1 . A big part of an American road trip is to get your music on as you head out on the highway and enjoy the sights and the scenery. Here are the top four scenic drives in America’s Southwest.

Big Sur Coast Highway, California

It is officially known as California State Route 1 with views of high mountains and rolling waves. Photo tip--just after you cross the bridge (going south), there’s a parking area which is great for shots looking back towards the bridge.

Las Vegas Boulevard, Nevada

Number two is not to be confused with “The Strip” in Las Vegas. It is worth checking out for its neon (霓虹) signs along the roadside. You can see the Hacienda Horse, Rider and the iconic Silver Slipper along this way which takes only 15 minutes to drive.

Death Valley, California

As the hottest, driest and lowest national park, Death Valley is a land of extremes. More than just a desert, Death Valley provides park visitors with a chance to admire natural beauty from the snow mountains to the wildflower fields and small oases (绿洲) to the endless desert.

Red Rock Scenic Byway, Arizona

The Scenic Byway is south on the way to Oak Creek, which is surrounded by an amazing landscape of red rock hills set against clear blue skies. The sandstone rock glows in the sunshine and it’s worth taking your hiking boots and getting out into the landscape to experience its positive energy.

1. Who is the text probably written for?

A．Hikers.	B．Self-driving tourists.
C．Photography lovers.	D．Adventurers.

2. What is recommended if you choose California State Route 1?

A．Parking to listen to the waves.	B．Enjoying the beauty of neon signs.
C．Going for a hike on high mountains.	D．Taking pictures across the bridge.

3. Which offers you impressive changes of natural views?

A．Big Sur Coast Highway	B．Las Vegas Boulevard
C．Death Valley	D．Red Rock Scenic Byway

2 . The hike to the lost Incan city of Choquequirao is one of the most difficult in Peru. From the town of Cachora, which is 161km west of Cusco, it's an 18km walk to Capuliyoc Mountain, then down to Playa Rosalina, where travellers camp for the night. Waking early, travelers then have to cross the Apurímac River and walk uphill to camp close to the ruins. Then, the next morning, it's another 2km walk up to the ruins, 3, 100m above sea level. To get back? Well, it's the same way you came.

“I've had people in their 60s and 70s do it,” said Juan Barrios, a guide from the Adventure Life company. “But some people come out thinking that because it's only 28km from the drop off they can do it in a day. Six or seven days for the hike is best.”

It makes sense, then, that Choquequirao draws only about 30 people a day during the high season (June through August). Compare that to the 2, 500 people who arrive each day at the famous Incan city of Machu Picchu.

But for those who make the journey, the rewards (回报) are great: beautiful mountain views at every turn, and the chance to explore the wonderful ruins nearly alone.

Believed to be created around the same time as Machu Picchu, in 1445, Choquequirao is actually larger than better-known Machu Picchu. But very little has been written about Peru's other lost city and researchers are still uncovering new parts of the ruins, leaving life on the mountain relatively untouched.

But officials say that the building of the first cable car (缆车) to Choquequirao will shorten the several-day walk to a 15-minute cable car ride. As a result, the number of travellers that now make the journey each week could turn into 3,000 visitors per day.

Choquequirao is beautiful now because of how untouched it is. Even though the lost city was discovered by Spanish explorer Juan Arias Díaz in 1710, the ruins still make you feel as though you're the first to find them. Will it be the same when more travellers flood in (大量涌入)?

1. What does the first paragraph centre on?

A．How tall Choquequirao is.	B．How to get to Choquequirao easily.
C．What great views Choquequirao has.	D．How hard the trip to Choquequirao is.

2. In what way is Choquequirao different from Machu Picchu?

A．Choquequirao is older.	B．Choquequirao is quieter.
C．Choquequirao is smaller.	D．Choquequirao is better known.

3. How are the ruins of Choquequirao?

A．They're still being dug out.	B．They're in a generally poor condition.
C．They're being renewed at the moment.	D．They've been researched internationally.

4. What does the author think of Choquequirao in the future?

A．It will be more attractive.

B．It will develop at a slow speed.

C．It won't necessarily take a turn for the better.

D．It won't be more popular than Machu Picchu.

3 . When considering places to visit in China, thoughts invariably drift to the same old sites, like the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army and the Bund. Look a little farther, however, and you can find some truly fascinating scenery and settings you’ve probably never heard of.

Houtouwan — A village like no other

Located on Shengshan Island, Houtouwan was once home to a fishing community. In the 1990s, however, much of the population left as the fishing routes dried up and opportunities arose on the mainland. Left completely to Mother Nature’s designs, Houtouwan has been transformed into a truly fascinating ghost village over the years, like the set of a horror movie!

