Tag: travel

Spain Introduces Three-Year Tourist Ban

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Tourism ban is a topic that has gained traction in recent years, particularly due to the rapid changes in environmental conditions, cultural impacts, and the effects of global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. While tourism is essential for many economies around the world, there are strong arguments for placing restrictions or even banning certain forms of tourism to protect local communities and the environment. 

By recognizing the importance of preserving local integrity and ecosystems, societies can work toward creating a more sustainable tourist landscape that benefits everyone involved. The challenge lies in finding the balance between enjoying travel and protecting the places that make it special. 

Watch the video to see how Spain is dealing with tourist overcrowding.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to sit out” mean here, “Don’t think Barcelona is sitting this one out.”? Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does  “to come with a price” mean? “Well, it turns out that those Instagram photos with endless sunshine and vibrant street scenes come with a price.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the word “grumble ” mean? “Spaniards are starting to grumble about their once Charming neighborhoods being taken over by tourists and who can really blame them.” Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does overtourism affect a city/country? Talk about the benefits and drawbacks.
  2. What could be the social and economic consequences of a ban on tourism in popular destinations?
  3. What are your thoughts on “Local only.” areas?
  4. How might a tourism ban affect local culture and heritage in places that heavily depend on tourism?
  5. What alternatives to tourism might local communities explore if tourism were banned or significantly restricted?
  6. Is overtourism really a problem for a city/country? Why or why not?

Spanish Locals Fed Up with Overtourism Block Zebra Crossings 

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Overtourism is a term used to describe the negative impact of increased tourist numbers on popular destinations. This phenomenon has gained attention in recent years as many cities and natural sites struggle to cope with the overwhelming influx of visitors. While tourism can foster economic growth and promote cultural exchange, the excessive crowds can lead to significant challenges for both the environment and local communities. 

The negative effects on natural environments, local communities, and urban infrastructure emphasize the need for sustainable practices in the travel industry. By making conscious efforts to manage visitor numbers and promote responsible tourism, we can preserve the beauty and integrity of our beloved destinations for future generations. 

Read the article and learn how a community reacted to this problem.

Spanish Fed Up with Overtourism Are Blocking Zebra Crossings

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the noun “grievance” mean? “Spain has seen many overtourism protests this year, but one small village has been making its grievances known in a very unusual way. “ Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does “to take it upon oneself” mean? “In the Galician village of O Hío in northwest Spain, locals took it upon themselves to protest against the volume of tourists by blocking zebra crossings.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does  “traffic gridlock” mean? “Walking up and down them for a total of 37 minutes, they caused total traffic gridlock – worsening the exact problem they hoped to highlight.” Use it in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction the locals’ protest?
  2. Does your city have the same problem? Talk about it.
  3. What are some popular destinations in your city you think are suffering from overtourism? And what measures have been taken in order to have everything under control.
  4. What do you think is the best solution to this problem?
  5. How do you think it is like living in an overly touristic place?
  6. Share your thoughts on this, “Authorities should find a mutually beneficial solution so that residents and visitors can co-exist happily.“

Technology Is Changing The Travel Industry


B2 – Upper Intermediate

Technology is rapidly transforming the travel industry, reshaping how we plan and experience travel. Today, digital technologies give travelers more control, making services like meal ordering and taxi booking via smartphone convenient. Innovations such as online platforms and AI have made travel more accessible and streamlined for a wider audience.

Read this article to learn how technology is changing the travel industry.

https://techcrayon.com/2024/10/16/how-technology-is-changing-the-travel-industry/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to be at the heart of something” mean? “How technology is changing the travel industry is a question that has been at the heart of transformative change reshaping the travel industry over recent years.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does “at large” mean in this context, “Technology is touching every part of travel, from planning trips to improving the experience at large.” Use this phrase in a sentence in the same context. Give another meaning of “at large”.
  3. What is the meaning of “to put the power back into one’s hands“? “This move has put planning and organizing power back into the hands of travellers, who can now custom-make their plans.” Make a sentence with this expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What role does AI play in personalizing the travel experience for users?
  2. What challenges might travelers face as technology becomes more integrated into the travel industry?
  3. How has the increasing reliance on technology affected the traditional roles of travel agents or agencies?
  4. How has technology benefited you in terms of traveling?
  5. What are your thoughts on this statement, “These technologies are likely to improve even more as time goes on, making travel a lot easier and giving us all the opportunity to discover new frontiers.“?

