When it comes to IELTS Speaking, being able to vividly describe a place is a crucial skill. One common topic that often appears in the test is describing a place where you go to relax in your city. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to express personal experiences, use descriptive language, and discuss emotions. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle this topic and maximize your score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about relaxation and places in your city. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. Do you often go to places to relax in your city?

   Sample answer (Band 7-8): “Yes, I make it a point to visit relaxing spots in my city quite regularly. I find it essential for maintaining a good work-life balance and managing stress. Usually, I try to go at least once a week, especially on weekends when I have more free time.”

2. What kinds of places do people in your city go to relax?

   Sample answer (Band 8-9): “Well, in my city, people have a variety of options for relaxation. Some popular choices include local parks with lush greenery, tranquil cafes where one can enjoy a good book, and serene waterfront areas along the river. Additionally, many residents frequent yoga studios or meditation centers for a more focused approach to relaxation.”

3. Do you think it’s important to have places to relax in a city?

   Sample answer (Band 7-8): “Absolutely! I believe it’s crucial for cities to have designated relaxation areas. These spaces provide a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, allowing people to recharge their batteries and maintain their mental well-being. Without such places, city life could become overwhelming and stressful for many residents.”

Urban park as a relaxation spot in the city

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:

Describe A Place In Your City Where You Go To Relax.
You should say:
- Where it is
- How often you go there
- What you do there
- And explain why you find it relaxing

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“There’s a small park near my home that I often visit to relax. It’s located about 10 minutes walk from my apartment, in a quiet neighborhood. I try to go there at least twice a week, usually in the evenings after work or on weekends.

When I’m there, I usually take a leisurely walk around the park’s pathways, sometimes stopping to sit on a bench and read a book or listen to music. The park has a small pond, and I enjoy watching the ducks swimming around.

I find this place relaxing because it’s a green oasis in the middle of the busy city. The trees and flowers help me feel connected to nature, and the quiet atmosphere allows me to clear my mind and forget about my daily stresses. It’s a great place to unwind and recharge after a long day.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to tell you about my favorite relaxation spot in the city – a charming rooftop garden café called ‘Skyline Serenity.’ It’s nestled on top of a historic building in the heart of downtown, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city skyline.

I make it a point to visit this tranquil oasis at least once a week, typically on Sunday afternoons when I can indulge in a few hours of peaceful reflection. The moment I step out of the elevator onto the rooftop, I’m enveloped by a sense of calm.

During my visits, I usually find a cozy corner seat surrounded by lush potted plants and fragrant herbs. I’ll order a steaming cup of artisanal tea and perhaps a light snack. Then, I’ll either lose myself in a good book, jot down my thoughts in my journal, or simply sit back and soak in the atmosphere, watching the world go by far below.

What makes this place so relaxing is its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural serenity. The juxtaposition of the concrete jungle below with the verdant greenery of the rooftop garden creates a captivating contrast. The gentle background music and the soft murmur of conversation create a soothing ambiance that helps me unwind and recharge my batteries. Moreover, the breathtaking view serves as a reminder of the bigger picture, helping me put my daily concerns into perspective. It’s my personal sanctuary in the midst of the bustling city life.”

Rooftop garden cafe with city view

Follow-up questions:

1. Has this place changed over time?

   Sample answer (Band 8-9): “Indeed, ‘Skyline Serenity’ has undergone some thoughtful transformations over the years. The owners have continuously enhanced the space, adding more diverse plant species to create mini ecosystems and installing a small vertical garden wall. They’ve also introduced some sustainable practices, like using solar panels for energy and implementing a rainwater harvesting system for plant irrigation. These changes have not only made the place more visually appealing but also more environmentally friendly, which adds to its charm and makes it even more enjoyable for visitors like myself.”

2. Do you think you’ll continue visiting this place in the future?

   Sample answer (Band 7-8): “Absolutely! I see myself frequenting this rooftop garden café for years to come. It has become such an integral part of my weekly routine that I can’t imagine giving it up. The benefits I gain from these visits, both in terms of relaxation and mental clarity, are invaluable. Plus, as the city continues to grow and change, I believe this spot will become even more precious as a peaceful retreat from urban life.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

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

1. How do you think cities can create more relaxation spaces for their residents?

   Sample answer (Band 8-9): “I believe cities can adopt a multi-faceted approach to creating more relaxation spaces. Firstly, they could repurpose underutilized urban areas, such as vacant lots or old industrial sites, into green spaces or community gardens. Additionally, implementing ‘pocket parks’ – small parks tucked into dense urban areas – could provide quick access to nature for city dwellers.

   Cities could also encourage the development of rooftop gardens on both public and private buildings, which not only offer relaxation spaces but also contribute to urban biodiversity and help combat the heat island effect. Furthermore, pedestrianizing certain streets or creating more car-free zones could foster a more relaxed atmosphere in busy city centers.

