1 . Sleep behind ancient stone walls, and explore a private estate. We can introduce you to the best castles to rent. From five star luxury to budget friendly rustic (质朴的) experiences, each one has its own fascinating history.
●Schlosshotel Klink
Germany
€96 per room, per night (room only)
Hotel Schloss Klink stands directly beside Lake Miuritz, a 5-minute walk from the boat harbor. Built in 1898, many of the elegant rooms feature wooden beams (木梁). There are five on-site restaurants, a large spa and an indoor pool with lake views.
●Castello di Bibbione
Italy
€99 per room, per night (room only)
Castello di Bibbione is set between Florence and Siena with views of the Chianti hills. The rustic apartments feature wood-beamed ceilings and each comes with a fully-equipped kitchenette with a dining area. In the summer, you can relax in the outdoor swimming pool or garden. Wine tastings can be arranged, and bikes are provided free of-charge.
●Augill Castle
England
£180 per room, per night (bed & breakfast)
Free cancellations
Augill Castle is located in the upper reaches of the Eden Valley and is a mere 10 minutes’ drive away from the picturesque Yorkshire Dales. This is very much a family retreat and, as such, the castle owners can offer an informal and relaxed castle experience, creating memories that adults and children alike will never forget.
●Highlands Castle
USA
$600 per room, per night (room only)
Highlands Castle is located in Bolton Landing in upstate New York, offering views of Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains. Accommodation includes a seating area and a dining area, terrace and kitchen. Guests can enjoy swimming, boating, kayaking (划独木舟), horse-riding and diving.
1. What is special about Castello di Bibbione?A.Visitors can taste wine there. | B.It is near the Yorkshire Dales. |
C.Visitors can ride horses for free. | D.It is surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains. |
A.Schlosshotel Klink. | B.Castello di Bibbione. | C.Augill Castle. | D.Highlands Castle. |
A.Both have indoor pools. | B.Both offer lake views. |
C.Both are located in New York. | D.Both were built in the 19th century. |
Located in southwest China’s Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou Valley is famous
Jiuzhaigou got
The valley is the
Over 80 percent of the scenic area is covered by forests. In the lower regions, there are plenty of grasses and reeds. These are quickly replaced by bamboo forests
The most comfortable climate
3 . Each year many people move to the Sun Belt in the southern United States.
Most of the time people use the word snowbird in reference to retirees that travel to a southern state during the winter months. However, snowbirding is certainly not limited to retirees.
For those people that have the ability to leave their homes for a few months during the winter to explore the southern areas, there are many benefits to have.
A.They choose to seek a warm and sunny climate. |
B.Retired people, of course, will take advantage of it. |
C.Many snowbirds travel in their RVs around the Sun Belt. |
D.They can build new friendships and communities over the years. |
E.People of all ages have more freedom to spend months away now. |
F.There are many ways people choose to accomplish their snowbirding. |
G.Whatever advantages or disadvantages, people will take whichever way they like. |
4 . Sitting on the edge of the world, Sydney is considered as one of the world’s greatest cities. Here are some things you should do and see in Sydney.
Explore Sydney’s hottest neighborhood
Many big-ticket attractions can be found in or around the Circular Quay area, right by the port. Here, you can get on ferries(轮渡) to faraway islands or go exploring on foot with the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens and Museum of Contemporary all nearby.
Take side trips
Popular among outdoor types, the rough Blue Mountains—about two hours by train west of the city—promises winter skiing, excellent hiking and kangaroo sightings. Walking through the national park, travelers will watch forests, waterfalls, natural caves, small villages and rock formations.
The Hunter valley, just a two-hour drive north of Sydney, is Australia’s oldest wine region. Most vineyards(葡萄园) are family-owned, focusing on small production. Wine is more personal here.
Stay in style
The classic Langham Hotel is located just west of Circular Quay, offering easy access to the famous port.
As you explore its beautiful corridors(走廊), look for contemporary artworks from around the world—The Langham Hotel has the largest art gathering (more than $1 million worth) in Australia.
Meanwhile, those looking for a more relaxed experience can go camping on Cockatoo Island—just a quick boat ride from Circular Quay.
Travel tips
• Leaving tips at the bar or for a taxi isn’t expected, but it’s appreciated.
• When riding in a taxi alone, it’s customary to sit in the front seat.
• Bring sun cream, sunglasses and hat—whatever the season.
• On Sundays, families enjoy discounted fares on Sydney’s ferries and trains.
