Image of English Learners
1. Plan Weekend Trips or Getaways
Dialogue 1A: Planning with a Friend
Maria: Hey Carlos, do you have any plans for Labor Day weekend?
Carlos: Not yet. It’s a three-day weekend, right? I’d love to get out of the city.
Maria: Yes! Monday is a holiday. I was thinking about going to the coast. Have you been to the beach yet?
Carlos: No, I haven’t. How far is it from here?
Maria: About three hours by car. We could leave early Saturday morning and come back Monday evening.
Carlos: That sounds great! Should we book a hotel now or wait?
Maria: We should book soon. Holiday weekends fill up quickly in the US, especially beach towns.
Carlos: Good point. What’s our budget? I can spend around $200 for accommodation.
Maria: Perfect. If we split a room, we can find something nice with that budget. I’ll start looking online tonight.
Cultural Notes:
- Labor Day (first Monday in September) is a major holiday weekend for travel
- Three-day weekends are popular times for short trips
- Booking in advance is important, especially for holidays
- Splitting costs with friends is common and socially acceptable
Dialogue 1B: Asking a Coworker for Suggestions
Jin: Hi Rachel! I heard you grew up around here. I’m trying to plan a weekend trip. Any recommendations?
Rachel: Sure! What kind of experience are you looking for? Nature, city, relaxation?
Jin: I’d like to see some nature. I’ve been in the city for three months, and I miss being outdoors.
Rachel: You should check out the national parks within a few hours’ drive. Have you heard of them?
Jin: I’ve heard the name, but I don’t know much about them.
Rachel: The US has an amazing national parks system. You pay an entrance fee—usually around $30 per car—and you can hike, camp, and see beautiful landscapes.
Jin: That sounds perfect! Can I go without a car?
Rachel: Some parks have shuttle services, but honestly, most people drive. You might want to rent a car for the weekend.
Jin: Okay, I’ll look into that. Do I need to book anything in advance?
Rachel: If you want to camp inside the park, yes. Campsites fill up fast. But if you just want to visit for the day, you can usually just show up.
Cultural Notes:
- US National Parks are popular destinations requiring entrance fees
- Most natural areas require a car; public transportation is limited outside cities
- Camping requires advance reservations, especially on weekends
- Day visits to parks are usually flexible without reservations
Dialogue 1C: Planning at Home with a Partner
Tom: Honey, we haven’t had a break in months. What do you think about a weekend getaway next month?
Linda: I’d love that! Where should we go?
Tom: I don’t know… somewhere we can relax. Maybe a bed and breakfast in the countryside?
Linda: What’s a bed and breakfast exactly? We don’t have those back home.
Tom: It’s a small hotel, usually in a historic house. The owners live there, and they serve you breakfast in the morning. It’s very cozy and personal.
Linda: That sounds charming! Is it expensive?
Tom: It can be, but we can find reasonable ones. Usually between $100 and $200 per night.
Linda: Let’s look for one that’s within two or three hours from here. I don’t want to spend the whole weekend driving.
Tom: Good idea. I’ll search for “bed and breakfast near [city name]” and see what comes up. We should also check reviews on TripAdvisor.
Linda: Yes, reviews are important. Let’s find a place with good breakfast—you know I can’t start the day without coffee!
Cultural Notes:
- Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs) are small, personal lodging options popular in the US
- They’re often in historic buildings or scenic areas
- Online reviews (TripAdvisor, Google) are heavily used in the US for choosing accommodations
- Weekend getaways typically mean 1-2 nights away
2. Book Hotels or Accommodation
Dialogue 2A: Calling a Hotel Directly
Receptionist: Good afternoon, Riverside Inn. This is Amanda speaking. How may I help you?
Guest: Hi, I’d like to book a room for two nights, please.
Receptionist: Certainly! What dates were you looking at?
Guest: June 15th and 16th. Check-in on the 15th, check-out on the 17th.
Receptionist: Let me check our availability… Yes, we have rooms available. Would you like a king bed or two queen beds?
Guest: One king bed, please. Also, does the room have a view?
Receptionist: We have rooms with a garden view or a river view. The river view is an additional $25 per night.
Guest: I’ll take the garden view. What’s the total cost?
Receptionist: The room rate is $145 per night, so that’s $290 for two nights, plus taxes and fees. Your total will be approximately $340.
Guest: Okay. Is breakfast included?
Receptionist: Yes, we offer complimentary continental breakfast from 7 to 10 AM. May I have your name and credit card information?
Guest: Sure, my name is Pavel Novak…
Cultural Notes:
- “Continental breakfast” typically means light breakfast (coffee, pastries, fruit)
- Hotels quote prices without taxes; total cost is higher than the room rate
- Check-out time is usually 11 AM or noon; check-in is usually 3 PM or 4 PM
- Credit card is required to hold a reservation
Dialogue 2B: Using a Booking Website
Sarah (on phone with friend): I’m trying to book a hotel on Booking.com. There are so many options!
Friend: What’s your budget?
Sarah: Around $150 per night. I’m looking in downtown Portland for next weekend.
Friend: Okay, use the filters on the left side. Set your price range, and then you can filter by guest ratings.
Sarah: Oh, I see it. Should I sort by price or by guest rating?
Friend: I usually sort by guest rating first. Look for places with at least 8.0 or higher out of 10.
