The topic of describing a memorable journey is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to narrate past experiences. This article will guide you through answering questions related to this topic, providing sample answers and tips to help you achieve a high score.

Describe a memorable journey you took by car can be a great way to practice for this type of question. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about travel and journeys. Here are some common questions you might encounter:

1. Do you enjoy traveling?
2. What kind of transport do you prefer for long journeys?
3. Have you ever been on a long journey?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: Do you enjoy traveling?

Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): Absolutely, I’m quite passionate about traveling. It’s not just about visiting new places, but also about immersing myself in different cultures and broadening my horizons. I find that every journey, whether it’s a short trip to a neighboring city or a long-haul flight to another continent, offers unique experiences and invaluable lessons.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe A Journey You Will Never Forget

You should say:

• Where you went
• Who you went with
• What happened during the journey
• And explain why you will never forget this journey

IELTS Speaking Cue Card: Describe a journey you will never forget

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to talk about an unforgettable journey I took to Machu Picchu in Peru last year. It was a trek I’d been dreaming about for years, and I finally had the opportunity to embark on this adventure with my best friend, Sarah.

We set off on a four-day hike along the Inca Trail, which was both physically challenging and spiritually rewarding. The journey was filled with breathtaking landscapes, from lush cloud forests to snow-capped Andean peaks. What made this trek particularly memorable was the sense of history surrounding us. We walked the same paths that the ancient Incas had trodden centuries ago, which gave me a profound connection to the past.

One of the most remarkable moments during our journey occurred on the third day. We woke up before dawn to reach the Sun Gate, from where we could watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. As the first rays of light illuminated the ancient citadel, I was overwhelmed with emotion. The sight was absolutely awe-inspiring, and it felt like we had stepped back in time.

This journey will forever be etched in my memory for several reasons. Firstly, the sheer beauty of the landscape was unlike anything I had ever seen before. Secondly, the physical challenge of the trek pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a great sense of accomplishment. Lastly, experiencing this wonder of the world with my best friend created a bond and shared memories that we’ll cherish for a lifetime.

The journey to Machu Picchu was more than just a trip; it was a transformative experience that broadened my perspective on history, nature, and human achievement. It rekindled my sense of adventure and left me with a deeper appreciation for ancient cultures. This journey truly epitomizes the saying that it’s not just the destination, but the journey itself that matters.

Follow-up questions:

1. How do you usually prepare for a long journey?
2. Do you prefer traveling alone or with others? Why?

Sample answer (Band 7-8) for question 1:

When preparing for a long journey, I usually start by researching the destination thoroughly. This includes looking up cultural norms, local customs, and any potential health risks. I also make a detailed packing list to ensure I don’t forget any essentials. Additionally, I always make sure to have proper travel insurance and necessary vaccinations. Lastly, I try to learn a few basic phrases in the local language, as I believe this shows respect and can be incredibly helpful when interacting with locals.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Examiner: How do you think travel has changed in the last few decades?

Candidate (Band 8-9 answer): Travel has undergone a significant transformation in recent decades, primarily due to technological advancements and globalization. The rise of the internet and social media has made it easier for people to research and plan their own trips, rather than relying on travel agents. This has led to more personalized and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Moreover, the advent of budget airlines and the sharing economy (like Airbnb) has made travel more accessible to a broader range of people. This democratization of travel has fostered greater cultural exchange and understanding between different societies.

However, this increased accessibility has also brought challenges, such as overtourism in some popular destinations. This has led to a growing awareness of the need for sustainable and responsible travel practices.

Describe a city you visited that left a strong impression on you can be another interesting topic to explore when discussing memorable journeys.

Examiner: Do you think people will travel to space for holidays in the future?

Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): That’s an intriguing question. While space tourism might seem like science fiction, I believe it’s becoming increasingly plausible as technology advances. Several private companies are already developing spacecraft for commercial space travel.

However, I think space holidays will remain a niche market for the foreseeable future, primarily due to the enormous costs involved. It’s likely to be limited to wealthy individuals or those willing to invest significant savings for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There are also ethical considerations to consider, such as the environmental impact of frequent space launches and the potential commercialization of space.

In the long term, as technology improves and costs decrease, space travel might become more accessible, similar to how air travel evolved. But for now, I think most people will continue to seek extraordinary experiences here on Earth.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Unforgettable journey (noun phrase) /ʌnfəˈɡetəbl ˈdʒɜːni/: A trip that leaves a lasting impression.
   Example: “My backpacking trip through Southeast Asia was an unforgettable journey.”

2. Broaden one’s horizons (idiom) /ˈbrɔːdn wʌnz həˈraɪznz/: To expand one’s knowledge, experience, or outlook.
   Example: “Traveling to different countries has really helped broaden my horizons.”

3. Awe-inspiring (adjective) /ɔː ɪnˈspaɪərɪŋ/: Extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring great admiration or fear.
   Example: “The view from the mountain peak was truly awe-inspiring.”

4. Transformative experience (noun phrase) /trænsˈfɔːmətɪv ɪkˈspɪəriəns/: An event or occurrence that causes a significant change in someone’s life or perspective.
   Example: “Living abroad for a year was a transformative experience that changed my worldview.”

5. Epitomize (verb) /ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz/: To be a perfect example of something.
   Example: “The ancient ruins epitomize the grandeur of the lost civilization.”

Key vocabulary for IELTS Speaking: Describing a journey

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a journey:

1. Use a variety of descriptive vocabulary to bring your experience to life.
2. Structure your answer logically, using clear paragraphs and transition phrases.
3. Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced grammatical structures naturally.
4. Speak fluently with minimal hesitation, but don’t rush. Use pauses effectively for emphasis.
5. Provide specific details and examples to support your points.
6. Show enthusiasm in your voice and manner when describing your experience.

Remember, practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try recording yourself answering sample questions and listen back to identify areas for improvement. Describe a concert you attended or describe an inspirational quote you read can be great alternative topics to practice with, as they also allow you to describe memorable experiences.

By following these tips and consistently practicing, you’ll be well-prepared to describe any journey or memorable experience in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!

IELTS Speaking practice session

Describe a time when you traveled to a historical location can be another excellent topic to practice, as it combines elements of both travel and history, allowing you to showcase a wide range of vocabulary and experiences.