Opción A · Inglés PAU Madrid Extraordinaria (2ª lengua) 2019

Riding Solo

Even the mere thought of travelling abroad alone can be frightening for many. However, the stigma surrounding travelling solo is unjustified, as travelling solo can be one of the most enjoyable experiences of your life.

The most important tip when planning your trip is to learn from other’s experiences of travelling to the destination you have in mind. This could be from either a friend or an online blog. It is better to ask someone you know personally as the information they’ll provide could be more reliable than that of online travel advisers. This way you can learn about the places that are off the beaten track.

A huge benefit of travelling on your own is that it means you can make sure you prioritise exactly what you want to do. You do not have to cater to anyone else’s wishes and do not have to worry about any tension or arguments that may arise with your fellow travellers. By being on your own, you can form your own views on your experiences and have lone walks by yourself rather than having silly arguments about which club to go to every night or which person is responsible for getting everyone lost. Travelling solo gives you the freedom to meet people you may not have otherwise, especially when travelling in a group. Being on your own also forces you to interact with locals more than you perhaps would have if you were with other people. This would allow yourself to become more immersed in the culture.

There is the issue of vulnerability when travelling solo, which you should prepare yourself for by being very careful, among other things. However, that should not dissuade you from travelling by yourself.

Adapted from “Ridin’ Solo: Tackling the Myths of Travelling Alone,” The Student Newspaper 22 October 2018.

QUESTIONS

1.- Are the following statements TRUE or FALSE? Copy the evidence from the text. No marks are given for only TRUE or FALSE. (Puntuación máxima: 2 puntos)

a)

When travelling in a group you have greater chances of starting conversations with people who live in the area.

b)

You should not be scared of travelling on your own: there is no possibility of danger at all.

2.- In your own words and based on the ideas in the text, answer the following questions. Do not copy from the text. (Puntuación máxima: 2 puntos)

a)

According to the text, what is the best way to find information about places which are not very popular with tourists?

b)

What are the advantages of travelling solo? Mention two.