As an IELTS Speaking examiner, I’ve encountered countless responses to the topic “describe a place in your city you think tourists should visit.” This topic is a perennial favorite in IELTS Speaking tests, often appearing in Part 2 and sparking follow-up questions in Part 3. Its popularity stems from its versatility and relevance to candidates’ personal experiences. Let’s dive into how you can excel in this topic and boost your IELTS Speaking score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about your city or tourism. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you like showing visitors around your city?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I enjoy showing visitors around my city. It’s a great opportunity to share my knowledge about local attractions and help people have a good time. I particularly like taking them to some of the lesser-known spots that tourists might not find on their own.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m passionate about showcasing my city to visitors. It’s immensely rewarding to introduce them to both the iconic landmarks and the hidden gems that make our city unique. I find it particularly gratifying to tailor the experience to each visitor’s interests, ensuring they leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of our local culture and history.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe a place in your city you think tourists should visit.
You should say:

• What the place is
• Where it is located
• What people can do there
• And explain why you think tourists should visit this place

Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d like to talk about the Central Park in my city. It’s located in the heart of downtown, just a few blocks from the main shopping district. The park is quite large and has a lot of green spaces where people can relax or have picnics. There’s also a small lake where visitors can rent paddleboats.

Tourists should visit this park because it’s a great place to escape the busy city and enjoy some nature. They can take a leisurely walk, watch people, or just sit and enjoy the scenery. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, like outdoor concerts and food festivals, which can be interesting for visitors.

It’s especially beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, creating a picturesque setting. Overall, I think Central Park offers a nice balance of relaxation and activities, making it a must-visit spot for any tourist in our city.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d like to draw your attention to a hidden gem in our city: the Historical Botanical Gardens. This verdant oasis is tucked away in the old quarter, just a stone’s throw from the bustling city center. Despite its central location, it remains off the beaten path for many tourists, which adds to its charm.

The gardens are a haven of tranquility, boasting an impressive array of both native and exotic plant species. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature by strolling through the meticulously manicured grounds, which feature themed sections like the aromatic herb garden and the vibrant butterfly sanctuary. For those seeking a deeper understanding, guided tours led by knowledgeable horticulturists offer fascinating insights into the gardens’ history and the rare specimens it houses.

I strongly advocate for tourists to visit this place because it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and educational value. The gardens serve as a living museum, preserving our city’s horticultural heritage while providing a serene retreat from urban life. Moreover, the on-site café, which uses herbs and vegetables grown in the gardens, offers visitors a chance to literally taste the fruits of the gardeners’ labor.

What sets this place apart is its ability to cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking for a peaceful spot to relax, the Historical Botanical Gardens have something to offer. It’s not just a tourist attraction; it’s a multisensory experience that encapsulates the essence of our city’s commitment to preserving nature amidst urban development.

Aerial view of Historical Botanical Gardens

Additional questions the examiner might ask:

1. Are there any special events held at this place?
2. How has this place changed over the years?
3. Do you think this place is suitable for all age groups?

Band 6-7 Answer for Question 1:
Yes, the Botanical Gardens host several events throughout the year. There’s an annual flower show in spring, which is quite popular. They also organize educational workshops about gardening and plant care. During summer evenings, they sometimes have outdoor music performances, which attract both locals and tourists.

Band 8-9 Answer for Question 1:
The Historical Botanical Gardens prides itself on offering a diverse calendar of events that cater to various interests and age groups. The highlight of the year is undoubtedly the Spring Botanical Festival, a weeklong extravaganza that showcases rare and exotic flora from around the world. This event draws horticultural enthusiasts from far and wide.

Additionally, the gardens play host to a series of enlightening workshops and lectures throughout the year. These range from practical gardening classes to more esoteric topics like the role of plants in traditional medicine. During the summer months, the gardens transform into an enchanting venue for twilight concerts, featuring both classical and contemporary music. These events not only entertain but also raise awareness about the importance of preserving green spaces in urban environments.

