第二篇：
       Sandwiched between Thailand to the west and Vietnam to the east, Laos is often overlooked by tourists toSoutheast Asia. With just over 4 million visitors annually, the country is among the least popular destinations inthe region.
       However, this quiet nation is fast catching up with Cambodia in terms of tourist figures. Unlike itssouthern neighbor, Laos does not have anything as magnificent as the temple ruins of Angkor Wat. Yet, it stillhas enough to keep visitors occupied.
       Laos is a peaceful and relaxing destination. Its capital, Vietiane, located in the south of the country, about650 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. The city is a world away from the hustle and bustle of its Thaicounterpart. After you visit the Lao National Museum and the Pha That Luang, the most important monumentin Laos, you can take a walk alongside the Mekong River. It’s a real pleasure to wander slowly and enjoy thesunset there.
      Journey several hundred kilometers north and you’ll reach Luang Prabang, a city that is a fusion of Asianand European influences. Beautiful traditional Laotian temples stand next to French colonial architecture, andlush green mountains surround the city on all sides. It’s not surprising that the city has been named a UNESCOWorld Heritage Site.
       In the center of Laos lie the ruins of a nameless civilization. The Plain of Jars over 2,000 stoneconstructions have been found in the ruins. The purpose of these large hollow objects is unclear, but somehistorians guess they might have been used to store dead bodies.       While Laos might not be as famous as other tourist spots, its slow pace and relaxed atmosphere make it agreat alternative to its busy neighboring countries. If you’re travelling to the region, why not put it on yourtravel bucket list?
【題組】46. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as the strength of Laos as a destination of tourism?
(A) Its ancient ruins and historical monuments
(B) Its unhurried feel and easygoing environment
(C) Its tasty foods and people’s hospitality
(D) Its gorgeous temples and foreign-style buildings