5. Read and translate the text:

Inside tourism: information

Tourist information comes in a variety of forms, but the two most important are probably Tourist Information Centres (TICs) and websites.

TICs are found in city centres, major resorts, and transport termini. Tourist information offices, which may be smaller than TICs, are also found in smaller towns and rural areas. Inside the TICs there will be displays of leaflets and brochures on local attractions, entertainment venues and events, transport information such as timetables and schedules, and listings of accommodation providers. Many TICs have touch-screen facilities and interactive information displays, as well as trained staff.

Staff will be expected to provide information on a range of areas – such as which restaurant provides a high chair for a baby, the best place for a scenic walk or drive, how to get to local sights, and where the nearest toilets are. Some TICs will have an accommodation booking service, including booking accommodation at the next destination for tourists who are travelling around the region. They may also be able to reserve theatre tickets, arrange car rental, book an excursion or a guide, change currency, and even make an emergency dental appointment.

To work in a TIC, a pleasant and helpful personality is essential. You should have a good telephone manner, be able to work with computers, and have good written skills. Knowledge of a foreign language is also language is also useful.

6. Answer the questions after reading the text above:

1. How many ways of presenting information are mentioned ?

2. What services are mentioned ?

3. What skills are important if you work in a TIC ?

4. Can a website provide the same services as a TIC ?

5. What are the relative advantages and disadvantages of TICs and websites as sources of information for tourists and visitors ?

7. Read the extracts from Tourist Information leaflets and websites. Check your answers to 1 and 2: Liverpool

Liverpool, European Capital of culture in 2008, is a vibrant modern city in the north-west of England with a rich maritime, cultural, and architectural history, and a reputation for musical and sportinh excellent.

1. No trip to Liverpool is complete without a visit to either Anfield, home of the famous football club; or Goodison Park, home of their rivals Everton.

2. Liverpool is arguably best known for The Beatles and you can find: reminders of their unique

legacy all over the city. The Cavern Club, where The Beatles gave their early performances, is well worth visiting. Don’t leave Liverpool without visiting The Beatles Museum or the childhood home of Paul McCartney.

3. In a city with such a wealth of musical achievement, you would expect a dazzling and diverse nightlife. And that’s exactly what Liverpool offers. If you’re looking for a good night out, then why not visit the waterfront Albert Dock complex where you can find bars, restaurants, and club venues, as well as the famous Tate Gallery Liverpool ?

4. During the day, why not try some ‘retail therapy’? Liverpool City Centre boasts some of the largest big name High Street stores in the country, and at Albert Dock you can find many trendy designer stores.

5. As you’d expect for a city of this size, there is a huge choice on offer. Whether you’re after a luxurious four-poster bed in a modern international hotel or a bunk bed in a city centre hostel that’s within walking distance of the bars and clubs after a wild night out, our Accommodation Booking Service can make a booking for you.

6. If you want to get out and about and be active, you could start at Pleasureland at Southport. It’s exhilarating for all the family, and home of the Traumatizer roller coaster – a must for thrill-seekers.