Bucket lists, bucket lists, bucket lists, it seems that everyone’s got one. There are hundreds and hundreds of bucket list suggestions on the internet.
Are these lists inspiring or disheartening ? Are they a great way to broaden your horizons or the fastest way to hate your everyday life?
Do you have a list of things you would like to do, places you would like to visit and experiences that would make your life complete ?
Or do you think it’s just a shallow invention of social media sites, a way of showing off and deep down they make us dissatisfied with our everyday life ?
In this podcast Sue tries to convince Chris that bucket lists are unnecessary, unrealistic and predictable. Listen carefully to the reasons she gives.
What’s your opinion ?
If you are making a bucket list try this personality quiz to see what should be on your list…. just don’t tell Sue !!
Is it possible to get in to the Christmas spirit thousands of miles away from Lapland ???
In this Vblog Chris and Sue take you on a fun trip around Toulouse to soak up the Christmas atmosphere in South West France. There are only blue skies, no snow in sight but a lot of French cheese, cakes, chocolate, Canadian whisky and even a Christmas flamingo !!
You’ll see how Sue tries to get Chris into the Christmas spirit in a city a far, far away from Santa’s grotto.
What do you think? Is Christmas too commercial or just an excuse to have some fun in winter?
Click here to go to Now Toulouse YouTube channel and see beautiful Toulouse at Christmas time…in the sun.
Wherever you are in the world, hot or snowy climes we wish you a very Happy Christmas!
In this podcast, Sue asks Chris about his trip to Santorini. He loved it. You can also see the video he took for his travel YouTube chanel, Now Toulouse.
Welcome back to English-Podcasts. We are travelling again! This time Chris takes us on his trip to Santorini, and not only will you hear about the usual tourist spots but also about off the beaten track places.
Notes
Santorini is one of the most breathtaking islands in the Mediterranean, known for its dramatic landscapes, whitewashed buildings, and deep blue seas. Formed by a powerful volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, the island features steep cliffs that overlook a submerged caldera, creating views that feel almost unreal. The towns of Oia and Fira are especially famous for their narrow streets, charming houses, and iconic blue-domed churches that glow under the Greek sun.
Beyond its beauty, Santorini offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can explore ancient ruins such as Akrotiri, a well-preserved archaeological site that provides insight into a sophisticated prehistoric civilization. The island is also known for its unique beaches, with volcanic sand in shades of black, red, and white, offering a striking contrast to the turquoise waters.
Santorini’s cuisine reflects its history and environment, featuring fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional dishes made with ingredients grown in its volcanic soil. As the sun sets, the island transforms into a golden paradise, with sunsets considered among the most beautiful in the world. Santorini is truly a destination that captures both the imagination and the heart.
Language Focus
Can you answer these questions?
What time of the year did Chris go to Santorini?
How big is Santorini?
What is an ATV?
What is Sue’s recollection of Greek food?
What was the accommodation where Chris stayed?
What did Chris say about Backgammon?
What does Chris say “he’s not into”?
Chris gave some recommedations for restaurants and hotels, what was the exact word he used?
In Sue and Craig’s opinion the Oscars 2021 are a bit of a wet weekend; rather dull, depressing and boring !
Chris is not really up to date with the current batch of films but listen out for what he says about them.
Your language challenge is hearing 3 native speakers discuss films in a natural, unscripted way.
Listen out for the vocabulary they use to describe boring films.
What does Craig mean when he says:
“it’s difficult to get behind the Oscars this year”.
“The oscars are perfect if you want to doze off“.
He finishes by saying that “the Oscars sum up 2020 in a nutshell“.
And so we turn to other films…
Listen as Craig talks about what makes a good film for him. Is it the sound track, the special effects to the plot ?
What does he say about Star Wars?
What is Sue’s favourite film ? Why does she say this?
What does Chris say about his favourite film. What does he mean when is says the film might be a bit “marmite”? How do you interpret the silence when he mentions the name ?
If you are a teacher try some of these ideas:
Ask students to describe a film scenario and the other have to guess what it is. Pay attention to sequencing vocabulary, grammar tenses etc.
A group of students could act out the dialogue from their favourite scenes. The others have to guess the film. 1000s of free film scripts are available at Simply Scripts.
Ask your students to draw up a list of their best films and explain way. The quiz could help them to formulate ideas.
Show a film clip and ask students to list as many emotions as possible.
You can check out other classic films on Craig’s Instagram page @EIGuiriCine
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If you are a teacher try some of these ideas: