The day before yesterday I bought a pair of headphones online. The seller said they could be delivered in two days. This morning after getting up, I kept checking my phone to see where the delivery was. At noon I saw the tracking update: the courier had reached my neighborhood and was out for delivery.
But in the afternoon I was in a meeting when my phone rang—it was the courier. He said, “I’m downstairs. Can you come down now?” I had to say I wasn’t home and asked him to wait five minutes. But the meeting didn’t end in time, so he left and messaged that he could deliver again tomorrow.
I felt anxious because I had to go out tomorrow. After work I called the courier back and said I was already home. Twenty minutes later he really came back and handed me the package. I signed for it and finally received my delivery.
After opening the package, the headphones were new and sounded great. I realized that when delivery is to your home, it’s best to plan your time in advance—otherwise it’s easy to miss it.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation.
You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
快递
kuàidì
express delivery; package
快递员
kuàidìyuán
courier
包裹
bāoguǒ
package; parcel
物流信息
wùliú xìnxī
tracking info; logistics info
派送
pàisòng
to deliver (dispatch)
送到
sòng dào
deliver to (a place)
收到
shōu dào
to receive
下楼
xià lóu
go downstairs
签名
qiān míng
sign (name)
错过
cuòguò
to miss (an opportunity)
Grammar
一直… (yìzhí…)
“Keep doing…” for repeated actions, like checking tracking updates. Example:一直看手机
…正在… (…zhèngzài…)
Indicates an action in progress, common in tracking updates like “正在派送.” Example:正在派送
只好… (zhǐhǎo…)
“Have no choice but…” when plans don’t match the delivery time. Example:我只好说我不在家
Idiomatic Expressions
方便吗
A polite way to ask if someone can do something right now (common in delivery calls). Example:你现在方便下楼吗？
松了一口气
Used when the package finally arrives and the problem is solved. Example:收到快递后我松了一口气
终于
Expresses finally achieving something after waiting or trouble. Example:我终于收到了
Cultural Insights
Couriers often call first
In China’s express delivery system, it’s common for couriers to call when they arrive downstairs, and you may need to meet them to receive the package. [web:192]
Tracking language
Delivery tracking frequently uses words like “派送” (out for delivery) and “签收” (signed/received), so recognizing these helps you understand status updates quickly. [web:192]
Online shopping questions
Common online shopping phrases include asking about discounts and free shipping, such as “有折扣吗？” and “包邮吗？”. [web:186]
Yesterday I bought a T-shirt at the mall. After getting home and trying it on, I found the size was a bit small and it wasn’t very comfortable. After thinking about it, I decided to go to the store today to exchange it for a bigger one.
Before leaving, I first found the receipt, and I folded the shirt and put it into a bag. At the store, I said to the clerk, “Sorry, I’d like to exchange this item. Is that okay?” The clerk asked why, and I said, “The size doesn’t fit.”
The clerk checked the receipt and inspected the shirt, then said, “No problem. What size do you want to exchange for?” I said I wanted one size bigger. She brought another one, and I tried it in the fitting room—it felt just right.
In the end, the clerk helped me complete the exchange and reminded me that next time it’s best to try clothes on before buying. On the way home I felt happy, because I learned how to solve a shopping problem in Chinese: bring the receipt, explain the reason politely, and you can exchange smoothly.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation.
