Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Effectively Describe a Country You’d Like to Visit

When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, one common topic that often arises is describing a country you would like to visit. This subject frequently appears in Part 2 of the Speaking exam, where candidates are required to give a 1-2 minute monologue on a given topic. Let’s explore how to tackle this question effectively and showcase your English language skills.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about travel and countries. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

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

Let’s focus on the first question:

Examiner: Do you like traveling?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I really enjoy traveling. It’s a great way to relax and see new places. I try to go on a trip at least once a year, usually to somewhere with nice beaches or interesting historical sites.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m passionate about traveling and find it incredibly enriching. Not only does it provide a much-needed break from the daily grind, but it also broadens my horizons by exposing me to diverse cultures and ways of life. I make it a point to embark on at least one international journey annually, often seeking out destinations that offer a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe a country you would like to visit in the future.

You should say:
- Where it is
- Why you want to visit it
- What you would like to do there
- And explain how you think this trip would impact you

Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d really like to visit Japan in the future. It’s an island country in East Asia, known for its unique culture and advanced technology. I’ve always been fascinated by Japanese history and traditions, especially things like samurai and geisha. Also, I love Japanese food, particularly sushi and ramen.

If I go there, I’d like to visit Tokyo to see the bustling city life and maybe go to some anime shops. I’d also want to see Mount Fuji and perhaps stay in a traditional ryokan. Oh, and I can’t forget about trying lots of different Japanese dishes!

I think this trip would have a big impact on me. It would be my first time in Asia, so I’m sure I’d experience some culture shock. But I believe it would open my eyes to a very different way of life and help me understand Japanese culture better. It might also inspire me to learn some Japanese language.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I have an ardent desire to visit New Zealand in the near future. This picturesque country, comprised of two main islands, is situated in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. My fascination with New Zealand stems from its reputation for breathtaking natural beauty, rich Maori culture, and the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility it offers.

The primary reason I’m drawn to New Zealand is its diverse landscape. From the glaciers of the Southern Alps to the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, the country seems to encapsulate a microcosm of the world’s natural marvels. Additionally, as an avid fan of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ films, I’m intrigued by the idea of visiting the actual filming locations and immersing myself in the magical atmosphere that captivated millions of viewers worldwide.

During my visit, I’d love to embark on some of New Zealand’s famous hiking trails, particularly the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which is renowned for its otherworldly volcanic landscapes. I’m also keen on experiencing the unique Maori culture firsthand, perhaps by attending a traditional hangi feast and watching a captivating haka performance. Furthermore, I’d relish the opportunity to try some adrenaline-pumping activities that New Zealand is famous for, such as bungee jumping in Queenstown or blackwater rafting in the Waitomo Caves.

I believe this trip would have a profound impact on me. Firstly, it would satisfy my wanderlust and quench my thirst for adventure. More importantly, I think it would instill in me a deeper appreciation for nature and its conservation. New Zealand is known for its commitment to preserving its natural environment, and I’m certain I’d return home with a renewed sense of responsibility towards our planet. Additionally, experiencing the Maori culture would broaden my cultural horizons and perhaps challenge some of my preconceived notions about indigenous peoples. Overall, I anticipate that this journey would not only be enjoyable but also transformative, potentially altering my perspective on life and the world around me.

Scenic New Zealand landscape with mountains and lake

Follow-up questions:

1. What kind of accommodation would you prefer in this country?
2. Do you think it’s important to learn the local language before visiting a foreign country?

