1 . Surrounded by towering skyscrapers, roaring traffic and crowded streets, sometimes all you want to do is find some peace. Luckily, many of the world’s busiest urban areas also contain beautiful green spaces.
Hibiya Park, Tokyo
A green island in the heart of Tokyo, Hibiya Park is Japan’s first western-style park. The 16-hectare grounds contain some 3,100 trees and 10,000-sqare-metres of green lawns and pretty flower beds. One of the parks must-see attractions is the great fountain. The symbol of Hibiya Park, the fountain is 30-metres wide and features a 12-metre high water jet at its centre. Autumn is an especially lovely time to take a stroll, as trees leaves turn beautiful shades of red. orange and yellow.
Central Park, New York
Possibly one of the most famous parks in the world. Central Park ranks alongside the Empire state Building and the statue of Liberty as a symbol of New York City. Not only was Central park the first public park in America, but it’s also the most visited. Set in the midst of Manhattan, Central Park’s 843 acres are filled with gorgeous fountains, monuments and bridges, alongside meadows and waters. Loved by locals, the park’s recreational facilities boast everything from skating and cycling to climbing and rowing.
Hong Kong Park
One of the world’s most unusual parks, Hong Kong Park blends modern design with the natural environment. Covering just over 8-hectares, the park uses flowing water in the form of waterfalls, ponds and fountains to link its different features. With mountains on one side and skyscrapers on the other, it’s also a great point for some striking photographs of Hong Kong. One of the park’s main attractions is the Edward Youde Aviary. And with an area of 3,000 square metres—it’s one of the largest aviaries in the world.
Hyde Park, Iondon
One of London’s eight Royal Parks, Hyde Park offers both world-class events and a peaceful place to unwind. Set along the serpentine, the park covers 350 acres and contains around 4,000 trees and flower gardens. Famous monuments include the Diana Memorial Fountain, famous Achilles statue and the Serpentine Bridge. The park truly offers something for everyone. You can go swimming, boating and horse riding or simply enjoy the fresh air alongside the many other walkers, joggers and cyclists. Two lakeside restaurants also offer everything from a cup of coffee to a 3-course meal.
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1. If you are interested in skating, where will you probably go?
A.Hibiya Park. | B.Central Park. |
C.Hong Kong Park. | D.Hyde Park. |
A.It is one of the most famous parks in the world. |
B.It is surrounded with mountains and monuments. |
C.It offers visitors a good position to take photos. |
D.It offers visitors from coffee to three meals. |
A.An advertisement. | B.A magazine. |
C.A geography textbook. | D.A website. |
2 . When architects Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal were invited to redesign a small, triangular plaza in a residential district in Bordeaux, France in the mid-1990s, they decided that the best design would be no design at all. After studying the site and interviewing its residents, the architects informed the city that the best plan would be to leave the park alone. “Embellishment (装饰) has no place here,” they wrote in their project statement. “There was no need to rebuild,” they noted. “Quality, charm, and life already exist.”
The pair runs a firm named Lacaton & Vassal. Most of their built projects lie in locations around France, within a train ride of their Paris studio. They are as focused on preserving existing buildings as they are on building. In the words of London-based architect Dieter Kleiner, their work is almost anti-architecture. Now their anti-architecture is receiving institutional attention: In March 2021, Lacaton and Vassal were awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize. The jury (评判委员会) noted their “democratic spirit” as well as “a commitment to a restorative architecture that is at once technological, innovative and ecologically responsive”.
In 2017, when tasked with the redesign of some 1960s apartment blocks in Bordeaux, Lacaton and Vassal chose not to tear down the structures. Instead, they upgraded the existing 530 units with garden terraces (露台) that expanded the size of the dwellings and increased access to fresh air and sunlight — all without asking a single tenant (居住者) to move out while the work was done. They used materials common to greenhouse construction, such as silver solar curtains, which allowed them to create cost-effective indoor and outdoor spaces that could be adjusted according to the weather: admitting light and air on pleasant days, or blocking the sun when summer heat is at its peak.
