The topic of describing an underrated place in one’s country is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to articulate their thoughts about local attractions and cultural significance. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about your hometown or country. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: What are some popular tourist destinations in your country?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Well, in my country, Vietnam, there are several famous tourist spots. Many people visit Ha Long Bay for its beautiful limestone islands and clear waters. Another popular destination is Hoi An, an ancient town known for its colorful lanterns and traditional architecture. Tourists also often go to Ho Chi Minh City to experience the vibrant city life and learn about Vietnam’s history.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Vietnam boasts a plethora of captivating tourist destinations that cater to diverse interests. Undoubtedly, Ha Long Bay stands out as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters. Additionally, the ancient town of Hoi An enchants visitors with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant lantern-lit streets. For those seeking a more cosmopolitan experience, Ho Chi Minh City offers a fascinating blend of historical landmarks and modern attractions, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and rapid development.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe A Place In Your Country That You Think Is Underrated. You should say:
- What and where this place is
- What it looks like
- Why you think it is underrated
- And explain why more people should visit this place
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d like to talk about a place in Vietnam that I think is underrated. It’s called Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, located in Quang Binh Province in central Vietnam.
This park is famous for its caves and underground rivers. It has beautiful forests and mountains too. The most famous cave is Son Doong, which is the largest cave in the world. The park also has many other smaller caves that are very beautiful.
I think this place is underrated because not many foreign tourists know about it. Most people who visit Vietnam go to more famous places like Ha Long Bay or Ho Chi Minh City. But Phong Nha-Ke Bang is just as beautiful and interesting.
More people should visit this place because it offers a unique experience. They can explore amazing caves, enjoy nature, and learn about Vietnam’s geology. It’s also less crowded than other tourist spots, so visitors can have a more peaceful and authentic experience. The local people are very friendly, and there are many interesting activities like kayaking or trekking that tourists can try.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d like to draw your attention to an oft-overlooked gem in Vietnam’s natural landscape: Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, nestled in the heart of Quang Binh Province in central Vietnam.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a veritable wonderland of karst formations and underground rivers. The park’s crowning glory is undoubtedly Son Doong Cave, acclaimed as the world’s largest cave system. However, the park’s allure extends far beyond this singular attraction. It boasts a diverse ecosystem of pristine forests and jagged limestone mountains, interspersed with a network of smaller yet equally awe-inspiring caves.
I believe this destination is underappreciated primarily due to its relative obscurity on the international tourism radar. While iconic locations like Ha Long Bay and Ho Chi Minh City dominate the itineraries of most foreign visitors, Phong Nha-Ke Bang remains a hidden treasure, waiting to be discovered.
There are compelling reasons why more people should venture to this extraordinary place. Firstly, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the world’s most remarkable cave systems, providing a unique insight into the Earth’s geological processes. Moreover, the park’s biodiversity is astounding, with numerous rare and endemic species calling it home.
Furthermore, visiting Phong Nha-Ke Bang allows tourists to escape the well-trodden path and experience a more authentic side of Vietnam. The local communities surrounding the park offer a warm welcome and a chance to engage with traditional rural life. Additionally, the array of activities available, from kayaking through underground rivers to trekking in primary forests, caters to a wide range of interests and adventure levels.
In essence, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park embodies the perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and adventure, making it a truly enriching destination that deserves far more recognition on the global stage.”
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam – A hidden gem
Follow-up Questions:
- How do you think tourism affects local communities in underrated places?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think tourism can have both positive and negative effects on local communities in underrated places. On the positive side, it can bring more jobs and income to the area. Local people can open restaurants, hotels, or work as tour guides. This can improve their living standards. However, there might also be some negative impacts. For example, if too many tourists come, it might change the local way of life or cause environmental problems. So it’s important to manage tourism carefully in these places.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The impact of tourism on local communities in underrated destinations is multi-faceted and can be both beneficial and detrimental. On the positive side, tourism can serve as a catalyst for economic development, creating employment opportunities and stimulating local businesses. This influx of revenue can lead to improved infrastructure and public services, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
However, we must also consider the potential drawbacks. Rapid tourism development can lead to cultural dilution as local traditions may be commodified or altered to cater to tourist expectations. There’s also the risk of environmental degradation if visitor numbers exceed the area’s carrying capacity. Moreover, an over-reliance on tourism can make these communities vulnerable to economic fluctuations.
To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to implement sustainable tourism practices that prioritize the preservation of local culture and environment while ensuring equitable distribution of economic benefits. This balanced approach can help underrated destinations reap the rewards of tourism while safeguarding their unique character and resources for future generations.”
- Do you think the government should promote these underrated places more?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think the government should promote underrated places more. These places often have a lot to offer but don’t get enough attention. By promoting them, the government can help bring in more tourists and spread the economic benefits of tourism to different parts of the country. This could help create jobs and improve local economies. However, they should also be careful not to promote these places too much, as this might lead to overcrowding or damage to the environment.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I firmly believe that governments should play a more proactive role in promoting underrated destinations, but this should be done with a carefully calibrated approach.