You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
尺码
chǐmǎ
size
试穿
shìchuān
to try on (clothes)
不合适
bù héshì
not suitable; doesn’t fit
小票
xiǎopiào
receipt
袋子
dàizi
bag
换
huàn
to exchange
换货
huànhuò
exchange goods
试衣间
shìyījiān
fitting room
检查
jiǎnchá
to check; inspect
提醒
tíxǐng
to remind
Grammar
…以后 (…yǐhòu) — “After …”
Used to describe what happens after an action (buying → trying on → discovering a problem). Example:回家以后试穿
想 + 动词 + 一下 (xiǎng + verb + yíxià)
A polite/soft way to express your intention: “want to … a bit / want to … (briefly).” [web:174] Example:我想换一下
把 + 物品 + 放进… (bǎ + object + fàng jìn…)
Useful for describing preparing items for returns/exchanges. Example:把衣服放进袋子里
Idiomatic Expressions
没问题
A common service phrase meaning “no problem,” often heard in stores. Example:没问题，可以换
刚刚好
Used for a size that fits perfectly. Example:这件穿起来刚刚好
不好意思
A polite opener for requests and problems (returns, questions, mistakes). Example:不好意思，我想换一下
Cultural Insights
Receipts matter
For returns/exchanges, keeping the receipt (购物小票) is commonly expected, and many stores ask to see it before processing an exchange. [web:174]
Key phrases for exchanges
Useful phrases include “我要退货” (I want to return) and “我想换货/换一下” (I want to exchange), which help you handle store conversations smoothly. [web:174]
Try before buying
Many clothing stores encourage trying items in the fitting room (试衣间) to avoid size problems later, especially when sizes vary by brand. [web:174]
This afternoon, I needed to go from my school to the bank to handle something. The weather was neither cold nor hot, but there were many people on the road. I was afraid of going the wrong way, so I opened the map on my phone first. I walked to an intersection and saw a subway station ahead, but I wasn’t sure if the bank was over there.
I saw an uncle and asked, “Excuse me, how do I get from here to the bank?” He said, “Walk straight first, and turn right at the second traffic light. After you turn right, walk for two more minutes and you’ll see the bank. If you want to take a ride, you can also take a public bus—three stops and you’ll arrive.” I said, “Thank you! Then is it far from the bank to the post office?” The uncle smiled and said, “Not far. After you come out of the bank, walk left, cross the street, and you’ll arrive.”
I followed what he said and arrived at the bank quickly. After finishing, I wanted to go to the post office to mail something, but I felt a bit nervous again. I stood at the entrance and looked at the sign, and found the post office was nearby, so I didn’t need to take the subway again or transfer.
I walked to the post office entrance and felt very happy. Today I learned how to use “from…to…,” and also learned “turn left,” “turn right,” and “walk straight.” From now on, in the city, I feel going out is more convenient.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation. You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
银行
yínháng
bank
路口
lùkǒu
intersection
地图
dìtú
map
地铁站
dìtiězhàn
subway station
红绿灯
hónglǜdēng
traffic light
右转
yòuzhuǎn
turn right
邮局
yóujú
post office
附近
fùjìn
nearby
紧张
jǐnzhāng
nervous
方便
fāngbiàn
convenient
Grammar
[从…到… (from…to…)] This pattern marks a starting point with 从 and an ending point with 到. It is very common when asking for routes, describing trips, or comparing distances. You can add transportation or steps after it to explain how to go. It helps you ask and answer clearly in the city. Examples:我要从学校到银行办点事。, 那从银行到邮局远不远？
[先…再… (first…then…)] Use 先 to introduce the first action and 再 to introduce the next action. It is useful for giving directions with multiple steps, and it makes the route easier to follow. It can also show planning, like checking a map first and then walking. This structure is very common in spoken instructions. Examples:我怕走错，就先打开手机地图。, 你先一直走，到第二个红绿灯右转。
Idiomatic Expressions
一直走 A very common direction phrase meaning “walk straight.” It is often used with other steps like turning left or right. It sounds natural and is easy to use in real conversations. Example:你先一直走，到第二个红绿灯右转。
不远 Used to say a place is close and easy to reach. It is helpful when you ask about distance, especially in cities with many nearby places. It can make someone feel less nervous about walking. Example:不远，从银行出来往左走，过马路就到了。
看一下 A polite, light way to suggest checking something quickly, like a sign or a map. It is common in daily speech and sounds natural. It can help when you want to confirm directions. Example:我站在门口看一下牌子，发现邮局就在附近。
又…又… This structure links two qualities or situations, meaning “both…and…”. It is often used to describe weather or feelings, and it makes your sentence more vivid. It is common in spoken Chinese and simple writing. Example:路上人又多又乱，我有点儿紧张。
更…了 Used to show a change, meaning something has become “more” than before. It often describes improvement after learning or practice. It is useful for talking about progress and confidence. Example:以后在城市里，我觉得出门更方便了。
Cultural Insights
Landmarks and step-by-step directions
In many Chinese cities, people often use simple landmarks such as 红绿灯, subway entrances, or big intersections when giving directions. This makes the route easy to remember, even if you do not know the street names. Step-by-step instructions using “first…then…” are very common in daily conversations.