Sarah: This one looks good—8.5 rating, $142 per night. It says “free cancellation until 2 days before.”
Friend: That’s great! Free cancellation is really important. Plans can change.
Sarah: It also says “pay at property.” Does that mean I don’t pay now?
Friend: Exactly. Some hotels want payment in advance, but “pay at property” means you pay when you check in. It’s more flexible.
Sarah: Perfect. Oh wait, there’s a “resort fee” of $25 per night. What’s that?
Friend: Ugh, resort fees. Some hotels charge extra fees for amenities like the pool, WiFi, or gym. It’s annoying, but it’s common, especially in tourist areas.
Sarah: So the real price is $167 per night, not $142?
Friend: Unfortunately, yes. Always check for extra fees before booking.
Cultural Notes:
- Popular US booking sites include Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, Priceline
- Guest ratings are on a 10-point scale (8.0+ is generally good)
- Resort fees are additional mandatory charges, common in tourist destinations
- “Free cancellation” policies vary—read the fine print
- Some hotels charge at booking, others at check-in
Dialogue 2C: Booking an Airbnb
Maya: I’m thinking of trying Airbnb instead of a hotel for our trip to Nashville.
David: I’ve never used it. How does it work?
Maya: It’s a website where people rent out their homes or apartments to travelers. Sometimes it’s the whole place, sometimes just a room.
David: Is it safe?
Maya: Yes, if you’re careful. Always read the reviews from previous guests. This apartment has 47 reviews and 4.9 stars out of 5.
David: What are the advantages over a hotel?
Maya: Usually cheaper, especially for longer stays. Plus, you have a kitchen, so we can cook some meals and save money.
David: That’s true. What about cleaning?
Maya: Most hosts charge a cleaning fee—this one is $75. It’s a one-time fee, not per night.
David: Okay. And do we meet the owner?
Maya: It depends. This one says “self check-in with lockbox,” so we get a code and let ourselves in. We might never meet the host.
David: That’s convenient. What’s the cancellation policy?
Maya: This one is “moderate”—full refund if we cancel 5 days before check-in. Some have stricter policies, some are more flexible.
David: Sounds good. Let’s book it!
Cultural Notes:
- Airbnb is very popular in the US for both short and longer stays
- Reviews are essential for choosing a good property
- “Self check-in” is common—hosts leave keys in lockboxes
- Cleaning fees are separate from nightly rates
- Policies vary by host: cancellation, house rules, checkout procedures
- Having a kitchen can save money on food
3. Research Vacation Destinations
Dialogue 3A: At a Tourist Information Center
Tourist: Excuse me, we’re new to this area. Can you recommend some vacation destinations within driving distance?
Staff: Of course! What kind of vacation do you enjoy? Beach, mountains, cities, or historical sites?
Tourist: We like a mix—maybe some nature and some culture.
Staff: How much time do you have?
Tourist: We have a week off in August.
Staff: Perfect. You could do a road trip through several states. Many Americans love road trips—you drive and stop at different places along the way.
Tourist: That sounds interesting! Which direction should we go?
Staff: Heading west, you could visit several national parks. Heading east, you could explore historic cities like Philadelphia and Washington DC. Both trips would take about a week.
Tourist: Are there good resources for planning this?
Staff: Yes! Here are some brochures. Also, check websites like RoadTrippers.com or use the National Park Service website. And don’t forget to download the apps—many parks have their own apps with maps and information.
Tourist: Should we book hotels in advance for a road trip?
Staff: For August, yes. It’s peak tourist season. Book at least your first and last nights, and maybe the busiest destinations. You can be flexible with the smaller towns along the way.
Cultural Notes:
- Road trips are a quintessential American vacation style
- Peak season (summer, especially July-August) requires advance booking
- Many states and regions have official tourism websites and apps
- Tourist information centers provide free maps and brochures
- The National Park Service (nps.gov) is the official source for park information
Dialogue 3B: Researching Online with Friends
Conversation via text message:
Anna: Starting to plan our spring break trip! Where should we go? 🌴
James: Somewhere warm? I’m tired of this cold weather!
Mei: Same! I’ve been researching. What about Florida?
Anna: Florida is popular for spring break, but might be crowded. What dates are we thinking?
James: Second week of March. We have 5 days.
Mei: I’ve been reading travel blogs. They suggest either Florida beaches, Arizona desert, or Texas.
Anna: What’s the weather like in those places in March?
James: Let me check… Florida is around 75-80°F (24-27°C), Arizona is 70-75°F (21-24°C), Texas is similar.
Mei: What about budget? Flights to Florida from here are about $250 round trip.
Anna: That’s reasonable. What about accommodation?
James: I’m looking at prices now. Hotels in Miami Beach are expensive during spring break—like $200+ per night.
Mei: We could stay somewhere less touristy and drive to the beach?
Anna: Good idea. Let’s make a shared Google Doc to compare options and prices.
James: I’ll start it tonight and share the link!
Cultural Notes:
- Spring break (typically March) is a major vacation time for students and families
- Popular spring break destinations book up early and have higher prices
- Weather is described in Fahrenheit in the US
- Shared Google Docs are commonly used for group planning
- Travel blogs and online reviews are primary research tools
- Budget planning includes flights, accommodation, food, and activities
Dialogue 3C: Asking a Travel-Experienced Neighbor
New Resident: Hi Susan! I hope I’m not bothering you. I know you’ve traveled a lot around the US.
