The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about places, and one common topic is describing a place you’d like to visit again. This theme appears frequently in Part 1 and Part 2 of the speaking exam, making it crucial for test-takers to be well-prepared. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask you simple questions about places you’ve visited. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Is there a place in your country that you’d like to visit again?
A: (Band 7-8 response) Absolutely. I’d love to revisit Halong Bay in northern Vietnam. It’s a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. My first trip there was relatively brief, so I’m eager to go back and explore it more thoroughly.
describe a river or lake that you would like to visit
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
For Part 2, you might receive a cue card like this:
Describe a place in your country that you want to visit again.
You should say:
- Where it is
- When you first visited it
- What you did there
- And explain why you want to visit it again
Here are sample answers for different band scores:
Band 6-7 Answer:
The place I want to visit again is Hoi An, an ancient town in central Vietnam. I first went there about five years ago with my family. We spent three days exploring the old town, visiting historical sites, and enjoying the local food. We also went to the nearby beach and took a cooking class.
I want to go back because Hoi An is really beautiful and has a unique atmosphere. The old buildings and lanterns make it very special, especially at night. Also, there were some places I didn’t have time to see, like some of the old houses and temples. The food was delicious, and I’d like to try more local dishes. Lastly, I think it would be nice to see how the town has changed in the last few years.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m particularly keen on revisiting Hoi An, a picturesque ancient town nestled in central Vietnam. My inaugural trip there was approximately five years ago when I embarked on a family vacation. We immersed ourselves in the town’s rich history for three days, meandering through its well-preserved streets, marveling at centuries-old architecture, and indulging in the local cuisine. We also took advantage of its coastal location by spending time at the nearby beach and participated in an enlightening cooking class to learn about traditional Vietnamese culinary techniques.
The allure of Hoi An lies in its unparalleled charm and distinctive ambiance. The town’s meticulously preserved ancient buildings and the soft glow of colorful lanterns create an enchanting atmosphere, particularly after nightfall. Moreover, there were several notable sites I regrettably missed during my first visit, such as some of the historic family homes and venerable temples, which I’m eager to explore this time around. The gastronomic scene in Hoi An is nothing short of extraordinary, and I’m looking forward to further expanding my palate with more local delicacies. Lastly, I’m intrigued to observe how the town has evolved over the years while maintaining its cultural integrity.
Follow-up questions:
Q: How has tourism affected this place since your last visit?
A: (Band 8-9) From what I’ve gathered, tourism has had a significant impact on Hoi An since my last visit. While it has undoubtedly boosted the local economy and led to improvements in infrastructure, there are concerns about overtourism. The influx of visitors has put pressure on the town’s historical sites and potentially diluted some of its authentic charm. However, I’ve heard that local authorities are implementing measures to promote sustainable tourism and preserve the town’s cultural heritage, which I find commendable.
Q: Do you think it’s better to revisit familiar places or explore new ones?
A: (Band 8-9) That’s an interesting dilemma. While there’s certainly merit in both approaches, I believe it depends on one’s personal preferences and travel goals. Revisiting familiar places allows for a deeper appreciation and understanding of the destination, as you can explore beyond the surface level and notice nuances you might have missed initially. It also offers a sense of nostalgia and comfort. On the other hand, exploring new places broadens one’s horizons, exposes you to diverse cultures, and can be more exhilarating. Ideally, I think a balance between the two is the best approach to travel.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s an example:
Q: How do you think tourism affects local communities in popular destinations?
A: (Band 8-9) Tourism can have both positive and negative impacts on local communities in popular destinations. On the positive side, it often stimulates economic growth by creating jobs and generating revenue for local businesses. This can lead to improved infrastructure, better educational opportunities, and a higher standard of living for residents. Tourism can also promote cultural exchange and help preserve local traditions and heritage sites that might otherwise be neglected.
However, there are also potential drawbacks. Overtourism can lead to environmental degradation, increased cost of living for locals, and a loss of authentic cultural experiences as destinations cater more to tourists’ expectations. In some cases, it can even displace local communities as property values rise and traditional neighborhoods are transformed into tourist zones.
To mitigate these negative effects, it’s crucial for destinations to implement sustainable tourism practices that balance the needs of visitors with those of the local community and environment. This might include measures such as limiting visitor numbers, promoting off-season travel, and ensuring that tourism revenue is reinvested in local communities and conservation efforts.
describe a place where you often go to relax
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score, incorporate these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
Picturesque /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/ (adj): visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way
Example: The picturesque coastal village attracted many artists and photographers.Immerse oneself (phrasal verb): to involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest
Example: She immersed herself in the local culture by learning the language and traditions.Meander /miˈændər/ (verb): to follow a winding course or to wander aimlessly
Example: We meandered through the narrow streets of the old town, discovering hidden gems.Allure /əˈlʊər/ (noun): the quality of being powerfully and mysteriously attractive or fascinating
Example: The allure of the ancient ruins drew thousands of visitors each year.Gastronomic /ˌɡæstrəˈnɒmɪk/ (adj): relating to the art or science of good eating
Example: The region is known for its gastronomic delights, including locally produced wines and cheeses.Evolve /ɪˈvɒlv/ (verb): to develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complex form
Example: The city has evolved from a small fishing village into a major metropolitan area.
describe a traditional festival in your culture
Tips from an Examiner
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing places:
- Use vivid descriptive language to paint a clear picture of the place in the examiner’s mind.
- Structure your answer logically, covering all points in the cue card and elaborating where appropriate.
- Incorporate a range of advanced vocabulary and grammatical structures to demonstrate your language proficiency.
- Speak fluently and coherently, avoiding long pauses or repetition.
- Show enthusiasm in your voice and manner when talking about the place you want to revisit.
- Practice regularly with a variety of topics related to places and travel to improve your spontaneity and confidence.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about memorizing answers, but being able to communicate effectively and naturally on a wide range of topics.
IELTS Speaking Test Preparation
By following these guidelines and incorporating advanced language skills, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about places you want to revisit in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!