Question

2

In your own words, answer the questions based on the information given in the text.

1 Name a problem you could face with an illegitimate taxi driver.

2 What might a European pedestrian be fined for in New York?

3 What should a visitor avoid in the New York underground system?
Imagine having a colossal wall of seawater, 90 ft high, barrelling towards you at 75 km an hour. For most of us, it would be a horrifying experience, but for big wave surfers, it's the ultimate goal! Garrett McNamara, one of the most successful surfers alive, surfed on a wave of this description in 2011. It was one of the biggest waves ever ridden and the biggest caught on film. The video was uploaded onto the Internet and 'GMAC, as he is also known, quickly became an Internet sensation.

BGarrett, who was born in Massachusetts, USA, took up surfing at the age of 11 when his family moved to Hawail. In his late teens, he began entering competitions around the world and quickly gained a reputation as one of the world's most talented surfers. But in his early 30s, Garrett felt the need to try something different, something even more extreme. He decided to become a big wave surfer, to find and ride the tallest and most powerful waves on the planet.

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As Garrett soon learnt, big wave surfing requires a much

different approach to ordinary surfing. For one thing, big wavebut you can always call reception if you're in doubt.

D When you're in the streets, bear in mind that New York has its fair share of pickpockets. Avoid falling victim to them by trying not to look like a tourist. Also, give the impression that you know exactly where you're going. If you need to look at your map. New York has endless cafés where the stressed-out tourist can stop. Sit down and get your bearings or just watch the hustle and bustle around you.

Even if you do manage to blend in with local residents, you should still be on your guard. Europeans usually don't realise that stepping into the road when there's no walk signal or green man, known as 'jaywalking, is actually a criminal offence in New York. Don't risk a fine or, worse. being run over by a car. If you're in a hurry, use the underground system. The New York 'subway is an inexpensive and reliable way to get around. although some common-sense precautions should be followed. Don't, for example, board an empty carriage. In fact. it's a good idea to stay close to other people as much as possible. This isn't always possible after 11pm. so solo travellers should either travel earlier or find an alternative late at night.