Talk of the town：Spring flowers boost tourism
【明報專訊】As the days grow warmer, signalling the arrival of the flowering season, spring has begun. Floral displays have emerged in various mainland cities such as Beijing, Chongqing, and Guangzhou, attracting numerous tourists. Reports indicate that flower viewing has not only increased the sales of these cities but has also spurred growth in related industries such as hotels and retail services.
Flower viewing in Hong Kong
Over 1600 parks and gardens in Hong Kong are managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), featured many green canopies and seasonal blooms all year round to draw crowds of flower viewers taking pictures during flowering seasons.
In March, the Hong Kong Flower Show attracts dozens of exhibitors to present their shrewdly cultivated potted plants, impressively beautiful floral displays and colourful landscaping designs.
Flowers blossoming ahead of springtime
Due to the adverse impacts of extensive human activities on the environment, global warming has led to an increase in the world's average temperature. Plants and flowers play a crucial role in nature, and when they bloom earlier than their usual time, it can disrupt the activities of other organisms. For instance, bees may struggle to collect enough nectar (花蜜), reducing their reproduction rates.
Viewing flowers is a beneficial activity for us to stop and smell the rose, as well as to nurture our aesthetics. However, when we appreciate such marvellous work gifted by Mother Nature, we should always be grateful and reflect on how we can make our world more sustainable for the next generation.
■Grammar booster
Stop and smell the roses
To take time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
E.g. You have been working so hard lately. It is essential to take some time for yourself and just stop and smell the roses.
■Gear up
1. Due to the global warming, the flower blossoms during summer. (True/False)
Fill in the blanks with the glossary below.
2. Providing monthly allowance to citizens have the effect of _____ (-ing) the economy to faster growth.
3. As a good manager of the company, her job is to ____ young talent.
(Answers on next text)
■Glossary
spur (v) 促進
shrewdly (adv) 精明地
nurture (v) 培養
aesthetics (n) 審美觀
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[Smarties' Power English 第435期]