Susan: Not at all! What’s up?
New Resident: My family wants to take a vacation this summer, but we don’t know the US well yet. Where do you recommend for families with kids?
Susan: How old are your children?
New Resident: 8 and 11 years old.
Susan: Oh perfect! That’s a great age for travel. Have you considered Orlando, Florida? It’s theme park central—Disney World, Universal Studios.
New Resident: We’ve heard of Disney! Is it very expensive?
Susan: It can be, but there are ways to save money. Don’t stay at Disney hotels—they’re overpriced. Stay off-property and drive in. Also, pack your own snacks and water bottles.
New Resident: How many days should we spend there?
Susan: Most people do 4-5 days. That gives you time for two parks and some rest. Buy tickets online in advance—it’s cheaper than at the gate.
New Resident: Are there other family destinations besides Florida?
Susan: Definitely! Washington DC is wonderful for kids—most museums are FREE, including the Smithsonian museums. Or consider San Diego—great zoo, beautiful beaches, and nice weather.
New Resident: Free museums? That’s amazing!
Susan: Yes, DC is special that way. The National Mall has about a dozen museums, all free admission. It’s very educational and budget-friendly.
New Resident: Thank you so much! This is really helpful.
Cultural Notes:
- Orlando, Florida is “theme park capital” with Disney World, Universal, etc.
- Theme park tickets are expensive; buying online in advance saves money
- Washington DC Smithsonian museums are free (very unusual in the US)
- Families often drive to attractions to save on parking at expensive hotels
- San Diego is considered family-friendly with zoo, beaches, and attractions
- Many Americans prioritize destinations that are both educational and fun for kids
4. Make Travel Reservations (Flights, Trains, etc.)
Dialogue 4A: Booking a Flight Online
Phone call between roommates:
Lisa: I’m trying to book a flight home for Thanksgiving. This is my first time booking in the US.
Mark: Thanksgiving flights are expensive! Have you checked prices yet?
Lisa: Yes, I’m shocked. Round trip is $450!
Mark: That’s actually not too bad for Thanksgiving week. It’s the busiest travel time of the year. When are you flying?
Lisa: I want to leave Tuesday before Thanksgiving and come back Sunday.
Mark: Ah, that’s why. Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving are the most expensive days. Same with Sunday coming back.
Lisa: Should I change my dates?
Mark: If you can travel Monday before or Thursday morning, and return on Saturday or Monday after, it’s usually cheaper.
Lisa: Hmm, let me check… Oh! If I fly Monday and return Saturday, it’s only $320!
Mark: There you go! Which airline?
Lisa: It says “United basic economy.” What does that mean?
Mark: Basic economy is the cheapest fare, but you can’t choose your seat, and you can only bring a personal item—no carry-on bag.
Lisa: No carry-on? Just a purse or backpack?
Mark: Exactly. If you want a carry-on, you need “regular economy” which costs more. Or you pay for checked baggage.
Lisa: How much is checked baggage?
Mark: Usually $35 for the first bag, each way. So that’s $70 round trip.
Lisa: I’ll just pack light and take a backpack. One more question—should I buy travel insurance?
Mark: For domestic flights, usually not necessary unless your plans are uncertain. It costs extra and has lots of restrictions.
Cultural Notes:
- Thanksgiving week is the busiest and most expensive time to fly in the US
- Flying midweek and avoiding peak days (Wednesday before/Sunday after) saves money
- “Basic economy” has restrictions: no seat selection, limited baggage
- Most US airlines charge for checked bags ($30-35 per bag)
- One personal item (purse, backpack, laptop bag) is usually free
- Travel insurance for domestic flights is optional and often not worth it
Dialogue 4B: Taking Amtrak for the First Time
At the train station ticket counter:
Passenger: Hello, I’d like to buy a ticket to Boston.
Agent: Certainly! When are you traveling?
Passenger: This Friday, December 10th.
Agent: Morning or afternoon?
Passenger: What time are the trains?
Agent: We have trains at 7:30 AM, 10:15 AM, 2:45 PM, and 6:20 PM.
Passenger: The 10:15 sounds good. How long is the journey?
Agent: Approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, arriving at 2:35 PM.
Passenger: Okay. Is this Amtrak? I’m not familiar with train travel in the US.
Agent: Yes, Amtrak is America’s national passenger railroad. Think of it like flying, but more relaxed—you can walk around, there’s usually WiFi, and the seats are bigger.
Passenger: Do I need to arrive early like at the airport?
Agent: No, just 15-20 minutes before departure is fine. Boarding is much simpler than flying.
Passenger: Can I bring luggage?
Agent: Yes, two carry-on bags and two checked bags are included in your ticket at no extra charge.
Passenger: That’s great! How much is the ticket?
Agent: For Friday, the 10:15 train is $89. We also have “business class” for $142—that includes a meal and more spacious seating.
Passenger: I’ll take regular coach, please. Do you have discounts for students?
Agent: Yes, 10% off with a valid student ID.
Passenger: Perfect! Here’s my student ID.
Cultural Notes:
- Amtrak is the US national train service (intercity passenger rail)
- Train travel is less common than flying or driving in most of the US
- No need to arrive hours early; 15-20 minutes before departure is adequate
- Baggage allowance is generous compared to airlines
- Coach (standard) and business class are the main seating options
- Students, seniors, military get discounts
- Northeast Corridor (Boston-NYC-Philadelphia-DC) has the best train service
Dialogue 4C: Renting a Car for a Road Trip
At the car rental counter:
Customer: Hi, I have a reservation under the name Kim.