Let’s address the second question:

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it’s quite important to learn at least some basic phrases in the local language before visiting a foreign country. It helps you communicate with locals and shows respect for their culture. Even just knowing how to say “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” can make a big difference.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I firmly believe that acquiring some rudimentary language skills of the country you’re visiting is not just important, but essential for a truly enriching travel experience. While it’s unrealistic to expect fluency for every country one visits, making an effort to learn key phrases demonstrates respect and cultural sensitivity. This linguistic preparation serves multiple purposes: it facilitates basic communication, which can be crucial in navigating everyday situations or emergencies; it often leads to warmer reception from locals, who appreciate the effort; and it provides a deeper insight into the culture, as language and culture are inextricably linked. Moreover, this linguistic groundwork can enhance one’s travel experience by allowing for more authentic interactions and potentially opening doors to experiences that might be closed to those who make no effort to bridge the language gap.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to travel and countries. Here’s an example:

Examiner: How do you think tourism impacts local communities in popular destinations?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think tourism can have both positive and negative impacts on local communities. On the positive side, it brings in money and creates jobs for local people. Many small businesses like restaurants and souvenir shops can benefit from tourists. However, there can also be negative effects. Sometimes, popular destinations become overcrowded, which can be annoying for local residents. It might also lead to increased prices, making it difficult for locals to afford living there. Overall, I think it’s important to manage tourism carefully to maximize the benefits and minimize the problems.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The impact of tourism on local communities in popular destinations is undoubtedly multifaceted and often paradoxical. On one hand, tourism can be a powerful economic catalyst, generating substantial revenue streams and creating diverse employment opportunities. This economic injection can lead to improved infrastructure, enhanced public services, and a general uplift in the standard of living for local residents. Moreover, tourism often promotes cultural exchange and can instill a sense of pride in local traditions, potentially leading to their preservation and revitalization.

However, the coin has another side. Mass tourism can exert significant pressure on local resources and ecosystems, leading to environmental degradation. The influx of visitors can also result in the commodification of culture, where local traditions are reduced to mere tourist attractions, losing their authenticity and spiritual significance. Furthermore, popular destinations often face issues like overtourism, which can lead to the displacement of local communities due to rising property prices and cost of living.

To mitigate these negative impacts while harnessing the benefits, a balanced and sustainable approach to tourism development is crucial. This might involve implementing visitor caps, promoting off-season travel, and ensuring that tourism revenues are reinvested in local communities and conservation efforts. Ultimately, the goal should be to create a symbiotic relationship between tourists and local communities, where both parties benefit without compromising the integrity of the destination or the well-being of its residents.

Infographic on sustainable tourism practices

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To elevate your speaking performance, consider incorporating these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:

1. Wanderlust /ˈwɒndəlʌst/ (noun) – A strong desire to travel
   Example: “My wanderlust often leads me to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.”

2. Culturally enriching (adjective phrase) – Providing valuable cultural experiences
   Example: “Visiting historical sites can be a culturally enriching experience.”

3. To broaden one’s horizons (idiom) – To expand one’s knowledge and experience
   Example: “Traveling to different countries helps to broaden one’s horizons.”

4. Awe-inspiring (adjective) – Extremely impressive or daunting
   Example: “The Grand Canyon is truly an awe-inspiring natural wonder.”

5. To immerse oneself (phrasal verb) – To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest
   Example: “I love to immerse myself in local cultures when I travel.”

Describe a place in your city known for its vibrant nightlife to further enhance your speaking skills for the IELTS exam.

Examiner’s Advice

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

1. Elaborate on your answers: Provide detailed explanations and examples to support your points.

2. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced and topic-specific vocabulary to demonstrate your language proficiency.

3. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking at length about various topics to improve your ability to speak continuously and coherently.

4. Show enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in the topic to engage the examiner and showcase your communication skills.

5. Structure your response: Organize your thoughts logically, especially in Part 2, to ensure a clear and cohesive monologue.

Remember, consistent practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Consider recording yourself answering sample questions and listening back to identify areas for improvement. Additionally, describe a famous tourist spot in your country as a practice exercise to further enhance your descriptive abilities.

IELTS speaking practice session with an examiner

By following these guidelines and incorporating the suggested vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be well-equipped to excel in your IELTS Speaking test when describing a country you’d like to visit or discussing any travel-related topic. Remember to also describe a hobby you want to pursue in the future as part of your preparation, as it can help you practice expressing personal interests and future plans.