1. What can you do in the Blue Mountains?A.Explore the artificial caves. | B.Watch the lovely kangaroos. |
C.Taste locally produced wine. | D.Enjoy the unique corridors. |
A.Its ideal location. | B.Its first-class service. |
C.Its big collection of artworks. | D.Its modern architectural style. |
A.Ensure sun protection. | B.Offer bar tips. |
C.Sit behind the driver in a taxi. | D.Travel by train. |
5 . Four Truly Unique Canadian Camping Experiences
Mount Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia
Named after the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, this park gives you breathtaking views of mountain landscapes along with lakes, waterfalls, canyons, and caves. The Berg Lake campground is located right at the northern base of the 3, 954-meter peak (山巅), which is about a day's hike in.
Fundy National Park, New Brunswick
If you've grown tired of the tent or RV, this park is one of the few national parks offering yurt (蒙古包) rentals. Make sure you visit the Bay of Fundy where the world's highest tides make for some great surfing. You also can't miss the amazing Acadian forest waterfall. If you're looking for even more entertainment, the park also hosts music and cultural festivals each summer and has its own golf course.
Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon
From May to September, the Kathleen Lake campground sees visitors come from far and wide to camp, hike and fish. Mountaineering is especially popular as Kluane is home to 17 of Canada's 20 highest peaks. Flightseeing over the park's glaciers and rafting (漂流) the winding Alsek River will also keep you out enjoying the wilderness.
Prince Edward Island National Park, Prince Edward Island
If you're looking for a family-friendly park, this one is wonderful. Between the seven beaches and more than 50 kilometers of hiking and cycling trails, you'll certainly be kept busy. Literature lovers, you can see what inspired L.M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables at the nearby Green Gables Heritage Place and even explore the original house.
1. Where is the park offering yurt rentals located?A.In British Columbia. | B.In New Brunswick. | C.In Yukon. | D.In Prince Edward Island. |
A.Climb the highest mountain in Canada. | B.Experience the highest tides. |
C.Raft the winding Alsek River. | D.Attend music and cultural festivals. |
A.Mount Robson Provincial Park. | B.Fundy National Park. |
C.Kluane National Park and Reserve. | D.Prince Edward Island National Park. |
Whether you want to stay in a converted beer factory, a luxury hotel on the harbour or an advanced loft-style room, Sydney has a huge range of top-quality hotels.
1. THE OLD CLARE HOTEL
Located in the heart of Sydney’s Central Park district, The Old Clare Hotel, providing luxurious (豪华的) rooms and facilities, takes up a historic Chippendale pub and the nearby former beer factory site. This hotel has been lovingly restored by Peng Loh, a Singaporean businessman with a passion for redecorating heritage properties.
2. HILTON SYDNEY
This is luxury accommodation right in the centre of Sydney, with world-class restaurants, one of the city’s best bars. Just upstairs sits Glass, the award-winning small restaurant by celebrity chef Luke Mangan. Downstairs lies The Marble Bar, a Sydney hotspot for decades and heritage listed due to its extensive use of marble, dating back to 1893. Rooms are simply fashionable.
3. THE LANGHAM
Grand harborside luxury can be expected at The Langham, located in the Sydney centre. The hotel makes the most of its impressive harbour views with a marble-decorated hall that takes your breath away. Don’t forget to check out the art, with a collection of Australia’s most famous painter. Try their famous high tea menu, and be sure to check out the incredible underground swimming pool available to guests only.
4. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SYDNEY
Another luxury stay with amazing harbour views, the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney sits on the edge of Sydney’s historic Rocks district. A Deluxe Harbour Room will give you a breath-taking view, with dark wood and silk inside in calming colours. Downstairs is Grain, one of the best-known whisky bars in the city.
1. Which of the following hotels houses a restaurant by a famous chef?A.The Langham. | B.Hilton Sydney. |
C.The Old Clare Hotel. | D.The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney. |
A.A taste of the famous high tea for free. |
B.Access to the underground swimming pool. |
C.A rest in the impressive marble-decorated hall. |
D.A good look at the collection of famous paintings. |
A.Famous bars. | B.Harbour views. |
C.Heritage properties. | D.Luxurious facilities. |
The Xi’an City Wall is the most complete city wall that has survived China’s long history. It
We accessed the wall through the South Gate. The wall is 12 meters high and from here you can see streams of people moving inside and outside the City Wall.
After
We
8 . If you’d like to go sightseeing, the following World Heritage Sites may be your best choices.
Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area
Jiuzhaigou Valley, which lies in the northern part of Sichuan Province, China, reaches a height of more than 4,800 m, with a series of different forest ecosystems (生态系统). It’s particularly famous for its excellent waterfalls. About 140 kinds of birds live in the valley, as well as a number of endangered plants and animals, including the giant panda. Jiuzhaigou Valley was recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1992.
Khami Ruins National Monument
The city of Khami, which developed after the capital of Great Zimbabwe had been given up in the mid-16th century, is of great archaeological (考古的) interest. The discovery of objects from Europe and China shows that Khami was a major centre for trade over a long period of time. It joined the World Heritage List in 1986.