Agent: Yes, Ms. Kim, I see it here. You reserved a compact car for 5 days, picking up today and returning Wednesday.
Customer: That’s right. What’s the total cost?
Agent: Your reservation is $47 per day, so $235 for 5 days, plus taxes and fees. Would you like to add any insurance or upgrades?
Customer: What insurance do I need? This is confusing.
Agent: If you have personal car insurance, it usually covers rental cars. Do you own a car?
Customer: No, I don’t. I just moved here.
Agent: In that case, I recommend the Collision Damage Waiver—it’s $25 per day. Without it, you’re responsible for any damage to the car.
Customer: $25 per day? That’s expensive!
Agent: Alternatively, check if your credit card offers rental car insurance. Many cards include it automatically.
Customer: Oh! Let me call my credit card company… [calls]… Yes, they said I’m covered!
Agent: Perfect! Then you can decline our insurance. Now, do you want a GPS navigation system?
Customer: No thanks, I’ll use Google Maps on my phone. Oh, can I return the car with an empty tank?
Agent: You have two options: return it full, or we charge you for gas at a higher rate. I recommend filling up yourself before you return it.
Customer: Got it. One more thing—can other people drive the car?
Agent: Additional drivers are $15 per day each, except spouses drive free.
Customer: Okay, just me then. Where do I pick up the car?
Agent: Take this contract to parking level 2, space 34. Have a great trip!
Cultural Notes:
- Car rental is essential for road trips; prices vary by location and season
- Many credit cards include rental car insurance—check before buying rental company insurance
- “Compact,” “mid-size,” “full-size,” and “SUV” are common car categories
- Additional drivers cost extra, but spouses typically drive free
- Return car with full tank, or pay premium gas prices
- GPS rental is expensive; most people use phone navigation
- Age restrictions: must be 25+ for most rentals, under 25 pay extra fees
5. Plan Day Trips or Excursions
Dialogue 5A: Planning a Day Trip to Wine Country
Between colleagues at lunch:
Emma: I’m thinking of going to wine country this Saturday. Want to join?
Raj: Wine country? Where’s that?
Emma: It’s about 90 minutes north of here—Napa Valley and Sonoma. Beautiful vineyards, wine tastings.
Raj: I’ve heard of Napa! But I don’t know much about wine.
Emma: You don’t need to be an expert. It’s really about the experience—pretty scenery, trying different wines, good food.
Raj: How does it work? Do we just show up at wineries?
Emma: Some wineries accept walk-ins, but many require reservations now, especially on weekends. I usually book tastings online ahead of time.
Raj: How much does a tasting cost?
Emma: Usually $25-50 per person, depending on the winery. You taste 4-6 different wines and learn about them.
Raj: That adds up if we visit several places!
Emma: True, so most people visit 2-3 wineries in a day. We could also do one tasting and one winery tour—those are really interesting.
Raj: Should we eat lunch there?
Emma: Definitely. Many wineries have restaurants or picnic areas. Some people pack a picnic lunch.
Raj: What about driving? If we’re drinking wine…
Emma: Great question. We can designate a driver who skips the tastings, or we can hire a driver or join a wine tour group.
Raj: Let’s hire a driver. Safer and more fun!
Emma: Good choice. I’ll look up wine tour companies. They pick you up, take you to 3-4 wineries, and bring you back. Usually around $150 per person for the day.
Cultural Notes:
- Wine country (Napa/Sonoma in California, Finger Lakes in New York, etc.) is popular for day trips
- Wine tastings typically cost $25-50 and include 4-6 wines
- Reservations are increasingly required, especially at popular wineries
- Responsible alcohol consumption: hire a driver, join a tour, or designate a driver
- Many wineries offer food: restaurants, cafes, or picnic areas
- Wine tourism has become more upscale and expensive in recent years
Dialogue 5B: Visiting a State Fair
Parent talking to another parent at school pickup:
Parent 1: Hi! Do you have plans this weekend?
Parent 2: Not yet. Why?
Parent 1: The state fair is in town! It’s only here for one more week. We’re taking the kids on Sunday.
Parent 2: State fair? I’m not familiar with that.
Parent 1: Oh, it’s a really American tradition! It’s like a huge festival with rides, games, animals, food, live music, and competitions.
Parent 2: It sounds like a lot! Is it all day?
Parent 1: It can be. We usually spend 4-5 hours there. Gates open at 10 AM and close at 10 PM.
Parent 2: What’s there for kids?
Parent 1: So much! There’s a petting zoo with farm animals, carnival rides, games where they can win prizes. My kids love watching the pig races!
Parent 2: Pig races?! That’s funny! What about food?
Parent 1: Oh, the food is legendary. Every kind of fair food you can imagine—corn dogs, funnel cakes, fried everything! It’s not healthy, but it’s tradition.
Parent 2: How much does it cost?
Parent 1: Admission is about $15 for adults, $10 for kids under 12, and kids under 5 are free. But rides and food cost extra.
Parent 2: So we need to budget more than just admission?
Parent 1: Yes, I usually budget at least $100-150 for a family of four—admission, rides, food, and maybe some games.
