At a tourist information center

At a ticket window

At an information desk

FRANK: Could you tell me where the post office is, please?

ATTENDANT: Well, the post office is down that hall. But if it’s stamps you want, there’s a machine right over there, but they cost more in the machine.

F: Thank you, but I need a telephone.

A: A telephone? Well, you won’t find a telephone at the post office. The phones are right over there. See the blue and white sign?

F: Yes, I see. Thank you.

A: Hey, you got any change? You’re going to need it if you want to use the phone.

F: Eh, no, I haven’t got any.

A: Well, then you’d better look for a change machine or go to the bank first. Let’s see… let me check the time… Yeah, the bank’s still open. Just down there and to the right.

F: Thank you very much.

A: Yeah, it’s all right.

CLERC: Can I help you?

JILL: Yes, I’d like some information about trains to Chicago.

C: Okay. What would you like to know?

J: Well, how many are there per day?

C: One via Pittsburgh leaving at 2:45 p.m. and one via Buffalo leaving at 6:45 p.m.

J: How long does it take to get there?

C: The Broadway – that’s the one that goes through Pittsburgh – takes about eighteen hours, but the Lake Shore takes a little longer.

J: I see… What about eating and sleeping arrangements?

C: Both trains have dining cars and snack bars. And there are roomettes and slumbercoaches on both of them.

J: Well, uh, what are roomettes and slumber coaches?

C: They both sleep one or two people, but the roomette has a toilet and wash basin. It costs more, too. Are you ready to make a reservation?

J: Uh, no, I don’t think so.

C: Well, here’s a copy of the timetable. Why don’t you take a look at it and let me know when you’ve decided.

J: Okay. Do I have to pay for the ticket when I make the reservation?

C: No, you can do that later.

J: All right, thanks.

ATTENDANT: Hi! What can I do for you?

TOURIST: Well, I’m trying to find Rocky Mountain National Park, but I haven’t seen any signs, so I’m not sure this is the right road.

A: It sure is. It’s well marked starting on the far side of town. After that, just follow the signs. You can’t miss it.

T: Thanks very much.

A: Sure. Have a nice day!

Here are some words to help you check your understanding of the dialogues. You should know the bold words to make your communication easier.

advance (adj.): earlier than usual, before

excursion fare (n): a round trip fare at a reduced price

fare (n): the price charged for transportation

jiffy (n): a moment

qualify (v): to fit the requirements

restriction (n): limit; limitation

timetable (n): a schedule showing arrival and departure times of trains and buses

via (prep.): by way of

wash basin (n): a small sink where you can wash your hands and face.

Дата добавления: 2015-01-03