II. Read, translate and retell the text: Travelling

The scientific and technological progress of the 20th century has allowed people to overcome time and distance in the twinkle of an eye. Now modern life is impossible without travelling. Millions of people travel every day either on business or for pleasure. To begin with most of us travel every day to our schools, offices and factories. From time to time we have to go to another city or country on business. Then after a year’s work people get a holiday and they don’t like to spend it at home.

Many people all over the world spend their holidays travelling. They travel to see other countries and continents, modern cities and the ruins of ancient towns. They travel to enjoy picturesque places, or just for a change of scene. It is always interesting to discover new things, different ways of life, to meet different people, to try different food, to listen to different musical rhythms.

Those who live in the country like to go to a big city and spend their time visiting museums and art galleries, looking at shop windows and dining at exotic restaurants. City dwellers usually like a quiet holiday by the sea or in the mountains with nothing to do but walk and bath and laze in the sun.

People can travel by plane, by train, by boat or by car.

Of course, travelling by plane is the fastest and the most convenient way, but it is the most expensive too. Travelling by train is slower than by plane but it has its advantages. You can see much more interesting places of the country you are travelling through. Modern trains have very comfortable seats. There are also sleeping cars and dining cars that make even the longest journey enjoyable. Speed, comfort and safety are the main advantages of trains and planes. That is why many people prefer them to all other means.

Travelling by boat is popular mostly for pleasure trips. On board of river ships you can visit different places of interest within your own country. On board of large cruise ships people can get across oceans and visit other countries. Ships stop for a day or two in different ports and people go on the shore for excursions. Crossing the ocean is a magnificent voyage with enormous waves before you and a 4-deck liner under you. The only drawback is seasickness. So before starting on a voyage you should find out whether you suffer from it or not.

Many people prefer travelling by car. This way of travelling is very convenient. You needn’t reserve tickets, needn’t carry heavy suitcases and you can stop wherever you wish and spend at any place as much time as you like.

The cheapest and one of the most popular ways of travelling is hiking. It is always a great experience for a lover of nature. Walking through the wood or along the river, having a rest on the shore of forest lake, climbing a mountain you feel yourself a part of nature. You can place yourself in a tent and enjoy fresh air and the sun all day long.

Most travellers have a camera with them and take pictures of everything that interest them. Later they will be reminded by the photos of the happy time they have had.

All means of travelling have their advantages and disadvantages. People choose one according to their plans and destination. When travelling we see and learn a lot of things that we can never see or learn at home.