The IELTS Speaking test frequently includes topics related to travel and nature, making “describe a nature spot you would recommend to tourists” a highly relevant and potentially high-scoring subject. This theme has appeared in past exams and is likely to remain popular in future tests. Let’s explore how to excel in answering questions on this topic across all parts of the IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about nature and travel. Here are some possible questions with a sample answer:
Question: Do you enjoy visiting natural places?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about exploring natural environments. There’s something incredibly rejuvenating about immersing oneself in unspoiled landscapes. Whether it’s hiking through lush forests or relaxing on pristine beaches, I find that connecting with nature helps me unwind and gain a fresh perspective on life. It’s not just about the visual beauty, but also the unique sounds, scents, and textures that make each natural spot a multisensory experience.”
Describe a place in nature that you think everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime to truly appreciate the wonders of our natural world.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a nature spot you would recommend to tourists
You should say:
- Where it is
- What people can see or do there
- What makes it special
- And explain why you would recommend it to tourists
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
“I’d like to recommend a beautiful nature spot called Halong Bay, located in northern Vietnam. It’s a stunning coastal area known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands covered in rainforests.
Tourists visiting Halong Bay can enjoy various activities. They can take a boat tour to explore the islands, go kayaking in hidden lagoons, or visit impressive caves like Sung Sot Cave. The bay is also great for swimming and sunbathing on small, secluded beaches.
What makes Halong Bay special is its unique landscape. The limestone karsts create a magical scenery that looks almost unreal. It’s also home to diverse wildlife, including many rare species of plants and animals.
I would recommend Halong Bay to tourists because it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure. It’s a place where you can relax and enjoy breathtaking views, but also have exciting experiences like rock climbing or squid fishing. The local culture is also interesting, with floating villages where people have lived for generations. Overall, Halong Bay provides unforgettable memories for any nature lover or adventure seeker.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d be delighted to recommend an awe-inspiring nature spot that I believe would captivate any tourist – the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland, Australia. This marine marvel is the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the northeast coast of Australia.
Visitors to the Great Barrier Reef are in for a truly immersive experience. They can embark on snorkeling or diving expeditions to witness the vibrant underwater world teeming with an astonishing array of marine life. From technicolor coral formations to schools of tropical fish, and even the occasional sea turtle or dolphin, the diversity is simply staggering. For those who prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boat tours and helicopter rides offer equally spectacular vistas of this natural wonder.
What sets the Great Barrier Reef apart is its unparalleled biodiversity and ecological significance. It’s home to over 1,500 species of fish, 400 types of hard coral, and numerous other marine organisms, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. The reef is also a crucial habitat for endangered species like the dugong and various sea turtles.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Great Barrier Reef to tourists for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary creations up close. The sheer scale and beauty of the reef are truly humbling and can foster a deep appreciation for marine ecosystems. Additionally, visiting the reef can raise awareness about the critical importance of ocean conservation. Tourists can learn about the threats facing coral reefs worldwide and how they can contribute to preservation efforts. Lastly, the region surrounding the reef boasts pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and charming coastal towns, providing a well-rounded Australian experience that caters to various interests and preferences.”
Vibrant coral and fish in the Great Barrier Reef
Follow-up Questions
- What are some challenges in preserving this natural spot?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The Great Barrier Reef faces several significant challenges in terms of preservation. Climate change is perhaps the most pressing issue, as rising ocean temperatures lead to coral bleaching events that can devastate large sections of the reef. Ocean acidification, caused by increased carbon dioxide absorption, is also weakening coral structures. Additionally, pollution from coastal development and agricultural runoff poses a threat to water quality. Overfishing disrupts the delicate balance of marine ecosystems, while invasive species like the crown-of-thorns starfish can cause extensive damage to coral populations. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including global efforts to reduce carbon emissions, stricter regulations on fishing and coastal development, and innovative conservation techniques such as coral restoration projects.”
