NEW YORK―So we’re going away on weekends and sticking close to home. But are we

NEW YORK―So we’re going away on weekends and sticking close to home. But are we traveling with the kids? Here’s how the down economy is changing the way we travel.

SECONDARY CITIES

Some smaller cities are stealing the glory(荣耀). Fort Myers, Fla. experienced double digit (位数) growth in January 2009 over January 2008, based on American Express Travel bookings. Cities like Portland, Ore. are also becoming popular destinations, with Travelocity data showing an increase of 38% over last year. Even Philadelphia’s star is rising, said Travelocity senior editor Shaw Brown.

Brown said it’s hard to explain exactly the reason for the boom: it could be a decrease in airfare or hotel prices or excellent marketing. Hotel rates in Fort Myers are down about 10%. But hotel rates in Portland are up, she said. She thinks Philadelphia’s higher popularity is due to good marketing, a decrease in airfare of 16% compared to the overall 8% decrease for domestic flights and more interest in historic destinations in general.

FAMILY TRAVEL

Rather than take a two-week vacation to Europe, families are going to national parks.

David Mandt, spokesman for the Association of Amusement Parks, is cautiously optimistic about the summer season. He said even when gas was $4 a gallon in 2008, people continued to visit theme parks―they simply selected parks closer to their homes.

While for years, park operators have used special offers, promotions and discounts to encourage families to visit at a specific time, the deals may be easier to find this year, especially when it comes to packages that include accommodations. Universal Orlando Resort has a deal allowing families to book a three-night package and receive two additional nights free. Packages include accommodations at a hotel near Universal and unlimited theme park admission to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

64. It can be inferred from the news report that ________.

A. the number of visitors to Fort Myers doubled in a year

B. secondary cities didn’t enjoy much popularity before

C. people visit smaller cities because hotel rates are down

D. visitors are more interested in historic destinations now

65. The writer describes what Universal Orlando Resort offers in order to show ________.

A. that some packages are easier to find this year

B. where families go for their vacation this year

C. why people prefer parks closer to their homes

D. how families choose packages for their vacation

66. The underlined word “boom” in the third paragragh can be replaced by “__________”.

A. decrease           B. difficulty                  C. increase            D. importance

67. What is the best title for the news report? __________

A. Trip Destinations Closer to Home                   B. Trip Offerings on the Iincrease

C. Special Travel Packages for Everyone            D. Travel Trends in a Down Economy

试题答案

 BACD