For the architects, this is part of their motto: “Never demolish, never remove or replace, always add, transform and reuse!” The selection of Lacaton and Vassal by the Pritzker jury marks a socially minded turn for the prize, which — with a few exceptions — has generally awarded form-making above everything else.
1. What can we learn about Lacaton and Vassal from the text?A.Their projects are mostly located in Paris. |
B.They are devoted to maintaining old buildings. |
C.They started an architecture firm in the mid-1990s. |
D.Their architecture style is similar to Dieter Kleiner’s. |
A.They built a solar-powered greenhouse for the tenants. |
B.They adopted a cost-effective way to create adjustable spaces. |
C.They pulled down part of the structures and added garden terraces. |
D.They expanded the size of the apartments by building more rooms. |
A.They use quality materials. |
B.They are upgraded in a sustainable way. |
C.They usually involve little embellishment. |
D.They are made to be modern by using new technologies. |
A.It promotes the idea of innovation. |
B.It shows the trend of future architecture. |
C.It signals an important shift in architectural values. |
D.It proves the importance of the form of architecture. |
3 . Sometimes the best family vacations are those spur-of-the-moment trips that require just a little bit of planning and a short drive in the car. These last-minute ideas will get you out of the city and into the fun.
Boston to Fitchburg, Mass.
TIME IN CAR: 1 HOUR
Drive northwest out of Boston to this city with a small-town feel. The nearby Leominster State Forest has plenty of options for exploring the outdoors. Then head indoors and cool down as you browse the artwork at downtown Fitchburg Art Museum.
Pit stop: Historic Concord, Mass., is the perfect place to stop for lunch and visit the Orchard House.
Dallas to Grapevine, Texas
TIME IN CAR: 30 MINUTES
Kids will love the Grapevine Vintage Railroad in this historic town. Climb aboard trains pulled by an 1896 steam locomotive (蒸汽机车) or a 1953 diesel engine (柴油机车) for a short ride to and from the Fort Worth Stockyards.
Pit stop: Not so much a pit stop as a side trip, the 5.2-acre Nash Farm in Grapevine gives visitors a quick look at life in 19th-century Texas.
Philadelphia to the Pocono Mountains
TIME IN CAR: 2 HOURS
Make a break from the City of Brotherly Love and head for the hills. Miles of trails are perfect for hiking and biking, and sandy lakeside beaches are a great place to relax. After a day spent out in the sun, use the evening to explore the region’s charming rural towns.
Pit stop: Stop at the Crossing Premium Outlets in Tannersville, Pa., and browse more than 100 stores for take-home gifts.
Washington to Williamsburg, Va.
TIME IN CAR: 3 HOURS
Pack up the family and head southeast to see Revolutionary War history come to life at Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown Victory Center, England’s first permanent colony at Jamestown. The kids will be amazed at the way people used to make everyday items such as shoes and baskets – and they might just learn something, too.
Pit stop: Go to Bowling Green, Va., an “All-American City” with historic ties. Old Victorian and colonial homes line the streets.
1. What does the underlined word “spur-of-the-moment” in Paragraph mean?A.Newly-planned. | B.Well-prepared. |
C.Carefully-made. | D.Long-expected. |
A.3 hours | B.2 hours |
C.1 hour | D.30 minutes |
A.The Pocono Mountains have sandy beaches only for kids to explore. |
B.A simple meal at downtown Fitchburg Art Museum can be wonderful. |
C.A visit to Scotland’s first permanent colony at Jamestown provides new experiences. |
D.Historic trains are a fun way to introduce kids to the way the world worked before cars. |
4 . Myrtle Beach, offers plenty of great activities to help guests feel welcome. Enjoy your stay by booking your activities through Vacations Made Easy.
