OF ECO-TOURISM IN THE BAIKAL REGION

1) The Baikal region covers the Irkutsk region and the Republic of Buryatia, which surround the lake Baikal from the west and the east side. In the north the region is extended over parts of Mongolia and, further east, up to the Chita region. Why does eco-tourism have to become one of the priority practices in the Baikal Region?

2) Lake Baikal is located in the legendary land of Siberia, which is known all over the world for its special history and its special climate. For many years it has remained irresistible to tourists and researchers. It is a unique place with extraordinary characteristics: beautiful nature, special history and, it has never been a battle field or experienced at war, even Chingiz-Khan did not dare to invade the holy Baikal ground. Baikal preserved its original beauty mostly due to a large number of specially protected areas, parks and natural reserves.

3) Tourists who are interested in eco-tourism trips are seeking for a temporal departure from civilization. There are places in Baikal, where the unique feeling “being one with nature” can be experienced. Its strong energy, its mystic aura, and also many natural mineral hot springs make people visit Lake Baikal to find health, strength and a complete harmony with nature. The main characteristic and attraction of this unspoilt region for ecotourists is its originality, authenticity, the variety of nature, wild flora and fauna and in a way, the lack of civilization.

4) The development of eco-tourism is an extraordinary opportunity to improve the living conditions of people living in the Baikal region. It is the best alternative to the industrialization of the Baikal land and to the building of oil and gas pipes which, despite the arguments of the government in favour of energy business, represents a threat to the nature and to the future.

5) Tourism business in the Baikal region started developing after the issuing of new laws and regulations about tourism in the new economic conditions of Russia in 1995. That underlines the fact that tourism in Baikal is still at the beginning of its growth. The main obstacle to the efficient development of tourism in Baikal is the lack of basic knowledge and experience in organization of tourism, as well as the lack of basic tourism ethics in the Baikal society. Yes, we know that experience is gained through mistakes, and people learn from their mistakes. However, when it comes to nature and its preservation, it is very hard – almost impossible – to correct these mistakes, because people are dealing with the delicate world of nature.

6) The main condition to sustainable development of ecotourism in the Baikal region is to make local people, not only those who work in the tourist business, but all other citizens as well, to make them understand that it is vitally important to stick to the principles of sustainable development and the ethics of eco-tourism.

► 1. What kind of information can be found in the first paragraph?

a) sustainable development of eco-tourism

b) geographical position of the Baikal region

c) characteristic features of lake Baikal

2. Look at paragraph 2 and match the following adjectives with the nouns in the text:

legendary special irresistible unique

extraordinary beautiful holy original

large natural

3. Look at paragraph 3 and say whether these statements true (T) or false (F):

● Lack of civilization is important for ecotourists.

● People visit lake Baikal to experience a complete harmony with nature.

● Wild flora and fauna irritate ecotourists.

● Nature in the Baikal region is completely spoilt by civilization.

4. Look at paragraph 4 and say which words have the same meaning as:

chance area in spite of

5. Look at paragraph 5 and answer the questions:

● What proves that tourism in the Baikal region is at the beginning of its growth?

● What prevents the efficient development of tourism in the Baikal region?

● Why is it difficult to correct people’s mistakes speaking about nature?

6. Look at paragraph 6 and explain the phrase sustainable development. Use a dictionary to help you.

 

8.14. Work in groups and discuss the following.

The main principles of a sustainable development of tourism in national parks and protected areas are as follows:

● employing people from the local community to work in the park’s tourist facilities;

● gearing these facilities to tourist demand and making them profitable;

● informing the local authorities, community and tour operators of the park’s plans and projects for the development of tourism;

● involving regional and national tour operators in tourism management activities;

● training the local population to work with the park’s visitors;

● relying on local councils when introducing the sustainable exploitation;

● coordinating activities connected with sustainable exploitation of the park through public coordination centres.

Sustainable exploitation depends on the shared interests of people in business, conservation and the local community.

 

8.15. Work in a group of three or four and discuss the following:

What has changed in our country or in the world as a whole, (either positive or negative points)? Think about:

traffic green space pollution

motorways climate tourism

 

8.16. Project work. Discuss the following items:

● Are there any endangered species in our country?

● What can be done to protect endangered species?

● Why is it important to protect all species?

● Have you ever taken part in a conversation project? Would you like to?

UNIT 9 NATURE OF GREAT BRITAIN

9.1. Read the text below and explain the words in bold. Consult an English-English dictionary.

WHITE CLIFFS OF DOVER

1) When crossing the English Channel from continental Europe to Dover, England, the first sight you see is the famous White Cliffs, of Dover. They are almost 70 million years old and have been in existence since dinosaurs were roaming the earth. Their characteristic white colour is due to the fact that they are made of chalk. They are believed to grow 15metres every million years and are now around 250metres high.

