New ‘private jet’-style airline to launch flights to Maldives

admin 2023年11月26日

Intermediate

Culture & Travel, Culture & Travel - Intermediate

©supercarblondie

Pre-reading questions:

I will read each question. Then, please answer them.

Do you like traveling by plane? Why or why not?
Which airline do you consider the best in your country, and why?

Vocabulary:

I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.

voyage /VOI-ij /

[noun] – a long journey, especially by ship
The cruise ship offered a luxurious voyage to exotic destinations, providing passengers with an unforgettable travel experience.

competitive /kuhm-PET-i-tiv/

[adjective] – competitive prices, services, etc. are as good as or better than other prices, services, etc.
In a highly competitive market, the new tech startup offered competitive prices on their innovative products, attracting customers from established competitors.

exceptional /ik-SEP-shuh-nl/

[adjective] – much greater than usual, especially in skill, intelligence, quality, etc.
The restaurant received exceptional reviews for its delicious food and impeccable service.

commitment /kuh-MIT-muhnt/

[noun] – a promise or firm decision to do something
His commitment to his fitness routine allowed him to achieve impressive results in a short period of time.

establish /ih-STAB-lish/

[verb] – to start a company or organization that will continue for a long time
The entrepreneurs worked tirelessly to establish their tech startup, hoping to make it a successful venture.

Article reading:

Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.

In the fall of 2023, Beond, a new upscale airline, began its journey to enhance the travel experience for those heading to the captivating Maldives. Based in Malé, the airline aimed to set itself apart by using narrow-body aircraft with all-premium cabins featuring luxurious lie-flat seats inspired by Ferrari cars. The founders envisioned providing a unique and relaxing voyage for their esteemed passengers, ensuring a comfortable start to their dreamy destination.

In a competitive market, Beond strategically selected its destinations. Instead of relying on hub connections like many major carriers, such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines, Beond offered direct flights to popular leisure spots like Dubai, Delhi, Japan, South Korea, and China. This approach provided travelers with an uninterrupted and luxurious journey to their paradise retreat. The airline’s exceptional seating arrangement on Airbus A319s and A321s eliminated unpopular middle seats, offering a premium in-flight experience focused on comfort and sophistication. With a commitment to personalized service and catering to affluent leisure-seekers, Beond has established itself as a unique player in luxury travel. Promising an opulent “private jet” feel, the airline offered attractive prices, starting at approximately $3,000 for a round-trip from Europe to the Maldives, to all its discerning passengers.

Comprehension questions

I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.

When did Beond, the new upscale airline, begin its operations?
Where is Beond based, and what makes it unique compared to other airlines?
How does Beond set itself apart from other carriers in terms of its aircraft and cabin features?
Why did Beond strategically select its destinations instead of relying on hub connections like other major carriers?
What type of seating arrangement does Beond offer on its Airbus aircraft, and how does it enhance the in-flight experience?

Discussion questions