Ripley’s Aquarium
For those who are interested in marine life, this is an awesome place to visit. Guests will be able to view the animals that live in the water. From sea turtles to sharks, Ripley’s Aquarium is educational, fun, and something you definitely do not want to miss out on during your vacation!
Wildlife Preserve
Wildlife preserve offers up some amazing conservation efforts and the ability to embark upon a safari-style tour. See and learn about beautiful creatures such as lions, tigers, bears, and more! There are so many unique animals to see.
Dolphin Sightseeing Tour
Enjoy a seaside adventure unlike any other the next time you visit. Guests are guaranteed to see beautiful wild animals and dolphins in their natural habitats. Get out on the water and experience some of the best views and create memories during your visit.
Pirates Voyage
Watch in awe as two crews of pirates battle it out for hidden treasure through fun performances and more! Pirates Voyage features some of the best theatrics in the area with a huge indoor lake, talented actors, and an unforgettable time. Plus, guests can also cos-play as pirates.
An exciting time in Myrtle Beach awaits! To get more information, you can contact us through www.vacationsmadeeasy.com.
1. Which activity is designed for visitors who are interested in sea creatures?A.Ripley’s Aquarium. | B.Wildlife Preserve. |
C.Safari-style Tour. | D.Pirates Voyage. |
A.They will act as pirates. | B.They will battle with two pirates. |
C.They will find the hidden treasure. | D.They will write a play about pirates. |
A.Visitors can enjoy marine creatures. | B.They both offer water activities. |
C.They belong to safari-style tour. | D.They can see beautiful wild animals. |
5 . Kauai Waimea Canyon & Koke’e Adventure
Depart: 7:30 am Return: 5:30 pm
$170.00
Journey through the heart of Kauai’s countryside where you’ll view what Mark Twain described as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. Then hike down a nature trail in Koke’e State Park for an easy hike surrounded by native Hawaiian plants and animals.
PRICE INCLUDES: Lunch from Waimea Plantation Cottages
Kauai Movie Adventure
Depart: 7:00 AM Return: 11:00 AM
$170.00
A movie adventure tour for young and old, movie and nature lovers! You’ll visit many famous sites on Kauai where Hollywood blockbusters and TV shows were filmed. Your backstage pass will take you to scenic locations with your film buff guide and you’ll even view video of those notable films.
PRICE INCLUDES: Round-Trip Transportation
Big Island Volcano Tour
Depart: 7:45 AM Return: 7:00 PM
$170,00
Discover the source of Hawaii Island’s creation at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! Explore waterfalls, craters (火山口), and the tsunami-stricken city of Hilo on this comprehensive volcano adventure tour. Bear witness to the 2018 eruption that dramatically changed the island’s landscape.
PRICE INCLUDES: Round-Trip Transportation, Expert Driver Guide, Admission to Volcanoes National Park
Road to Hana Tour
Depart: 7:00 AM Return: 6:30 PM
$214.00
We provide the best way to fully experience the incredible 620 curves and beautiful 59 single-lane bridges along the way. We will make stops along the way at some of the most well-known locations, including a conditions-permitting waterfall swim stop. And the exclusive lunch is the best in Hana.
PRICE INCLUDES: Round-Trip Transportation, Expert Driver Guide, Continental Breakfast.
1. When does the Big Island Volcano Tour leave?A.7:00 a. m. | B.7:30 a. m. | C.7:45 a. m. | D.7:45 p. m. |
A.Drive along the bridge. | B.Swim under the waterfall. |
C.Make stops at the beach. | D.Have an exclusive free lunch. |
A.They are for nature lovers. | B.They last till late afternoon. |
C.They provide tour guide service. | D.They are filmed in TV shows. |
6 . Discover all the great Sydney attractions. You’ll find many memorable things to do and fascinating museums to visit in Sydney, Australia.
