Assistant: 
User: User: Michaela (a student)
When my dad suggested going to Siem Reap during one of my short school breaks, I had to admit
that I was a bit hesitant, not knowing what to expect as it seemed to be the complete opposite of
the big city travel experiences I was used to. But I think that the reason why I loved Cambodia so
much was because it wasn't like a big city experience. There was a certain level of beauty, solitude
and happiness in exploring the Angkor Wat temple despite it being a major tourist attraction. It
was refreshing and somehow freeing to be able to go on a hot-air balloon ride and just see the open
sky and endless fields of lush green, uninterrupted by skyscrapers and freeways but rather, just the
occasional temple or house. And yes, I wasn't surrounded by the big shops, museums or modern
landmarks that usually give me joy in big city destinations, but I was able to get the same level of
fun and satisfaction - if not more — with the nature around me, especially in befriending an
elephant with a banana offering. I am still a big city girl, but I think that the reason why Cambodia
is my most unforgettable travel experience is because on top of everything, it taught me that
sometimes, the most fulfilling memories happen where you least expect it.
Monica (a student)
After two exhausting days of travels, nothing could have excited me more than seeing the
Malagasy landscape from the plane window. It was an exhilarating thought that I would spend the
next six weeks in the land of lemurs, moonshine, and my life-loving vegan co-workers researching
endangered reptiles, amphibians and lemurs. After an eight-hour truck ride, filled with chickens,
bongos, Malagasy chants, go pros, and a few miscellaneous items, the research team arrived at the
west coast of Madagascar. The weeks to come were packed with early morning lemur runs,
tracking countless amphibians - most camouflage, may I add - and kayaking trips to remote
islands. Never could have I imagined how much I ended up getting out of the trip. Madagascar
will remain with me forever, and was truly unforgettable.
Sevrine (a marketing manager)
In July 2010, my in-laws invited Edouard, the kids and I to do a boat cruise with them. It was a
first for our family. We had signed up for 10 days sailing from Rome to Venice and we didn't
really know what to expect. It turned out to be our most unforgettable travel experience so far. We
loved every bit of the trip. The Royal Clipper was nicer than expected. It's the largest true full-
rigged sailing ship in the world today. The itinerary was excellent; starting in Rome, then Ponza,
Capri, Taormina, followed by Corfu (Greece), Kotor (Montenegro), Dubrovnic, Hvar, Rovinj
(Croatia) and ending in Venice. It was a perfect vacation for all three generations with enough time
for family bonding and also for every generation to enjoy their own activities. Entering the Grand
Canal in Venice on this majestic sailboat is something one cannot forget.
Bibai (a businesswoman)
My most unforgettable travel experience was when my husband and I went to Paris on our
honeymoon in 2012. Aside from admiring the tourist sites, I was thrilled to discover the charming
streets the city has to offer. There is something that tugs at the heart in every corner — from old
architecture, quaint boutiques, sprawling parks, or you can just sit by a café and people watch.
To this day I still dream of walking the streets of Rue de la Bûcherie. As the great author Ernest
Hemingway said, "If you are lucky enough to live in Paris, then wherever you go for the rest of
your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast." That is exactly how I feel about Paris. I
just fell in love with its beauty. I am forever changed by it.
Assistant: Each of these travel experiences is a testament to how different places can leave a lasting impact in unexpected ways. Michaela found beauty and fulfillment in the tranquility of Cambodia, embracing a departure from her usual big city adventures and reveling in the natural wonders she encountered. Monica, immersed in the vibrant landscapes of Madagascar, discovered excitement and personal growth through her work with wildlife and the connections she formed with her passionate team. Sevrine's family cruise brought together generations, allowing for shared moments of awe as they sailed through stunning Mediterranean destinations, creating unforgettable memories. Meanwhile, Bibai's honeymoon in Paris was a romantic dive into the city's timeless charm, leaving an indelible mark on her heart with its enchanting streets and cultural richness. Each story reflects how travel can surprise, inspire, and transform us, whether through peaceful solitude, adventurous undertakings, family bonds, or romantic discoveries.
User: - VII. Comment on the following lines from the text. Explain the words given in italics.
1) ... time spent lounging in the hotel...
2) ... experiencing the local culture first-hand ...
3) ... whipping around the streets ...
4) ... you really should check off of your bucket list.
5) ... I was a bit hesitant ...
6) ... filled with chickens, bongos, Malagasy chants, go pros ...
7) ... how much I ended up getting out of the trip.
8) ... signed up for 10 days sailing ...
9) ... with enough time for family bonding ...
10) 1
... my heart and senses were overwhelmed
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