Crackdown on Electric Rideable Suitcases

B1 – Intermediate 

The latest technology in suitcases is the electric rideable luggage. While it might seem like a cool piece of device, it could cause problems too.

In Japan, mobile luggage is considered a motor vehicle which means the rider should follow the same rules when operating any motorized form of transportation.

Read the article about the crackdown on electric rideable suitcases in Japan.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2408/240801-rideable-suitcases.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the word “nuisance” mean? “However, it is becoming a nuisance in some parts of Japan.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘nuisance’ in your own sentence. 
  2. What does the phrase “a way of getting around” mean here, “Companies are also trying to make rules for the new way of getting around.” Give one synonym and use this phrase in a sentence in this context.
  3. What does “emerge” mean? “Unexpected new forms of transport will continue to emerge.” Give two (2) synonyms or similar expressions and use ‘emerge’ in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your opinion on mobile suitcases and their popularity these days?
  2. What is your opinion on Japan’s crackdown on rideable suitcases?
  3. What are the pros and cons of a electric luggage?
  4. Should they be considered a motor vehicle? Explain.
  5. Share your thoughts on this, “Unexpected new forms of transport will continue to emerge.”.

Vienna Tops the Global Liveability Index 

B1 – Intermediate

In June 2023, Vienna was ranked the most livable city in the world for the third consecutive time. Vienna first claimed the top spot in 2018, becoming the first European city to do so, and ending Melbourne’s seven-year reign as the most livable city. Vienna maintained its leading position in 2019, 2022, and again in 2023.

Read the article to find out more about Vienna being the most liveable city in the world.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2407/240701-global-liveability-index.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “accolade” mean? “It is the third year running the Austrian capital has won this accolade.” Give 1 synonym of the word “accolade” and use it in your own sentence.
  2. Define “scoop”. “It failed to scoop maximum points for culture, “owing to a lack of major sporting events”.” Give 1 synonym of the word “scoop” and use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “civil unrest” mean in this sentence? “Since we conducted our survey, there have been more instances of civil unrest and demonstrations around the world.”

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever visited Vienna? What do you think of the city?
  2. In your opinion, what makes a city liveable?
  3. Among the 5 categories mentioned in the article, which do you think is the most important? Why?
  4. How liveable is the city you live in terms of culture and environment,  education, healthcare, infrastructure, and stability?
  5. Which city in your country do you think is the most liveable and why?

European Roads Are Full of Holidaymakers

B1 – Intermediate

Summer is peak travel season and due to this, European roads become congested with so many people going on their holidays. Families, tourists, and travelers from various countries take to the roads to enjoy their vacations, leading to heavy traffic and busy routes.

This increase in road activity can create challenges such as longer travel times and traffic jams. Understanding this seasonal trend helps in planning trips and managing travel expectations during busy periods.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about traffic jams in Europe this summer.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/european-roads-are-full-of-holidaymakers-level-2/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does traffic jam mean? “Traffic jams are causing problems in Europe as people go on summer holidays.” Use it in a senence.
  2. What does motorway mean? “In Bavaria, tourists are traveling to Italy and Austria. Last weekend, they caused 14 kilometers of traffic jams on the A8 motorway.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does toll plaza mean? “The Croatian Tourist Board is giving water bottles and car air fresheners to tourists at toll plazas and ferry ports.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do traffic jams affect travelers’ experiences and plans?
  2. What do you think drivers can do to make long trips during busy times easier?
  3. Why do traffic jams become more common during the summer holidays in Europe? Elaborate.
  4. Why is it important to take breaks and drink water during long drives?
  5. Talk about your own experience with traffic jams during peak season in your city/country.

Expensive Trains in England 

B1 – Intermediate

Train travel in England can be quite expensive, with ticket prices often surprising passengers. High costs for both short and long journeys can make rail travel a significant expense. In this case, you need to explore alternative options to save money.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about expensive train tickets in the UK.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/expensive-trains-in-england-level-3/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “cost-conscious” mean? “A cost–conscious teen wanted to travel from Sheffield in northern England to Essex, which was around 300 kilometres from his location.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “to save a few pennies” mean? “All those extra 1,600 kilometres saved Brian a few pennies, but took him 13 hours from door-to-door.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “door-to-door”mean? “All those extra 1,600 kilometres saved Brian a few pennies, but took him 13 hours from door-to-door.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think the teen found the journey to be a “great experience” despite the extra distance and time?
  2. How do you think the price of train tickets could impact travel decisions for others?
  3. Can you think of any other situations where taking a longer or more complicated route might be cheaper or more beneficial?
  4. How important is it for you to save money on travel? Would you consider taking a longer route just to save money?

