Portobello Road Market. |
8 . Millions of Trip Advisor users voted New York, Chicago, Charleston and Las Vegas as the top four travel cities in the United States.
New York City
More than 50 million people visit New York City every year. The five regions of New York have some of the most easily recognized attractions in the world. Visitors whose things are tight can take a free boat from Manhattan to Staten Island for a great view of the Statue of Liberty by the sea and the Manhattan skyline.
Las Vegas, Nevada
The desert city of Las Vegas is known around the world for its casinos (娱乐场) and bright lights. Visitors stay at world-class hotels, eat at top chefs' restaurants, and usually see a spectacular show or concert.
Charleston, South Carolina
Some say Charleston is one of the most beautiful and historic places in the United States. The coastal city has a very rich history. The Civil War began at its waterfront, at Fort Sumter, which visitors can explore. But present-day Charleston has a lot to offer, too. Conde Nast Traveler voted it the number one U. S. city, for its beautiful architecture, food, and friendly people.
Chicago, Illinois
America's third-largest city offers world-class museums, great food, sporting events and symbolic architecture — including Willis Tower, America's tallest building. But what places the Midwest city above others is comedy. It's well-known for comedy shows. The Second City theater is where many famous comedians get their start, including Mike Meyers and Tina Fey.
1. If you are a backpack traveler on a tight budget, which would be your best choice?A.New York City. | B.Chicago, Illinois. |
C.Charleson, South Carolina. | D.Las Vegas, Nevada. |
A.New York and Chicago. | B.New York and Charleston. |
C.Charleston and Las Vegas. | D.Chicago and Charleston. |
A.World-class museums. | B.Landmark buildings. |
C.Comedy and comedy shows. | D.Sporting events and tasty food. |
9 . Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland after Zurich, has a good position on the southwestern end of Lake Geneva. Visitors to Geneva will find an expensive, clean and elegant city. Here are some best things to do in Geneva.
Catch the Spray From the Jet d’Eau
Built in 1886 to control the outflow of water from a nearby power plant, the Jet d’Eau (water jet) soon became a symbol of the city of Geneva. It shoots water nearly 140 metres into the air and is the tallest fountain in the world. Unless winds are too strong, the Jet d’Eau runs every day and is bright at night.
Tour the Palais des Nations (UN Headquarters)
Built in the 1930s as the headquarters of the short-lived League of Nations, the Palais des Nations (Palace of Nations) is the second-largest UN headquarters outside of New York City. It’s a vast campus of administrative buildings around a parklike setting. Visitors are free to wander the grounds or may jump in on an hour-long guided tour of several of the buildings.Stroll the Lakefront and Riverside
The Jardin Anglais is just one of several places to admire the lake and the Jet d’Eau. The entire lakefront is for walking. There are 6 miles of pedestrian-only (仅限行人) walking and bike paths along the entire lakefront.
Take a Break at the Jardin Anglais & the Flower Clock
All roads in Geneva seems to lead to the Jardin Anglais — the English Garden — the small, prettily planted lakefront garden in the centre of Geneva. Crowds flock here for the flower clock, with seasonal flowers. Plenty of sitting areas, shade trees, and a central fountain make this a relaxing place to take a break from sightseeing.
1. Why did people build the Jet d’Eau?A.To store water for a nearby power plant. | B.To limit the water from an electric plant. |
C.To make it the tallest fountain of the world. | D.To make it a symbol of the city of Geneva. |
A.It has a history of over 100 years. | B.It’s the second largest building in Geneva. |
C.It lies in a vast campus in Geneva. | D.It offers guided tours for visitors. |
A.Planting some flowers in the garden. | B.Practising their English in the garden. |
C.Going sightseeing for the flower clock. | D.Buying cheap seasonal flowers. |
10 . Do you know that all sorts of adventures can happen in educational settings after sundown? Here’s a round-up of sites where the fun continues as night falls.
Ripley’s Aquarium
TORONTO, CANADA
Ever wondered how sweet your dreams would be while sleeping in an aquarium’s shark tunnel that holds around 2.9 million litres of water? You can find out during an Overnight Reef Adventure. Green sawfish, sand tiger sharks, Queensland groupers, and green sea turtles will be your companions for the night.
California Academy of Sciences
SAN FRANCISCO, US
This awe-inspiring museum in Golden Gate Park hosts regular Penguins + Pajamas Sleepovers. As the name suggests, pack your pajamas, grab a sleeping bag, and spend a night under the same roof as a colony of African penguins. You can explore a rainforest full of free-flying birds and foreign reptiles (爬行动物) before lights-out. There’s also a planetarium (天文馆) that’s truly out of this world.
Kennedy Space Center
FLORIDA, US
In the Kennedy Space Center, youth groups and visitors making private bookings can have after-hours opportunity to enjoy hands-on challenges, watch a 3D movie in an IMAX theatre, and go on a Q&A session with a former NASA astronaut who’s travelled into space. What’s more, you get to sleep either underneath a 110 m-long Saturn V moon rocket or beside the space shuttle Atlantis.
1. At Ripley’s Aquarium, what will visitors encounter?A.Foreign reptiles. | B.African penguins. |
C.Free-flying birds. | D.Sand tiger sharks. |
A.Travelers seeking sea adventures. | B.Locals eager for outdoor activities. |
C.Teenagers attracted by hands-on challenges. | D.Visitors interested in space and animals. |
A.They are all located in the US. | B.They only open after sundown. |
C.They all offer overnight experiences. | D.They all feature interactive sections. |