Tag: Travel and Holiday

Making Singapore Travel Easier

B1 – Intermediate 

Even in places with very good transport systems, people still have difficulties finding their way sometimes.

Veric, a young Singaporean man has been putting up his own signs in order to help people with directions around the city. 

Listen to the audio and read the transcript about Veric, the gorilla way-finder from Singapore.

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/a-young-man-makes-singapore-travel-easier-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “blind spot”. “Singapore has a very good public transport system, but one advocate says even the best systems have blind spots.” Use the phrase in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “gorilla” mean in this context, “The signs look official, but they are done by Veric, a young man who calls himself a gorilla way-finder.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What is a “commuter”? “The man’s goal is to make travel easier and clearer for commuters.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why did Veric start doing this?
  2. What is your opinion about what he is doing?
  3. What is your opinion about what Veric said about signages, “A good design is simple and easy to use, so people don’t have to think about it.”?
  4. Is it easy to find your way around your own city? Why or why not?
  5. How can going around a city be made easier and clearer for commuters?

Why Can’t We Admit to Not Enjoying a Bad Holiday?

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Holidays are often seen as special times meant for relaxation, adventure, and enjoyment. Yet, not every trip turns out the way we hope. Sometimes plans go wrong, expectations aren’t met, or the experience simply isn’t enjoyable. Still, many people find it hard to admit when a holiday has been disappointing.

Let’s read the article and know more about why people often feel pressure to present their holidays as enjoyable, even when the reality is unpleasant.

https://theconversation.com/why-cant-we-admit-to-not-enjoying-a-bad-holiday-267978

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the verb “decompress” mean here?”Holidays present a chance to unwind, relax and decompress from life’s day-to-day struggles”. Use it in a sentence and give a synonym.
  2. Define the verb “pervade“. “Echoes of that aristocratic impulse still pervade the way we talk about holidays to this day.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym.
  3. What is the meaning of “conspicuous consumption“? “The American economist and sociologist Thorstein Veblen described this over a century ago: the affluent signal status through what he called “conspicuous consumption”.” Use it in your own sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Can you describe a holiday that didn’t meet your expectations, and what made it disappointing?
  2. In what ways does the idea of the “tourist gaze” shape how we talk about our travel experiences?
  3. Do you think people curate their holiday experiences more for themselves or for their audience? Why?
  4. Why might admitting to a bad holiday feel like a personal failure rather than just an unfortunate experience?

Trevi Fountain Fee for Tourists

B1 – Intermediate

Rome has a new rule for people who want to see one of its most famous sights — the Trevi Fountain.

Tourists will need to pay a small amount to be near the Trevi Fountain because there have been way too many visitors who cause problems in the area.

The city hopes this change will help protect the beautiful fountain and make the experience nicer for everyone. Residents of Rome do not have to pay this fee.

Read the full article here to learn more about this decision and how it will work:

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2512/251222-trevi-fountain-fee.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “burgeoning” mean in this sentence? “One reason for the new measure is to address the burgeoning numbers of sightseers who are flocking to the sight.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression.
  2. What does the word “ambiance” mean? “Large crowds and people vying for selfies have diminished the ambiance of the historic fountain.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression.
  3. What does the phrase “fundamental right” mean? “The mayor said: ‘We believe that culture is a fundamental right of citizenship.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym or a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you agree with the idea of paying to see a famous landmark? Why or why not?
  2. How do fees at tourist attractions influence people’s behavior?
  3. Can limiting access to landmarks improve their preservation?
  4. How does “overtourism” affect a city’s culture and daily life?
  5. Share your opinion on this, “Culture is a fundamental right“.

Sweden Wants Travellers to Embrace Boredom

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Travel often feels like a race to see and do everything. But a new approach invites us to slow down, embrace quiet moments, and find meaning in stillness. Sweden is encouraging travelers to follow this path, valuing rest over rush and discovering the beauty of simply being.

