Learning to speak English? Our Everyday Conversations help you practice. Click the audio link to hear a native speaker pronounce each word while you read. Key terms are explained, in your language, at the end of each conversation. Today’s conversation is about traveling during vacations from work.

Julie: I just bought a ticket to New York City. I’m so excited to see the city!

Sophie: Good for you! Traveling is so much fun. I love discovering new places and new people. When are you leaving?

Julie: Next week. I’m taking the red eye. It was cheaper. Hopefully, I’ll be able to sleep on the plane.

Sophie: I wish I could go with you! New York City is a magical place. You’ll have so much fun.

Julie: I hope so. I’m going to visit my brother who lives there. I will stay for a week and then take the train down to Washington, D.C.

Sophie: That sounds like a great vacation. I’m looking forward to a week at the beach for my summer vacation. I just want to relax.

Language Notes

  • Ticket can refer to many different types of transportation (Metro, bus, train, plane, etc.). In general, you can guess the means of transportation by the context.
  • When discussing airplane travel, a red eye is a flight that leaves at night to arrive early the next morning. This is in reference to how red your eyes become when you don’t get a full night’s sleep.
Ready to learn more English? Our materials can help. And the U.S. Department of State has great resources for English teachers and students of all levels.