Mastering IELTS Speaking: Describe a Time When You Went to a New City

In the IELTS Speaking test, examiners assess your ability to communicate effectively in English. They evaluate multiple factors such as fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation. One common question type that appears in Part 2 of the Speaking test is describing an experience, such as “Describe A Time When You Went To A New City.”

This article will provide a comprehensive guide to answering this and similar questions, with detailed answers, useful vocabulary, and examiner’s tips to achieve a high band score.

Common Questions in Part 1: Introduction and Interview

Frequently Asked Examiner Questions:

1. Do you like to travel?
2. Which city is your favorite and why?
3. What do you usually do when visiting a new city?

Sample Answer:

• Examiner: Do you like to travel?
• Candidate: Yes, I absolutely love traveling. It allows me to explore new cultures, meet diverse people, and create memorable experiences. Visiting different cities has always been a passion of mine as it broadens my horizons and offers me unique adventures.

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card: Visit to a New City

Describe a time when you went to a new city.

• When you went there.
• What you did.
• Who you went with.
• Explain why you like it or dislike it.

Sample Answer:

I would like to share an experience of when I visited Barcelona, a vibrant city in Spain. This trip took place in the summer of 2019 during my vacation. I traveled there with two of my closest friends.

Upon arrival, we explored numerous iconic landmarks, including the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. The architecture by Antoni Gaudí was truly mesmerizing and unlike anything I had seen before. We also indulged in local culinary delights such as paella and tapas, which were absolutely delectable.

In addition to sightseeing, we spent a lot of time at the beach, enjoying the sunny weather and crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The city’s lively atmosphere, coupled with the warmth and friendliness of the locals, made the trip unforgettable. What made this trip special was not only the stunning sights but also the camaraderie and shared experiences with my friends.

Follow-Up Questions:

1. What are the advantages of visiting new cities?

   • Sample Answer: Visiting new cities broadens one’s cultural perspective, offers historical insights, and provides opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Experiencing different environments helps one appreciate the diversity and richness of our world.

2. Do you prefer traveling alone or with others?

   • Sample Answer: While traveling alone promotes independence and self-reflection, I prefer traveling with friends or family as it allows for shared experiences, safety in numbers, and enhanced enjoyment through companionship.

Part 3: Two-Way Discussion

High-Level Discussion:

Examiner: How can tourism impact cities both positively and negatively?

Sample Answer:

Tourism can have significant positive impacts on cities, such as boosting the local economy through increased revenue and job creation in various sectors including hospitality, retail, and transportation. It also promotes cultural exchange and global understanding.

However, tourism can also have adverse effects. Overtourism can lead to the degradation of natural and historical sites, increased pollution, and strain on local resources and infrastructure. Additionally, it often causes inflation in living costs for locals, making certain areas less affordable for the residents. Balancing the benefits and drawbacks requires strategic planning and sustainable practices by local authorities.

Vocabulary and Key Structures for a High Score

Essential Vocabulary:

1. Iconic [aiˈkänik]: Adjective – Widely recognized and well-established.

   • Example: The Eiffel Tower is an iconic symbol of Paris.

2. Delectable [diˈlektəb(ə)l]: Adjective – Delicious.

   • Example: The restaurant is known for its delectable desserts.

3. Camaraderie [ˌkaməˈrädərē]: Noun – Mutual trust and friendship among people who spend a lot of time together.

   • Example: The camaraderie in the team is evident during their collaborations.

Useful Phrases:

1. Broaden one’s horizons: Expand one’s range of interests, activities, and knowledge.
2. Mesmerizing: Capturing one’s complete attention as if by magic.
3. Lively atmosphere: An energetic and vibrant environment.

Examiner’s Tips for High Scores:

1. Practice regularly: Develop your speaking fluency by regularly discussing various topics in English.
2. Use a wide range of vocabulary: Incorporate varied and precise vocabulary terms appropriately.
3. Perfect pronunciation: Pay attention to the correct pronunciation of words and intonation patterns.
4. Structure your responses: Organize your answers clearly, following a logical order.
5. Stay calm and confident: Practice mindfulness techniques to reduce nervousness during the exam.

Iconic Landmark in Barcelona

By following this structured approach and practicing effectively, you will be well-prepared to discuss topics such as “Describe a time when you went to a new city” confidently and coherently in your IELTS Speaking test. Happy practicing!