The topic of describing a tourist destination is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject in future tests. This topic allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to describe places, express opinions, and discuss travel-related experiences.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about travel and tourism. Here are some common questions you might encounter:
- Do you like to travel?
- What kind of places do you enjoy visiting?
- Have you ever been to a foreign country?
- What’s your favorite tourist destination in your country?
Let’s look at how to answer one of these questions:
Question: What kind of places do you enjoy visiting?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I really like visiting historical sites and natural attractions. I find it interesting to learn about the past and see beautiful landscapes. For example, I enjoyed visiting some ancient temples in my country last year.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’m particularly drawn to off-the-beaten-path destinations that offer a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. I find that these places provide a more authentic experience and allow me to gain deeper insights into local customs and ways of life. For instance, I recently visited a remote village in the mountains, where I had the opportunity to participate in traditional crafts and explore pristine hiking trails.”
Describe a place you would like to visit for a holiday can be an excellent way to showcase your language skills and imagination in the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe A Tourist Destination You Recommend
You should say:
- Where it is located
- What attractions it offers
- Why you recommend it
- And explain how it compares to other tourist destinations
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d like to recommend Hoi An, a beautiful town in central Vietnam. It’s located on the coast, about 30 kilometers south of Da Nang city. Hoi An is famous for its well-preserved Ancient Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The town offers many attractions, including traditional Japanese merchant houses, Chinese temples, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful beaches nearby and try delicious local cuisine.
I recommend Hoi An because it has a unique charm and peaceful atmosphere. The town is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle, and you can experience both historical culture and modern comforts.
Compared to other tourist destinations, Hoi An stands out for its blend of cultures and well-preserved architecture. While it may not have big theme parks or nightclubs like some popular beach resorts, it offers a more authentic and relaxing experience.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d like to recommend the enchanting city of Kyoto, nestled in the heart of Japan’s Kansai region. This former imperial capital is a veritable treasure trove of Japanese history and culture, seamlessly blending the ancient with the modern.
Kyoto boasts an impressive array of attractions that cater to diverse interests. The city is home to over 2,000 religious sites, including the awe-inspiring Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the serene Ryoan-ji Zen garden. The historic Gion district offers visitors a glimpse into the world of geishas, while the bustling Nishiki Market tantalizes the senses with its myriad of local delicacies.
I wholeheartedly recommend Kyoto for its unparalleled ability to transport visitors through time. The city’s meticulously preserved temples, shrines, and traditional machiya houses stand in stark contrast to its modern infrastructure, creating a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new.
When compared to other tourist destinations, Kyoto stands head and shoulders above the rest in terms of cultural significance and historical depth. While cities like Tokyo or Osaka might offer more in terms of modern entertainment and nightlife, Kyoto provides a more contemplative and enriching experience. Its seasonal beauty, from the ethereal cherry blossoms in spring to the vibrant autumn foliage, adds another dimension to its appeal that few other destinations can match.”
Cultural attractions in Kyoto, Japan
Follow-up questions:
- What makes this destination unique compared to others you’ve visited?
- How do you think tourism affects local communities in this destination?
Band 6-7 Answer for question 1:
“Kyoto is unique because of its rich history and traditional culture. Unlike many modern cities, Kyoto has preserved its ancient architecture and customs, which makes it feel like stepping back in time. The city’s numerous temples and shrines are unlike anything I’ve seen elsewhere.”
Band 8-9 Answer for question 1:
“What sets Kyoto apart is its remarkable juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern innovations. The city has masterfully preserved its cultural heritage while embracing contemporary advancements. This harmonious coexistence of old and new creates a unique atmosphere that I haven’t encountered elsewhere. Moreover, Kyoto’s commitment to maintaining its aesthetic beauty, evident in its strict building codes and preservation efforts, results in a cityscape that is both visually stunning and historically significant.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think mass tourism impacts popular destinations?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Mass tourism can have both positive and negative impacts on popular destinations. On the positive side, it brings in economic benefits for local communities through job creation and increased business opportunities. However, it can also lead to overcrowding, environmental damage, and the loss of local culture. For example, some beautiful beaches have become polluted due to too many tourists.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The impact of mass tourism on popular destinations is a double-edged sword. While it undeniably brings substantial economic benefits through job creation and increased revenue, it also poses significant challenges.
On the positive side, tourism can stimulate infrastructure development, promote cultural exchange, and raise awareness about local traditions and environmental issues. It can also incentivize conservation efforts as destinations recognize the value of preserving their natural and cultural assets.
However, the drawbacks are equally compelling. Overtourism can lead to the degradation of natural environments, strain local resources, and contribute to increased pollution. There’s also the risk of cultural commodification, where local traditions are diluted or exploited to cater to tourist expectations.
Moreover, the economic benefits often don’t trickle down equitably to local communities, with large corporations being the primary beneficiaries. This can lead to a widening wealth gap and social tensions.
To mitigate these negative impacts, many destinations are now exploring sustainable tourism models that aim to balance economic benefits with environmental and cultural preservation. This includes measures such as visitor caps, promoting off-season travel, and engaging local communities in tourism planning and management.”
Sustainable tourism practices infographic
Describe a scenic drive you have been on can be another interesting way to discuss travel experiences in your IELTS Speaking test.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Enchanting /ɪnˈtʃæntɪŋ/ (adj): Very attractive or delightful.
Example: “The enchanting streets of the old town were lined with colorful houses.” -
Juxtaposition /ˌdʒʌkstəpəˈzɪʃən/ (n): The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
Example: “The juxtaposition of ancient temples and modern skyscrapers creates a unique cityscape.” -
Myriad /ˈmɪriəd/ (n): A countless or extremely great number of people or things.
Example: “The market offers a myriad of local delicacies to try.” -
Aesthetic /esˈθetɪk/ (adj): Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty.
Example: “The city’s aesthetic appeal attracts artists and photographers from around the world.” -
To cater to (phrasal verb): To provide what is wanted or needed by someone or something.
Example: “The resort caters to a wide range of interests, from adventure sports to relaxation.” -
Cultural commodification (n): The process by which cultural elements are turned into commodities for tourist consumption.
Example: “Some argue that traditional dances performed for tourists lead to cultural commodification.”
Describe an exciting adventure you had can provide an opportunity to use some of these advanced vocabulary items in context.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a tourist destination:
- Use a range of descriptive vocabulary to bring the destination to life.
- Provide specific examples to support your points.
- Discuss both positive and negative aspects to show balanced thinking.
- Use advanced grammatical structures such as conditionals and passive voice.
- Practice speaking fluently about various aspects of travel and tourism.
- Develop your ideas fully, going beyond simple statements to provide explanations and personal insights.
Remember, the key to success is not just knowing about the destination, but being able to discuss it eloquently and in detail. Regular practice with a variety of travel-related topics will help you feel more confident and perform better in the actual test.
Describe a famous tourist attraction in your city can be an excellent topic to practice these skills, as it allows you to combine personal knowledge with broader tourism concepts.