Read on to learn more about this new travel campaign in Sweden.

https://www.euronews.com/travel/2025/11/26/dark-skies-and-empty-itineraries-why-sweden-wants-travellers-to-embrace-boredom

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “to beckon” mean? “In Sörmland, cabins next to forest trails beckon travellers with blissful solitude.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does “stillness” mean? “Lighting a fire, going for a walk, stargazing, and watching the Northern Lights: the campaign frames these moments of stillness as the appeal rather than the absence of activity.” Use it in your own sentence. Give a synonym.
  3. What does “a sweeping change” mean? “In an era defined by the ceaseless cycle of news and entertainment, slow travel represents a sweeping change in what many travellers seek from their trips.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does the new Visit Sweden campaign inspire travelers to rethink their approach to travel?
  2. In what ways does Visit Sweden present the country as an ideal place to experience boredom?
  3. What types of experiences or activities does the campaign highlight for visitors seeking a slower pace?
  4. Have you ever experienced Sweden? How would you feel about slowing down and embracing boredom there?
  5. In what ways might experiencing boredom benefit us?

Louvre Ticket Price Hike for non-EU Tourists

B2 – Upper Intermediate

The Louvre Museum in Paris has recently drawn attention for changes to its ticketing policy. The decision has sparked conversations about fairness, accessibility, and how cultural institutions balance welcoming international visitors with maintaining their operations.

Let’s read the article and explore the different perspectives surrounding this change.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyd4llgrego

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “structural concern” mean? “Earlier this month, the Louvre announced the closure of a gallery showcasing Greek ceramics due to structural concerns.” Use it in your own sentence.
  2. Define the phrase “a brazen heist“. “The museum’s security and management have faced criticism since a brazen heist in October, when a four-person gang stole jewellery worth $102m (£76m) and fled within minutes.” Use it in your own sentence.
  3. What is the meaning of the verb “flock“? “Most of the Louvre’s 30,000 daily visitors flock to see Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What’s your perspective on the Louvre charging higher entrance fees to non-European tourists?
  2. What’s your reaction to this, “The investigation after October’s heist found the museum had spent significantly more on buying new artworks, but far less on maintenance and restoration.“?
  3. In what ways could setting ticket prices by nationality influence fairness, accessibility, or tourism?
  4. Have you been to Paris? If so, did you visit the Louvre? If not, would you like to visit someday?
  5. Can you share an experience where the cost of an attraction influenced your travel plans or feelings about the trip?

North Korea to Open Beach Resort to Woo Tourists

B1 – Intermediate 

For the longest time, North Korea has been one of the most elusive countries in the world. Very little is known about the country because it has remained closed to the world.

Recently, North Korea has announced that they are to open a beach resort to help attract tourists into the country and subsequently, boost the tourism sector.

Read the article about North Korea’s flagship resort. 

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2506/250630-north-korea-beach-resort.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “flagship”. “State media reported that the flagship resort is the first of many developments planned throughout the country.” Use this term in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  2. What does “gleaming” mean? “Its gleaming new hotels can accommodate 20,000 guests.” Use this word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.
  3. What does “feat” mean? “He also said it was one of the country’s “greatest feats” of the year.” Use this word in a sentence. Give 2 synonyms/similar expressions.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What was your reaction to North Korea’s first beach resort open to foreign tourists?
  2. What could be the benefits and disadvantages of North Korea opening up for tourism?
  3. Would it be interesting for you to visit this beach resort given a chance? Why or why not?
  4. What things has your country/government done to expand its travel sector?
  5. Do you like staying at beach resorts? Why or why not?

Australia’s Surfing Industry and Nature

B1 – Intermediate 

Surfing is one thing people like doing in Australia. Some even go there for surfing holidays. This industry generates big revenues for the country.

The problem is, too much activities in the surfing sites cause problems in the surf breaks. These natural sites need to be legally protected more.  

Australia has yet to take steps in order to do that.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about the surfing industry in Australia and its consequences on some natural sites. Be ready to answer the questions that follow. 

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/australias-surfing-industry-and-nature-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain “coastal erosion”. “Climate change, coastal erosion, and increasing competition for coastal spaces threaten these natural sites.” Use this term in a sentence. 
  2. What does “to take a legal step” mean? “While countries like New Zealand and Peru have already taken legal steps to protect their surf areas, Australia hasn’t yet done the same.“ Use this phrase in a sentence.” Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What does “span” mean in this sentence, “The sport’s popularity spans from beginners to experienced surfers, and many people enjoy being outdoors and near the ocean.”? Use this word in a sentence. Give some synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What comes to your mind when you hear the word “wave”?
  2. Share your opinion about this problem in Australia.
  3. What are the good and bad things about the surfing industry in this country?
  4. Should surfing be regulated/limited in Australia? Share your opinion.
  5. Have you ever tried surfing? Talk about your experience. If not yet, would you like to go surfing (maybe in Australia) someday? Why or why not?

