Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What do you think the term “Ultimate World Cruise” might mean, and what kind of experiences or activities do you imagine would be included in such a journey?
- If you were to embark on the Ultimate World Cruise, what countries or landmarks would you be most excited to visit, and why?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- extensive /ik-STEN-siv/
- micro-fame /MAHY-kroh feym/
- appeal /uh-PEEL/
- exotic /ig-ZOT-ik /
- priceless /PRAHYS-lis /
[adjective] – covering a large area; having a great extent
The library has an extensive collection of rare books.
[noun] – a small or niche level of fame or recognition, particularly within a specific community or platform
The local artists gained micro-fame after their paintings went viral on social media.
[noun] – the power to attract or evoke interest; the quality that makes something interesting or desirable
The movie’s universal themes contributed to its widespread appeal among audiences of all ages.
[adjective] – attractive or striking because it is unusual or different from what is familiar
The restaurant offered a menu with a variety of exotic dishes from around the world.
[adjective] – having such value that it cannot be accurately measured or determined
Receiving a handwritten letter from a long-lost friend was a priceless moment, bringing back cherished memories and rekindling the bond we once shared.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Passengers aboard the “Ultimate World Cruise,” a remarkable nine-month voyage, have become internet sensations, captivating audiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This extensive cruise covers over 60 countries, offering viewers a virtual tour of the thrilling sightseeing adventures and the intriguing aspects of daily life on the “Serenade of the Seas.” Remarkably, Nancy and Mike Jacobs, a couple hailing from Michigan, have unexpectedly achieved micro-fame, amassing a following of over 63,000 TikTok enthusiasts. Their posts share unique experiences, from navigating the challenging Drake Passage to addressing inquiries about obtaining prescriptions while at sea. Despite their initial surprise, the Jacobs are delighted to share the details of their once-in-a-lifetime journey.
The social media posts, identified with the hashtag #ultimateworldcruise, have collectively garnered an astonishing 360 million views since the cruise commenced in December. Laura Jackson, deputy head of travel at the Times and Sunday Times, attributes the content’s appeal to the harmonious blend of exotic locations and day-to-day occurrences on board, amplified by the ship’s faster internet connectivity. Noteworthy passengers like Amike Oosthuizen, boasting 285,000 TikTok followers, contribute by showcasing their unique travel experiences. Despite the hefty $54,000 price tag, passengers like Brandee Lake consider the experience “priceless,” emphasizing the joy of waking up in new countries. Beyond being likened to reality TV, they stress that it’s not just entertainment but a community of travel enthusiasts fostering global friendships.
The social media posts, identified with the hashtag #ultimateworldcruise, have collectively garnered an astonishing 360 million views since the cruise commenced in December. Laura Jackson, deputy head of travel at the Times and Sunday Times, attributes the content’s appeal to the harmonious blend of exotic locations and day-to-day occurrences on board, amplified by the ship’s faster internet connectivity. Noteworthy passengers like Amike Oosthuizen, boasting 285,000 TikTok followers, contribute by showcasing their unique travel experiences. Despite the hefty $54,000 price tag, passengers like Brandee Lake consider the experience “priceless,” emphasizing the joy of waking up in new countries. Beyond being likened to reality TV, they stress that it’s not just entertainment but a community of travel enthusiasts fostering global friendships.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What is the main focus of the “Ultimate World Cruise” that has made passengers internet sensations?
- How many countries does the extensive cruise cover, providing viewers with a virtual tour of thrilling adventures and daily life?
- Who are Nancy and Mike Jacobs, and why have they gained unexpected micro-fame?
- What hashtag is associated with the social media posts about the “Ultimate World Cruise,” and how many views have these posts collectively garnered?
- According to Laura Jackson, what contributes to the content’s appeal, making it captivating for the audience?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever embarked on a cruise or a long journey? If yes, what was your experience like? If not, would you be interested in going on an extensive world cruise after learning about the “Ultimate World Cruise” from the article?
- Do you follow any travel influencers or content creators on social media? If yes, how does their content appeal to you? If not, after reading about the #ultimateworldcruise, would you be interested in following the journeys of travelers like Nancy and Mike Jacobs?
- Do you believe social media has transformed the way people share and experience long-term journeys, as seen in the “Ultimate World Cruise” scenario?
- In what ways do you think the use of social media, such as TikTok and Instagram, has changed the way people share their travel experiences? How might this influence people’s perceptions of long journeys like the “Ultimate World Cruise”?
- Considering the high cost of the cruise, do you think experiences like the “Ultimate World Cruise” are accessible to a wide range of people? What impact might this exclusivity have on how these journeys are perceived by the public?