2) Due to their strategic location they have been used to help defend the coast from invasion throughout England’s history. During the time of Napoleon, tunnels were dug into the cliffs so that soldiers could attack the invading French armies. These tunnels were used as recently as World War II. There are many shipwrecks to be found in the bays and along the beaches below the cliffs because the sea is exceptionally rough along this stretch of the coast.

3) What’s more, there is plenty to see and do in the surrounding area. You can visit one of Dover’s many spectacular heritage castles or even the Roman fort at nearby Richborough. The White Cliffs themselves are an excellent place for hiking, and offer stunning views of one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. On a clear day, you can even see the French coastline. A visit to England would not be complete without a stopover at this magnificent natural feature.

 

9.2. Match the synonyms below with the words in the text.

view (paragraph 1) nice (paragraph 3)

because of (paragraph 1) shoreline (paragraph 3)

shore (paragraph 2) a short stay (paragraph 3)

passes (paragraph 2) place (paragraph 3)

sight (paragraph 3)

 

9.3. Look through the text White Cliffs of Dover again and tell about:

● its location ● tunnel using ● historical details

● size ● attractions

● remains of ancient animals ● recommendation

 

9.4. Read the text below and write out geographical terms (e.g. landscape).

The National Parks of Great Britain are a fascinating mosaic of moors, woodland, mountains, marshland, pasture, lakes and coasts. Many are havens for rare species such as red squirrels, wild ponies, orchids and ospreys.

Volcanic eruptions, ice glaciers, farming and gunpowder quarrying have all shaped the landscape over millions of years. Now those living within National Park boundaries are vital in protecting the landscape and helping visitors to enjoy them.

The national parks of England and Walesare areas of relatively undeveloped and scenic landscape. Despite the name, national parks in England and Wales are quite different from those in many other countries, where national parks are owned and managed by the government as a protected community resource, and permanent human communities are not a part of the landscape. In England and Wales. land within a national park remains largely in private ownership. There are currently 12 national parks in England and Wales. Each park is operated by its own National Park Authority and has two purposes:

1) to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area, and

2) to promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the park’s special qualities by the public.

An estimated 110 million people visit the national parks of England and Wales each year. Recreation and tourism bring visitors and funds into the parks, to sustain their conservation efforts and supportthe local population through jobs and businesses. These visitors also bring problems, such as erosion and traffic congestion, and conflicts over the use of the parks’ resources.

 

9.5. Fill in the gaps with the words from the text above.

1. rare ………. 2. ………. eruption 3. undeveloped ………. 4. ………. communities

5. private ………. 6. ………. beauty 7. cultural ………. 8. ………. qualities

9. conservation ………. 10. ………. population 11. traffic ……….

 

9.6. Find the sentences with the following verbs in the text (activity 9.4) and translate them.

● to enjoy ● to remain ● to visit

● to own ● to conserve ● to bring

● to protect ● to promote ● to support

 

9.7. Match the words in A with their synonyms in B.

A B

1. scenic, adj a) to conserve

2. manage, v b) mainly

3. protect, v c) committee

4. permanent, adj d) now

5. largely, adv e) picturesque

6. currently, adv f) to run

7. boundary, n g) charming

8. operate, v h) very important

9. authority, n i) to manage

10. purpose, n j) money

11. opportunity, n k) to support

12. public, n l) temporary

13. fascinating, adj m) border

14. vital, adj n) people

15. funds, n o) aim

16. sustain, v p) chance

 

9.8. Fill in the comparative or superlative forms of the adjectives in brackets.

I think that the north of Scotland is one of (1)…….. (beautiful) places I’ve ever been to. The water in the lochs is (2)…….. (clear) I’ve ever seen and I believe that it must be the (3)…….. (picturesque) area in the world. Northern Scotland has (4)……… (majestic) mountains in Britain and it’s (5)…….. (green) than anywhere else I’ve been to. The mysterious question of whether or not the “Loch Ness Monster” exists, makes it all (6)…….. (interesting). I certainly can’t think of anywhere else (7)…….. (good) to go for a relaxing break than Scotland.

 

9.9. Read the text about different National Parks in Great Britain. Compare them and answer the questions after it.

ABOUT NATIONAL PARKS

Wild, expansive moors, high rugged cliffs, picturesque rolling hills and stunningly beautiful coastline: these are only a few of the varied and dramatic features of Britain’s National Parks. Whether you’re admiring the majestic peaks of Snowdonia, horse riding across the romantic landscapes of Dartmoor or taking to the water in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, the National Parks will offer an exhilarating experience.

From rock climbing and mountain biking for the sports enthusiasts, to gentle rambles and fly-fishing if you prefer the more laid-back pace of life, the parks’ vast array of activities will provide an unforgettable adventure.