Houtouwan is not an easy place to get to. From Shanghai, you will need to transfer between land and water vehicles several times to finally reach there.

Crescent Lake — An oasis in the desert

Out west, there’s a whole different world to be explored — Crescent Lake. It is part of a literal oasis in the desert that surrounds Dunhuang in Gansu. The crescent-shaped body of water has been preserved so visitors can enjoy one of nature’s true rarities.

Crescent Lake is located just a 15-minute taxi ride from Dunhuang.

Old Dragon’s Head — The Great Wall you’ve never seen before

One of the most unusual places to explore the Great Wall is Old Dragon’s Head, where the wall meets the sea in Qinhuangdao. The waves crashing against the stones stirs up a certain poetry. After checking out the wall, you can relax yourself on the beach.

Old Dragon’s Head is part of the Shanhai Pass section of the wall. It can be reached by taxi from Qinhuangdao train station.

Panjin Red Beach — The world’s most beautiful marshlands

Red Beach, located in Panjin, Liaoning province, forms part of what is the biggest wetland in the world. The weeds of the beautiful marshland area are flaming red. Stilted walkways have been installed so visitors can explore without harming the otherworldly weeds.

From Panjin train station, bargain with the local taxi drivers to take you directly to Red Beach.

1. Why did the villagers leave Houtouwan?

A．To look for another fishing route.	B．To preserve its natural beauty.
C．To seek a better life on the mainland.	D．To make room for a film base.

2. In which place are special walkways built for visitors?

A．Houtouwan.	B．Old Dragon’s Head.
C．Crescent Lake.	D．Panjin Red Beach.

3. What do these places have in common according to the writer?

A．They’re all wonders of nature.	B．They’re all not-so-famous.
C．They’re all inconveniently located.	D．They’re all well-preserved.

4 . Singapore is a very modern country in Southeast Asia. If you’ve been traveling in its capital city, Singapore, it can be a shock when it comes to accommodation prices. For backpackers they have no choice but to stay outside of the central area. If you are a visitor, I think it’s best to stay in the historic central area to make the most of your time. For first-timers I have put together this list of the best areas to stay in Singapore.

Chinatown

Chinatown is where the original community of Chinese immigrants settled in Singapore. The area is lined with Chinese stores, markets, and great places to eat for all budgets. It lies next to the downtown area and there is a variety of accommodation choices, from hostels (招待所) to 5-star hotels.

Little India

Little India is where most of the original Indian migrants made their home. Today it is still famous for temples, markets, and lots of places to eat delicious Indian foods. It’s the most popular spot for backpackers and there are some good mid-range choices here.

Kampong Glam

A short walk from Little India is the Kampong Glam area. This is where Arab traders set up shops, with street names such as Haji Lane, Baghdad St, and Arab St. The neighborhood is now one of the trendiest in Singapore.

Changi Airport

With one of the biggest airports in the region, the chances are you might just be passing without time to stay. Changi Airport is awarded as one of the best in the world, so if you have to do an overnighter at an airport, then you couldn’t have a better experience than at Changi. I didn’t get any sleep but it was an enjoyable stay for an airport.

1. What will make backpackers disappointed in Singapore?

A．The remote location of the hotels.	B．The system of accommodation.
C．The high charges of the hotels.	D．The accommodation with poor facilities.

2. Which area is close to the center of Singapore?

A．Chinatown.

B．Little India.

C．Changi Airport.

D．Kampong Glam.

3. What do we know about Changi Airport?

A．It witnesses a noisy environment.	B．It has gained a fairly good reputation.
C．It offers passengers worse service.	D．It is the biggest airport in Singapore.

5 . Thinking about exploring the world again?

While travel is still just a dream for many, we know that some of you are now eager to pencil in your next adventure. We are now taking bookings for our 2021 and 2022 tours.

Mongolia

Dinosaur Hunting in the Gobi Desert

15 days I 28 August and 11 September 2021

A thrilling and unique adventure to find dinosaur remains in the wilderness of the Gobi Desert with professional paleontologists (古生物学家) from the Mongolian Institute. Fully join in fossil digging across key sites.

Vietnam

Caves, Conservation, Culture

11 days I 4 September 2021

Discover a different side of Vietnam in this wide-ranging tour that covers geology, wonderful landscapes, animal conservation, culture and history. Experience tropical (热带的) jungles, caves, happy villages and amazing achievements of underground engineering.

Japan

Nature, Culture, Science: Tokyo to Kagoshima

12 days I 17 October 2021

Travel the length of Japan in a journey that contains its must-see technology and nature, from the big city of Tokyo with New Scientist’s Rowan Hooper to hot springs, volcanic (火山的) islands and snowy mountains.