- How can tourists contribute to protecting natural areas they visit?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Tourists can play a crucial role in protecting natural areas through responsible tourism practices. Firstly, they should adhere to the principle of ‘Leave No Trace‘, ensuring they don’t litter or disturb wildlife and ecosystems. Opting for eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators that prioritize sustainability can make a significant impact. Tourists can also support local conservation efforts by participating in volunteer programs or making donations to reputable environmental organizations. Being mindful of resource consumption, such as water usage in water-scarce areas, is essential. Additionally, tourists can amplify their positive impact by sharing their experiences and raising awareness about conservation needs through social media and word-of-mouth. By making informed choices and being conscientious visitors, tourists can help preserve natural areas for future generations.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think tourism affects natural environments?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Tourism can have both positive and negative effects on natural environments. On the positive side, it can bring money to local communities, which can be used for conservation efforts. It can also raise awareness about the importance of protecting nature. However, too many tourists can damage natural areas. They might leave litter, disturb wildlife, or cause pollution from transportation. Some popular natural spots have been overrun by tourists, leading to erosion and habitat destruction. It’s important to find a balance between allowing people to enjoy nature and protecting it.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The impact of tourism on natural environments is a complex and multifaceted issue. On one hand, tourism can be a powerful catalyst for conservation efforts. It can generate substantial revenue that can be channeled into environmental protection initiatives, fund research, and support local communities in becoming stewards of their natural resources. Moreover, exposure to pristine environments often fosters a deeper appreciation for nature among visitors, potentially inspiring them to become advocates for conservation in their own right.
However, the flip side of the coin reveals some concerning negative impacts. Overtourism can lead to the degradation of ecosystems through trampling of vegetation, disturbance of wildlife habitats, and increased pollution. The carbon footprint associated with travel, particularly long-haul flights, contributes significantly to climate change, which ironically threatens many of the natural wonders tourists seek to experience. Additionally, the development of tourism infrastructure in sensitive areas can lead to habitat fragmentation and loss of biodiversity.
The key lies in promoting sustainable tourism practices that strike a delicate balance between access and conservation. This could involve implementing visitor capacity limits, investing in eco-friendly infrastructure, and educating tourists about their environmental impact. Ultimately, if managed responsibly, tourism has the potential to be a powerful force for environmental protection, creating economic incentives for conservation and fostering a global community of nature advocates.”
Describe a scenic drive you have been on that showcases the natural beauty of a region and its potential for sustainable tourism development.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Awe-inspiring /ɔː-ɪnˈspaɪərɪŋ/ (adjective): Extremely impressive or amazing
Example: “The Grand Canyon is an awe-inspiring natural wonder.”Biodiversity /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ (noun): The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
Example: “The Amazon rainforest is known for its incredible biodiversity.”Ecosystem /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ (noun): A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
Example: “Coral reefs are delicate ecosystems that require careful protection.”Sustainable tourism /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈtʊərɪzəm/ (noun): Tourism that respects both local people and the traveler, cultural heritage and the environment
Example: “Many countries are now focusing on developing sustainable tourism to protect their natural resources.”Conservation /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ (noun): The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas
Example: “The wildlife conservation efforts in the national park have led to an increase in endangered species populations.”Pristine /ˈprɪstiːn/ (adjective): In its original condition; unspoiled
Example: “We hiked through pristine forests that seemed untouched by human activity.”
Infographic on sustainable tourism practices
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a nature spot:
Prepare diverse vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with a range of descriptive words and phrases related to nature, geography, and tourism.
Practice coherent structuring: Organize your thoughts logically, using clear transitions between ideas.
Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts; explain your points and provide specific examples or personal experiences.
Use advanced grammar: Incorporate complex sentence structures and a variety of tenses to demonstrate linguistic flexibility.
Show enthusiasm: Convey genuine interest in the topic through your tone and expressions.
Address all parts of the question: Ensure you cover all aspects mentioned in the cue card or examiner’s questions.
Be specific: Provide detailed descriptions and avoid vague statements.
Relate to broader themes: In Part 3, connect the specific topic to wider issues like environmental conservation or economic development.
Remember, regular practice with a variety of nature-related topics will help you feel more confident and perform better on test day.
Describe a famous tourist attraction in your city using these techniques to showcase your language skills and cultural knowledge.