What I find particularly commendable is the gardens’ commitment to education and community engagement. They regularly organize hands-on activities for children, fostering an early appreciation for nature and biodiversity. The annual “Gardens by Night” event, where the pathways are illuminated with artistic light installations, is a magical experience that showcases the gardens in a completely different light, quite literally.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How can cities balance tourism development with preserving local culture and environment?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Cities can balance tourism development and preservation by setting rules for new constructions, limiting the number of tourists in sensitive areas, and promoting local traditions. They should also educate tourists about respecting local customs and the environment. It’s important to involve local communities in decision-making about tourism development to ensure their needs are considered.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Balancing tourism development with cultural and environmental preservation is indeed a delicate tightrope walk for cities. It requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes sustainable practices while still capitalizing on the economic benefits of tourism.

Firstly, cities can implement stringent regulations on new developments, ensuring they align with local architectural styles and adhere to environmentally friendly standards. This helps maintain the aesthetic integrity of the city while minimizing the ecological footprint of tourism infrastructure.

Secondly, implementing a quota system for popular attractions or sensitive ecological areas can help mitigate the negative impacts of overtourism. This approach has been successfully adopted in places like Venice and Machu Picchu, helping to preserve these sites for future generations.

Moreover, cities should actively promote cultural education programs for tourists. This could involve immersive experiences that allow visitors to engage meaningfully with local traditions and customs, fostering a deeper appreciation and respect for the host culture.

It’s also crucial to empower local communities by involving them in tourism planning and ensuring they reap the benefits of increased visitor numbers. This could be achieved through community-based tourism initiatives or by incentivizing businesses that showcase authentic local experiences.

Lastly, investing in smart city technologies can help manage tourist flows more efficiently, reducing strain on local infrastructure and enhancing the overall experience for both residents and visitors.

By adopting such a holistic strategy, cities can strike a balance between welcoming tourists and preserving their unique cultural and environmental heritage, ensuring a sustainable and enriching tourism ecosystem.

Infographic on Sustainable Tourism Development

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Verdant oasis (noun phrase) /ˈvɜːrdənt ˈoʊeɪsɪs/ – a green, lush area in contrast to its surroundings
   Example: The botanical garden is a verdant oasis in the heart of our concrete jungle.

2. Off the beaten path (idiom) /ɒf ðə ˈbiːtn pɑːθ/ – in a place that is not well-known or popular with tourists
   Example: The local café we discovered was truly off the beaten path, offering an authentic experience.

3. Immerse oneself (phrasal verb) /ɪˈmɜːrs wʌnˈself/ – to become completely involved in something
   Example: Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in traditional crafts workshops.

4. Cater to (phrasal verb) /ˈkeɪtər tuː/ – to provide what is wanted or needed by someone or something
   Example: The city’s diverse attractions cater to a wide range of interests and age groups.

5. Multifaceted approach (noun phrase) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd əˈproʊtʃ/ – a strategy that considers many different aspects of a situation
   Example: Preserving local culture while promoting tourism requires a multifaceted approach.

Remember to use these words and phrases naturally in context, and practice pronouncing them correctly to enhance your speaking performance.

describe a famous monument you have visited

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a place in your city:

1. Prepare diverse examples: Have several unique locations in mind to discuss, not just the most obvious tourist spots.

2. Practice descriptive language: Use vivid adjectives and sensory details to bring your description to life.

3. Structure your answer: Organize your thoughts logically, covering all points in the cue card.

4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts; explain why the place is significant or interesting.

5. Use advanced vocabulary: Incorporate idiomatic expressions and sophisticated words appropriately.

6. Show enthusiasm: Your tone and body language should convey genuine interest in the topic.

7. Be prepared for follow-up questions: Think about how your chosen place relates to broader themes like tourism, culture, or urban development.

Remember, authenticity is key. While using advanced language is important, it’s equally crucial to speak naturally and confidently about your chosen location.

describe a city you would like to explore

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this common IELTS Speaking topic and showcase your English language skills effectively.