The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about travel and tourism, making “describe a famous tourist spot you would like to visit” a common topic. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, helping you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about travel and tourism. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:
Examiner: Do you enjoy traveling?
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about exploring new places. Traveling not only broadens my horizons but also allows me to immerse myself in diverse cultures and gain fresh perspectives. It’s a truly enriching experience that I always look forward to.
describe a sport you would like to try
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a famous tourist spot you would like to visit
You should say:
- Where it is
- What you know about it
- Why you want to visit it
- And explain how you think you would feel when you visit this place
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
I’d like to talk about the Taj Mahal, a famous tourist spot in India that I’ve always wanted to visit. It’s located in Agra, a city in northern India. The Taj Mahal is a beautiful white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. It’s known for its stunning architecture and is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
I want to visit the Taj Mahal because of its historical significance and beauty. I’ve seen many pictures of it, and I’m amazed by its symmetry and the intricate details of its design. I think it would be incredible to see such a magnificent structure in person.
When I visit the Taj Mahal, I believe I would feel awe-inspired. Seeing such a grand monument up close would probably make me feel small but also filled with wonder at human creativity and the power of love that inspired its creation.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d be delighted to describe the iconic Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan citadel nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. This archaeological marvel is perched on a mountain ridge about 2,430 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Machu Picchu is renowned for its ingenious architecture and sophisticated engineering, particularly impressive given the technological limitations of the 15th century when it was built. The site features intricate stone masonry, terraced fields, and a complex system of water channels, all of which demonstrate the remarkable skills of the Incan civilization.
My fervent desire to visit Machu Picchu stems from its profound historical significance and the air of mystery that surrounds it. The fact that it remained hidden from the outside world for centuries, only to be rediscovered in 1911, adds to its allure. I’m particularly intrigued by the theories about its purpose and the daily lives of its inhabitants.
I anticipate that visiting Machu Picchu would be an overwhelmingly emotional experience. Standing amidst the ancient ruins, gazing out over the mist-shrouded mountains, I imagine I’d feel a profound sense of connection to history and nature. The sheer magnitude of human achievement in constructing such a magnificent citadel in such a challenging location would likely leave me awestruck and deeply moved.
Follow-up Questions
Examiner: How do you think tourism affects local communities near famous landmarks?
Candidate (Band 6-7): Tourism can have both positive and negative effects on local communities. On the positive side, it can bring in money and create jobs. However, it can also lead to overcrowding and environmental problems. Local people might find it hard to afford living in their own towns if prices go up because of tourism.
Candidate (Band 8-9): The impact of tourism on local communities is multifaceted and often double-edged. On one hand, it can be a significant economic driver, creating employment opportunities and stimulating local businesses. This influx of revenue can lead to improved infrastructure and services, benefiting both tourists and residents alike.
However, there’s also a potential downside to consider. Overtourism can lead to the commodification of local culture, where traditions are performed solely for tourists rather than maintained for their intrinsic value. Additionally, the strain on local resources and infrastructure can be substantial, potentially leading to environmental degradation and a diminished quality of life for residents.
Furthermore, the economic disparities that can arise between those benefiting from tourism and those who don’t can create social tensions. There’s also the risk of gentrification, where rising property values driven by tourism can price out long-term residents.
Ultimately, the key lies in sustainable tourism practices that balance the economic benefits with the need to preserve local culture and environment, ensuring that tourism enhances rather than detracts from the community’s overall well-being.
describe a time when you visited a park or garden
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think technology has changed the way people travel?
Candidate (Band 6-7): Technology has made travel much easier. We can now book flights and hotels online, use GPS to find our way around, and easily stay in touch with family back home. Apps help us translate languages and find good restaurants. However, some people might argue that technology makes travel less adventurous because everything is planned in advance.
Candidate (Band 8-9): Technology has revolutionized the travel industry in numerous ways, fundamentally altering how we plan, experience, and share our journeys. The advent of online booking platforms and comparison websites has empowered travelers with unprecedented access to information and options, allowing for more informed decisions and often more cost-effective travel arrangements.
Navigation apps and GPS technology have transformed the way we explore new destinations, mitigating the fear of getting lost in unfamiliar territories. This has encouraged more independent travel, as people feel more confident venturing off the beaten path.
Social media and review platforms have created a culture of shared experiences, influencing travel choices and expectations. This democratization of travel information has both positive and negative implications – while it can lead to the discovery of hidden gems, it can also result in over-tourism of once-secluded spots.
Virtual and augmented reality technologies are beginning to offer immersive previews of destinations, potentially altering the decision-making process for travelers. However, this raises questions about the authenticity of travel experiences and whether technology might someday supplant physical travel for some.
While technology has undoubtedly made travel more accessible and convenient, it’s worth considering whether it has also diminished some aspects of the travel experience. The spontaneity and serendipity that often lead to the most memorable travel moments might be reduced when every aspect of a trip is meticulously planned and digitally guided.
describe a place you visited with stunning views
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Iconic /aɪˈkɒnɪk/ (adjective): Very famous or popular, especially being considered to represent particular opinions or a particular time.
Example: The Eiffel Tower is an iconic symbol of Paris.Breathtaking /ˈbreθˌteɪkɪŋ/ (adjective): Extremely impressive or beautiful.
Example: The Grand Canyon offers breathtaking views of nature’s beauty.Immerse oneself /ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself/ (phrasal verb): To become completely involved in something.
Example: When visiting Japan, I love to immerse myself in the local culture.Awe-inspiring /ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/ (adjective): Causing feelings of great admiration or respect, often combined with wonder or fear.
Example: The Northern Lights create an awe-inspiring spectacle in the night sky.Cultural heritage /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ (noun phrase): The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society.
Example: Visiting Petra allows you to experience Jordan’s rich cultural heritage.
describe a building you admire for its architecture
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a famous tourist spot:
Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate descriptive adjectives and specific terms related to travel and tourism.
Provide detailed responses: Elaborate on your answers with examples and personal experiences.
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking at length about various tourist destinations to improve your ability to speak without hesitation.
Show enthusiasm: Convey genuine interest in the topic through your tone and expression.
Use advanced grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences and a mix of tenses to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Be coherent: Organize your thoughts logically and use linking words to connect ideas smoothly.
Remember, regular practice and exposure to English content about travel and tourism can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test.
describe a famous river or lake you visited
IELTS Speaking Test Preparation
By following these guidelines and incorporating rich vocabulary and complex structures in your responses, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in describing famous tourist spots in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!