How to Ace the IELTS Speaking Task: Describing a Recently Discovered Place

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about places we’ve visited or discovered. One common topic is describing a place you’ve recently found. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, helping you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Understanding the Task

When asked to describe a recently discovered place, the examiner is looking for your ability to:

1. Provide detailed descriptions
2. Use a wide range of vocabulary
3. Speak fluently and coherently
4. Express your thoughts and feelings about the place

Let’s break down how to approach this task in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner might ask general questions about places you’ve visited or discovered. Here are some possible questions:

1. Do you enjoy exploring new places?
2. How do you usually find out about new places to visit?
3. What kind of places do you like to discover in your free time?

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

Examiner: Do you enjoy exploring new places?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
Yes, I do. I find it exciting to visit new places and see different things. It’s a good way to learn about other cultures and meet new people.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Absolutely! I’m passionate about exploring new destinations. There’s something incredibly exhilarating about immersing myself in unfamiliar surroundings and broadening my horizons. It not only allows me to gain insights into diverse cultures but also helps me step out of my comfort zone and grow as a person.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

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

Describe a place that you discovered recently
You should say:

• Where it is
• How you found out about it
• What you did there
• And explain why you liked or disliked this place

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

I’d like to talk about a small café I discovered last month in my neighborhood. It’s located on a quiet street, just a few blocks from my house. I found out about it through a local community app where people share recommendations.

When I visited the café, I ordered a cappuccino and a slice of homemade cake. The atmosphere was very cozy, with comfortable chairs and soft background music. I spent about an hour there, enjoying my coffee and reading a book.

I really liked this place because of its peaceful ambiance and friendly staff. The coffee was excellent, and the cake was delicious. It’s become my new favorite spot to relax and unwind after a busy day.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to share my experience about a hidden gem I stumbled upon recently – a quaint little bookstore café tucked away in a charming alley in the heart of our city’s old town. I came across this place quite serendipitously while exploring the backstreets during one of my weekend walks.

Upon entering, I was immediately captivated by the rustic charm of the place. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the scent of old books, creating an intoxicating atmosphere. I spent a couple of hours there, perusing the eclectic collection of books, sipping on an exquisite artisanal coffee, and engaging in a fascinating conversation with the owner, who turned out to be a veritable fountain of knowledge about literature and local history.

What struck me most about this place was its ability to transport me to a different era. The carefully curated selection of books, the vintage décor, and the absence of Wi-Fi all contributed to creating a sanctuary from the fast-paced digital world outside. It’s quickly become my go-to spot for when I need to recharge my batteries or seek inspiration. The experience was so enriching that I find myself drawn back there time and again, discovering something new with each visit.

Cozy Bookstore Café

Examiner’s Follow-up Questions:

1. Do you think you’ll visit this place again?
2. Would you recommend this place to others? Why or why not?

Sample Answers (Band 6-7):

1. Yes, I definitely plan to visit again. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy good coffee.

2. Yes, I would recommend it, especially to people who enjoy quiet places and good food. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the noise of the city.

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. Without a shadow of doubt, I’ll be frequenting this place. It’s become somewhat of a sanctuary for me, offering a perfect blend of tranquility and intellectual stimulation. I’m eagerly anticipating my next visit to delve deeper into their book collection and perhaps strike up more enlightening conversations with fellow patrons.

2. I would wholeheartedly recommend this place, particularly to those who appreciate the finer things in life. It’s not just a café or a bookstore, but a haven for bibliophiles and coffee connoisseurs alike. The unique ambiance sets it apart from run-of-the-mill cafés, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking to disconnect from the digital world and immerse themselves in a more contemplative environment.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some examples:

Examiner: How do you think technology has changed the way people discover new places?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
Technology has made it much easier to find new places. We can use apps and websites to get information about different locations. It’s also easier to see photos and reviews from other people who have visited these places.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Technology has revolutionized the way we discover new places. Social media platforms and travel apps have democratized information, allowing us to access a wealth of knowledge at our fingertips. We can now virtually explore destinations through 360-degree videos and augmented reality experiences before even setting foot there. However, this digital saturation has also led to some downsides. The element of surprise and serendipitous discovery that was once a hallmark of travel has somewhat diminished. There’s also the risk of places becoming over-touristed due to viral social media posts, potentially compromising their authenticity and charm.

Examiner: Do you think it’s important for people to explore new places in their local area? Why or why not?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
Yes, I think it’s important. Exploring local areas can help people understand their community better. It can also be a fun way to spend free time and maybe meet new people.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Absolutely. Exploring one’s local area is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it fosters a sense of community and deepens our connection to the place we call home. By discovering hidden local gems, we gain a greater appreciation for our surroundings and potentially uncover fascinating aspects of local history and culture. Moreover, it stimulates local economies by supporting small businesses that might otherwise go unnoticed. From an environmental perspective, exploring locally reduces our carbon footprint compared to long-distance travel. Lastly, it cultivates a spirit of adventure in our daily lives, reminding us that extraordinary experiences can often be found right on our doorstep, if only we take the time to look.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high band score, use a variety of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples:

1. Stumble upon /ˈstʌm.bəl əˌpɒn/ (phrasal verb): to find something by chance
   Example: I stumbled upon this amazing café while exploring the city.

2. Hidden gem /ˌhɪd.ən ˈdʒem/ (noun phrase): a place that is not well-known but is very good
   Example: This bookstore is a real hidden gem in our neighborhood.

3. Captivating /ˈkæp.tɪ.veɪ.tɪŋ/ (adjective): very attractive and interesting
   Example: The captivating atmosphere of the café made me want to stay longer.

4. Immerse oneself /ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself/ (verb phrase): to become completely involved in something
   Example: I love to immerse myself in the local culture when visiting new places.

5. Serendipitous /ˌser.ənˈdɪp.ɪ.təs/ (adjective): happening by chance in a happy or beneficial way
   Example: My discovery of this place was a serendipitous event.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a recently discovered place:

1. Practice storytelling: Develop your ability to narrate experiences coherently and engagingly.
2. Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use a variety of descriptive words and phrases.
3. Work on fluency: Practice speaking without long pauses or hesitations.
4. Express opinions: Don’t just describe the place, but also explain your feelings and thoughts about it.
5. Use idiomatic language: Incorporate relevant idioms and colloquial expressions naturally.

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 complex ideas will help you achieve a high band score.

For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, check out our articles on describing a time when you made a positive change in your life and describing a new skill you learned during lockdown.