It is also normal to mention “how many stops” when taking a bus, because bus stops are a practical unit of distance. Saying something like “three stops and you’ll arrive” is a typical, friendly way to help someone navigate.
Using polite questions in public
When asking strangers for help, starting with 请问 is polite and natural. Many people answer quickly and clearly because they understand that getting lost can be stressful. Ending with “谢谢您” is also important and shows respect.
Feeling nervous in a new area is common, so people often check a phone map or a sign first. Combining map use with short questions makes city travel smoother, especially for learners who are building confidence.
Wǒ zhàozhe tā shuō de zǒu, hěn kuài jiù dào chēzhàn. Gōngjiāochē lái le, wǒ shàng chē shuākǎ, xīnli zhōngyú fàngsōng. Suīrán jīntiān hěn máng, dàn wǒ fāxiàn xuéhuì wènlù hé huàn chē, huí jiā zhēn de gèng fāngbiàn.
After Work
I work in the city, and every day after getting off work I have to take transport home. Today the meeting at the company ran very late. As soon as I came out, I felt a little tired, and it was also raining lightly outside. I stood at the entrance and looked at the timetable, and found I still had to wait ten minutes for the bus.
I wanted to take the subway first, then transfer to a bus, because it’s faster. From the company to the subway station, I had to walk for a while. On the way, I kept looking at the road signs because I was afraid of going the wrong way. After arriving at the entrance, I bought a ticket with my phone and then entered the station. When the train came, I first found a seat, and then listened to the announcements and checked the direction.
At the transfer station, I had to change to another ride. I asked someone next to me, “Excuse me, how do I transfer to go to East Gate?” He said, “Take this line to the next stop, then exit the station and walk to the right. When you see the traffic light, turn left, and the bus stop is right ahead.”
I followed what he said, and I arrived at the bus stop quickly. When the bus came, I tapped my card to get on, and I finally relaxed. Even though today was busy, I realized that learning to ask for directions and transfer makes getting home really more convenient.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation. You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
下班
xiàbān
get off work
累
lěi
tired
时间表
shíjiānbiǎo
timetable; schedule
快
kuài
fast
路标
lùbiāo
road sign
方向
fāngxiàng
direction
中转站
zhōngzhuǎnzhàn
transfer station
红绿灯
hónglǜdēng
traffic light
左转
zuǒzhuǎn
turn left
方便
fāngbiàn
convenient
Grammar
[先…再… (first…then…)] Use 先 to show the first step and 再 to show the next step. This is especially helpful when describing commuting plans or giving directions with several actions. It keeps your sentence clear and organized, even when you need to mention buying tickets, entering a station, or transferring. In natural speech, it often sounds like a simple “do A first, then do B.” Examples:我想先坐地铁，再换公交，这样比较快。, 车来了以后，我先找个位置坐下，再听广播看方向。
[了 (change of state / sequence)] 了 often shows a completed action or a new situation. In commuting stories, it can mark that something happened (like “arrived”) or that the speaker’s feeling changed (like “finally relaxed”). It helps the reader follow time order and see progress in the route. In many cases, it appears near verbs like 到 or after a short phrase that sets up the result. Examples:到了中转站，我得换车。, 我上车刷卡，心里终于放松。
Idiomatic Expressions
马上 Used when something is about to happen very soon, or when you want to do something right away. It’s common in commuting situations, like catching a bus or reacting to a schedule. It also sounds natural in daily spoken Chinese. Example: 我马上要下班了，我要去坐地铁。
一路顺风 A polite phrase often used to wish someone a smooth trip. It can be said even for short city trips, especially when someone is leaving. It feels friendly and supportive. Example: 你下班以后要回家，一路顺风！
不要急 Said to calm someone down when they’re worried about time or directions. It’s useful when you’re waiting for transport or transferring. The tone is gentle and encouraging. Example: 不要急，公交车还要等十分钟。
一步一步 Emphasizes doing things step by step, especially when a process has several actions. It fits well with directions like “walk, turn, transfer,” and so on. It can help learners feel less stressed about complicated routes. Example: 我一步一步按照路标走，最后到了车站。
终于 Shows relief after waiting or working hard. It’s very common in stories about commuting, especially after finding the right stop or getting on the correct bus. It highlights a positive ending. Example: 公交车来了，我心里终于放松。
Cultural Insights
Commuting and transfers are common
In many Chinese cities, commuting can include several steps, such as taking 地铁 and then transferring to a bus. Because routes are dense and stations are frequent, people often use “first…then…” language and rely on signs, line numbers, and apps to avoid getting lost.
