In IELTS Speaking exams, describing a city you want to explore is a popular topic. This theme often appears in Part 2 and may lead to related questions in Part 3. Let’s dive into how to effectively tackle this subject and maximize your score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
The examiner may warm up with questions about your hometown or current city. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: “Do you prefer living in a big city or a small town?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I personally prefer living in a big city because of the diverse opportunities it offers. Large metropolitan areas typically have a wider range of job prospects, cultural events, and educational institutions. However, I can certainly appreciate the charm and close-knit community feel of smaller towns. It really depends on one’s lifestyle preferences and career goals.”
Comparing urban and rural living
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a city you want to explore:
Describe a city you would like to visit in the future.
You should say:
- Where this city is located
- Why you want to visit it
- What you would like to do there
- And explain how you think this visit might affect youSample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’ve always dreamed of visiting Tokyo, the capital city of Japan. It’s located on the eastern coast of Honshu, the largest of Japan’s main islands. I’m really interested in visiting Tokyo because it seems to be a perfect blend of traditional culture and cutting-edge technology.
I’d love to explore the city’s famous neighborhoods like Shibuya and Harajuku, known for their vibrant street fashion and youthful energy. I also want to experience the tranquility of traditional Japanese gardens and temples, such as the Senso-ji Temple.
While there, I’d definitely want to try authentic Japanese cuisine, especially sushi and ramen from local restaurants. I’m also keen on visiting some of Tokyo’s high-tech districts to see the latest gadgets and innovations.
I think this visit would have a profound impact on me. It would broaden my cultural horizons and give me a deeper appreciation for Japanese traditions and innovations. I believe experiencing such a unique and dynamic city firsthand would inspire me to be more open-minded and creative in my own life.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m absolutely captivated by the prospect of exploring Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents – Europe and Asia. This metropolis, situated on the Bosphorus Strait in northwestern Turkey, has been a cultural melting pot for millennia, which makes it an irresistible destination for history enthusiasts like myself.
My fascination with Istanbul stems from its rich historical tapestry, where ancient civilizations have left their indelible mark. I’m particularly intrigued by the opportunity to witness firsthand the architectural marvels that span different eras – from the Byzantine splendor of the Hagia Sophia to the Ottoman grandeur of the Blue Mosque.
While in Istanbul, I’d be keen to immerse myself in the local culture. High on my agenda would be meandering through the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps haggle for some unique souvenirs. I’d also relish the chance to take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus, admiring the city’s skyline and gaining a unique perspective on its geography.
I believe this visit would be truly transformative. Experiencing the harmonious coexistence of different cultures and religions in Istanbul would likely challenge my preconceptions and foster a deeper understanding of cultural diversity. Moreover, witnessing the city’s successful blend of tradition and modernity might inspire me to approach challenges in my own life with a more balanced and nuanced perspective. Ultimately, I think exploring Istanbul would not just be a trip, but a profound learning experience that would broaden my worldview and enrich my personal growth.”
Istanbul skyline with Bosphorus Strait
Follow-up questions:
- How do you think visiting this city might change your perspective on your own culture?
- What challenges do you think you might face while exploring a new city?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Exploring Istanbul would likely provide a fascinating contrast to my own cultural background. The city’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences would undoubtedly challenge my preconceptions and broaden my cultural horizons. I believe it would encourage me to reflect more deeply on my own cultural identity and perhaps appreciate aspects of my heritage that I might have previously taken for granted. Moreover, witnessing the harmonious coexistence of different religions and traditions in Istanbul might inspire me to foster greater tolerance and understanding in my own community.”