Digital Detox Retreats

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Digital detox retreats are growing in popularity as more people seek to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature and themselves. From minimalist off-grid cabins to luxury resorts, these getaways offer tech-free environments that promote relaxation, better sleep, and mindfulness in a world overwhelmed by digital noise.

Read the article to know more about the rise of digital detox retreats.

https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20250507-the-unstoppable-rise-of-digital-detox-retreats

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “to put something away” mean? “It’s not just a White Lotus thing: A growing number of resorts and retreats are asking their guests to put their digital devices away during their stay.” Make a sentence with this phrase. Give a synonym.
  2. Define “tech-lite“. “Echoing this interest, global luxury home-rental platform Plum Guide has seen a 17% rise in searches for unplugged, tech-lite properties.” Create your own sentence using this expression. Give a synonym.
  3. What’s the meaning of “to whisk away“? “In Mexico, the luxury Grand Velas Resorts has launched a Digital Detox Program that would not be out of place on The White Lotus, complete with a “Detox Concierge” to whisk away all electronic devices on arrival. “ Use this in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think digital detox retreats are necessary in today’s tech-driven world? Why or why not?
  2. In your opinion, can being unplugged for a while really improve a person’s mental health?
  3. Would you recommend an offline travel to someone who feels overwhelmed or burned out? Why?
  4. Would you personally find it difficult to give up your devices for several days? Why?
  5. Do you believe people rely too much on technology? What are the consequences of this?

Tourist Arrested for Visiting Forbidden Indian Island

B1- Intermediate 

An American tourist could go to prison for up to five years in India after getting arrested because he tried to visit the forbidden island of North Sentinel. 

The island is home to the indigenous people known as the Sentinelese. The government prohibits any contact with the people from the tribe from outsiders to make sure the tribes people are protected from modern illnesses. The islanders are not immune to modern diseases. So, if they contract them, it could end the whole tribe’s existence.

The Sentinelese are very protective of their isolation from the outside world. They even kill tourists who have tried to visit their island in the past.

Read the article about a man who got arrested for visiting North Sentinel. Be ready to answer the questions that follow.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2504/250407-remote-island-4.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “face” mean? “He could face up to five years in prison.” Use this word in a sentence and give a synonym.
  2. What does “shield” mean? “The ban is to shield the people from modern illnesses.” Use this word in a sentence and give a synonym.
  3. What does “wipe out” mean? “A non-profit group that protects isolated tribes said: “Uncontacted peoples have no immunity to common outside diseases like flu or measles, which could completely wipe them out.” Use this phrase in a sentence and give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to the American tourist trying to visit the North Sentinel?
  2. Do you think what he did was worth it? Why or why not?
  3. Why is it necessary for tourists to respect a government’s ban to visit some places in their country? 
  4. How can uncontacted indigenous people be protected from outsiders?

Korean Air Wins Best Airline

B1 – Intermediate

AirlineRatings.com named Korean Air the top airline of 2025 for its focus on passenger comfort and modern aircraft. Qatar Airways won best business class, while Singapore Airlines took the best first-class award. Changi Airport was named the best airport, and AirAsia was recognized as the best low-cost airline for its service offerings.

Read the article to find out more.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2503/250313-worlds-best-airlines.html

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does “thoughtful touch” mean? “The site added: “Korean Air’s thoughtful touches, such as slippers and generous meal portions on long-haul flights, enhanced its appeal. ” Use this phrase in a sentence.

2. What does “rigorous” mean? “Airlines must also meet rigorous safety standards.” Give a synonym of this word and use it in a sentence.

3. What is “redefine”? “The reviewers said the airline has redefined luxury.” Use this term in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think makes an airline the best in terms of customer service?
  2. What’s the most important factor for you when booking a flight—price, comfort, or service? Why?
  3. How do you feel about airlines offering extra services like wi-fi, meals, and entertainment? Are they worth the extra cost?
  4. Do you think low-cost airlines offer a good value for money, or do you prefer a more premium experience? Explain.
  5. Talk about one of your best experiences with an airline.