Everyday English (Elementary)

Topic: Talking About Travel

In this lesson, students will develop vocabulary and conversation skills by talking about travel and focusing on Thailand.

Lesson Notes August 11, 2026 (Elementary)

Words & Phrases

• During Obon, we light a small fire and we make a cucumber horse so our relatives’ spirits can return home quickly. At the end of the festival, they return to their graves slowly on an eggplant cow.

• I went and knocked on his door, but he didn’t hear me. I think he was sleeping deeply. When he did wake up, he said he slept well.

• The hotel said they would serve the dancers a (small / light) meal. In the end, we got the same meal as the banquet room.

  • We had to finish eating by 9 p.m., so we were shovelling food into our mouths. (= eating extremely fast because you are in a rush)

• I went to the airport by car. (NOT “by my car. When we use “by” we never use “my, yours, his, the, a etc”)

  • (Compare) I (took / drove) my car to the hotel.

  • We went to the beach in her car.

• I am taking Chinese medicine for my health. (“Take” is the standard verb for all medicine (pills, powders, liquid mixtures, or teas).”

  • I am drinking a Chinese medicinal tea for my health.

• I bought three bottles and he threw in some shampoo, soap and toothpaste. (= to give something extra, a free gift, a freebie)