TOEFL® Vocabulary Flashcard

A bed and breakfast, often abbreviated as B&B, is typically a private home where guests can stay overnight and are provided with breakfast the next morning. These establishments are known for their personalized service and often unique, homely charm. They differ from hotels in their smaller scale and more intimate setting, often allowing guests to interact with the hosts and other guests, which can enhance the travel experience.

• We stayed at a charming bed and breakfast in the countryside last weekend.

• The bed and breakfast offered homemade jams and fresh bread every morning.

• Finding a bed and breakfast with a beautiful garden was the highlight of our trip. 

A boutique hotel typically offers a more intimate and unique lodging experience compared to larger hotels. They are often located in trendy or historic areas and focus on providing luxurious, tailored services with distinctive room decor and architecture. Boutique hotels are popular among travelers seeking a more personalized and culturally rich experience.

• We stayed at a boutique hotel that offered a personalized experience unlike any large chain hotel.

• The boutique hotel was nestled in an artistic neighborhood, enhancing our cultural experience during the stay.

• Each room in the boutique hotel had its own unique decor, making every stay a new adventure. 

A chain hotel refers to a hotel that is part of a series or network of hotels operating under the same brand or management. These hotels are usually spread across different regions or countries and aim to provide a consistent level of service and quality. Chain hotels are popular among travelers who prefer predictable accommodations with familiar amenities.

• We stayed at a chain hotel during our road trip because we knew it would have consistent quality.

• Many chain hotels offer loyalty programs that provide discounts and perks to frequent guests.

• Chain hotels often have similar amenities and services across all their locations to maintain a uniform standard.] 

Going on a guided tour often means that all logistics are handled by the tour operator, which can include transportation, accommodation, meals, and entry to attractions. This can make traveling more convenient and stress-free, especially for those unfamiliar with the destination.

• We decided to go on a guided tour to learn more about the city's history.

• Going on a guided tour can be a great way to see the major attractions without worrying about transportation and tickets.

An inn is typically a small establishment where travelers can receive lodging and usually food and drink. Inns have historically been places where travelers, including pilgrims and merchants, could rest and recover from a day's journey. Inns are often located in the countryside or along a highway.

• We stayed at a cozy inn near the lake.

• The innkeeper greeted us warmly as we entered.

• Many old inns are found along this historic route. 

A motel, often seen as a budget-friendly accommodation option, caters primarily to motorists. These establishments are typically located near highways and offer easy access and parking, making them ideal for travelers looking for a quick stopover without the need for luxurious amenities. Motels often feature a series of rooms with direct access to the parking area, enhancing convenience for guests.

• We decided to stay at a motel instead of a hotel to save money.

• The motel room was clean and comfortable, perfect for a night's rest during our road trip.

• Many motels offer free parking and Wi-Fi, which is convenient for travelers. 

A service apartment combines the flexibility of a private apartment with the convenience of hotel-like services. These apartments are particularly popular among business travelers and expatriates who need accommodation for a few weeks to several months. They offer more space than a typical hotel room, as well as facilities that allow for cooking, laundry, and sometimes even hosting small meetings.

• I stayed in a service apartment for three months while I was on a business project in Shanghai.

• Many service apartments offer facilities like gyms, pools, and sometimes even restaurants and bars.

• For families relocating to a new city, a service apartment can provide a comfortable temporary home. 

The word "tour" can be used both as a noun and a verb, referring to the act of traveling or visiting different places, often with a specific purpose such as sightseeing or performing. As a noun, it often refers to a pre-arranged journey that includes visits to various places of interest, often guided by someone knowledgeable. As a verb, it means to travel through or around a place in order to see or inspect it.

• We went on a guided tour of the ancient castle.

• The band is going on tour in Europe next summer.

• She toured the museum with great interest. 

• We decided to take a tour of the ancient castle to learn more about its history

A tourist attraction refers to a place of interest where tourists visit, typically for its inherent or exhibited natural or cultural value, historical significance, natural or built beauty, offering leisure, adventure, and amusement. These attractions often serve as the cornerstone of a region's tourism industry and are critical for attracting visitors from around the world.

• The Eiffel Tower is a famous tourist attraction in Paris.

• Many tourists visit the Great Wall of China, a popular tourist attraction.

• The museum has become a major tourist attraction since it was renovated last year. 

A tourist spot refers to a place of interest where tourists visit, typically for its inherent or exhibited natural or cultural value, historical significance, natural or built beauty, or amusement opportunities. These locations are often the backbone of a local economy and are promoted by tourism boards. Examples of tourist spots include monuments, natural wonders, amusement parks, and historically significant cities.

• The Eiffel Tower is a famous tourist spot in Paris.

• Many people visit the Grand Canyon each year, making it a popular tourist spot.

• Local businesses often benefit from the influx of visitors to nearby tourist spots.

A "vacation destination" refers to a place where people travel to relax and enjoy themselves away from their usual environment. These destinations can be domestic or international and are chosen based on various factors such as climate, cultural attractions, natural beauty, and personal preferences. People often look for destinations that offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

• We are trying to choose the perfect vacation destination for our summer holiday.

• Some popular vacation destinations include Hawaii, Paris, and the Maldives.

• What factors do you consider when selecting a vacation destination? 

Vacation rentals are a popular choice for travelers seeking a home-away-from-home experience. These rentals can vary from small apartments to large villas, and they are often equipped with home-like amenities. This accommodation option is particularly appealing to families and groups who wish to stay together in a more private and comfortable setting compared to traditional hotels.

• We booked a vacation rental in Hawaii for our summer holiday.

• Many vacation rentals come with amenities like a kitchen and laundry facilities, making them ideal for family trips.

• She prefers vacation rentals over hotels because they offer more privacy and space. 

A villa is typically a large and often luxurious house, usually found in less urbanized areas. These homes are designed for comfort and privacy, often featuring expansive outdoor spaces such as gardens, pools, and patios. Villas can serve as primary residences or as vacation homes, providing a retreat from city life.

• They rented a luxurious villa by the sea for their vacation.

• The villa had a beautiful garden filled with exotic flowers.

• We spent the weekend at a small villa in the countryside.