Navigating a new city as a business traveller — Workbook
1. Vocabulary in context
Complete each sentence with ONE word or phrase from the box. Two items are extra.
- The office is in drop from the hotel — you don't need transport.
- Try to avoid the metro during drop — it's really packed.
- Quick drop : the tram is much faster than the bus after 5pm.
- This restaurant is completely drop — no tourists at all.
- It's late — let's just drop back to the hotel.
- Use the cathedral as a drop — it's visible from everywhere.
Ask the teacher: Write down anything you want to remember from this section. Your notes are saved automatically.
2. Polite modals · could, would, shall, might
Rewrite each direct sentence in a polite, professional way.
- Tell me how to go to the office.
- Wait five minutes.
- I want you to book a taxi.
- Don't take the metro after 11.
- Give me the address in writing.
- I help you with your luggage.
Ask the teacher: Write down anything you want to remember from this section. Your notes are saved automatically.
3. Which sentence is more natural for a visiting colleague?
Choose the more professional / natural option.
You want to warn a visitor about a closed metro line.
You want to offer to book a restaurant.
You want to soften advice about taxis.
You want to check a preference before deciding.
You want to give a friendly warning about an area.
Ask the teacher: Write down anything you want to remember from this section. Your notes are saved automatically.
4. Find and fix the mistake
Each sentence has ONE mistake. Rewrite it correctly.
- Could you to tell me the way to the station?
- Would you mind to wait five minutes?
- Shall I to book a taxi for you?
- You might to want to avoid line 3.
- The office is at walking distance.
- I will grab a taxi, is late.
Ask the teacher: Write down anything you want to remember from this section. Your notes are saved automatically.
5. Listening — a local briefs a visitor
Nadia (visitor) has just arrived at the office in Lisbon. Tiago (local colleague) gives his a short practical briefing. Listen (or read the transcript) and answer.
- What TWO transport tips does Tiago give Nadia?
- What warning does he give her specifically?
- What does Tiago offer to arrange for Thursday?
- How would you describe Tiago's tone?
Show transcript
Tiago (Local):OK Nadia, welcome. Just a quick heads-up before your first meeting — a few practical things.
Nadia (Visitor):Please, this is exactly what I need.
Tiago (Local):For getting around, tram 28 is lovely during the day, but you might want to avoid it at rush hour — it's completely packed with tourists then. Walking is often faster.
Nadia (Visitor):And in the evening?
Tiago (Local):After 8pm, just use the Bolt app — same as Uber, very cheap here, and you get a receipt for expenses. Would you like me to help you install it?
Nadia (Visitor):I already have it, thanks. Anything I should watch out for?
Tiago (Local):One thing — the street behind the office is steep and slippery when it rains. If the weather turns bad, take the main avenue instead. Five minutes longer, much safer.
Nadia (Visitor):Good to know. And for the team dinner on Thursday?
Tiago (Local):Shall I book a table at a small local place near the office? Nothing fancy, but excellent — very Lisbon.
Nadia (Visitor):Please do. Six people. Thanks, Tiago — this is exactly the kind of briefing I was hoping for.
Ask the teacher: Write down anything you want to remember from this section. Your notes are saved automatically.
6. Writing — welcome message for a visiting colleague (90–110 words)
A colleague from another office is visiting your city for three days. Write a short welcome message that (a) greets them warmly, (b) gives ONE practical transport tip, (c) makes ONE polite offer, and (d) proposes ONE concrete meeting time. Use at least three different polite modals from the unit.
Ask the teacher: Write down anything you want to remember from this section. Your notes are saved automatically.
7. Reading & discursive reflection
Re-read the classbook article 'Small talk, big shortcuts'. Then answer in 100–130 words.
- The article says that asking a local for advice is 'a compliment, not a burden'. In your professional culture, is this always true? Give at least ONE example.
Ask the teacher: Write down anything you want to remember from this section. Your notes are saved automatically.