Waiting times can change with traffic and rush hour, so checking a 时间表 or an app is a normal habit. Many commuters plan the fastest route, especially after a late meeting or a long workday.
Polite, quick direction questions
When you need help in public transport areas, short polite questions starting with 请问 are widely used. People often answer with clear actions like 往右走, 左转, and landmarks like 红绿灯.
Even strangers may help quickly because everyone understands the stress of transferring during busy times. A simple “谢谢” at the end is important and keeps the interaction friendly.
Dìng hǎo yǐhòu, wǒ bǎ xìnxī xiě zài běnzi shàng, yě gěi péngyou fā xiāoxi. Zhèyàng dào le Shànghǎi, wǒ jiù bú yòng dānxīn méi yǒu dìfang zhù le.
Booking a Hotel Room
Next week I want to go to Shanghai for two days. Because I haven’t been to a big city for a long time, I want to change places and take a walk. Tonight I searched for hotels on my phone at home. I checked the price first and then the location: some hotels were cheaper but far from the subway; some were close to the subway but the rooms were a bit small.
After thinking about it, I felt convenience was the most important, so I chose a hotel that is a five-minute walk from the subway station. I called the hotel and said, “Hello, I’d like to book a room.” The front desk asked, “How many days will you stay? When will you check in?” I said, “Two days, next Wednesday.”
The front desk asked again, “Do you want a king room or a twin room?” I said, “A king room. How much is it per night? Is breakfast included?” The front desk said, “300 yuan per night, breakfast included.” I felt it was okay, so I gave my name and phone number.
After booking, I wrote the information in my notebook and also messaged my friend. That way, when I arrive in Shanghai, I won’t worry about having nowhere to stay.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation. You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
订
dìng
book; reserve
酒店
jiǔdiàn
hotel
价格
jiàgé
price
地点
dìdiǎn
location
地铁站
dìtiě zhàn
subway station
方便
fāngbiàn
convenient
入住
rùzhù
check in
前台
qiántái
front desk
大床房
dàchuángfáng
king room
早餐
zǎocān
breakfast
Grammar
[因为…所以… (because…so…)] Use 因为 to give a reason and 所以 to show the result. This pattern is very common in daily explanations and decisions like choosing a hotel. It makes your sentence clear and logical. Example:因为我很久没去过大城市了，所以想去上海走走。
[A 还是 B？ (A or B?)] Use 还是 to offer choices in a question. It is common when booking: room type, dates, or options. You answer by choosing one option directly. Example:你要大床房还是双人房？
Idiomatic Expressions
走走 A relaxed way to say “go for a walk,” often used when traveling or changing environment. It sounds natural and casual. Example:我想换个地方走走。
看了看 A common spoken pattern meaning “took a look,” often used when checking prices or locations. It makes narration smooth and everyday. Example:我看了看价格和地点。
最重要 Useful for explaining priorities when choosing between options. Often used with “我觉得…最重要”. Example:我觉得方便最重要。
Cultural Insights
Booking by phone
In China it’s common to book hotels through apps, but calling the hotel is also normal, especially to confirm prices and breakfast. Front desks often ask “住几天”“什么时候入住”“要什么房型” in a fixed routine.
Many travelers care about distance to the subway, because it makes city travel easier. Saying “离地铁站走路几分钟” is a very practical way to describe location.
When I arrived in Shanghai next Wednesday, it was already after 7 p.m. I came out of the subway station and walked a few minutes to the hotel. After entering, I went to the front desk first to check in, and then went to my room to rest.