Iceland

Land of Fire and Ice

8 days I 30 October and 6 November 2021

Appreciate erupting geysers (间歇泉), glaciers and waterfalls on a trip of volcanic and geological adventure. Joined by geologist Oliver Shorttie, discover the best of Iceland with a chance to see the Aurora Borealis (北极光).

1. How long does the trip to find dinosaur remains last?

A．15 days.

B．12 days.

C．11 days.

D．8 days.

2. Which trip will you book if you are free only in October?

A．Dinosaur Hunting in the Gobi Desert.

B．Caves, Conservation, Culture.

C．Nature, Culture, Science: Tokyo to Kagoshima.

D．Land of Fire and Ice.

3. What do the trips in Japan and Iceland have in common?

A．They last at least 10 days.

B．They are guided by geologists.

C．They provide a trip of volcanic adventure.

D．They offer a chance to see the Aurora Borealis.

6 . Heritage sites are universally considered as the places where you can learn about the history of human development and social evolution. Therefore, if you have a keen interest in meeting your curiosity about it, the following on the UNESCO's World Heritage List will be a must-check list for you.

Dinosaur Provincial Park, Canada

The park is best known for its extensive fossil beds, within which 35 species of dinosaurs from about 100 to 65 million years ago have been identified. There are also fossilized remains of fish, reptiles, and amphibians. The area was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979.

Salonga National Park, Congo

This is the largest reserve in Congo, covering more than 14,000 square miles. The park was established in 1970. The thick forest provides habitats for various animals like parrots, elephants and monkeys. Park visitors observe the animals from motorized river boats. The park was entered into the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1984.

Hadrian's Wall, England

This is a Roman barrier that guarded the border of Britain. Hadrian (ruled 117-138 CE) went to Britain in 122 and was the first to build a wall, 80 miles long, to separate the Romans from the barbarians (野蛮人). There was no intention of fighting from the wall top; the soldiers there were trained to encounter the enemy in the open. In 1987, Hadrian's Wall was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.

Easter Island, Chile

This place is famous for its huge stone statues. The first European visitors, the Dutch, named it Easter Island in memory of their day of arrival. The small and hilly island was formed by volcanoes.Easter Island was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1995.

1. If you want to study fossils in college, which site would you like to visit?

A．Easter Island.	B．Dinosaur Provincial Park.
C．Hadrian's Wall.	D．Salonga National Park.

2. When was Salonga National Park entered into the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites?

A．In 1995.	B．In 1979.
C．In 1987.	D．In 1984.

3. Why was Hadrian’s Wall built in the first place?

A．To keep a place for dinosaurs.

B．To defend themselves from attack.

C．To memorize Roman’s arrival in the place.

D．To provide natural habitats for wild animals.

7 . Granada is Spain’s most visited city, drawing tourists from all over the world, most of whom are eager to see the famous world heritage sites. Also, some people can enjoy the wonderful music and dance festivals there. Located in Spain’s most southern region, you are guaranteed lovely hot weather during the summer. However, as it is set at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, there is skiing during the winter, making it a popular destination all year round.

Centuries ago, Granada was once a city filled with hundreds of public baths. One of the few that remains undamaged dates back to(始于) the 11th century. However, Granada’s most popular attraction is the Alhambra. The name Alhambra means “red castle” because of the color of the stone, which is particularly beautiful at sunset. As you walk through its narrow streets and beautiful gardens, you will be able to experience the charm of this particular region.

Within the Alhambra is the Parador(旅馆) Granada, which is one of Spain’s most popular hotels. It was originally part of a palace and later turned into a convent(女修道院), it’s a place where you can calm your mind. Its tranquil courtyard and lovely views are some of the reasons why so many guests enjoy their stay.

Located on the hill not far from the Alhambra is Albaicin. This used to be an Arab silk market, but today the small streets are filled with shops selling local handicrafts. From Albaicin, there is a steep walk up to a church, but it’s well worth the effort. With the mountains in the background, you will be able to get a beautiful view.

Granada has its own airport with flights from London and Stansted, so flying out for a long weekend couldn’t be easier. Why not discover for yourself why so many people around the world love coming to this charming city ?

1. Why do so many tourists travel to Granada ?

A．To enjoy the famous festivals.	B．To visit the world heritage sites.
C．To learn about its old culture.	D．To experience the exciting skiing.

2. What’s the main reason why Alhambra got its name ?

A．Because of the stones’ color.	B．Because of its heavy pollution.
C．Because of its government.	D．Because of its special position.

3. What does the underlined word “tranquil” in paragraph 3 mean ?

A．Broad.

B．splendid.

C．amazing.

D．Quiet.

4. What’s the author’s purpose of writing the text ?

A．To entertain readers.	B．To share experiences.
C．To advertise Granada.	D．To offer tour service.