1. Read paragraphs 1–2 of the blog post. Did the blogger go on a holiday with his family? How did he feel before and after the holiday?
Answer: Yes, he went on holiday with his family. Before the holiday he was unsure, but afterwards he felt happy and thought it was fun.
2. Study Active Reading. Then read paragraphs 1–2 of the blog post again and answer the questions.
1) What were the blogger’s initial feelings about the invitation to join his parents on holiday?
2) Which adverb does the blogger use to say that the holiday was more enjoyable than he had expected?
3) Does the sentence that includes the adjective memorable express a positive or negative attitude?
4) What exaggeration in the text shows the blogger’s feelings about the weather?
Answer: 1. He was doubtful/reluctant at first. 2. Surprisingly. 3. Positive attitude 4. ‘We were melting by midday.’
3. Do the following sentences express a positive (+), negative (–), or neutral (0) attitude?
1) What was supposed to be the trip of a lifetime was actually a very frustrating experience.
Answer: –
2) The turquoise waters were as warm and welcoming as a bath.
Answer: +
3) Our day trip to the dairy farm was unexpectedly dull.
Answer: –
4) The rooms were fine and the food reasonable.
Answer: 0
4. Read paragraphs 3–5 of the blog post and match sentences a–d to rules 1–3 in the text. There is one extra sentence. Which rule do you think is most useful?
- Ensure everyone gets a chance to unwind.
b) Take turns choosing daily activities.
c) Leave negativity at home.
d) Don’t lose your sense of humour.
Answer: Rule 1 → b, Rule 2 → d, Rule 3 → a. Extra: c.
5. Complete the sentences with the correct form of the highlighted phrases in the text.
1) I don’t know how people managed before sat navs. I would ____ all the time without it.
2) We’re lost! This man looks like a local. Let’s stop and _____.
3) It’s cheaper to ____ for a day than to buy train tickets.
4) I like to ____ when I go on holiday. I enjoy being far away from the rest of the world.
5) There’s no need to ____ . I’ve got my maps app!
6) We’re lost! This is not the right way. Let’s ____ and ask someone in that village we have just gone through.
7) So, are you ready? Let’s ____ ! It’s time to go!
1. get lost 2. ask the way 3. hire a car 4. go off the beaten track 5. plan the route 6. turn back 7. hit the road
6 – Writing Imagine you had to show a visitor one touristy place and one traditional place in your country. Where would you take them? Write an email to a friend in a different country describing these places and explaining why you chose them. Make sure to include phrases that show your attitude towards these destinations.
Sample Answer: Hi Alex, I would take my visitor to Petra, one of the most famous tourist sites in Jordan, because it is both beautiful and historic. For a traditional place, I would show them a local souk in Amman. I think they would enjoy the atmosphere and the chance to experience real Jordanian culture. Best, [Your Name]