Parent 2: That’s helpful to know. Should we buy tickets in advance?
Parent 1: You can, but you can also buy them at the gate. Sometimes there are discount coupons at grocery stores or online.
Parent 2: Great! We’ll meet you there!
Cultural Notes:
- State fairs are annual events, usually late summer/early fall
- Features: agriculture displays, carnival rides, competitions, food vendors
- Famous for “fair food”—often fried, on a stick, or oversized
- Budget beyond admission: rides, games, and food add up quickly
- Bring cash—many vendors don’t accept cards
- Can be very crowded on weekends
- Each state has its own fair, typically lasting 1-2 weeks
Dialogue 5C: Day Trip to a Nearby City
Text message conversation between friends:
Alex: Want to take the train to Chicago tomorrow? Just for the day?
Lena: Tomorrow is kind of last minute! What would we do?
Alex: Museum hopping? Shopping? Lunch in a cool neighborhood? Just explore!
Lena: How long is the train ride?
Alex: About 2 hours from here. We could catch the 8 AM train, arrive at 10, and take the 6 PM train back.
Lena: That gives us 8 hours in the city. Enough time!
Alex: Exactly. The Art Institute opens at 11. We could spend 2-3 hours there.
Lena: What about lunch?
Alex: I’m thinking deep dish pizza—it’s a Chicago specialty. There’s a famous place near the museum.
Lena: I’ve heard about Chicago pizza! 😊 What else is near there?
Alex: Millennium Park is within walking distance. Cloud Gate—the “Bean” sculpture—is there. Great for photos!
Lena: How much will this cost?
Alex: Let me think… Train is about $30 round trip, museum admission is $28, lunch maybe $25, plus coffee and snacks… around $100 per person?
Lena: Not bad for a day trip! What about getting around the city?
Alex: Chicago has good public transportation—the “L” train. We can buy a day pass for $10.
Lena: Perfect! I’m in. Should we buy train tickets now?
Alex: Yes, let me send you the link. Book the 8 AM and 6 PM trains.
Lena: Done! This will be fun!
Cultural Notes:
- Day trips to nearby cities are popular, especially by train
- Many US cities have one or two iconic foods (Chicago deep dish, Philly cheesesteak, etc.)
- Museums typically charge admission ($15-30), except in DC where they’re free
- Public transportation varies greatly by city—some have good systems, others don’t
- Day passes for public transit offer unlimited rides (usually $5-15)
- Popular photo spots (like Chicago’s Bean) are often free attractions
- Allow time for unexpected discoveries when exploring new cities
6. Book Tickets for Shows or Events
Dialogue 6A: Buying Concert Tickets Online
Conversation between siblings on video call:
Sam: Guess what! Taylor Swift is coming to town in June!
Jordan: Really? When do tickets go on sale?
Sam: This Friday at 10 AM. We need to be ready because they sell out in minutes.
Jordan: Minutes?! How is that possible?
Sam: Her concerts are incredibly popular. Plus, resellers use bots to buy tickets and then resell them at higher prices.
Jordan: That’s frustrating. How do we compete with bots?
Sam: We sign up for a presale code. If you register on Ticketmaster ahead of time, sometimes you get early access.
Jordan: Good idea. What’s the price range?
Sam: Looking at her past tours, probably $150-500 depending on the seats.
Jordan: $500 for a concert ticket?!
Sam: For really good seats, yes. But we can try for the $150-200 range. Still good seats, just farther back.
Jordan: Okay. So on Friday at 10 AM, we both try to buy tickets?
Sam: Yes, log in at 9:55 and refresh the page. Have your payment information saved ahead of time so checkout is faster.
Jordan: Got it. What about fees?
Sam: Oh right—Ticketmaster adds “service fees” and “facility fees.” Add about 20-30% to the ticket price.
Jordan: So a $200 ticket actually costs around $250?
Sam: Unfortunately, yes. It’s annoying, but that’s how it works. One more thing—tickets are usually mobile only now. They’ll be in an app on your phone, not paper tickets.
Jordan: Okay! Let’s do this!
Cultural Notes:
- Popular concert tickets sell out within minutes
- Ticketmaster is the dominant ticketing platform in the US
- Service fees and facility fees add 20-30% to ticket prices
- Presale codes give early access (sign up for artist newsletters, credit card offers)
- Resale market (StubHub, SeatGeek) has inflated prices
- Mobile tickets on smartphones are now standard
- Having payment info pre-saved speeds up checkout process
Dialogue 6B: At a Theater Box Office
At the ticket window:
Visitor: Hi, I’d like to buy tickets for tonight’s performance.
Box Office Staff: Wonderful! Tonight is “Hamilton” at 8 PM. How many tickets?
Visitor: Two tickets, please. What’s available?
Staff: Let me check… We have seats in the mezzanine for $150 each, or orchestra seats for $225 each.
Visitor: What’s the difference between mezzanine and orchestra?
Staff: Orchestra is the main floor—closer to the stage. Mezzanine is the first balcony level—elevated view, but still quite good.
Visitor: Are there any cheaper options?
Staff: We have “rush tickets” available at the box office only. If you come when we open at noon, you can buy day-of tickets for $49 each. But they’re limited quantity and sell quickly.
Visitor: Oh, I didn’t know about that! Is there a standing room option?
Staff: Not for this show, but some theaters do offer standing room. It varies by production.