The front desk said, “Hello, please show your ID.” I showed my ID card and the booking on my phone. He checked and said, “You’re staying two days, right? Have you already paid?” I said, “Not yet. I’ll pay now.”
After I paid, the front desk gave me a room key card and told me, “The elevator is on the right; your room is on the 12th floor.” I also asked, “When does breakfast start? What time does it end?” He said, “7 a.m. to 10 a.m., on the first floor.”
I thanked him and took the elevator with my key card. In the room, I put down my luggage first, then washed my hands and drank water. The room wasn’t big, but it was very clean, and I felt reassured.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation. You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
办理
bànlǐ
handle; process
入住
rùzhù
check in
出示
chūshì
show (documents)
身份证
shēnfènzhèng
ID card
订单
dìngdān
order 26hsk2w09d02
26hsk2w09d02 入住酒店 – Checking In at the Hotel 今天练习前台对话、证件、房卡和“先…再…”。 Today you practice front desk dialogue, ID, room cards, and “first…then…”.
LEVEL/WORDCOUNT: HSK2 / 456 Chinese characters (approx.)
Wǒ xiān zuò diàntī shàng lóu, zài qù fángjiān fàng xíngli. Fángjiān bú dà, kěshì hěn gānjìng. Wǒ hē le yì bēi rè shuǐ, juéde zhōngyú kěyǐ xiūxi yíxià le.
Checking In at the Hotel
When I arrived in Shanghai next Wednesday afternoon, the weather was a bit cold, but I was in a great mood. After leaving the subway station, I walked a few minutes to the hotel. After entering, I went to the front desk first to check in, and then showed my booking information to the staff.
The staff asked me, “What’s your name? When are you checking in? How many days will you stay?” I said my name and also said, “Checking in today, staying two days.” He also said, “Please show me your ID.” I handed it to him. He looked at it and nodded.
Then the staff told me, “The room fee is 600 yuan in total. Will you pay now or when you check out?” I said, “I’ll pay now.” After paying, he gave me a room card and told me my room was on the 12th floor and the elevator was on the right.
I took the elevator up first and then went to the room to put down my luggage. The room wasn’t big, but it was very clean. I drank a cup of hot water and felt I could finally rest.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation. You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
办理
bànlǐ
handle; process
入住
rùzhù
check in
手续
shǒuxù
procedure; formalities
预订
yùdìng
booking; reservation
工作人员
gōngzuò rényuán
staff
身份证
shēnfènzhèng
ID card
房费
fángfèi
room fee
退房
tuìfáng
check out
房卡
fángkǎ
room key card
行李
xíngli
luggage
Grammar
[先…再… (first…then…)] Use 先 and 再 to show the order of actions, especially for routines like checking in, paying, and going to the room. This sequencing pattern is a core beginner structure. Example:我先去前台办理入住手续，再去房间放行李。
[什么时候…？ (when…?)] 什么时候 is a question word meaning “when,” and it usually stays in the position where the time would appear in the sentence. This makes questions about check-in time and plans very easy to form. Example:你什么时候入住？
[但是 / 可是 (but)] 但是 and 可是 both express contrast; 但是 is slightly more formal while 可是 is more common in casual speech. Example:房间不大，可是很干净。
Idiomatic Expressions
有点儿 Used before an adjective to mean “a bit,” often with a slightly negative/complaint tone (like “a bit too…”). It’s common for weather, tiredness, or problems. Example:天气有点儿冷。
点点头 A natural phrase meaning “nod,” often used in service situations to show understanding. Example:他看了看，点点头。
终于 Expresses “finally,” often after travel or waiting. It’s useful for telling a simple story with feelings. Example:我觉得终于可以休息一下了。
Cultural Insights
Front desk routine
When checking into hotels in China, staff commonly ask for your name, check-in date, and number of nights, and they may request an ID document. The conversation often follows a fixed pattern, which makes it easier for learners to practice.
Hotels often give a room card and simple directions like “电梯在右边” and the floor number. Listening for these short phrases helps you navigate without stress.