On one hand, increased promotion of these hidden gems can bring about significant economic benefits. It can help diversify a country’s tourism portfolio, alleviating pressure on over-visited sites while stimulating economic growth in less developed regions. This can lead to more equitable distribution of tourism revenue and create opportunities for local communities that might otherwise be overlooked.
However, it’s imperative that any promotional efforts are coupled with comprehensive planning and management strategies. The government must strike a delicate balance between increasing visitor numbers and preserving the very qualities that make these places special. This involves implementing sustainable tourism practices, investing in infrastructure that can support increased tourism without compromising the local environment or way of life, and educating visitors about responsible travel.
Moreover, promotion should be targeted and selective, focusing on attracting visitors who are likely to appreciate and respect the unique attributes of these destinations. This could involve highlighting eco-tourism opportunities, cultural exchanges, or special interest activities that align with the location’s strengths.
In conclusion, while government promotion of underrated places can be highly beneficial, it must be done thoughtfully and responsibly to ensure that these destinations can thrive without losing their intrinsic charm and value.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question: How do you think tourism will change in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think tourism will change a lot in the future. With technology improving, we might see more virtual tours where people can experience places without actually going there. This could be good for the environment as it reduces travel. Also, I think people will be more interested in eco-friendly tourism, where they try to have less impact on the places they visit. Another change might be that tourists will look for more unique experiences, like staying with local families instead of in big hotels.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The future of tourism is likely to undergo significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and global challenges.
Firstly, we’re likely to see a surge in sustainable and responsible tourism. As awareness of environmental issues grows, travelers will increasingly seek out eco-friendly options and experiences that minimize their carbon footprint. This could lead to the rise of regenerative tourism, where visitors actively contribute to the conservation and improvement of the destinations they visit.
Secondly, technology will revolutionize the way we travel. Virtual and augmented reality technologies may offer immersive experiences of destinations, either as a precursor to physical travel or as an alternative for those unable to travel. Artificial intelligence could personalize travel experiences to an unprecedented degree, tailoring itineraries to individual preferences and needs.
Moreover, we may see a shift towards slow tourism, where travelers spend more time in fewer places, seeking deeper connections with local cultures and communities. This could be coupled with a growing interest in experiential travel, where the focus is on unique, authentic experiences rather than simply ticking off famous landmarks.
The concept of space tourism might also move from science fiction to reality for a select few, opening up entirely new frontiers for travel.
However, these changes will likely coexist with challenges. Climate change may alter traditional tourism patterns and destinations. Geopolitical factors and health concerns could lead to more emphasis on domestic or regional tourism.
In conclusion, the future of tourism will likely be characterized by a delicate balance between technological innovation, sustainability, and the timeless human desire for new experiences and connections.”
Future of Tourism: Technology and Sustainability
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Underrated [ʌndəˈreɪtɪd] (adjective): Not given enough credit or recognition for its quality or importance.
Example: “This small coastal town is an underrated gem with its pristine beaches and friendly locals.” -
Hidden gem [ˈhɪdn dʒem] (noun phrase): A place or thing that is extremely good or valuable but not well known.
Example: “The secluded waterfall we discovered was a true hidden gem in the national park.” -
Off the beaten track [ɒf ðə ˈbiːtn træk] (idiom): In or to an isolated place; away from frequently traveled routes.
Example: “We prefer to explore destinations that are off the beaten track to experience authentic local culture.” -
To showcase [ʃəʊˈkeɪs] (verb): To present or display (something or someone) in an attractive or favorable way.
Example: “The museum showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.” -
Biodiversity [ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti] (noun): The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
Example: “The rainforest is known for its incredible biodiversity, home to countless species of flora and fauna.” -
Sustainable tourism [səˈsteɪnəbl ˈtʊərɪzəm] (noun phrase): Tourism that respects both local people and the traveler, cultural heritage and the environment.
Example: “The government is promoting sustainable tourism to protect natural resources while supporting local economies.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing an underrated place:
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Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and idiomatic expressions. Don’t just describe the place, but also your feelings and opinions about it.
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Fluency: Practice speaking at length about different places. Try to speak for 2 minutes without long pauses or repetition.
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Coherence: Organize your ideas logically. Use linking words to connect your thoughts smoothly.
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Pronunciation: Work on clear pronunciation and natural intonation. Pay attention to word stress, especially in longer words.
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Grammar: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Include conditional sentences and passive voice where appropriate.
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Relevance: Always address all parts of the question or cue card. Provide specific examples to support your points.
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Authenticity: Share personal experiences or knowledge about the place to make your answer more engaging and credible.
Remember, regular practice with a variety of topics will help you improve your overall speaking skills and confidence for the IELTS test.