Henderson Island
Henderson Island, which lies in the eastern South Pacific, is one of the few atolls (环礁) in the world whose ecology has been untouched by humans. It’s particularly famous for the 10 plants and 4 birds that can only be seen on the island. It was recorded in the World Heritage List in 1988.
The Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and the finest example of the late style of Indian architecture. It was built by the emperor Shah Jehan, who ruled India in the 17th century. It was in memory of his favourite wife who died in 1631. The architecture was given a World Heritage Status in 1983.
1. Which of the following can be found in Jiuzhaigou Valley?A.Wonderful waterfalls. | B.Ancient objects. |
C.Beautiful buildings. | D.Untouched ecology. |
A.It doesn’t exist now. |
B.It was built by an emperor’s wife. |
C.It has become a place of interest. |
D.It looks more beautiful than other buildings. |
A.Industry. | B.Travel. |
C.Science. | D.Business. |
9 . There are lots of love stories in Chinese literary history. These tales were born from beautiful scenery and rich cultures, making them perfect places to visit.
West Lake, East China
Location: Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
Folktale: The legend is about a snake spirit who falls in love with a human named Xu Xian after meeting on the West Lake.
Travel Information: Walkways, perfectly positioned hills, parks, gardens and towers around the banks of the West Lake offer a great many points for visitors to admire the scenery. The best way to get around the lake is by bike or on foot. Three Pools Mirroring the Moon in particular is the must visit place if you are boating.
Tianhe Mountain, North China
Location: Xingtai, Hebei Province
Folktale: The cowherd (牛郎) and the weaver girl (织女) were once a happy couple, but their love was forbidden. They can meet only once a year when magpies fly together to form a bridge over the sky.
Travel Information: Far from the noisy city, Tianhe Mountain has the beautiful forests, valleys, and waterfalls. It also has a long history that goes back as far as the Stone Age. Nowadays, because of the strong idea with love, many blind dates (相亲) are held here.
Shanhaiguan Pass, North China
Location: Shanhaiguan District, Qinhuangdao City, Hebei Province
Folktale: Lady Meng Jiang’s husband was sent to build the Great Wall. Unfortunately, her husband died. She cried so bitterly that a part of the Great Wall broke down, exposing his remains.
Travel Information: Shanhaiguan is one of the major passes in the Great Wall of China. To take the Great Wall route, walk straight on from North Gate and then take the first right on the main road. Turn left up to the pathway beside the iron bridge and climb up. After climbing, you can take a break at the old city of Shanhaiguan which is at the foot of the Great Wall.
1. What can we know about the West Lake, East China?A.West Lake is located in West China. |
B.The best way to the West Lake is by car or on foot. |
C.Three Pools Mirroring the Moon is worth visiting. |
D.It offers few points for visitors to admire the scenery. |
A.have a blind date |
B.meet the cowherd and the weaver girl |
C.stay away from the noisy city |
D.visit the beautiful forests, valleys, and waterfalls |
A.A history book. |
B.A geography book. |
C.A travel magazine. |
D.An official report. |
10 . Summer holidays are back on as the government has released a list of quarantine-exempt(隔离豁 免)countries Britons can travel to from July 10 without needing to self — isolate on their return.
France
Requirements include strict social distancing at bars, cafes and restaurants and face masks worn when walking inside. Beaches have reopened Masks are compulsory on public transports
Plane: Returns from £ 30 in August.
Drive: Eurotunnel Le Shuttle has resumed its Folkestone to Calais service and allows passengers to order food, drink and groceries to their car. From £ 72 per car one-way.
Ferry: Brittany Ferries has resumed its Portsmouth-Caen route from £ 42pp one-way.
Italy
British tourists can travel freely within the country, with the exception of Sardinia , Sicily, Apulia and Calabria. Beaches have reopened, with 1.5-metre social distancing. Most museums are open.
Plane: Returns from £ 17 in August.
Drive: Catch the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle, or a ferry, to France and drive to Italy.
Spain
A royal law to wear lace masks has been issued for hotels, restaurants, museums and shops. Failure to obey will result in a £ 100 fine.
Plane: Returns from £ 25 in August.
Ferry: Brittany Ferries' service has resumed. From £ 350 per car.
Croatia
British tourists are welcome but need to fill out a form at enter Croatia before arrival. Restaurants ,hotels and beaches are open. Masks are required by law on public transport.
Plane: Returns from £ 35.
1. What can we learn about British tourists driving to Italy?A.They can arrive before July 10. | B.It is cheaper than taking a plane. |
C.They have to get to France first. | D.It is free to get food and groceries. |
A.To travel the country freely. | B.Not to wear a mask in hotels. |
C.To stand less than 1.5 meters away. | D.Not to obey self-isolation after arrival. |
A.France. | B.Italy. | C.Spain. | D.Croatia. |