Guò le yíhuǐr, gōngzuò rényuán shànglái le. Tā xiān kàn le kàn yùshì, yòu qù kàn jīqì, ránhòu shuō: “Kěnéng shì zhège fángjiān de rèshuǐ huài le.” Wǒ wèn: “Nà wǒ kěyǐ huàn yí gè fángjiān ma?” Tā huídá: “Kěyǐ, wǒ xiànzài bāng nǐ huàn.”
Wǒ gēnzhe tā qù qiántái ná xīn fángkǎ, zài huí dào xīn fángjiān fàng xíngli. Xīn fángjiān de rèshuǐ hěn kuài jiù chūlái le. Wǒ shuō: “Máfan nǐ le, xièxie!” Gōngzuò rényuán shuō: “Bú kèqi.”
No Hot Water
At night I returned to my hotel room and wanted to take a shower, but after I turned on the faucet, the water wasn’t hot at all. I waited a few minutes, but there was still no hot water, so I felt a bit anxious.
I called the front desk and said, “Sorry, there’s no hot water in my room. Could you please help me take a look?” The front desk said, “Sure. Which room are you in?” I said, “1206.”
After a while, a staff member came up. He checked the bathroom and then checked the machine and said, “It might be that the hot water in this room is broken.” I asked, “Then can I change rooms?” He replied, “Yes, I’ll help you change now.”
I followed him to the front desk to get a new room card, then went back to the new room to put down my luggage. The new room had hot water quickly. I said, “Sorry to trouble you—thank you!” The staff said, “You’re welcome.”
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation. You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
热水
rèshuǐ
hot water
水龙头
shuǐlóngtóu
faucet
一点儿也不
yìdiǎnr yě bù
not at all
着急
zháojí
anxious; in a hurry
前台
qiántái
front desk
工作人员
gōngzuò rényuán
staff
浴室
yùshì
bathroom
机器
jīqì
machine
换房间
huàn fángjiān
change rooms
房卡
fángkǎ
room card
Grammar
[能不能…？ (can or can’t…?)] Use 能不能 to ask politely whether something is possible, especially in service situations. It sounds softer than giving a direct request. Example:能不能请你们帮我看看？
[请 + Verb (polite request)] 请 is a common way to make requests politely, similar to “please.” It’s often used with service staff and in formal situations. Example:请你们帮我看看。
[可能 (maybe; possibly)] Use 可能 before a verb phrase to express uncertainty or possibility. It’s helpful when explaining a problem you’re not sure about. Example:可能是热水坏了。
Idiomatic Expressions
不好意思 A polite opener when you need help or want to complain gently. It keeps the tone friendly. Example:不好意思，我房间没有热水。
麻烦你了 A very common phrase meaning “sorry to trouble you,” used when someone helps you. It shows appreciation and politeness. Example:麻烦你了，谢谢！
很快就 Used to show something happens quickly, especially after a change or fix. Example:热水很快就出来了。
Cultural Insights
Fixing room issues
In hotels, calling the front desk is the normal way to report problems like hot water, air conditioning, or room cards. Staff usually ask for your room number first, and then send someone to check.
If the problem can’t be fixed quickly, changing rooms is a common solution. Using “不好意思…能不能…麻烦你…” keeps the conversation polite and smooth.
Huí jiā de nà tiān zǎoshang, wǒ kàn shíjiān yǐjīng qī diǎn bàn le, lí qǐfēi hái yǒu sān gè xiǎoshí. Wǒ hái méi shōushi wán ne, jiù jiē dào péngyou diànhuà. Wǒ shuō wǒ kuài yào tuìfáng le, ràng tā bié zháojí. Dào le qiántái wǒ tuìfáng, hái wèn qù jīchǎng zěnme zǒu bǐjiào fāngbiàn. Gōngzuò rényuán shuō zuò dìtiě yě kěyǐ, dǎchē yě kěyǐ. Suīrán zhè cì lǚxíng hěn duǎn, dànshì wǒ xuéhuì le hěn duō shíyòng de shēnghuó Zhōngwén, xīnli yuèláiyuè fàngxīn.
Weekly Review: Hotel & Travel
This week I traveled to Shanghai, and the two days went by quickly. Before leaving, I booked a hotel on my phone. Because I wanted it to be convenient, I chose one that is a five-minute walk from the subway station. After booking, I wrote the information in my notebook and also told my friend.
