Are you preparing for the IELTS Speaking test and wondering how to tackle questions about places you’d like to explore? This topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2, and requires careful preparation to achieve a high band score.
IELTS Speaking Test Environment Professional Setting
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions you might encounter include:
- Do you like traveling to new places?
- What kind of places do you usually visit?
- How do you plan your trips?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m absolutely passionate about exploring new destinations. I tend to gravitate towards historical sites and natural landscapes because they offer unique insights into local culture and geography. When planning my trips, I thoroughly research the destination and meticulously organize my itinerary to make the most of my time.”
For more inspiration, you might want to check out describe a natural place in your country that you enjoy visiting.
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a place in your country that you want to explore
You should say:
- Where it is
- How you learned about it
- What special features it has
- And explain why you want to visit this place
Historic Temple Architecture Cultural Heritage Site
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to tell you about Ha Giang, a breathtaking mountainous province in northern Vietnam. I first came across this destination through a compelling documentary that showcased its dramatic limestone karsts and terraced rice fields.
What makes it particularly distinctive is its unique geological features, including the awe-inspiring Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, which has been recognized by UNESCO. The region is also home to various ethnic minority groups, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.
I’m deeply intrigued by this place because it represents an authentic slice of Vietnam that remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. The prospect of immersing myself in the local culture while witnessing the spectacular natural scenery really appeals to me.”
Similar to exploring local attractions, you might be interested in describe a local market in your city.
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about Ha Giang in Vietnam. I learned about it from some videos on YouTube. It has many mountains and beautiful views. The local people wear colorful clothes and have interesting customs. I want to go there because it looks very beautiful and different from my city.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
- Why do people like to explore new places?
- What are the challenges of exploring remote locations?
- How has tourism changed in your country over the past decade?
For those interested in outdoor activities, you might want to explore describe an outdoor adventure you would like to have.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“People are inherently curious about discovering new places as it broadens their horizons and provides them with fresh perspectives. When exploring remote locations, travelers often face significant challenges such as limited infrastructure and communication difficulties, but these challenges contribute to the authentic experience they seek.
Tourism in my country has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past decade. We’ve witnessed a shift from traditional sightseeing to more experiential travel, where visitors actively engage with local communities and cultures.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Breathtaking (adj.) /ˈbreθteɪkɪŋ/ – extremely impressive or beautiful
- Distinctive (adj.) /dɪˈstɪŋktɪv/ – characteristic, unique
- Immerse oneself in (phrasal verb) – to become completely involved in something
- Untouched (adj.) /ʌnˈtʌtʃt/ – not affected or changed by something
- Inherently (adv.) /ɪnˈhɪrəntli/ – in an essential or permanent way
Examiner’s Tips
- Develop your answers using specific examples and personal experiences
- Use a range of advanced vocabulary naturally
- Practice speaking about different locations using detailed descriptions
- Focus on pronunciation and intonation
- Include relevant cultural and historical information when appropriate
For more guidance on describing tourist destinations, check out describe a tourist destination in your country that you want to visit.
