1It is a new term in todays tourism industry. But in an age of growing environmental awareness， it is not too difficult for us to imagine and understand this new form of holiday.

Ecotourism， which is considered as a kind of responsible tourism， is typically defined as travel to places where special and unusual plants， animals and cultural heritages are the main attractions.

2Therefore， programs concerning the protection of some natural and cultural spots also form a part of ecotourism.

Ecotourism is developing at great speed. According to a recent report by the World Tourism Organization， ecotourism in recent years has enjoyed an annual growth of about 5% worldwide.3     They include birdwatching， hiking， diving， photography and taking part in various kinds of local cultural events.

4However， it looks like some smaller towns and country areas may well become the new destinations for people to visit tomorrow because they are rich in ecological， cultural and historical resources.

Ecotourism has been gaining increasing recognition and popularity mainly for the relaxing， natural and vivid experience it offers to tourists. People are attracted to nature and long to be close to it.However， a conflict between nature and human beings is unavoidable.5

A. The definition of ecotourism is beyond words.

B. It takes ecology and culture into consideration.

C. You may not be very familiar with “ecotourism”.

D. More than 80 activities have been listed for ecotourism.

E. People can have great fun enjoying nature through ecotourism.

F. Big cities are still the major places that attract tourists in our society today.

G. How to protect natural resources while taking advantage of them is of great importance.