martedì 19 novembre 2024

Formal vs informal English - corso BE





http://www.engvid.com/english-resource/formal-informal-english/



http://www.esl-lounge.com/student/reading/3r8-formal-informal-letter.php

http://www.autoenglish.org/writing/formalandinformalexercise.htm

https://www.flo-joe.co.uk/cae/students/writing/register/index.htm

https://eslflow.com/letterwriting.html




This email is too formal in tone. Re-write it in a more relaxed and friendly way

Dear Mr. Evans,
I am writing in response to our recent conversation concerning the three possible choices for the US market. I regret to inform you that I do not consider I am presently in a position to assume responsibility for such a major undertaking. I have a great number of pressing engagements and would not be able to allocate sufficient time.


However, should you make a decision to modify your policy for the Advertising Specialty Market in the USA, I would wish to suggest an alternative proposal which we could discuss in Munich at the end of the month.


Sincerely yours,


Eric Burdon

You are Richard Cartwright, the newly appointed Sa Director of ACG Ltd. You have received the following complaint

Dear Mr Grant,

Over the last three years we have been placing regular orders for grease-resistant coated pape the current list price of £1.00.

Our last order for 3,500 rolls, dated 5 March, invoiced to us with what is referred to as the 'standard 15% discount for bulk orders.

Although this discount is very welcome it came a complete surprise, given that in our earlier p negotiations you maintained that you were una to grant quantity discounts on the grounds that order to keep your prices competitive, you work to extremely tight profit margins.

Had we been informed of discounts for purchas in excess of 3,000 rolls we would have modified the timing of our purchases and placed larger orders at less frequent intervals. In this way w would have made substantial cost savings

I am disappointed that you appear to have withheld information relative to discounts and forward to receiving both an apology and a suit offer of indemnity.

Yours sincerely.

Hugh Mackenzie

Your task is to reply to this email of complaint. You have made these notes. Decide on the tone of the email you want to write and draft a suitable reply.
  • thanks for email, apologies for misunderstanding
  • pricing policy modified in January
  • customers told about new prices and discounts in previous email (22nd January)
  • Mr M received this email - prices referred to  are up-to-date 
  • no compensation
  • attach catalogue and price list
  • meeting in Lonldon soon? he can choose a date


lunedì 18 novembre 2024

HOTEL JOB DESCRIPTION PART 2

 

Responsibilities of a Hotel Front Desk Agent

1.      Check-in and Check-out Tasks:

o   Perform all check-in and check-out procedures efficiently and warmly.

o   Register guests by collecting necessary information (e.g., contact details, payment methods, and exact dates of stay).

2.    Reservations Management:

o   Manage online and phone reservations, including inquiries, confirmations, changes, and cancellations.

o   Maintain updated records of bookings and associated payments for accurate reporting.

3.     Guest Welcoming and Room Assignment:

o   Greet guests warmly upon arrival to provide a friendly and professional first impression.

o   Assign rooms based on preferences and ensure all rooms are prepared for guest arrival.

4.    Information Provision:

o   Provide accurate information about hotel facilities, services, available rooms, rates, and local attractions.

o   Inform customers about payment methods and verify credit card details to ensure secure transactions.

5.    Guest Assistance:

o   Assist guests with luggage, transportation, and any other requests or concerns, ensuring a comfortable stay.

o   Manage guest inquiries and requests in a prompt and courteous manner.

6.    Complaint Handling:

o   Respond to clients’ complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to ensure guest satisfaction.

o   Handle guest feedback effectively to improve service quality.

7.    Collaboration with Other Departments:

o   Liaise with housekeeping staff to ensure all rooms are clean, tidy, and well-furnished to accommodate guest needs.

o   Collaborate with other hotel departments (e.g., maintenance and facilities) to address any issues affecting guest experiences.

8.    Event and Group Coordination

  • Confirm group reservations and arrange personalized services for VIP guests and event attendees (e.g., wedding guests).

9.    Upselling and Customer Engagement:

  • Upsell additional facilities and services (e.g., spa, dining, events) to enhance guests' experiences when appropriate.
  • Engage with guests to ensure their needs are met and promote hotel amenities.

10. Financial Transactions:

  • Process payments, handle cash transactions, and maintain accurate financial records, ensuring compliance with hotel policies.
  • Manage and prioritize financial tasks, including accepting and delivering messages and handling mail and packages.

