1 . I live in Xizhou in Yunnan Province, on the historic Tea Horse Road. I have to admit that when I first heard that Paul Salopek was going to walk the entire globe on his own two feet, I was blown away. I couldn’t imagine that there could be such an unusual person in the world.
Last May, I met Paul. He told me that it was his first time in China. He talked to me with great excitement about the history, migrations, and discoveries in my region of China. He spoke of the Shu-Yandu Dao (the Southern Silk Road), the travels of the 17th-century Chinese explorer Xu Xiake, the Tea Horse Road and the early 20th-century American botanist Joseph Rock. He also talked of Xuanzang. Paul considered many of them heroes and in a sense Chinese pioneers of slow journalism.
I decided to accompany Paul on his walk toward Yunnan. On September 28, 2021, we set out. Our days were simple: walk, eat, sleep, and repeat. We woke up at sunrise, set off in high spirits, and rested at sunset, dragging ourselves into exhausted sleep.
We met many people on the road. Some were curious, surrounding us and watching us; some gave us directions; some invited us into their home to take a rest; some spoke of the charm of their hometown. We met many beautiful souls, simple souls and warm souls. We were walking with our minds.
Together, we were impressed by the biodiversity of the Gaoligong Mountains. As I walked on ancient paths through mountains, I seemed to hear the antique voices of past travelers urging me to be careful on the road.
Looking back on the more than 200 miles I walked with Paul, I came to a realization. Walking for its own sake, while healthy and admirable, is only a small part of the benefit of moving with our feet. A deeper reward is rediscovering the world around us, shortening the distance between each other, and sharing each other’s cultures.
1. How did the writer first respond to Paul’s travel plan?| A．Scared. | B．Puzzled. |
| C．Disappointed. | D．Surprised. |
| A．He was a western journalist. | B．He had a knowledge of China. |
| C．He came to China several times. | D．He was Joseph Rock’s acquaintance. |
| A．They honored the ancestors. | B．They set off in high spirits. |
| C．They satisfied the locals’ curiosity. | D．They built bonds with people. |
| A．To share and reflect on a journey. | B．To suggest a new way of travel. |
| C．To advocate protection of biodiversity. | D．To introduce and promote Chinese culture. |
2 . Sunflower season is right around the corner. Here are several most beautiful golden fields near London.
Garsons Farm
At Garsons Farm you will find three separate sunflower fields across its 155 acres. You’ll need to purchase a crop farm pass (£4 for adults, £1 for kids) in advance and pay 99 pence per flower. This farm is also home to over 75 varieties of fruits, vegetables and plants that can be picked during your visit, but be sure to check crop availability on its website beforehand.
Hitchin Lavender Farm
This spot is most famous for its purple crops of lavender (熏衣草), but it is also home to dozens of sunflowers! You will be charged £6 for your entry to the farm, and 50 pence per stem. And for £50 you can hire a personal photographer and have your very own photos with the plants.
Cotswold Farm Park
Cotswold Farm Park was founded to help protect rare species of farm animals in 1971. You will not only find flowering sunflowers but plenty of furry four-legged friends, too. The park also contains several photo stations throughout the field. Tickets must be booked in advance and cost £7 per adult.
Broomfield Farm
This fruit farm is open every Saturday and Sunday for those who want to see sunflowers on their weekends! It produces all kinds of fruits, vegetables and flowers that you can purchase in their farm shop or pick yourself during your visit. You are allowed to bring a picnic with you and the £4 entry is taken off your “pay and weigh” bill at the end.
1. What’s the entry fee for a couple and two kids if they go to Garsons Farm?| A．£6. | B．£7. | C．£8. | D．£10. |
| A．At Garsons Farm. | B．At Bromfield Farm. |
| C．At Cotswold Farm Park. | D．At Hitchin Lavender Farm. |
| A．Sunflower lovers. | B．Holiday campers. | C．Field researchers. | D．Nature photographers. |
3 . Shakespeare’s Globe Exhibition & Theatre Tour is a special international visit to enjoy Shakespeare’s work. Open all year round, it gives you an opportunity to learn more about the most famous playwright, Shakespeare, and helps you have a better understanding of him.
Group Visits to the Exhibition & Theatre Tour
* Opening Hours
Exhibition: Monday - Friday: 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
Weekends: 9:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Theatre Tours: Monday - Sunday: 9:30 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
Groups of 15 people or more are required to pre-book their visit, and each group will have its own guide for free. To make a reservation, please fill in a Group Request Form and return it to us via email.
* Exhibition and Tour Prices
Adult: $15.00 Senior (60+): $13.50
Student (with valid ID): $11.50 Child (5-15): $ 8.00
Complimentary: Every 16th person is free
* Getting here
Shakespeare’s Globe 21 New Globe Walk, London SEl9DT, UK .
