4 . Dozens of sea turtles swim past as I dive. Suddenly a diver cuts me off. Then another. “Hey!” I think. “Watch where you’re going!” Then I realize: These aren’t divers. They are sea lions! The creatures blow bubbles at me and the group of 11 kids I’m on vocations with, hitting us slightly on our backs. To not bother them much, we tear ourselves away from the wonderland.

We take this trip to the Galapagos Islands, a group of tropical islands crossing the equator. Our hotel is a boat called the Eclipse that has a pool. Humans aren’t allowed to live on most of the islands. The only way people can experience the magic of this place and meet animals on all the islands is by “panga”. “Our small motorboat is more important than the Eclipse. It’s very safe,” says a local guide, Fielsch. Lack of human threat makes the animals friendly. “They don’t know enough to be scared of humans.” Our group experience that firsthand. When we return after our diving adventure, we find sea lions lying next to our backpacks! Walking along the sand, we see more wildlife: seals, red crabs, orcas.

The following morning, we reach Fernandina Island, known for its volcano. Flightless birds called cormorants build nests on the rocks. Nearby are Galapagos penguins. Averaging about 19 inches in height, they’re the second smallest species of penguin in the world. “The Galapagos are so curious,” says 12-year-old Harry. “You’ve got penguins living far from the frozen South Pole, and birds that don’t fly!”

As we ride back, six penguins stand like soldiers, seeming to say goodbye. It’s our last day; none of us wants to leave this place. We know this trip has been a milestone for us. A marked shift in our attitudes towards the natural world is underway. “The Galapagos Islands seem to break the world’s rules,” says Harry. “More than ever, I’m interested in saving the environment. These animals truly need our care,” his sister Hannah adds.

Xi’an, known as one of the “Four Ancient Capitals of the World”, together with Cairo, Athens and Rome, is always     1     (associate)with its long history and rich culture. It’s famous for a number of reasons. For instance, it ranks first among the 6 ancient capitals in China. It used     2     (be)the capital for 13 dynasties as long as 1,100 years. It was the eastern terminus of the Silk Road and a unique city.

Because of       3     (it)somewhat isolated location in the mid-west of China, much of the culture and history has been preserved and passed down     4     this day. The long history and rich culture can be best illustrated with     5     (quantity)of historic relics and cultural sites     6     have been discovered from inside and around this city.

During the past years, an increasing number of tourists from the western world     7     (show)interest in the mysterious China. However, most of them     8     (mere)know Beijing or Shanghai because Beijing is the capital and Shanghai is one of the most influential     9     (finance)centers. But if you want to explore China from the roots upward, Xi'an is the best choice. Being an ancient and modern city, it will surely bring you     10     surprise.

7 . It is a common case that most people think a holiday requires a huge amount of preparation. However, a short day _________ can be just as refreshing as a long one. A short day’s drive or walk can be the channel that transports you into a _________ and casual world, where you can recall your childhood and enjoy your favourite songs. _________, a day trip can be a wonderful way to _________ the stresses of routine existence while feeding the soul.

You may be surprised to see how many day-trip possibilities _________ within a mere hour’s time from your home. Forests, lakes and mountains can serve as the perfect spots for a short _________ because the physical and mental transformation in an attractive setting is _________ by deep thinking and breathing, or just being still with _________.

I have numerous ways to _________ make up for the promise of my low-carbon life while still seeing to the __________ of myself on a soul level. However, my __________ to environmental well-being causes me to hesitate before using my car. So I cut my drive trip to a day.

Since day trips tend to require much __________ investments of time and money than traditional outings, I can get __________ travel experience day by day. On the weekend, I may be motivated to __________ a vast state park to get to know wildlife. On another, my curiosity can inspire me to visit a(n) __________ site to learn about ancient artists. Each mini trip will fill my existence with a sense of rebirth that prepares me for whatever lies ahead.

8 . Nashville TN Historical Tours

A General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise provides an amazing adventure to those visiting Nashville, TN. This famous paddle wheel riverboat takes guests via the Cumberland River to view the Nashville skyline to enjoy a relaxing cruise(乘船游览), live stage show, and delicious dinner.

The General Jackson dinner cruise lasts approximately 2. 5 hours, which is appropriate for all ages. The cruise price includes a meal and non-alcoholic beverage. Handicap can be accessible. Both Cameras and Video Cameras are permitted.

On this great guided tour, you’ll learn about the history of Hatch. The tour lasts about 45 minutes. It’s suitable for all ages. No beverage will be offered, so you need to take your own handicap. Hatch created poster prints for circuses. Cameras are not allowed. It is a truly immersive(沉浸式的)experience that combines hands-on fun with the interesting and colorful Hatch Show.

From visiting the battle of Franklin to the Carter House and Carnton Plantation, the Civil War historical tour offers an in-depth look into both the American Civil War and the prevailing culture of the Tennessee area during the mid-19^th century. The tour lasts approximately 7 hours. This tour is also appropriate for all ages. Handicap and cameras are permitted.

If you are looking for a trip that shows you all of Nashville’s most famous and historic sites without being a bore, the Redneck is for you. Morning tours are 2 hours. Afternoon tours are 90 minutes. The Christmas adventure in the evening lasts approximately 2 hours. All ages are appropriate. Handicap and cameras are permitted.