Severe Turbulence Hits Singapore Airlines Flight

B1 – Intermediate 

Singapore Airlines flight flying from London to Singapore experienced severe turbulence when they hit an air pocket.

This resulted to the plane making an emergency landing in Bangkok, one death and multiple injuries, some were critical ones.

Thankfully, extremely strong turbulence such as this does not happen very often, but it is possible.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about severe turbulence that Singapore Airlines flight suffered. 

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/a-man-dies-on-a-plane-level-3/

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “turbulence”? “A plane traveling from London to Singapore experienced severe turbulence and was forced to an emergency landing at Bangkok Airport.” Make your own sentence with this word.
  2. Define “air pocket”. “The Boeing 777 hit an air pocket in Thai airspace, which led to turbulence.” Make your own sentence with this phrase.
  3. What does “tarmac” mean? “Many passengers and crew members were treated at a field hospital on the tarmac.”  Make your own sentence with this word.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What happened during this flight. State as much details as possible.
  2. What was your reaction to this news?
  3. How can Singapore Airlines help the affected passengers on this flight?
  4. How can airlines be more prepared for this kind of mid-flight incidents?

Revolt Against Bad Tourists

B2 – Upper Intermediate

As summer draws closer and closer, a noticeable shift is occurring in popular tourist destinations like Ibiza and Mallorca. Locals in these parts are expressing firm desire for respectful tourists and raising concerns about the negative impact of mass tourism.

Read this article to learn about the changing attitudes towards tourism in popular destinations.

https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20240522-the-worlds-revolt-against-bad-tourists

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to stem the flow of something” mean? “In hotly visited Venice, tourist fees have begun for daytrippers to try to stem the flow of unending visitors.” Make a sentence with this expression.
  2. Define “tourism levy“. “And Bali recently announced a new tourism levy after a series of incidents involving visitors desecrating holy sites and behaving disrespectfully.” Use this phrase in a sentence.
  3. What does “a force for good” mean? “I see travel as a force for good. We don’t want to make it only possible for rich people to have these mind-opening experiences, but they need to be able to do it in a responsible way so we don’t ruin the planet at the same time.” Use this idiom in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are your thoughts on the growing anti-tourist sentiment in places like Ibiza and Mallorca?
  2. How do you believe tourists can better respect local culture and nature when visiting a destination?
  3. Do you believe that mass tourism has a positive or negative impact on local communities? Why?
  4. In your ideal travel scenario, what would a responsible and sustainable tourist experience look like for you?
  5. How do you think tourism patterns will change in the future, considering the ongoing discussions about sustainability and responsible travel?

Over-Tourism Threatens Mt. Fuji’s World Heritage Status

B1 – Intermediate

Mt. Fuji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It got this status in 2013. 

Many people, not just from Japan, but from all over the world, dream of visiting and climbing this famous mountain that in Japan, is even considered sacred.

Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a massive increase in the number of people who has visited and wishes to visit Mt. Fuji. This has caused a lot of problems for this World Heritage Site.

Read the article about how Mt. Fuji’s World Heritage status is at risk because of over-tourism. Be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2309/230911-climbing-mt-fuji-5.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “eyesore” mean in this sentence, “These are an eyesore on the mountain’s once-pristine habitat.”? Use this word in a sentence in the same context.
  2. What is a “bullet climber“? “Another headache for authorities is “bullet climbers“.” Use this term in a sentence.
  3. What does “altitude sickness” mean? “They risk getting altitude sickness.” Use this term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What are some problems in Mt. Fuji?
  2. What is your reaction to this news about over-tourism in Mt. Fuji?
  3. What should the Japanese authorities do to tackle this problem with over-tourism in Mt. Fuji?
  4. Would you like to climb Mt. Fuji? Why or why not?
  5. What other World Heritage Sites that would you like to visit one day? Why do you want to visit these places?