Visitors are advised to arrive by public transport or by taxi. There is a car park on Thames
Exchange on the north side of Southwark Bridge (open 24 hours, seven days a week). Taxis may be found all year round on Southwark Bridge.
*Where to eat
Swan at Shakespeare’s Globe offers modern British seasonal food for dinner, afternoon tea or drinks in our beautiful bar and restaurant set over two floors, available for pre- and post-theatre dining.
1. When can you pay a visit to the exhibition?| A．8 a.m. on Sunday. | B．11:30 a.m. on Friday. |
| C．4:40 p.m. on Saturday. | D．6 p.m. on Tuesday. |
| A．$240. | B．$225. | C．$184. | D．$216. |
| A．A theater poster. | B．A history textbook. | C．A fiction novel. | D．A travel guide. |
4 . Last summer holiday, Aunt Emily took us to a safari park (野生动物园), not far from Liverpool.
I was very happy to go as I had never been to a safari park before. It’s a very interesting park, full of wild animals running freely.
When we got there, we bought our tickets and drove into the park. We were very excited at the thought of going to see the lions. But to get to the lions’ place we had to go through the monkeys’ land first. And that was an unforgettable experience because they climbed all over the car, ate apples and bananas, and threw all kinds of things at us. They seemed very unfriendly.
Anyway, we went on our way to the lions’ place where we had to lock ourselves in the car as we knew lions could be dangerous. A lion came up very close to us. Then it was on the bonnet (车盖). It looked calm but we felt terrified. Aunt Emily, who isn’t very brave, started to call for help. The kids started crying. Only my brother, George, stayed cool. I sounded the horn (喇叭) but nobody heard us.
In the end a guard arrived in his car, and the lion just got off our car and started smelling the guard’s hand as if nothing was the matter.
1. Which animal did the author want to see the most?| A．The lions. | B．The elephants. | C．The monkeys. | D．All of them. |
| A．Because the monkeys might steal things. | B．Because they were afraid of being robbed. |
| C．Because the lions might be dangerous. | D．Because something was wrong with the car. |
| A．Excited. | B．Bored. | C．Interested | D．Scared |
| A．Aunt Emily. | B．George. | C．The guard. | D．The author. |
5 . Virginia is the hometown of George Washington, the first president of the United States. And it also a place where you can explore nature and history and learn about America and its beginnings.
Mount Vernon, Virginia
The perfect place to begin your trip is at George Washington’s beloved home, Mount Vernon, Virginia. His home has been operated as a museum since 1858 and it is kept the way it was when he lived here. Visit the museums and learn things about George Washington beyond his military (军事的)and political life, such as the fact that he opened the first distillery(酿酒厂)in the country.
Fort Hunt Park, Virginia
Fort Hunt Park is a great place to have a picnic lunch today, but in the past it has played an important part in the military history of the country. In World War II it was the site of very secret meetings.
Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve, Virginia
Wetlands are an important part of the ecosystem and are beautiful, a joy to explore because of all of the plants and animals that live there. You can explore over 300 acres on foot or by canoe(独木舟), or both.
Jones Point Lighthouse, Virginia
The lighthouses(灯塔)along Chesapeake Bay are not like others that you may be familiar with, and for that reason alone, this one is well worth a visit. It was first used in 1856 and was almost torn down. Today it is a 50-acre park with bike trails and picnic tables. Come at night and see the light shine once again.
1. What can we learn from the text about George Washington’s home?| A．It was the site of very secret meetings in World War II. |
| B．It has been used as a distillery since 1858. |
| C．It remains the same as when George Washington lived there. |
| D．There are a lot of animals and plants there. |
| A．It is a place where you can explore the past on an actual working farm. |
| B．It is different from other lighthouses. |
| C．In the old days it guided the ships up the Potomac River. |
| D．It is an important part of the ecosystem. |
| A．You can explore Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve on foot or by car. |
| B．Jones Point Lighthouse played an important part in the military history of the country |
| C．George Washington opened the first distillery in the world. |
| D．If you go to Jones Point Lighthouse at night, you can see the light shine once again. |
| A．Nature. | B．Travel. | C．Medicine. | D．Health |
6 . The Charming City—Madrid
History
This city of over 3 million people is proud of Western Europe’s largest royal palace, and some consider it to be Madrid’s most beautiful building. Inside the palace, 3418 rooms are decorated in glory with museum-quality furniture and artworks. Tourists can tour 50 of these large and splendid rooms.
Art
The internationally respected Prado Museum is the largest and most impressive art gallery in Spain. Opened in 1819, it is filled with works of art that feature the world’s most comprehensive collection of Spanish paintings.
