The topic of describing a city you plan to visit is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate future plans, express enthusiasm, and showcase your vocabulary related to travel and urban environments. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to excel in this speaking task across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about cities and travel. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:

1. Do you enjoy traveling to new cities?
2. What kind of cities do you prefer to visit?
3. How do you usually prepare for a trip to a new city?

Let’s focus on question 3:

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“Well, I usually start by doing extensive research online about the city I plan to visit. I like to create an itinerary that includes must-see attractions and hidden gems. I also make sure to book accommodation in a central location and familiarize myself with the public transportation system. Additionally, I always try to learn a few basic phrases in the local language, as I believe it helps to connect with the locals and shows respect for their culture.”

Describe a public transport experience you had

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a city you plan to visit:

Describe A City You Plan To Visit In The Future
You should say:

• Where this city is located
• Why you want to visit this city
• What you plan to do there
• And explain how you think this visit will impact you

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’m really excited to talk about a city I’m planning to visit in the near future, which is Tokyo, Japan. Tokyo is the bustling capital of Japan, located on the eastern coast of Honshu, the largest of Japan’s main islands.

The reason I’m drawn to Tokyo is its fascinating blend of ultra-modern technology and traditional culture. I’ve always been intrigued by the city’s reputation for cutting-edge innovations, from its efficient public transportation to its futuristic robotics. At the same time, I’m captivated by the prospect of experiencing ancient temples and traditional gardens nestled among skyscrapers.

During my visit, I plan to immerse myself in the local culture. I want to explore iconic neighborhoods like Shibuya and Shinjuku, known for their vibrant street life and neon-lit streets. I’m also keen on visiting historical sites such as the Senso-ji Temple and the Imperial Palace. Of course, no trip to Tokyo would be complete without indulging in the world-renowned cuisine, so I intend to sample everything from sushi at the Tsukiji Outer Market to ramen in cozy local shops.

I believe this visit will have a profound impact on me. Experiencing such a unique and dynamic city firsthand will likely broaden my horizons and give me a new perspective on urban living. I expect to gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and perhaps even pick up some of their admirable traits, like punctuality and respect for others. Moreover, navigating a city so different from my own will challenge me to adapt and become more resourceful, skills that will undoubtedly benefit me in the future.”

Tokyo's blend of modern technology and traditional culture

Examiner’s follow-up questions:

1. How do you think this city differs from your hometown?
2. What challenges might you face when visiting this city?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“Tokyo is likely to be drastically different from my hometown in several aspects. Firstly, the sheer scale of Tokyo, with its population of over 37 million in the metropolitan area, dwarfs my hometown. This vast urban landscape will probably feel overwhelming at first. Additionally, the technological advancements in Tokyo, such as their high-speed trains and robot-staffed hotels, are far beyond what I’m accustomed to. The cultural differences will also be significant, from the language barrier to social norms and etiquette. However, these differences are precisely what make the prospect of visiting Tokyo so exhilarating and educational.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to cities and urban planning. Here’s an example question with sample answers:

Examiner: How do you think cities will change in the future?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“I think cities in the future will be very different from now. They will probably have more tall buildings and use more technology. Transport might improve with things like flying cars or faster trains. Cities might also try to be more environmentally friendly by having more green spaces and using renewable energy. The way people live and work might change too, with more people working from home or in shared spaces.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I believe cities of the future will undergo substantial transformations to address current challenges and embrace new technologies. We’re likely to see a shift towards ‘smart cities’ that leverage data and connectivity to optimize resource allocation and improve quality of life. This could manifest in various ways, such as intelligent traffic management systems to reduce congestion, or IoT-enabled infrastructure for more efficient energy use.

Moreover, I anticipate a greater emphasis on sustainability and resilience. Future cities might incorporate more vertical gardens and green roofs to combat urban heat islands and improve air quality. We may also see a revolution in urban mobility, with a move towards autonomous vehicles and innovative public transport solutions like hyperloops.

The concept of ‘mixed-use developments’ could become more prevalent, blurring the lines between residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. This could lead to more walkable neighborhoods and reduce the need for long commutes.

However, these changes will likely bring new challenges, such as data privacy concerns and the need to ensure that technological advancements don’t exacerbate social inequalities. The cities that thrive in the future will be those that can balance innovation with inclusivity and maintain a sense of community amidst rapid change.”

Futuristic smart city concept

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Bustling (adjective) /ˈbʌs.lɪŋ/ – full of activity, energy, and life
   Example: Tokyo is known for its bustling streets and lively atmosphere.

2. Blend (noun) /blend/ – a mixture of different things or styles
   Example: The city offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations.

3. Immerse oneself (phrasal verb) /ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself/ – to become completely involved in something
   Example: I plan to immerse myself in the local culture during my visit.

4. Vibrant (adjective) /ˈvaɪ.brənt/ – full of energy and enthusiasm
   Example: The vibrant nightlife in Tokyo is something I’m looking forward to experiencing.

5. Broaden one’s horizons (idiom) – to expand one’s knowledge, experience, or outlook
   Example: Traveling to new cities helps broaden one’s horizons and gain new perspectives.

Describe a favorite place to go on weekends

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a city you plan to visit:

1. Prepare a diverse vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with a range of words and phrases related to travel, urban environments, and cultural experiences.

2. Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly and confidently, minimizing hesitations and fillers.

3. Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts about the city; explain your thoughts, feelings, and expectations in detail.

4. Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences and different tenses to demonstrate your language proficiency.

5. Show enthusiasm: Convey genuine interest in the topic through your tone and choice of words.

6. Be specific: Provide concrete examples and details to support your points.

7. Stay on topic: Ensure your answers are relevant to the questions asked.

Remember, practice is key to improving your performance. Consider recording yourself answering sample questions and analyzing your responses to identify areas for improvement.

Describe a memory from a family vacation

By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in describing a city you plan to visit in your IELTS Speaking test.