How to Excel in IELTS Speaking: Describing a Popular Tourist Destination in Your Country

As an IELTS Speaking examiner, I’ve observed countless candidates tackle the challenge of describing popular tourist spots in their home countries. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests and is likely to remain relevant in future exams. Let’s explore how to approach this subject effectively and maximize your score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about tourism and travel. Here are some potential questions:

1. Do you like to travel?
2. What’s your favorite tourist destination in your country?
3. How often do you visit tourist attractions in your area?

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

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“My favorite tourist destination in Vietnam is undoubtedly Ha Long Bay. It’s a breathtaking natural wonder located in the northeast of the country. What makes it truly exceptional is its vast array of limestone karsts and isles in various shapes and sizes. The bay’s emerald waters and numerous caves create a mesmerizing landscape that attracts millions of visitors each year. It’s not just the natural beauty that draws people in, but also the rich cultural heritage of the area, including floating villages and ancient rock carvings.”

Part 2: Long Turn

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

Describe A Place In Your Country That Is Popular With Tourists.
You should say:

• Where it is
• What people can do there
• Why it is popular
• And explain how you feel about this place

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I’d like to talk about Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam that has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years.

Da Nang is located on the eastern coast of Vietnam, about halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, particularly My Khe Beach, which stretches for several kilometers along the city’s eastern edge.

Visitors to Da Nang can enjoy a wide range of activities. They can relax on the beach, go swimming, or try water sports like surfing and jet-skiing. The city is also famous for its seafood restaurants, where tourists can taste fresh, delicious local cuisine. For those interested in culture, the Museum of Cham Sculpture houses a large collection of artifacts from the ancient Champa civilization.

Da Nang’s popularity stems from its perfect blend of natural beauty and modern development. The city offers pristine beaches and scenic mountains, but also has modern infrastructure, luxury resorts, and excellent transportation links. The nearby Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adds to its appeal.

Personally, I feel proud that Da Nang has become such a popular destination. It showcases the natural beauty of Vietnam and demonstrates how our country is developing. However, I also hope that the growth of tourism will be managed sustainably to preserve the city’s charm and environment for future generations.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to describe Hoi An, an enchanting ancient town in central Vietnam that has captivated tourists from around the globe.

Hoi An is strategically situated on Vietnam’s central coast, approximately 30 kilometers south of Da Nang. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved 15th to 19th-century trading port architecture.

Visitors to Hoi An can immerse themselves in a plethora of activities. They can meander through the narrow, lantern-lit streets of the Old Town, marveling at the unique fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural influences. The town is also famous for its bespoke tailoring, where tourists can have custom-made clothes created in a matter of days. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in cooking classes to master the art of Vietnamese cuisine, while history buffs can explore ancient sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge or the Tan Ky Old House.

Hoi An’s popularity stems from its unparalleled charm and rich cultural tapestry. The town’s well-preserved historical architecture, combined with its picturesque setting along the Thu Bon River, creates an atmospheric backdrop that transports visitors back in time. The monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival, where the town is illuminated solely by traditional lanterns, adds a magical dimension to its appeal.

Personally, I’m in awe of Hoi An’s ability to preserve its cultural heritage while embracing tourism. It serves as a shining example of how a destination can maintain its authenticity in the face of modernization. However, I also feel a sense of responsibility to ensure that we continue to safeguard this cultural gem for future generations to appreciate and learn from.”

Follow-up questions:

1. How has tourism affected this place?
2. Do you think there are any downsides to its popularity?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“Tourism has undeniably had a profound impact on Hoi An. On the positive side, it has bolstered the local economy, creating numerous job opportunities and improving infrastructure. The influx of visitors has also heightened awareness of the town’s cultural significance, leading to increased efforts in preservation and restoration.

However, the popularity of Hoi An does come with certain drawbacks. The sheer volume of tourists can sometimes detract from the town’s tranquil atmosphere, particularly during peak seasons. There’s also a risk of commercialization that could potentially dilute the authentic cultural experience. Moreover, the environmental impact of mass tourism, including increased waste and strain on local resources, is a growing concern.