   Lastly, I think it’s crucial for city planners to collaborate with local communities to understand their specific needs and preferences for relaxation spaces. This grassroots approach would ensure that the spaces created are truly beneficial and well-utilized by residents.”

2. Do you think the need for relaxation spaces in cities has changed over the years?

   Sample answer (Band 7-8): “Yes, I believe the need for relaxation spaces in cities has significantly increased over the years. This change is largely due to the fast-paced, high-stress lifestyle that has become common in urban areas. As cities have grown more crowded and technology has made it harder to disconnect from work, people are experiencing higher levels of stress and burnout.

   Moreover, with the rise of remote work, many people are spending more time at home, which has highlighted the importance of having accessible outdoor spaces for relaxation and exercise. The recent global health crisis has also underscored the value of open, uncrowded spaces in cities.

   Additionally, there’s a growing awareness of the mental health benefits of spending time in nature or quiet spaces. This has led to an increased demand for green areas and relaxation spots within urban environments. As a result, I think city planners and policymakers are now prioritizing the creation and maintenance of such spaces more than they did in the past.”

3. How might technology affect the way people relax in cities in the future?

   Sample answer (Band 8-9): “Technology is likely to have a profound impact on how urban dwellers relax in the future. On one hand, advancements in virtual and augmented reality could provide immersive relaxation experiences without leaving one’s home. We might see virtual parks or digital meditation spaces that simulate natural environments, offering a form of escapism from the concrete jungle.

   Smart city initiatives could lead to the development of interactive relaxation zones that adapt to users’ preferences. For instance, smart benches in parks might offer personalized ambient sounds or guided meditation sessions through built-in speakers.

   Wearable technology could play a role in guiding people to less crowded relaxation spots in real-time, helping to maintain the tranquility of these spaces. Additionally, apps might become more sophisticated in helping people find and book quiet spaces in the city, such as private gardens or rooftop retreats.

   However, it’s important to note that while technology can enhance relaxation experiences, it might also create new challenges. The constant connectivity that technology enables could make it harder for people to truly disconnect and relax. Therefore, we might see a rise in ‘digital detox’ spaces within cities, where technology use is limited or prohibited, allowing people to fully immerse themselves in the present moment and their surroundings.”

Future urban relaxation with technology

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Tranquil oasis /ˈtræŋkwɪl əʊˈeɪsɪs/ (noun phrase): A peaceful and quiet place.
   Example: “The park is a tranquil oasis in the middle of the bustling city.”

2. To recharge one’s batteries (idiom): To rest and relax in order to restore one’s energy and enthusiasm.
   Example: “I visit the garden to recharge my batteries after a long week at work.”

3. Verdant /ˈvɜːdənt/ (adjective): Green with grass or other rich vegetation.
   Example: “The verdant landscape of the park is a stark contrast to the concrete buildings around it.”

4. To soak in the atmosphere (phrase): To enjoy and absorb the mood or feeling of a place.
   Example: “I love to sit on a bench and soak in the atmosphere of the peaceful garden.”

5. Sanctuary /ˈsæŋktʃuəri/ (noun): A place of refuge or safety.
   Example: “This quiet corner of the city is my personal sanctuary from the stresses of daily life.”

6. To unwind /ʌnˈwaɪnd/ (verb): To relax and free oneself from tension or anxiety.
   Example: “After a stressful day, I like to unwind by taking a leisurely walk in the park.”

7. Juxtaposition /ˌdʒʌkstəpəˈzɪʃn/ (noun): The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
   Example: “The juxtaposition of the busy street and the calm park highlights the importance of green spaces in urban areas.”

8. To indulge /ɪnˈdʌldʒ/ (verb): To allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of something.
   Example: “On weekends, I indulge in a few hours of peaceful reading in my favorite relaxation spot.”

Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner

1. Practice descriptive language: Use a variety of adjectives and sensory details to make your descriptions vivid and engaging.

2. Develop your answers: Don’t just give short responses. Elaborate on your points and provide examples to showcase your language skills.

3. Use a range of tenses: Incorporate past, present, and future tenses when appropriate to demonstrate your grammatical range.

4. Work on pronunciation and fluency: Regular practice will help you speak more confidently and naturally.

5. Build your vocabulary: Learn and use topic-specific vocabulary and idiomatic expressions to enhance your responses.

6. Stay on topic: Make sure your answers are relevant to the questions asked.

7. Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorizing answers. Speak naturally about your own experiences and opinions.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express your thoughts clearly are all crucial factors in achieving a high score.

If you’re looking for more IELTS Speaking practice, you might find it helpful to describe a favorite dish you like to prepare or describe a city you would like to visit in the future. These topics can help you further develop your descriptive language skills and expand your vocabulary in different contexts.