The places where we live have always been important in people’s lives. Throughout our lives we get to know various places. However, the most important place in our life is our birthplace. The place of birth is the place where a person was born. To identify a person, this place is used in all legal documents, together with the name and date of birth. We usually know this place pretty well, and it is connected with lots of memories from our childhoods that were spent with our parents, siblings and friends. This place reminds us of our first boyfriend or girlfriend and the time spent at school.
Some people stay in their birth town forever; however, some people move during their life from place to place for various reasons, for example, studies, financial problems, new jobs, or marriage. Different kinds of people have different tastes as to where they would like to live. There are three basic choices for a place to live: in a village, a town or a bigger city. Some people move to live in a village because houses are cheaper there and people are said to be friendlier. They mostly live in their houses with big gardens. On the other hand, some people prefer busier life, with lots of people around, heavy traffic and rushing around. These people move to bigger towns or cities. Big cities offer more opportunities for finding a job, further education, cultural events, sports facilities and entertainment. People living in villages often have difficulties getting from place to place because of a lack of transportation. If travellers miss a scheduled bus or train, they may have to wait for a long time before they catch the next one. However, in big cities a variety of transportation choices, including buses, subways and taxis, are available. In bigger towns, a great variety of shopping choices is also available, such as department stores and outdoor markets. People who live in urban areas can buy everything they need at any time of the day, but in rural areas the shopping choices are more limited, and people usually have to go to other towns or cities in order to purchase particular items. On the other hand, life in a big city can be quite hectic and stressful. From time to time, we all leave our homes when we travel on holidays. There are lots of interesting places all over the world which people like to visit. We can enjoy visiting and seeing new towns, cities, museums and galleries and thus learn about different cultures. We can visit famous European capitals such as Paris, London, Rome and Vienna. Those who like swimming and sunbathing often go to countries with the sea and lovely beaches. Some holiday makers prefer even more exotic warm places such as the Seychelles, a paradise for divers. Some people like a peaceful countryside and physical activities, so they prefer going on a hike in a pristine environment. They discover wild places which we would normally see only on television, for example, the Galapagos Islands, the Grand Canyon in the USA or Ayers Rock in Australia.
In Slovakia and the Czech Republic, there are lots of places which can attract holiday makers. We live in countries of great scenic beauty, interesting histories, and numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. There are many national parks, mountain ranges and nature reserves to be seen and explored. Our countries are extremely rich in mineral and thermal springs with healing effects. We also have extensive deposits of high-quality healing peat and mud. Just in West Slovakia, there are approximately twenty thermal baths, which are ideal places for summer holidays. Visitors can spend a relaxing week, enjoying massages and healing cures. The Slovak countryside is dotted with castles that remind visitors of the attacks the Slovaks suffered from Tartar invasions. The villages and regional towns are unique with their reconstructed buildings. On the other hand, Slovakia lacks world-class attractions, and its tourist infrastructure is not well developed.
By the way, what is it like in the Czech Republic?
Give a brief account of the most visited places in the Czech Republic. Do you think, the standard of services is on the same level as in Slovakia?
Answer the questions:
- What are the disadvantages of living in towns and cities?
- Explain the following terms: suburb, rural area, and infrastructure.
- Which places in the world would you recommend for people who love to see a pristine environment?
- Describe your ideal place for living.
- The Covid-19 pandemic has encouraged many people to work from home. If this trend continues does where we live matter as far as work is concerned?