Sample answer for question 2 (Band 8-9):
“Navigating a new city, especially one as vast and complex as Istanbul, would certainly present some challenges. The language barrier might be a significant hurdle, as Turkish is quite different from languages I’m familiar with. Adapting to local customs and etiquette could also be tricky, particularly in religious sites where specific dress codes and behaviors are expected. Additionally, managing transportation in a city known for its traffic congestion might be daunting. However, I see these challenges as opportunities for personal growth and developing problem-solving skills. Overcoming them would undoubtedly enhance my confidence as a traveler and broaden my cultural competence.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “How do you think tourism affects the cities people want to visit?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Tourism can have both positive and negative impacts on popular cities. On the positive side, it often boosts the local economy, creating jobs and bringing in revenue. This can lead to improved infrastructure and services that benefit both tourists and residents. Tourism can also promote cultural exchange and understanding between different nations.
However, there are also potential drawbacks. Overtourism can lead to overcrowding, especially in city centers, which may disrupt local life. It can also cause environmental issues, such as increased pollution and strain on local resources. Additionally, popular tourist destinations might see rising costs of living, which can be challenging for local residents.
Balancing the benefits of tourism with the needs of local communities is a complex challenge that many cities are grappling with. Some are implementing strategies like limiting tourist numbers or promoting off-season travel to mitigate negative effects while still enjoying the economic benefits of tourism.”
Tourism impact on a popular city
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The impact of tourism on popular cities is multifaceted and often paradoxical. On one hand, tourism can be a powerful economic driver, injecting vitality into local economies through job creation and increased revenue streams. This economic boost often translates into tangible benefits for residents, such as improved urban infrastructure, enhanced cultural facilities, and a more diverse range of services. Moreover, tourism can serve as a catalyst for cultural preservation and revival, as cities often invest in maintaining and showcasing their heritage to attract visitors.
However, the flip side of this coin reveals some concerning issues. Overtourism, a phenomenon increasingly observed in popular destinations, can lead to the commodification of local culture and the displacement of residents from city centers due to soaring property prices and rental costs. This can result in a loss of authentic local character that initially attracted tourists. Furthermore, the environmental toll of mass tourism, including increased pollution and strain on natural resources, poses significant challenges to urban sustainability.
To mitigate these negative effects while harnessing the benefits of tourism, many cities are adopting innovative approaches. These include implementing smart tourism technologies to manage visitor flows, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and developing strategies to disperse tourists beyond traditional hotspots. Some cities are also exploring ways to involve local communities more actively in tourism planning and benefits-sharing, aiming to create a more symbiotic relationship between visitors and residents.
Ultimately, the key lies in striking a delicate balance – leveraging tourism as a tool for economic and cultural enrichment while preserving the essence and livability of cities for their inhabitants. This requires thoughtful planning, stakeholder collaboration, and a long-term vision that prioritizes sustainable development over short-term gains.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Metropolis /məˈtrɒpəlɪs/ (noun): A very large and busy city, often the most important city in a region.
Example: “Tokyo is a bustling metropolis that never seems to sleep.”Captivating /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Very attractive and interesting; holding one’s attention.
Example: “The captivating architecture of Barcelona drew millions of tourists each year.”Cultural melting pot (idiom): A place where many different cultures and people mix together.
Example: “New York City is often described as a cultural melting pot due to its diverse population.”To broaden one’s horizons (phrase): To expand one’s knowledge, experience, or outlook.
Example: “Traveling to different cities can really broaden your horizons and change your perspective on life.”Immerse oneself /ɪˈmɜːs/ (phrasal verb): To become completely involved in something.
Example: “When visiting Paris, I plan to immerse myself in the local art scene.”
Describe a museum you visited to further enhance your ability to discuss cultural experiences in cities.
Examiner’s Advice
To score high in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a city:
- Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate descriptive adjectives and specific terms related to urban features.
- Provide detailed examples: Don’t just state facts; elaborate with personal opinions and experiences.
- Use varied sentence structures: Mix simple and complex sentences to demonstrate linguistic flexibility.
- Show enthusiasm: Your tone and choice of words should convey genuine interest in the topic.
- Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses or hesitations.
Remember, the key to success is not just knowing what to say, but how to say it eloquently and naturally. Regular practice with a variety of urban-related topics will help you describe a skill you want to develop in the future, such as becoming a better public speaker or improving your descriptive language skills.