Visitor: I’ll take the mezzanine seats for tonight then. Are they together?
Staff: Yes, seats K-14 and K-15, center mezzanine. Good sight lines.
Visitor: Perfect. Is there a dress code?
Staff: No formal dress code, but most people dress up a bit—business casual is common. Some people wear jeans, some wear dresses or suits.
Visitor: How early should we arrive?
Staff: Doors open 30 minutes before curtain. I’d recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early to find your seats and get settled.
Visitor: Thank you! One more question—can we take photos during the show?
Staff: No, photography and recording are strictly prohibited during the performance. Phones should be silenced or turned off.
Cultural Notes:
- Broadway and theater shows have tiered pricing based on seat location
- “Rush tickets” are discounted same-day tickets (limited availability)
- Orchestra seats are on main floor; mezzanine/balcony are upper levels
- No strict dress code at most theaters, but people often dress nicely
- Arrive 15-30 minutes early for seating
- Photos/videos during performances are prohibited
- Phones should be silenced; distracting others is considered rude
- Intermission (break) is common in longer shows
Dialogue 6C: Buying Sports Tickets
At work, talking during lunch break:
Mike: The baseball season just started. Want to go to a game?
Clara: I’ve never been to a baseball game! Is it fun?
Mike: It’s a great American experience. The game itself is slow, but the atmosphere is fun—food, drinks, socializing.
Clara: Where do we get tickets?
Mike: Lots of options. We can buy on the team’s website, through Ticketmaster, or even at the stadium box office. Sometimes tickets are cheaper on game day if the game isn’t sold out.
Clara: How much are tickets?
Mike: It depends where you sit. Nosebleed seats—way up high—are like $20-30. Closer seats are $50-100 or more.
Clara: What’s better for first-timers?
Mike: I’d say mid-range seats around $40-50. You can see everything, and it’s a good value.
Clara: Should we go on a weekend?
Mike: Weekends are more crowded and expensive. Weekday games are more affordable and relaxed. Plus, a lot of teams have special promotions on certain days.
Clara: What kind of promotions?
Mike: “Dollar Dog Night”—hot dogs for $1, or “Thirsty Thursday”—discounted drinks. Sometimes they give away free T-shirts or bobblehead dolls.
Clara: That sounds fun! What about food? Is it expensive in the stadium?
Mike: Oh yes. A hot dog is like $8, beer is $12-15. Some stadiums now allow you to bring in your own food and sealed water bottles.
Clara: Really? That’s surprising!
Mike: Not all stadiums, but many do. Check the policy online. It can save a lot of money.
Clara: Okay! Let’s look at the schedule and pick a game!
Cultural Notes:
- Baseball, basketball, football, and hockey are major sports with different seasons
- Ticket prices vary widely based on seat location and opponent
- “Nosebleed seats” = highest, cheapest seats (far from action)
- Weekday games are cheaper and less crowded than weekends
- Teams offer promotional nights (themed giveaways, discounted food)
- Stadium food is very expensive; some stadiums allow outside food
- Going to games is as much about the social atmosphere as the sport itself
- Season ticket holders sometimes resell individual games online
7. Research Activities in Other Cities
Dialogue 7A: Planning Activities for a Business Trip
Conference call between colleagues:
Yuki: I’m going to Austin next month for a conference. I’ll have free time Saturday and Sunday. What should I do?
Teammate 1: Austin is awesome! What are you interested in?
Yuki: I like music, food, and being outdoors. Not really into museums.
Teammate 2: Perfect, because Austin’s slogan is literally “Live Music Capital of the World!” There’s music everywhere.
Yuki: Where should I go for live music?
Teammate 1: Sixth Street is the famous entertainment district—tons of bars and venues with live music. Very lively on Saturday nights.
Yuki: Is it safe to walk around alone?
Teammate 2: During the day, yes. At night, stick to the busy main streets with crowds. It gets rowdy late at night.
Yuki: What about food? I keep hearing about Austin’s food scene.
Teammate 1: You HAVE to try Texas barbecue. Franklin’s is the most famous—people wait in line for hours!
Yuki: Hours? For food?
Teammate 2: Yeah, it’s intense. But you can try other great BBQ places with shorter waits. Also, check out the food truck scene—Austin has amazing food trucks.
Yuki: What about outdoor activities?
Teammate 1: Barton Springs Pool is iconic—a natural spring-fed pool in the middle of the city. And you can walk or bike around Lady Bird Lake.
Yuki: Can I rent a bike?
Teammate 2: Yes! There are bike-share stations all over. Download the app, rent by the hour.
Yuki: This is great info! Any other tips?
Teammate 1: Austin gets HOT in summer. Drink lots of water. And everything is super casual—jeans and T-shirts everywhere.
Yuki: Thanks! I’m excited now!
Cultural Notes:
- Many cities have reputations for specific things (Austin = music, Portland = food, etc.)
- Major entertainment districts can be rowdy late at night
- Some restaurants have long waits; arriving early helps
- Bike-sharing systems are common in many US cities
- Local blog posts and YouTube videos are good research sources
- Asking colleagues for recommendations is common and helpful
- Casual dress is the norm in most US cities, except very formal restaurants
Dialogue 7B: Reading Online Travel Guides
At home, couple researching together:
Partner 1: I’m reading a travel blog about Seattle. Listen to this: “Top 10 Things to Do in Seattle for First-Time Visitors.”