Shopping
Madrid has some of Europe’s best shopping malls, and potential buyers love to look through the stores, looking for bargains. But for 500 years, shoppers have gathered to an extremely large outdoor flea market, known as EI Rastro where they find everything from antiques(古玩)to CDs.
Entertainment
No trip to Madrid is complete without seeing a performance of Spain’s famous art form, flamenco. Every day, flamenco performers sing, dance or play the guitar in small cafes and grand theaters alike.
Food
Madrid has a wide variety of restaurants, but because the Spanish typically eat late at about 9 or 10 p.m., it’s difficult to find good dinner food earlier, If you get hungry before then, the best solution is to try a tapas bar where light snacks are served. Be sure to try the jamon, a kind of dry-cured ham. Spain is famous for it.
1. What do we know about the Royal Palace in Madrid?| A．It can hold 3418 people. | B．It has 50 rooms for a visit. |
| C．It is thought to be the largest in Europe. | D．It’s been visited by 3 million people. |
| A．A discount store. | B．An artwork store. |
| C．To sell various goods. | D．To sell only antiques and CDs. |
| A．Enjoying flamenco. | B．Having dinner earlier. |
| C．Visiting Prado Museum. | D．Drinking in a tapas bar. |
7 . Troia Gale, near Lisbon
Type: Sandy
Lifeguard: Yes
Cafe: Yes
It takes about an hour to get to Lisbon. It is the easiest to take a ferry (渡船) from Setubal town, but it’s also possible to drive there in just over an hour, through the resort (旅游胜地) of Comporta. Troia Gale beach is quiet and has a wonderful location, with views of the Arrabida mountains. The Atlantic is calmer in this part, and good for swimming. The Troia Residence has apartments near the ocean—from $107 in June.
Posedarje, near Zadar
Type: Rocky
Lifeguard: No
Cafe: Yes
There are more beautiful spots in Croatia, but this beach, 25 km from Zadar in the shadow of the Velebit mountains, has a family atmosphere and beautifully clear water. Book a sea-facing room at Posedarje’s only hotel, Lucija [ doubles from about $80 including bed and breakfast (B&B) ], whose simple rooms are in a wonderful position on a private, stony swimming and sunbathing area.
Playa de Carnota, Galicia
Type: Sandy
Lifeguard: No
Cafe: A Morosa
About 7 km long, this beach is considered the longest in Galicia. Far from any urban area, it has brilliant white sand and mountain views. The beach is usually quietrarely visited even by locals, and is a very impressive place to appreciate the Galician coastline. It is accessible (可进入的) bycar but lacks facilities (设备) like showers. Stayat Casa Rural San Cibran (doubles from $50B&B). A 15-minute drive north.
Play de Calblanque, Murcia
Type: Sandy
Lifeguard: 11 am - 8 pm
Cafe: Din’s Bar
Play de Calblanque is part of a natural reserve, which, in 1987, was declared a protected zone for its large numbers of animals and plants. The waters are clear and the sand is golden Most importantly, however, unlike many beaches on the Mediterranean Sea, Calblanque is never full. Be aware that it is not accessible by car in July and August. Stay in the city at the NH Cartagena (doubles from $90 only).
1. What can we learn about Posedarje from the text?| A．It is the longest beach in Croatia. | B．It is quiet and good for diving. |
| C．Tourists can’t take a shower there. | D．Its only hotel named Lucija is beside the sea. |
| A．Drive there from Casa Rural San Cibran. | B．Discover a wide variety of plants and animals. |
| C．Find the beach often crowded with tourists. | D．Rent a car and drive to the beach in August. |
| A．Tourists can have coffee in these places. | B．There are lifeguards in all of them. |
| C．Their hotels provide B&B services. | D．The four beaches are all sandy. |
8 . Five Must-See Attractions Across the USA
Whether you’re planning a trip or looking at a map for the first time to decide where to go, you can find out plenty of nice attractions across the country. We’ve found five must-see attractions for you．
Alaska:Denali National Park
Dog-sled teams are a symbol of the region and an important part of the area’s history, and still used in Alaska. You can learn about the sled dogs at the Denali Kennels during the summer or winter. The ken-nels are located inside the Denali National Park, which charges $ 10 for adults．
Indiana:Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Racing enthusiasts shouldn’t miss their chance to visit the home of the Indianapolis 500 and the Auto Racing Hall of Fame. Admission is $ 10 and a gate fee of $ 10 to $ 40, depending on the race.
Delaware:Hagley Museum and Library
The Hagley Museum and Library in Wilmington has something for everyone. History lovers can learn about the development of the DuPont Company while nature lovers will enjoy a tour of the estate(庄园).Entrance for children aged 6 to 14 is $ 6, adults pay $ 15, and students and the old pay $ 11.