Australian Museum
The Australian Museum (AM) was founded in 1827 and is well-known as the nation’s first museum. The AM has been transformed and visitors can now enjoy transformed spaces and updated facilities. Free general admission includes entry to all permanent exhibitions and Prehistoric Playground, which is open daily on Level 2 and features a variety of activities for children of all ages including a fossil lab and interactive dinosaur design station.
Art Gallery of New South Wales
Explore five levels of art at one of Australia's most popular art museums, located within beautiful parklands overlooking Sydney Harbour, just 10 minutes’ walk from the city.
See an extensive collection of Australian art,including one of the largest galleries of aboriginal (土著的) art in the country, alongside Asian treasures and leading local and international contemporary art.
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia - MCA
The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia is Australia’s leading museum dedicated to exhibiting, interpreting and collecting contemporary art from across Australia.
Located at Circular Quay, the MCA is housed in the former Maritime Services building, a fine example of late Art Deco architecture.
Australian National Maritime Museum
Located at the waterfront of Darling Harbour, the Maritime Museum is an indoor/outdoor attraction and great entertainment for the whole family. The museum has one of the largest and most diverse in-water fleets (舰队) in the world. The museum hosts six permanent galleries, an ever-changing program of temporary exhibitions, and a 3D cinema, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
1. What is Australian Museum famous for?A.The lowest price. | B.Contemporary art. |
C.Outdoor attractions. | D.The longest history. |
A.Australian Museum. |
B.Art Gallery of New South Wales. |
C.Australian National Maritime Museum. |
D.Museum of Contemporary Art Australia — MCA. |
A.A 3D cinema. | B.A design station. |
C.Local contemporary art. | D.Late Art Deco architecture. |
7 . If you’re traveling to South America in summer, you should have Patagonia (at the southern end of South America) high up on your list of things to do. With this list, I show you the best places to visit in Patagonia. The climate down there is pretty rough, especially in the very south - if you plan to do hiking or camping, the best time for a trip is between the end of November and the beginning of March.
1. Bariloche, Argentina
The fact that Bariloche is well connected (airport, direct bus to and from Buenos Aires) makes it the perfect starting point of a round trip through Patagonia. But more than that: the combination of mountains, lakes and green forests results in its beautiful scenery.
2. Futaleufú, Chile
Further down south and a bit harder to access is the small Chilean village Futaleufú which is located at the border to Argentina. The reason which makes it worth it: the Futaleufú River is often referred to as one of the best white water spots for rafting in the world. The landscape along the river is unique and, due to its location, still pretty much untouched.
3. Puerto Rio Tranquilo, Chile
If you want to get there quickly, you should travel through Argentina and cross over to Chile Chico as this place is also very remote. The reason to do so: the marble caves in the General Carrera lake.
4. Torres del Paine, Chile
Personally the national park Torres del Paine is my number 1 attraction in Patagonia - you should take some time and do a multi-day trek to experience as much of it as possible: glaciers, forests, impressive mountain ranges, lagoons and rivers.
1. What is the best time for hiking in Patagonia?A.October 1—November 1 | B.December 25—January 15 |
C.March 5—April 1 | D.November 5—June 7 |
A.It lies in an easily accessible village. | B.It is ignored due to rafting sports. |
C.It is the best rafting river in the world. | D.It still has untouched landscapes. |
A.Bariloche. | B.Futaleufú. |
C.Puerto Rio Tranquilo. | D.Torres del Paine. |
Tucked away in the northern woodlands of Iceland
Forest Lagoon will provide the services that visitors have come to expect from a modern geothermal spa in Iceland. However, it is the Lagoon's integration with
Soaking in one of two 104 F infinity pools, visitors can look through the opening of birch, pine and fir trees to a
The spa's leisure pools are heated
Hrólfur Karl Cela is one of the lead architects working on Forest Lagoon.
9 . Here are some tours to ancient silk road explorers
Xi’an—Terracotta Warriors & City Wall
In the morning, uncover the underground army of Qin Shi Huang-the awesome Terracotta Warriors. Of course, you will be amazed by thousands of vivid clay statues in life-size and the hidden truth behind the eternal army.
