Travel Documents and Luggage
| English | Meaning / Example |
|---|---|
| passport | official document proving your identity and nationality — Don't forget your passport! |
| visa | official permission to enter a country — You need a visa to visit some countries. |
| luggage / suitcase | bags you take travelling — My suitcase is too heavy. |
| backpack | a bag worn on your back — She travelled across Europe with just a backpack. |
| boarding pass | the document that lets you board a plane — Show your boarding pass at the gate. |
At the Airport
| English | Meaning / Example |
|---|---|
| flight | a journey by aeroplane — My flight leaves at 7 am. |
| departure | when a plane leaves — Check the departures board for gate information. |
| arrival | when a plane lands — Arrivals are on the ground floor. |
| airport | the place where planes take off and land — We need to be at the airport two hours early. |
| check in | to register for a flight or hotel stay — Check in online to save time. |
| booking | a reservation you have made — I have a booking for two nights. |
| reservation | an arrangement to keep something for you — Do you have a reservation? |
Tip At most airports you need to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. Always check the departures board for your gate number — it can change!
Accommodation and Sightseeing
| English | Meaning / Example |
|---|---|
| hotel | paid accommodation with rooms and services — We stayed in a four-star hotel. |
| hostel | budget accommodation, often with shared rooms — Youth hostels are popular with backpackers. |
| check in | to arrive and register at a hotel — Check-in is from 3 pm. |
| check out | to leave and pay at a hotel — Check-out is before 11 am. |
| tour | an organised trip to see places — We went on a city tour. |
| guide | a person or book that shows you around — The tour guide spoke excellent English. |
| map | a visual representation of an area — Pick up a free map at reception. |
| currency | the money used in a country — The local currency is the euro. |
| exchange rate | how much one currency is worth in another — Check the exchange rate before you travel. |
| souvenir | a gift or item bought to remember a place — I bought a souvenir mug. |
| destination | the place you are travelling to — Paris is a popular tourist destination. |
Real world: At the airport and hotel
"Excuse me, where is the check-in desk for flight BA204?" "Here is my passport and boarding pass." "Good afternoon. I have a reservation under the name Smith — could I check in, please?" "What time is check-out tomorrow morning?"
Practice Problems
What document do you need to show to board a plane?
Show answer
boarding pass
What is the difference between 'departure' and 'arrival'?
Show answer
Departure is when a plane leaves; arrival is when it lands.
What does 'check out' mean at a hotel?
Show answer
To leave the hotel and pay your bill.
What is 'currency'?
Show answer
The money (notes and coins) used in a particular country.