Partner 2: Okay, what does it say?
Partner 1: Number one is Pike Place Market—it’s a famous public market with fish vendors, flowers, food, and crafts.
Partner 2: I’ve seen photos of that! The vendors throw fish, right?
Partner 1: Yes! It’s a tourist attraction, but locals shop there too. It says to go early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Partner 2: What else is on the list?
Partner 1: The Space Needle—that famous tall tower with the observation deck. But it says it’s expensive and crowded. The blog recommends the Columbia Tower instead—cheaper, taller, and better views.
Partner 2: Good tip! I wouldn’t have known that.
Partner 1: Number three is a coffee tour. Seattle is famous for coffee—Starbucks started there. You can visit the original Starbucks, but also explore local coffee shops.
Partner 2: We love coffee! What about museums?
Partner 1: There’s Chihuly Garden and Glass—a museum of glass art. The photos are stunning! Also, the Museum of Pop Culture—music, movies, and gaming.
Partner 2: Are they free?
Partner 1: No, admission is around $30 each. But the article mentions the first Thursday of each month, some museums have free or discounted admission.
Partner 2: Let’s plan our trip for the first week of the month then!
Partner 1: Smart! Oh, one more thing—the blog says Seattle weather is rainy. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket.
Partner 2: Good to know! Send me that blog link.
Cultural Notes:
- Travel blogs often provide insider tips and alternatives to tourist traps
- Many attractions offer discounts on certain days/times
- Public markets like Pike Place are popular for fresh food and atmosphere
- Coffee culture is significant in cities like Seattle, Portland
- Weather varies dramatically across the US—research before packing
- Online travel guides (TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet, travel blogs) are heavily used
- Museums typically charge admission ($15-30), with some discount days
Dialogue 7C: Asking Hotel Concierge for Recommendations
At hotel front desk:
Guest: Excuse me, we just checked in. Can you recommend some activities in the area?
Concierge: Of course! Welcome to San Francisco. How long are you staying?
Guest: Three nights. We’ve never been here before.
Concierge: Wonderful! Are you interested in sightseeing, food, culture, or a mix?
Guest: A mix. We definitely want to see the famous sights, but also experience local life.
Concierge: Perfect. For famous sights, you can’t miss the Golden Gate Bridge. I recommend walking or biking across it—there are bike rentals nearby.
Guest: How long does it take to walk across?
Concierge: About 30-40 minutes one way. Many people walk one direction and take a ferry back. It’s beautiful!
Guest: That sounds lovely. What about neighborhoods to explore?
Concierge: North Beach is our Italian neighborhood—great food and bakeries. Mission District has incredible Mexican food and street art. Haight-Ashbury for vintage shops and hippie history.
Guest: We love trying local food. Any specific restaurants?
Concierge: San Francisco is famous for sourdough bread and seafood. At Fisherman’s Wharf, you can try clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls. For something more local and less touristy, try the Ferry Building Marketplace.
Guest: Is Alcatraz worth visiting? The prison island?
Concierge: Absolutely, but you need tickets in advance. They sell out weeks ahead. Let me check if any are available… Unfortunately, sold out for this week.
Guest: That’s okay. What about public transportation?
Concierge: Cable cars are iconic but touristy. For getting around, Muni buses and light rail are practical. You can buy a 3-day visitor pass at any station.
Guest: One more question—what should we wear? What’s the weather like?
Concierge: Ah, important question! San Francisco has its own microclimate. Bring layers—mornings are foggy and cool, afternoons can be sunny, evenings get chilly again. Always bring a jacket!
Guest: Thank you so much! This is incredibly helpful.
Concierge: My pleasure. Here’s a map of the city with my notes. Enjoy your stay!
Cultural Notes:
- Hotel concierges are excellent resources for local recommendations
- Popular attractions often require advance booking (weeks or months ahead)
- Each city has signature foods (SF: sourdough, seafood; Philly: cheesesteaks, etc.)
- Public transportation quality varies greatly by city
- Multi-day transportation passes offer good value for tourists
- Weather can vary within a city (SF is famous for microclimates)
- Don’t rely solely on tourist spots—seek local neighborhoods and experiences
8. Plan Visits to Friends or Family in Other Locations
Dialogue 8A: Coordinating a Family Visit
Phone conversation between adult siblings:
Sister: Hi! I’m thinking of coming to visit you guys in Denver. When would be good?
Brother: We’d love that! What timeframe are you thinking?
Sister: Maybe sometime in the next two months? I’m flexible.
Brother: Let me check with Jennifer… [pause]… How about the weekend of March 15th? The kids have that Monday off for a school holiday.
Sister: That works! I’ll look at flights. Should I fly into Denver International Airport?
Brother: Yes, DIA. It’s about 30 minutes from our house. I can pick you up—what time would you arrive?
Sister: Let me look at flight options… There’s a direct flight Friday evening at 6 PM, arriving at 8:30 your time.
Brother: Perfect! I’ll pick you up. Are you bringing the kids?
Sister: Just me this time. John needs to work, and it’ll be easier to travel alone.
Brother: Sounds good. Plan to stay with us—we have a guest room all ready.
Sister: Are you sure? I don’t want to impose. I can get a hotel.
Brother: Don’t be silly! We have plenty of space, and the kids would love having their aunt around.