Striking a balance between promoting tourism and preserving Hoi An’s unique character is crucial. Implementing sustainable tourism practices and managing visitor numbers could help mitigate these negative effects while still allowing people from around the world to experience this extraordinary destination.”

Hoi An Ancient Town at night

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

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

Examiner: How do you think tourism impacts local communities?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“Tourism can have a multifaceted impact on local communities. On the positive side, it often stimulates economic growth, creating job opportunities and bringing in foreign currency. This can lead to improved infrastructure, better educational facilities, and enhanced healthcare services. Moreover, tourism can foster cultural exchange, promoting understanding between different nationalities and potentially preserving local traditions that might otherwise fade away.

However, there are also potential downsides to consider. Overtourism can lead to the commercialization of culture, where local customs become commodified and lose their authentic meaning. It may also cause environmental degradation if not managed sustainably. Additionally, the influx of tourists can drive up living costs for locals, potentially leading to gentrification and displacement.

The key lies in sustainable tourism practices that balance economic benefits with cultural preservation and environmental protection. This might involve implementing visitor caps, promoting off-season travel, and ensuring that tourism revenue is reinvested into the local community. By doing so, we can harness the positive aspects of tourism while mitigating its potential negative impacts.”

Examiner: Do you think it’s important for a country to have famous tourist attractions? Why or why not?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I believe that having famous tourist attractions can be significantly beneficial for a country, but it’s not the only factor in a successful tourism industry.

Famous attractions can serve as powerful magnets for international visitors, boosting tourism revenue and putting a country on the global map. They often become symbols of national identity, like the Eiffel Tower for France or the Great Wall for China, fostering a sense of pride among citizens. Moreover, these landmarks can catalyze the development of surrounding infrastructure and services, benefiting both tourists and locals alike.

However, it’s crucial to note that relying solely on famous attractions can be limiting. A diverse tourism offering that includes lesser-known destinations, cultural experiences, and natural wonders can create a more robust and sustainable tourism industry. This approach can help distribute tourist traffic more evenly, reducing the risk of overtourism at popular sites and spreading economic benefits across different regions.

Furthermore, in today’s travel landscape, many tourists are seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences rather than just ticking off famous landmarks. Countries that can offer a mix of well-known attractions and hidden gems may be better positioned to cater to a wide range of traveler preferences.

In conclusion, while famous attractions can be valuable assets, a country’s tourism strategy should aim for a balanced approach that showcases its diverse offerings and promotes sustainable, responsible travel practices.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Enchanting /ɪnˈtʃɑːntɪŋ/ (adjective): Delightfully charming or attractive.
   Example: “The enchanting landscapes of Ha Long Bay leave visitors in awe.”

2. Cultural tapestry /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈtæpəstri/ (noun phrase): A rich and complex combination of cultural elements.
   Example: “Vietnam’s cultural tapestry is woven from various influences throughout its history.”

3. To immerse oneself /tuː ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself/ (verb phrase): To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
   Example: “Tourists can immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in traditional festivals.”

4. Atmospheric /ˌætməsˈferɪk/ (adjective): Creating a distinctive mood, typically one that is evocative and emotionally appealing.
   Example: “The atmospheric old quarter of Hanoi transports visitors to a bygone era.”

5. To safeguard /ˈseɪfɡɑːrd/ (verb): To protect something from harm or damage.
   Example: “It’s crucial to safeguard our natural heritage for future generations.”

6. Sustainable tourism /səˈsteɪnəbəl ˈtʊərɪzəm/ (noun phrase): Tourism that respects both local people and the traveler, cultural heritage and the environment.
   Example: “Many countries are now focusing on developing sustainable tourism practices.”

Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner

1. Practice regularly: Dedicate time each day to speaking English, even if it’s just talking to yourself about various topics.

2. Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to tourism and travel, and practice using them in context.

3. Work on fluency: Focus on speaking smoothly and confidently, even if you make small mistakes. It’s better to keep talking than to pause frequently to search for the perfect word.

4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points with examples and explanations.

5. Listen to authentic materials: Watch travel documentaries or listen to podcasts about tourism to familiarize yourself with natural English usage in this context.

6. Record yourself: This can help you identify areas for improvement in your pronunciation, fluency, and content.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing what to say, but how to say it confidently and naturally. Good luck with your preparation!