Describing a place far away that you would like to visit is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to express desires, imagination, and cultural awareness. It’s a popular subject that has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests.

Describe a food market you like to visit can be an excellent way to practice describing places, which is a crucial skill for this topic as well.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about travel and distant places. Here are some common questions:

1. Do you enjoy traveling?
2. Have you ever been to a foreign country?
3. What kind of places do you like to visit on vacation?

Let’s focus on the third question. Here’s a sample answer:

“I’m particularly drawn to historical sites and cultural landmarks. There’s something captivating about walking through ancient ruins or exploring museums filled with artifacts from past civilizations. I find that these places offer a unique glimpse into the past and help me broaden my perspective on different cultures and ways of life.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe A Place Far Away That You Would Like To Visit
You should say:

• Where it is
• How you know about this place
• What you would like to do there
• And explain why you want to visit this place

Band 6-7 Answer:

“I’ve always dreamed of visiting New Zealand, a country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. I first learned about this beautiful place through nature documentaries and travel blogs. The country’s diverse landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches, have always fascinated me.

If I had the chance to visit, I’d love to explore the breathtaking fjords of Milford Sound, hike through the lush forests, and perhaps even try bungee jumping, which New Zealand is famous for. I’m also interested in learning about Maori culture and would like to attend a traditional Maori performance.

The main reason I want to visit New Zealand is its stunning natural beauty. I’m an outdoor enthusiast, and New Zealand seems like a paradise for nature lovers. Additionally, I’ve heard that New Zealanders are very friendly, and I’m eager to experience their hospitality firsthand. The country’s commitment to environmental conservation also appeals to me, as I believe in the importance of sustainable tourism.”

Band 8-9 Answer:

“I’ve long been captivated by the prospect of visiting Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom nestled between India and China. This enigmatic nation first piqued my interest when I stumbled upon an article about its unique approach to national development, measured in terms of Gross National Happiness rather than Gross Domestic Product.

Should I have the opportunity to visit, I would be eager to immerse myself in Bhutan’s rich Buddhist culture. I’d love to embark on a challenging trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched precariously on a cliff face. Additionally, I’m intrigued by the chance to witness traditional archery competitions and partake in a local festival, or ‘tsechu’, to gain deeper insights into Bhutanese traditions.

The allure of Bhutan lies in its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and natural environment. The country’s policy of “high-value, low-impact” tourism resonates with my personal ethos of responsible travel. I’m fascinated by the opportunity to observe how a nation balances modernization with traditional values and environmental conservation. Moreover, the prospect of experiencing a society that prioritizes collective well-being over material wealth is both intriguing and inspiring to me.”

Bhutan's Tiger's Nest Monastery perched on a cliff

Follow-up questions:

1. What challenges might you face when visiting this place?
2. How do you think this experience would change you?

Band 6-7 Answers:

1. “One challenge I might face is the language barrier. I don’t speak the local language, so communication could be difficult at times. Another issue could be adapting to the local cuisine, as it might be very different from what I’m used to.”

2. “I think this experience would make me more open-minded and culturally aware. Seeing a completely different way of life would probably change my perspective on many things and help me appreciate my own culture more.”

Band 8-9 Answers:

1. “A significant challenge would likely be acclimatizing to the high altitude, given Bhutan’s mountainous terrain. This might necessitate a slower pace of travel and possibly some medical precautions. Additionally, navigating the country’s strict tourism policies and obtaining the necessary permits could prove to be a complex process.”

2. “I believe this experience would profoundly impact my worldview. Immersing myself in a culture that prioritizes spiritual and emotional well-being over material wealth could challenge my preconceived notions about progress and development. It might inspire me to reassess my own values and perhaps adopt a more mindful approach to life. Furthermore, witnessing Bhutan’s commitment to environmental preservation could motivate me to become a more ardent advocate for sustainable practices in my own community.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: “Do you think tourism can have negative effects on far-away places?”

Band 6-7 Answer:

“Yes, I think tourism can sometimes have negative effects. Overcrowding is a big problem in some popular destinations. This can put a strain on local resources and infrastructure. Also, tourism can sometimes lead to the commercialization of local cultures, where traditions become more of a show for tourists rather than genuine practices. However, tourism also brings many benefits, like economic growth and cultural exchange.”

Band 8-9 Answer:

“Indeed, tourism can have significant detrimental impacts on remote destinations if not managed properly. Overtourism is a pressing concern, leading to environmental degradation, strain on local infrastructure, and disruption of ecosystems. Moreover, there’s the risk of cultural commodification, where indigenous traditions are diluted or exploited for tourist consumption, potentially eroding the authenticity of local cultures.

However, it’s crucial to note that tourism, when implemented sustainably, can be a powerful tool for conservation and cultural preservation. The key lies in striking a delicate balance between reaping the economic benefits of tourism and safeguarding the natural and cultural heritage of these destinations. Initiatives such as eco-tourism and community-based tourism models have shown promising results in achieving this equilibrium.”

Sustainable Tourism Infographic: Eco-Friendly Travel Tips

Describe a restaurant you would recommend to friends is another topic that can help you practice describing places and experiences, which is valuable for discussing far-away destinations as well.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Captivating /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ (adj): Very attractive and interesting
   Example: “The captivating landscapes of New Zealand have long been on my travel bucket list.”

2. Enigmatic /ˌenɪɡˈmætɪk/ (adj): Difficult to understand or mysterious
   Example: “Bhutan’s enigmatic culture and traditions intrigue many travelers.”

3. Immerse /ɪˈmɜːrs/ (verb): To become completely involved in something
   Example: “I’d love to immerse myself in the local customs and way of life.”

4. Pique one’s interest (phrase): To stimulate one’s curiosity
   Example: “The article about Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness piqued my interest in visiting the country.”

5. Ethos /ˈiːθɒs/ (noun): The characteristic spirit of a culture or community
   Example: “The country’s ethos of prioritizing happiness over material wealth fascinates me.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a far-away place you’d like to visit:

1. Expand your vocabulary: Use a diverse range of descriptive words and phrases to bring your chosen destination to life.

2. Practice coherent storytelling: Organize your thoughts logically and present them in a clear, flowing manner.

3. Show cultural awareness: Demonstrate knowledge about the place’s culture, history, or unique characteristics.

4. Express personal connection: Explain why this particular place appeals to you, showing depth in your reasoning.

5. Use advanced grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences and a variety of tenses to showcase your language proficiency.

Remember, regular practice and exposure to English through various media can significantly improve your speaking skills and confidence.

Describe a museum you wish to visit is another excellent topic to practice, as it shares similar descriptive elements with discussing far-away places you’d like to visit.