Exmoor

The tallest sea cliffs in England form the northern boundary of this smallest moorland park. The grass moor of the erstwhile Royal Forest is surrounded by heather-covered hills and wooded coombs. Bronze-Age burials, Roman fortlets, ironworks and medieval castles abound. The South West Coastal Path – a national trail – runs along the northern edge of the park.

Cairngorms

Britain’s largest National Park opened in September 2003. The Cairngorms area is an important and unique natural and biodiversity resource in the Central Highlands of Scotland. It displays a vast collection of landforms, more akin to arctic Canada, including four out of Scotland’s five highest mountains. It contains a quarter of Scotland’s native woodland and is a refuge for a host of rare plants and creatures, including a quarter of the UK’s threatened species.

Peak District

The Peak District lies at the Southern end of the Pennine Hills, between Sheffield and Manchester. Explore the hidden gems of the area, from the rugged heather-clad moorland of the Dark Peak, to the gently rolling dales of the White Peak. Visit Chatsworth House, castles, caves, river valleys, reservoirs, heritage sites and much, much more.

Yorkshire Dales

The Dales occupy the finest area of upland limestone country in Britain and possess a unique combination of both related and contrasting landscape features. Wild, expansive, tranquil and at times awesome and bleak, it is ideal for outdoor recreation or touring between the area’s many picture postcard towns and villages.

The Lake District

Wild, rugged and dramatic landscape in the central areas contrast with the softer, more rounded edges of the Lake District. Sixteen lakes are arranged like spokes of a wheel in this heartland. This imposing landscape has rich literary and artistic associations and comprises splendid walking and climbing – gentle on the lakeside and challenging uphill gradients.

Snowdonia

Rivers, lakes, waterfalls and remnants of ancient deciduous woodlands are typical of the park, as is the coast, with its sandy bays, dunes and the three beautiful estuaries – Glaslyn/Dwyryd, Mawddach and Dyfi. A rich variety of plants and wildlife mirrors the diversity of the landscape and the whole of the park is a stronghold of the Welsh language and way of life.

Pembrokeshire Coast

Predominantly coastal national park, covering 620 sq km (240 sq miles) of spectacular landscape around Wales’ south-western shore. Rugged cliffs and islands, tree-lined estuaries and open moorland are all features of the area. Wild flowers flourish in the mild climate and there are famous seal and sea bird colonies.

 

● 1. Which Parks are in:

a) England? b) Scotland? c) Wales?

2. What do these Parks have in common?

3. In what context can you find these words: unforgettable adventure / wooded coombs / threatened species / heritage sites / outdoor recreation?

4. Which Park:

▪ contains historical sites? ▪ has the highest mountain?

▪ has ancient remnants? ▪ is located on the shore?

▪ mentions any numbers? ▪ has a limestone area?

 

5. What can be:

▪ gentle? ▪ beautiful? ▪ unique? ▪ rare?

▪ imposing? ▪ spectacular? ▪ tranquil?

▪ deciduous? ▪ rugged? ▪ sandy?

 

9.10. Match the two parts ( A and B ) of the words.

A B

1. moor a) falls

2. tree- b) side

3. strong c) land

4. water d) stone

5. heart e) lined

6. lake f) land

7. up g) card

8. lime h) clad

9. awe i) hold

10. out j) land

11. post k) form

12. heather l) line

13. coast m) some

14. land n)door

 

9.11. What are the following words according to the context (activity 9.9): nouns / adjectives / verbs / adverbs?

a) ironworks b) akin c) creatures d) touring

e) softer f) mirror g) stronghold

h) predominantly i) flourish j) seal

 

▪ Translate all the words above using a dictionary.

 

9.12. Look at the phrases from the text (activity 9.9) and explain what they mean in your own words.

a) “….. wild, expansive moors …”

b) “….. the National Parks will offer an exhilarating experience.”

c) “….. the more laid-back pace of life…”

d) “….. the hidden gems of the area…”

e) “….. a unique combination of both related and contrasting landscape features.”

f) “….. picture postcard towns and villages.”

g) “….. dramatic landscape…”

h) “…... challenging uphill gradients.”

 

9.13. Read the text about National Parks again and talk about the similarities and differences of these places. Then say which place you would like to visit and why.

 

9.14 Read the three texts, describing places and answer the following questions:

● Which text is taken from:

a) a promotional brochure b) a story c) an encyclopedia?

● Which text is the most / least formal?

● Which text:

a) expresses the writer’s personal feelings and experiences.

b) includes only facts.

c) has an impersonal style.

d) uses colloquial English.

e) gives a poetical description.

f) gives a detailed description.

g) tells about attractions.

h) uses as many adjectives as possible?

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