A
A survey with 2,004 people shows only 35.5 percent of those surveyed prefer to live in big cities, and 61.3 percent prefer a more comfortable life in small cities. Where would you prefer to live? Readers share their opinions.
urbexer (China)
I always enjoy living in the big cities as everything is convenient. However, convenience does not necessarily always mean a better life. My flat in Shenzhen is very convenient in terms of location to supermarkets, restaurants and nightlife. However, I would say my quality and enjoyment of life is not good.
xiphoid (US)
While I never cared for large cities, my wife loves them. Being from Hongkong, she is an entirely city girl. However, we found we are perfectly happy here in a mid-sized city. Ann Arbor is just the right size. It has 200,000 people, plus a very rich cultural life, thanks to all the students of U of M. It provides just about all the convenience that a large city can offer without the heavy rush hour traffic, heavy pollution and high crime rates.
libbycrystal (China)
Personally, I think, struggling in big city is a worthwhile experience; especially when you are young. While those in big cities meet more difficulties than people who live in relatively small and comfortable, it’s worth it. I know people are likely to have lonely moments even while they’re surrounded with people in crowded streets, and I can’t help being in tears sometimes. I do, however, know everything will get better.
cyberspook (Australia)
I lived and worked in a mid-sized city by Australian standards for many years. There was plenty of work and housing prices were high, but the lifestyle was busy and full of stress. When I moved to a very small town on an island, there were fewer jobs here, but the housing prices were cheap, and the lifestyle was light and care free. This kind of life suits me most, and I will not be moving any time soon. Choosing between living in a city or smaller area depends on what your life goals are. If you want money, you should go to a city; but if you want a peaceful life, with good health, then smaller areas all the way.
21. According to the passage, ________ prefers to live in big cities.
A. urbexer B. xiphoid C. libbycrystal D. cyberspook
22. One reason why xiphoid feels happy in a mid-sized city is that ________.
A. his wife was born there B. the housing price is low
C. it is convenient to live there D. more jobs are offered
23. Which of the following is NOT the advantage of living in small cities?
A. less pollution B. rich cultures C. cheap housing price D. more convenience
