Travel & Culture - Using Helpful Travel Apps and Tech (Intermediate)

Activity 1: Let's Get Started! 🤔 (Warm-up)

Let's discuss how technology aids modern travel!

What are some common types of travel apps or technology you find indispensable when planning or undertaking a journey? (e.g., navigation, translation, booking).
How has technology changed the way people travel compared to, say, 20 years ago? What are the main benefits and potential drawbacks?
Share an experience where a specific travel app or piece of technology significantly helped you during a trip, or one where technology failed you and you had to find an alternative solution.

Activity 2: New Words & Phrases 🗣️ (Vocabulary)

Here are some key terms and phrases for discussing useful travel technology at an intermediate level.

1. Navigation app (noun phrase): A mobile application that provides directions and maps for travel, such as Google Maps or Waze.

Example: "I used a Navigation app to find the quickest walking route to the museum."

2. Offline maps (noun phrase): Digital maps downloaded to a device that can be used without an internet connection.

Example: "It's a good idea to download Offline maps before traveling to areas with limited Wi-Fi."

3. E-ticket / Mobile boarding pass (noun phrase): A digital version of a travel ticket or boarding pass stored on a smartphone or electronic device.

Example: "Most airlines now accept an E-ticket or Mobile boarding pass, which is very convenient."

4. Ride-sharing app (noun phrase): A mobile application that connects passengers with drivers of vehicles for hire (e.g., Uber, Lyft).

Example: "Instead of a taxi, she used a Ride-sharing app to get from the airport to her hotel."

5. QR code (noun): A type of matrix barcode that can be read easily by a digital device and which stores information as a series of pixels in a square-shaped grid.

Example: "Many museums now use a QR code for entry; you just scan it with your phone."

6. Digital nomad (noun phrase): Someone who uses telecommunications technologies to earn a living and, more generally, conducts their life in a nomadic manner.

Example: "As a Digital nomad, reliable internet and helpful travel apps are essential for her lifestyle."

Activity 3: Reading - Tech-Savvy Traveler 📖

Read this story about a traveler using technology to enhance their trip.

Maria considered herself a bit of a Digital nomad, so technology was integral to her travel style. Before her trip to a new European city, she meticulously planned using various apps. She booked her flights and accommodation online, receiving E-tickets and booking confirmations directly to her email. For navigating the city, she downloaded Offline maps for the areas she planned to visit, ensuring she wouldn't get lost even without an internet connection. Her primary tool for getting around was a reliable Navigation app, which showed her public transport routes, walking directions, and even estimated travel times.

Upon arrival, she used a Ride-sharing app to get from the airport to her apartment. During her stay, she found that many attractions, like museums and galleries, used QR codes for entry tickets she had purchased online, which made access quick and easy. Her airline also offered a Mobile boarding pass, eliminating the need for paper. When she wanted to try local restaurants, she used apps with reviews and recommendations. While she valued the efficiency of technology, Maria also made sure to have backup plans, like knowing the address of her hotel written down, just in case her phone battery died. This blend of tech-savviness and practical precaution made her travels smooth and enjoyable.

Questions about the Story:

Answer these questions:

What term describes Maria's travel style, and what does it imply about her use of technology?
What was one key benefit of using Offline maps for Maria?
How did Maria use her smartphone for her flight and entry to attractions (mention two examples)?
What kind of app did Maria use to get from the airport to her accommodation?
Despite relying on technology, what practical precaution did Maria still take?

Activity 4: Role Play - Discussing Travel Tech 🎭

Let's pretend! One person is Alex (Tech-Enthusiast Traveler), and the other is Sarah (Prefers Traditional Travel Methods).

Sarah: Alex, you always seem so organized on your trips. I still get a bit overwhelmed with all the new travel tech.

Alex: It can seem like a lot, Sarah, but honestly, a good Navigation app is a lifesaver for me. No more wrestling with giant paper maps!

Sarah: I suppose. I do like having a physical map as a backup. What about tickets? I still prefer paper.

Alex: I mostly use E-tickets and Mobile boarding passes now. It's so convenient having everything on my phone. Plus, many places use QR codes for entry, so it's all digital.

Sarah: QR codes? I've seen those. And what if my phone runs out of battery, or there's no internet for my Navigation app?

Alex: That's a valid concern. That's why downloading Offline maps is essential. And I always carry a portable charger. For transport from airports, Ride-sharing apps are often cheaper and easier than finding a taxi.

Sarah: Ride-sharing apps... I haven't tried those yet. I guess I'm a bit of a traditionalist, not quite a Digital nomad like some people!

Alex: (Laughs) You don't have to be a Digital nomad to appreciate a few helpful apps! Even just one or two can make a big difference. Maybe start with downloading Offline maps for your next trip?

Sarah: That's a good suggestion. Maybe I'll try that. Thanks, Alex!

Let's Talk About It:

After you read, talk about this:

What was Alex's main argument for using a Navigation app?
What solution did Alex suggest for Sarah's concern about phone battery or lack of internet?

Activity 5: Let's Practice - Choosing Your Tech ✍️

Help Kenji (Traveler) complete his part of a conversation with a friend, Maria, about travel technology. Use words and phrases from Activity 2!

Maria: So Kenji, what apps are you packing for your trip to Rome?

Kenji (Traveler): Definitely a good . I don't want to get lost! And I'll download some for when I don't have Wi-Fi.

Maria: Smart move! Are you using digital tickets?

Kenji (Traveler): Yes, I have an for my flight, and many museums seem to use a for entry now.

Maria: What about getting around from the airport? Taxis can be expensive.

Kenji (Traveler): I was thinking of trying a . It seems convenient. I guess I'm becoming a bit of a with all this tech!

Maria: (Laughs) It certainly makes travel easier these days!

Show Answers! (Activity 5) ✨