After arriving, I went to the front desk first to check in. The staff asked when I would check in and how many days I would stay, and also asked me to show my ID. I paid the room fee, got the room card, and went upstairs to rest. The room wasn’t big, but it was clean.
At night I wanted to take a shower, but there was no hot water. I felt a bit anxious, so I called the front desk, said “sorry,” and asked if they could help check. The staff came up and said the hot water might be broken, and they could change my room. I followed him to the front desk to get a new room card and thanked him.
On the second day I ate beef noodles near the hotel. The waiter asked how many people and said their noodles were both cheap and tasty. I didn’t want it too spicy, and after eating I felt the taste was really good. Later I went to a sight downtown to take photos, but after getting off the subway I couldn’t find the way, so I asked an aunt on the street. She told me to walk straight, turn right at the second intersection, and walk five more minutes to arrive. I followed what she said and got there quickly.
On the morning I went home, I checked the time: it was already 7:30, and my flight would leave in three hours. I still hadn’t finished packing when my friend called. I said I was about to check out and told him not to worry. At the front desk, I checked out and asked what the most convenient way to the airport was. The staff said subway was okay and taxi was okay. Although this trip was short, I learned a lot of practical everyday Chinese, and I felt more and more reassured.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation. You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary (Review)
Characters
Pinyin
English
预订
yùdìng
booking
入住
rùzhù
check in
房卡
fángkǎ
room card
热水
rèshuǐ
hot water
换房间
huàn fángjiān
change rooms
附近
fùjìn
nearby
景点
jǐngdiǎn
sight
右转
yòuzhuǎn
turn right
退房
tuìfáng
check out
起飞
qǐfēi
take off
Grammar (Review)
[因为…所以…] Used for cause and effect: 因为想方便，所以选离地铁站近的酒店。
[先…再…] Used for ordering steps: 先办理入住，再上楼休息 / 先买票，再进去。
[能不能…？ / 请…] Used for polite requests: 能不能帮我看看？ / 请出示身份证。
[每…都…] Used for repeated actions: 他们每次来都来这里吃。
[快要…了 / 还没…呢] Used for “about to” and “not yet”: 我快要退房了 / 我还没收拾完呢。
[虽然…但是…] Used to express “although… but…” in one clear structure.
Idiomatic Expressions (Review)
照着…走 — follow directions
又…又… — both…and…
时间差不多了 — it’s about time
别着急 — don’t worry
越来越放心 — feel more and more reassured
Cultural Insights (Review)
Hotels: Front desks often ask for ID, give a room card, and can help with issues like hot water by sending staff or changing rooms.
Travel: Asking strangers for directions is common, and people often describe routes with “一直… / 路口…转 / 再走…分钟就到”.
The two days in Shanghai passed quickly, and this morning I’m going home. I checked my phone: it was already 7:30, and my flight would leave in three hours. I felt the timing was about right, so I prepared to check out and go to the airport.
I packed my luggage first, but I still hadn’t finished packing when my friend called and asked where I was. I said, “I’m still at the hotel. I’m about to check out. Don’t worry—I’ll go out right away.”
At the front desk, I returned the room card and said, “Hello, I’d like to check out.” The staff asked, “Do you need an invoice?” I said, “Yes. Also, what’s the most convenient way to get to the airport?”
The staff said, “You can take the subway, or you can take a taxi. There’s no traffic now; by taxi it’s about 40 minutes.” I thought about it and decided to take a taxi. When I left, I felt the trip went smoothly, and I hoped I could come again next time.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation. You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
退房
tuìfáng
check out
机场
jīchǎng
airport
起飞
qǐfēi
take off (flight)
收拾
shōushi
pack; tidy up
还没…呢
hái méi… ne
haven’t … yet
快要…了
kuài yào… le
about to…
发票
fāpiào
invoice/receipt
方便
fāngbiàn
convenient
堵车
dǔchē
traffic jam
大概
dàgài
approximately
Grammar
[快…了 / 快要…了 (about to…)] Use 快…了 or 快要…了 to say something is about to happen, like checking out or a flight taking off. It’s very common for time pressure and travel plans. Example:我快要退房了。
[还没…呢 (haven’t … yet)] Use 还没…呢 to show something hasn’t happened yet, often when someone is waiting. It’s useful for explaining delays politely. Example:我还没收拾完呢。
[A 也可以, B 也可以 (either A or B is fine)] This pattern is common when giving options, like subway vs. taxi. It sounds neutral and helpful. Example:你可以坐地铁，也可以打车。
Idiomatic Expressions
时间差不多了 A practical phrase for when you feel it’s time to leave or start something. Example:我觉得时间差不多了，就准备退房。
别着急 A friendly phrase to calm someone down when you’re running late. Example:你别着急，我马上出门。
很顺利 A common way to describe that something went well without problems. Example:这次旅行很顺利。
Cultural Insights
Checking out
At hotel check-out in China, you usually return the room card to the front desk and say “我要退房.” Staff may ask if you need a 发票 (invoice), especially for business travelers.