Sister: Okay, thank you! What should I pack? What’s the weather like in March?
Brother: Colorado weather in March is unpredictable. Could be 60°F and sunny, could be 30°F and snowy. Bring layers!
Sister: Got it. Any special plans?
Brother: We can play it by ear. Maybe a hike if the weather’s nice, or visit some museums if it’s cold. The kids will want to take you to their favorite ice cream place!
Sister: That sounds perfect—quality family time! I’ll book the flight tonight and send you my details.
Cultural Notes:
- Planning visits 1-2 months in advance is common
- Family often offers to host guests rather than hotels
- School holidays are good times for family visits
- Checking host’s schedule and preferences is polite
- Airport pickup is commonly offered for family/close friends
- Weather and packing questions are appropriate to ask
- Flexible plans allow for spontaneity and host’s convenience
- Sending flight details helps with pickup coordination
Dialogue 8B: Planning to Visit College Friends
Group text message chain:
Lauren: We should all get together soon! It’s been over a year since graduation.
Omar: Yes! Where though? We’re all in different cities now.
Priya: What if we meet in the middle? Like, nobody has to fly too far?
Lauren: I’m in Boston, Omar is in DC, Priya you’re in Atlanta, and Jason’s in Chicago, right?
Jason: Yep! So what’s “in the middle” for all of us?
Omar: DC could work. It’s only 5-6 hours drive from most of you, and there’s lots to do.
Priya: But I’d have to fly. Driving from Atlanta is like 10 hours.
Lauren: Flights from Atlanta to DC are pretty cheap though. I just checked—around $150 round trip.
Jason: What weekend? I can’t do most of April.
Lauren: May 10-12? Three-day weekend?
Omar: Memorial Day weekend! That’s actually a four-day weekend—Monday is the holiday.
Priya: Oh perfect! That gives everyone an extra day off work.
Jason: Where would we stay? Omar, can you host all of us?
Omar: I have a one-bedroom apartment… it’ll be cozy! But seriously, maybe some people stay with me and others get an Airbnb nearby?
Lauren: Or we could all split an Airbnb? Might be more fun if we’re all in one place.
Priya: I like that idea! Four bedrooms for four of us, and we can cook together and hang out.
Jason: Okay, let’s search for Airbnbs in DC for Memorial Day weekend. What’s the budget per person?
Omar: If we find a place for $600-800 total for 3 nights, that’s $150-200 each?
Lauren: That works for me!
Priya: Same. I’ll start searching and share options in our group chat.
Jason: Can’t wait! Reunion time!
Cultural Notes:
- College friends often spread across the country after graduation
- Reunions require coordination of multiple schedules
- “Meeting in the middle” geographically is considerate
- Three-day weekends (holidays) are popular for reunions
- Memorial Day weekend (last Monday in May) is a major holiday
- Airbnb for group stays is popular and cost-effective
- Group house rentals allow cooking together, saving money on restaurants
- Splitting costs equally among friends is standard
- Group chats/texts are primary planning tools
Dialogue 8C: Visiting In-Laws for the First Time
Conversation between married couple:
Husband: My parents invited us to visit them in Phoenix. What do you think?
Wife: When?
Husband: They suggested Thanksgiving week. They’d love to have us.
Wife: Thanksgiving? That’s a big holiday with your family. I’m a little nervous…
Husband: I know it’s your first time meeting them in person. But they’re really excited to meet you!
Wife: How long would we stay?
Husband: Probably Wednesday through Sunday. Five days.
Wife: Five days is a long first visit! What if we don’t get along?
Husband: It’ll be fine, I promise. Plus, there are lots of activities we can do—hiking, seeing the Grand Canyon is only a few hours away.
Wife: Should we stay with them or get a hotel?
Husband: They have a guest room and really want us to stay. But if you’d be more comfortable in a hotel, we can do that.
Wife: Let’s stay with them. It’s more polite, and I should get to know your parents.
Husband: Great. What about gifts? Should we bring something?
Wife: In my culture, we always bring gifts when visiting. Is that expected here?
Husband: It’s not required, but it’s a nice gesture. Maybe we bring a nice bottle of wine or some specialty food from our city?
Wife: Good idea. What about Thanksgiving dinner? Should I offer to help cook?
Husband: Definitely! My mom will probably say no at first—she likes to host—but offering is polite. And she’ll probably ask you to help with something small.
Wife: What’s the dress code for Thanksgiving dinner?
Husband: Casual to business casual. Nice jeans and a sweater, or a casual dress. Nothing too formal.
Wife: Okay. I’ll need to take Wednesday through Friday off work. Can you help me draft the email to my boss?
Husband: Of course! This is going to be great. My parents are going to love you.
Cultural Notes:
- Meeting in-laws for first time can be at their home or neutral location
- Major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas) are common times for family visits
- Staying with family is generally expected, but hotels are acceptable if needed
- Bringing hostess gifts (wine, food, flowers) is polite but not mandatory
- Offering to help with meal preparation is polite, even if declined
- Thanksgiving dinner is usually “dressy casual”—nice but not formal
- First visits with in-laws can include planned activities to ease tension
- Request time off work in advance for holiday travel
- Communication between spouses about comfort levels and expectations is important
End of Dialogues
These dialogues provide practical language for real situations while building cultural competency for navigating travel and recreation in the United States.
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