In the afternoon, drive back to the city to visit the 600-year-old City Wall. Be sure to try the local specialties like roujiamo and yangrou paomo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Supper
Overnight: Xi’an
Xi’an—Jiayuguan
First, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, which is regarded as the symbol of Xi’an, and Hanyang Tomb, which shows the scenes of life in the Han Dynasty. After that, fly to Jiayuguan. On arrival, be picked up and transferred to your hotel by your local guide.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Jiayuguan
Kashgar
Start your tour of Kashgar with a visit to Idigar Mosque (清真寺), which is one of the largest mosques in China, and Abakh Khoja Tomb, which was built by the Khoja family who ruled the area over 300 years ago. Your last stop for today is Sunday Bazaar, a great place to wander around and watch locals buying and selling everything from household items to goats, camels, horses, hats, rolls of silk, spices, etc.
Overnight: Kashgar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Urumqi
Heavenly Lake is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in China, with lush (郁郁葱葱的) forest and snow-capped mountains surrounded. It is the best place near Urumqi to relax. Today, drive about two hours to the lake. You can I take a boat cruise on the lake, or simply walk around.
Overnight: Urumqi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
1. What shows the scenes of life in the Han Dynasty in Jiayuguan?A.Hanyang Tomb. | B.Idigar Mosque. |
C.The City Wall. | D.The Big Wild Goose Pagoda. |
A.You can visit places of interest. | B.You watch trades of the locals. |
C.You will visit Heavenly Lake. | D.You see a snow-capped mountain. |
A.Kashgar. | B.Urumqi. |
C.Xi’an-Jiayuguan. | D.Xi’an-Terracotta Warriors & City Wall. |
10 . Four best secret beaches in the Caribbean
Spotts Beach, Grand Cayman
Surrounded by cliffs, this picturesque beach on Grand Cayman is excellent for seeing sea turtles, and its location – the south coast of the island – makes it perfect for watching the sunrise and set. Best of all, there’s limited parking and only a few homes nearby, so you won’t be climbing over sunbathers, nor will you be competing for space at the picnic tables or grills.
Little Bay, Anguilla
When you have to climb down a rope along a cliff to get there, you know it’s a secret beach. But that’s precisely the adventure it takes to enjoy the quiet nature of Little Bay. While accessing it may be a bit of an upsetting experience, once you get to the white sandy beaches with no crowds, you’ll be glad you did. We guess we should mention you can take a hired boat here, too.
La Sagesse Beach, Grenada
Clear water and soft sand are two of the many reasons people seek out this peaceful, palm tree-dotted slice of the Grenada coastline, which has but a single hotel. You can rent beach chairs and boat, and be sure to explore the tropical gardens of the La Sagesse Nature Center, located less than a mile down the road. Book a private villa right near the beach or choose a nearby hotel like 473 Grenada Boutique Resort.
Gold Rock Beach, Grand Bahama
Referred to as a “welcome mat” during low tide because you can sit on the sand bar, Gold Rock Beach is part of the Lucayan National Park, which you have to walk through to get to the sandy shores. You’ll only see a couple of other beachgoers at this hidden diamond in the Bahamas, and you can explore Lucayan’s underground caves nearby – that is, if you can tear yourself away from the sunshine.
1. Which beach best suits people who enjoy sea turtles?A.Little Bay, Anguilla. | B.La Sagesse Beach, Grenada. |
C.Spotts Beach, Grand Cayman. | D.Gold Rock Beach, Grand Bahama. |
A.By driving a car. | B.By simply walking. |
C.By taking a hired plane. | D.By climbing down a rope. |
A.Tourists can visit tropical gardens. |
B.Tourists can explore underground caves. |
C.Tourists can appreciate the sunrise and set. |
D.Tourists can spot clear water and soft sand. |