Missouri:The Nelson-Atkins Art Museum
In the Missouri side of Kansas City, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is free for all visitors, which al-so offers free guided tours．There’s an outdoor sculpture garden, visiting exhibits, and a permanent collec-tion with works of art from around the world and throughout history．
Pennsylvania:Gettysburg Military Park
Visit the battlefield and learn about a sad time in American history at the Gettysburg Military Park. The park is free to enter, but admission to the museum is $ 10 for children and $ 15 for adults,
1. At which place can you watch racing games？| A．Pennsylvania:Gettysburg Military Park. |
| B．Indiana:Indianapolis Motor Speedway. |
| C．Alaska:Denali National Park and Dog Sledding. |
| D．Missouri:The Nelson-Atkins Art Museum. |
| A．Study the history of DuPont Company. |
| B．Watch the show of the sled dogs. |
| C．Learn about the history of the Civil Rights. |
| D．Enjoy various outdoor sculptures. |
| A．They are open only in summer and winter． |
| B．Visitors must pay $ 10 to enter the parks． |
| C．Free guided tours are provided． |
| D．They are both popular for history lovers． |
9 . For those who are keen to explore natural wonders and cultural heritage sites and to pursue (追求) the passion of local people for ice and snow in Jilin province, now it is the time to go there.
Rime observation
Compared with rime (雾凇)in other regions of China, rime in Jilin city is unique (独特的) because it is thick and crystal clear. A toothpick-thick tree branch can be covered in frost as thick as an adult's thumb. The best time to observe is at 6-10am between November and February.
Winter fishing
Chagan Lake is one of the top 10 largest freshwater lakes in China. It covers more than500 square kilometers. Winter fishing on Chagan Lake is an ancient tradition that dates back to the Liao Dynasty and Jin Dynasty. It was listed as a national-level intangible (无形的) cultural heritage item in 2008.
Hot springs
For those who want to feel warm in winter in Jilin province, Changbai Mountains area could be the best place to visit. The region, formed after a volcanic eruption in ancient times, holds hundreds of hot springs with an average temperature above 60℃.The hot springs are said to be good for health because of their stable flow, constant temperature and mineral-rich water.
1. What makes rime special in Jilin city?| A．Its observation time. | B．Its thickness and clearness. |
| C．Its unique tree branches. | D．Its fame as a cultural heritage. |
| A．It formed in the Liao Dynasty. |
| B．It covers less than 500 square kilometers. |
| C．It is the 10th largest saltwater lake in China |
| D．It is one national non-material cultural heritage |
| A．Because of hot springs. | B．Because of the volcano. |
| C．Because of the rime. | D．Because of winter fishing |
| A．Technology. | B．Business. | C．Travel. | D．Art |
10 . Now that my children are grown, I have resumed (中断后继续) a habit: solo travel. The seed was planted when I was 17 and went on a class trip to Spain. The experience was similar to reading my first book. I remember when I separated from the group and went through the busy streets of Madrid on my own, looking at the architecture gawkingly, trying unfamiliar foods, and gathering the courage to engage the natives with my high school Spanish. After that adventure I sought every opportunity to explore on my own, because I wanted to move according to my ideas.
I recall, many years ago, before I became a dad, arranging to work for a summer on an Icelandic farm in exchange for room and board. The driver stopped at the appointed place, but no one was there to meet me. And so I put my backpack down and read a book, knowing that when one travels one is never lost.
I tell this story to calm the fears of friends and others who have occasionally raised their hands to their faces upon hearing what I was up to. Some are specialists in outlining for me all the things that can go wrong when one launches oneself into the unknown. But for me, that’s the whole point of travel: to go where I haven’t gone before, to discover friendships waiting to be made, to interface with unfamiliar scents (气味) and tastes, to enter a new and, for me, undiscovered environment where being pleasantly surprised is the reward.
A few years back I went to Greenland. I spent a week hiking its mountains, interacting with the natives, and sailing the bays. It was inspiring. I hopped (登上) my flight back to Iceland feeling well satisfied. But when I got off the plane and saw the line of passengers waiting for their flight to Greenland, all I wanted to do was turn around and join them. Once again it was proved for me that I would never get travel out of my system.
1. How did the class trip to Spain affect the writer?| A．He discovered the magic of solo travel. |
| B．He realized the pleasure of reading books. |
| C．He became interested in learning Spanish. |
| D．He formed a habit of collecting plant seeds. |
| A．Curiously. | B．Randomly. | C．Casually. | D．Anxiously. |
| A．Going wherever you would like to. | B．Going in the unknown environment. |
| C．Exploring something new all the way. | D．Getting a reward from challenging fear. |
| A．His impatient personality. | B．His crazy desire for travelling. |
| C．His quickness to follow others. | D．His tendency to be easily satisfied. |
