TRAVELLING

Millions of people all over the world spend their holidays travelling. They travel to see other countries, modern cities or the ruins of ancient towns.

Some people like to go to a big city and spend their time visiting museums and art galleries, other people prefer a quiet holiday by the sea or in the mountains.

There are various means of transport. If you want to get somewhere as quickly as possible, the best way is to travel by plane. It gives you comfort and saves your time. It's better to book tickets in advance. You may book a single, return or open return ticket. When booking a ticket you should mention what class you are going to travel: first, business or economy class. Keep in mind, you have to come to the airport one and a half hour before the flight. Before boarding the plane you should check-in (register) your luggage at a check-in desk. Here you are required to have your luggage weighed and a clerk attaches a special tag to it. There is no need to worry about your luggage any longer.

Then you must go through the security check, passport and Customs control (when you go abroad). Now you may go to the gate, where your flight is boarding.

It often happens that a delay on a flight is announced. In this case you have to wait till you hear the announcement that your flight is boarding.

When the plane is taking off, the passengers fasten their seat belts and listen to the information about the flight. An air-hostess (stewardess) offers you mineral water, juice, or something to eat. You may look down on the earth. It’s like a geographical map. The time passes quickly. The plane usually arrives at the airport on time.

Travelling by railway is slower than by plane but it has its advantages. You can see the countryside around you, read books or magazines, play chess or cards. It's not boring if you have good companions in the compartment. I'm fond of travelling by fast long-distance train. It has got a lot of carriages, a dining-car, and a luggage van. I prefer an upper berth. When the train goes out, I say «Good bye» to my friends and relatives who usually come to see me off. When the train comes in, I get out and ask the porter to carry my luggage. I’m not tired after a long journey by train.

Travelling by car and hitch-hiking are the cheapest and most popular ways of travelling.

As for me I like to spend my days off in the country, closer to nature. I can drive a car and enjoy picturesque places with forests, lakes and rivers. I am fond of fishing and hunting that’s why I walk a lot. In summer we often go camping. I think it is a very useful thing for my health.