Asking “去机场怎么走比较方便？” is a very natural question. Staff often answer by giving two options (subway or taxi) and mentioning traffic and approximate time.
Zhōngwǔ wǒ zài fùjìn zhǎo le yì jiā kāfēidiàn xiūxi. Wǒ kàn le kàn shíjiān, yǐjīng shí’èr diǎn bàn le, jiù diǎn le yì bēi kāfēi hé yí gè miànbāo. Xiūxi yíxià yǐhòu, wǒ zài zuò dìtiě huí jiǔdiàn.
Visiting a Sight and Taking Photos
The next morning the weather was great, so I wanted to visit a famous place and also take some photos. I left the hotel and took the subway to the city center. But after getting off, I couldn’t find the way well, so I asked an aunt on the street.
I said, “Auntie, sorry—how do I get to this sight?” She looked at my phone and said, “Walk straight ahead, turn right at the second intersection, then walk five more minutes and you’ll arrive.” I thanked her, followed her directions, and got there quickly.
There were many people. I bought a ticket first and then went in. Inside, I walked around while looking, and also took photos while walking. I felt Shanghai’s buildings were beautiful, and I also felt lucky today.
At noon I found a咖啡店 nearby to rest. I checked the time; it was already 12:30, so I ordered a coffee and a bread. After resting a bit, I took the subway back to the hotel.
Help
How to Use the Audio
The audio is designed to help you improve your Mandarin Chinese listening skills and pronunciation. You can use it in two ways:
Before reading: Listen to understand rhythm, intonation, and natural speech.
After reading: Listen again to compare pronunciation and improve fluency.
Vocabulary
Characters
Pinyin
English
景点
jǐngdiǎn
tourist sight
有名
yǒumíng
famous
市中心
shì zhōngxīn
city center
找不到路
zhǎo bù dào lù
can’t find the way
一直
yìzhí
straight; all the way
路口
lùkǒu
intersection
右转
yòuzhuǎn
turn right
票
piào
ticket
拍照
pāizhào
take photos
休息
xiūxi
rest
Grammar
[一边…一边… (while…while…)] Use 一边…一边 to show two actions happen at the same time. It’s common for walking + looking, eating + talking, etc. Example:我一边走一边看，还一边拍照。
[走…分钟就到 (walk … minutes and you arrive)] This is a practical direction pattern: time + 就到, meaning “it only takes … minutes to get there.” It’s very common with walking, subway, or bus directions. Example:再走五分钟就到了。
[先…再… (first…then…)] Use 先…再… to describe steps clearly, especially in travel: buy tickets, enter, then explore. Example:我先买票，再进去。
Idiomatic Expressions
顺便 Used when doing an extra action during another plan, like sightseeing and also taking photos. Example:顺便拍点儿照片。
照着 Means “follow (instructions),” very common after someone tells you directions. Example:我照着她说的走。
很幸运 A natural phrase to express a happy feeling during travel. Example:我觉得自己今天很幸运。
Cultural Insights
Asking strangers for directions
It’s common to ask strangers for directions using polite openers like “不好意思，请问…”. People often give directions with “一直往前走 / 到路口右转 / 再走…分钟就到”.
At popular sights, buying tickets and entering in order (先买票再进去) is a normal routine. Many visitors like to take photos while walking around, so “一边…一边…” is useful in real life.
