Horizon：Popular attractions for cat lovers
【明報專訊】There are several places around the world where stray cats are cared for and appreciated by the local community, as well as cat enthusiasts from far and wide.
◆Japan - Cat Islands
Aoshima Island (青島) in Japan has earned the lovely nickname 'Cat Island' because there are more cats than humans. The local residents take great care of the cats, making it a charming destination that attracts cat lovers from all over the world. Similarly, Tashirojima (田代島), another 'Cat Island' in Japan, is home to hundreds of stray cats believed to bring good luck. The island even offers adorable cat-shaped cabins in a public campsite.
◆Korea - Cat School
An abandoned school on an island in Tongyeong (統營) has been transformed into a stray cat sanctuary, known as 'Cat School'. It had remained unused for over a decade due to declining enrolment. The sanctuary now houses 30 rescued cats, diligently cared for by a dedicated team. The facility includes a two-storey building and a spacious seaside playground. Inside, there are shelter and treatment areas for stray cats, a dedicated space for elderly cats, and a cat-themed book cafe.
◆Hawaii - Lanai Cat Sanctuary
The Lanai Cat Sanctuary, located on Hawaii's Lanai Island, is a haven for over 600 cats, cared for by a nonprofit organisation's dedicated staff and volunteers. These cats receive medical attention, food and affection in a spacious, open environment.
Visitors can interact with the cats and purchase cat-themed merchandise. They can even practise yoga or have weddings surrounded by the cats! Additionally, the sanctuary runs an adoption programme to find loving homes for some of its furry residents.
■Gear up
Which of the following is NOT a common feature among the three places?
A. Located on an island
B. Dedicated to stray cats
C. Home to hundreds of cats
(Answer on next text)
■Glossary
enthusiast (n) 愛好者
cabin (n) 小木屋
enrolment (n) 學籍註冊
dedicated (adj) 盡心盡力的/ 專門的
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[Smarties' Power English 第400期]