11.   Front Desk Maintenance:

  • Maintain a clean and organized front desk area, including the lobby and reception desk, to create a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Ensure the front desk area is well-stocked with informational materials and promotional items.

12.  Administrative Duties:

  • Handle administrative tasks, including arranging wake-up calls and keeping accurate logs of guest interactions and requests.

13.  Additional Responsibilities:

  • Stay informed about hotel policies, procedures, and emergency protocols to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests.
  • Participate in ongoing training and development to enhance customer service skills and industry knowledge. This list encapsulates the essential duties and responsibilities of a hotel front desk agent, emphasizing customer service, operational efficiency, and collaboration across departments to ensure a memorable guest experience.

Skills and Qualifications for Hotel Front Desk Agent

Core Skills:

1.      Communication Skills

o   Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

o   Active listening skills to understand guest needs.

o   Ability to convey information clearly and courteously.

2.    Interpersonal Skills

o   Strong ability to interact positively with guests and team members.

o   Empathy and patience when addressing guest inquiries and needs.

o   Capacity to build rapport with diverse clientele.

3.     Problem-Solving Skills

o   Proficient in assessing situations quickly and identifying solutions.

o   Ability to remain calm and resolve conflicts effectively.

o   Strong critical thinking skills to troubleshoot and address issues.

4.    Organizational and Multitasking Skills

o   Exceptional ability to prioritize tasks in a busy environment.

o   Proficient in maintaining orderly documentation and records.

o   Capable of concurrently managing phone calls, in-person inquiries, and administrative tasks.

5.    Attention to Detail

o   Meticulous in handling guest information, reservation details, and billing.

o   Ability to identify discrepancies in bookings or payments and correct them.

6.    Computer Proficiency

o   Proficient with hotel reservation systems (e.g., Cloudbeds, RoomKeyPMS).

o   Familiarity with standard software applications (Microsoft Office Suite).

o   Understanding of database management and hotel property management software.

7.    Customer Service Orientation

o   Strong commitment to providing outstanding service and guest satisfaction.

o   Ability to anticipate guest needs and exceed their expectations.

o   Develop solutions tailored to individual guest requests.

8.    Local Knowledge

o   Familiarity with local attractions, dining options, and transportation services.

o   Ability to provide guests with accurate information and recommendations.

o   Up-to-date knowledge of events or special occurrences in the area.

9.    Professionalism

o   Maintaining a neat and well-groomed appearance.

o   Displaying a courteous and respectful demeanor.

o   Representing the hotel positively in all interactions.

10. Flexibility and Adaptability

o   Willingness to work various shifts including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

o   Adaptable to changes in tasks or unexpected situations.

Experience & Qualifications:

1.      Educational Background

o   High school diploma or equivalent required.

o   Degree in hotel management or related field is a plus.

2.    Work Experience

o   Previous experience as a hotel front desk agent, receptionist, or similar role.

o   Demonstrated experience in customer service, ideally in the hospitality sector.

3.     Technical Skills

o   Familiarity with hotel reservation software (e.g., Cloudbeds, RoomKeyPMS).

o   Understanding of travel planning and booking websites (e.g., Booking.com, TripAdvisor).

o   Basic accounting knowledge for processing payments and managing financial transactions.

4.    Languages

o   Fluency in English required; proficiency in additional languages is a plus.

5.    Physical Requirements

o   Ability to stand for extended periods.

o   Capability to lift and manage heavy luggage when necessary.

6.    References and Certification

o   Excellent references from previous employers, demonstrating reliability and professionalism.

o   Possession of a valid driver's license may be required, depending on the specific hotel’s policies and needs.


Summary

The ideal hotel front desk agent is a well-rounded individual skilled in communication, organization, and customer service, with the necessary experience and flexibility to thrive in a dynamic hospitality environment. This individual must possess technical aptitude, a strong ability to solve problems, and a keen eye for detail to ensure guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Corso GAE - Liguria (word cloud and mind map)

 








domenica 17 novembre 2024

CORSO GAE edizione 4 - Trails & co.

