【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. visa /ˈvizə/ (n.) – permission to visit another country
Example: Christine can now go to the U.S. with an approved visa.
2. expedite /ˈɛkspɪˌdaɪt/ (v.) – to quicken the process of something
Example: Additional fees can expedite passport application.
3. book /bʊk/ (v.) – to register or request for a schedule
Example: Tourists often book flights for summer vacations.
4. subsidiary /səbˈsɪdiˌɛri/ (n.) – company or business under a bigger company
Example: Airline companies offer other services through their subsidiaries.
5. refund /rɪˈfʌnd,
ˈrifʌnd/ (v.) –
Example: The airline will refund Tom's payment for the plane ticket if he cancels his reservation.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
Airline company Qatar [KAH-tahr] Airways announced that tourist visa application for Qatar can now be done through its online system.
The company’s spokesperson said that this technology expedites the process of getting a Qatar tourist visa. Passengers can even monitor their application’s status online. The visa is good for one month and for only a single visit. It should be used within 60 days after the issuance date. Applicants cannot request for an extension of their visas’ validity.
The first requirement in applying for a visa in this new system is booking a Qatar Airways two-way ticket to enter and leave the country. The tourists should also let the company’s subsidiary Discover Qatar handle their hotel accommodation and tours. Visitors should go there only for tourism purposes and should not stay for more than 30 days.
A regular visa request is processed for 10 days and costs $55. People who want to rush their requests can pay $120 and expect to get their visas around seven days.
Qatar is one of the interesting tourist spots in the world. The country’s capital Doha features a unique culture of old and modern traditions. Islamic civilization’s 200 years of evolution can be seen through various artworks in the Museum of Islamic Art.
Lots of fun activities can be done in Katara Cultural Village’s art galleries, theaters, restaurants, and water facilities. In Souq Waqif [sook AH-kif], tourists can view traditional Qatari architecture and find native products like handicrafts, food, perfumes, clothes, and other artworks.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· How do you think Qatar Airways’ online system visa application will affect Qatar’s tourism?
· In your country, how does the government encourage tourism?
Discussion B
· What makes a country a good tourist destination?
· How else can a country improve its tourism?