Speaking about places where we feel relaxed and comfortable is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, similar to describe a time when you felt very relaxed and peaceful. This theme frequently appears in both Part 1 and Part 2, requiring candidates to demonstrate their ability to express personal preferences and emotions.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you prefer staying at home or going out?
- What makes you feel relaxed?
- Where do you usually go to relax?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I actually find great solace in my home library. It’s my personal sanctuary where I can immerse myself in books and unwind after a long day. The tranquil atmosphere and familiar surroundings help me decompress naturally.”
Peaceful home library setting with comfortable armchair and books
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a place where you feel relaxed and comfortable
You should say:
- Where this place is
- What you do there
- Who you go there with
- And explain why this place makes you feel relaxed and comfortable
Similar to how people share their experiences about describe a recent memorable family meal, here’s a sample response:
Band 6-7 Response:
“I want to talk about my bedroom. It’s a medium-sized room with a comfortable bed and desk. I usually spend time there reading books or watching movies on my laptop. I’m usually alone there, but sometimes my cat joins me. The room makes me feel relaxed because it’s quiet and private.”
Band 8-9 Response:
“I’d like to share about my personal haven – a secluded corner in my backyard garden. This meticulously curated space features a vintage wooden bench nestled beneath a magnificent old maple tree. I frequently retreat there during early mornings or late afternoons to immerse myself in reading, meditation, or simply observing nature. While I typically savor the solitude, I occasionally share this special spot with close friends for intimate conversations. The way the dappled sunlight filters through the leaves, combined with the gentle rustling of branches and the subtle fragrance of nearby flowers, creates an absolutely therapeutic environment that helps me disconnect from the daily hustle.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do some people prefer busy places to quiet ones for relaxation?
Band 8-9 Response:
“This fascinating phenomenon can be attributed to several factors. Some individuals derive energy from the vibrant atmosphere of crowded spaces, as it helps them feel connected to the pulse of life. The ambient noise and activity can actually serve as a form of white noise that drowns out their internal thoughts and worries. Additionally, busy places often offer diverse forms of entertainment and social interaction, which some people find more rejuvenating than solitude.”
Just as people share their transformative experiences in describe a time when you felt motivated to change something, the key to scoring high is using sophisticated vocabulary and natural expressions.
Essential Vocabulary and Phrases
- Sanctuary /ˈsæŋktʃueri/ (n): a place of refuge or safety
- Haven /ˈheɪvən/ (n): a place of safety or refuge
- Therapeutic /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/ (adj): having a beneficial effect on the body or mind
- Meticulously /məˈtɪkjələsli/ (adv): with extreme care and precision
- Immerse oneself (phrasal verb): to become completely involved in something
IELTS speaking vocabulary and expression examples
Remember to practice these expressions naturally and incorporate them into your responses while maintaining authenticity in your speech.