 

TYPES OF TRAILS

https://trekbaron.com/types-of-trails/

 

https://www.nps.gov/subjects/trails/types-of-trails.htm

 

https://www.wta.org/go-outside/trail-smarts/how-to/how-to-choose-the-right-path

 

https://www.outdoors.org/resources/amc-outdoors/outdoor-resources/trail-anatomy-101-hiking-trail-types-and-features/

 

https://casualgeographical.com/types-of-hiking-trails/

 

https://www.safetrailscoalition.org/?page_id=72


https://support.alltrails.com/hc/en-gb/articles/360019246371-What-are-the-trail-route-types-


https://www.advnture.com/features/types-of-hiking-trails


https://www.greentrails.com.au/hiking-trail-information/


TRAIL SURFACES

https://www.mainetrailfinder.com/trail-surface

 

TYPES OF HIKING

https://trailandsummit.com/what-are-the-different-types-of-hiking/

 

HIKING TERMS

https://happiestoutdoors.ca/hiking-terms/

 

https://www.adventuresingoodcompany.com/images/uploaded/Hikers_Glossary.pdf

 

https://hikingdude.com/hiking-scree.php


DESCRIBING TRAILS

https://outdoors.stackexchange.com/questions/17492/how-to-describe-a-trail-well-for-others-in-a-systematic-way


https://www.trailaccessproject.org/tips-on-describing-a-trail.html


https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tioga-road-backpacking-trails.htm


https://www.alltrails.com/trail/italy/liguria--3/sturla-forte-richelieu


https://www.crystalcovestatepark.org/trail-descriptions-2/


VIA FERRATA

https://www.explore-share.com/blog/what-is-via-ferrata/

AVML

https://bikepacking.com/routes/alta-via-dei-monti-liguri/


BOTANY & C

https://www.proz.com/?sp=kog&source_lang=ita&target_lang=eng&disc_spec_id=13 

https://www.berlitz.com/blog/flowers-italian

https://www.studystack.com/flashcard-43021

https://biologywise.com/botany-terms-glossary-of-botanical-terms

https://www.britannica.com/plant/Mediterranean-vegetation

https://www.thespruce.com/difference-between-shrubs-and-bushes-3269793


martedì 12 novembre 2024

ITS Gestione test assessment linking words

ALTHOUGH - AS A RESULT – AT LEAST – HOWEVER - IN CASE - INCLUDING – IN OTHER WORDS - IN THE MEANTIME - ON ONE HAND - ON THE OTHER HAND – ON THE CONTRARY - OTHERWISE - THEREFORE

1.Sea levels will probably rise in the next few decades __________________________ of global warming.

2.I hope he drives carefully, __________________________ he may have problems on such a slippery road.

3.The president was not a very popular leader. __________________________, his resignation did not come as a surprise.

4.Our economy will not improve this year. __________________________, all projections show that it will get worse.

5.The couple broke up a few days ago. __________________________, they are still living together because of the children.

6.__________________________ it was a wonderful place to go skiing, not many tourists found their way there.

7.The scientist studied the behaviour of various animals, __________________________ whales and dolphins.

8.__________________________ we have to fight against environmental problems, but__________________________ we need more and more energy every day.

9.I think he’s asleep. __________________________ his eyes are closed.

10.The candidate didn’t quite meet the necessary requirements. __________________________,he failed.

11.Please take some warm clothes with you, just _______________________ it gets cold at night.

12.The report will be finished soon. __________________________, let’s get some coffee.

mercoledì 6 novembre 2024

HOTEL JOB DESCRIPTIONS PART 1

Hotel Guest Experience Officer

https://operohotel.com/guest-experience-officer#:~:text=Job%20Responsibilities&text=Assist%20customers%20with%20problem%20resolution,products%20or%20services%20to%20customers.

https://www.omnitecsystems.com/omni/blog/guest-experience-manager-hotel 

https://en.wizbii.com/company/accor/job/hotel-guest-experience-manager

Hotel Front Desk Agent

https://resources.workable.com/hotel-front-desk-agent-job-description

https://careers.accor.com/global/en/job/front-office-agent-m-f-in-novotel-milano-linate-aeroporto-milan-italy-jid-10133

https://www.manatal.com/job-description/hotel-front-desk-agent-job-description

Informal to formal English exercise

Hello Mr. John Allen,

I got the email you sent on 1st September, and the stuff about the stock control system you make. It sounds great for us, but I want to check some things before we buy it. You said the system is bang up-to-date, but what happens if you update it again soon? Do we get money off the new one? You said it takes 3 weeks to install the system – that’s too long! Can’t you do it any quicker? Hope you can reply soon, we’re in a bit of a hurry.

Thanks,

Georgia Sunland