The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about leisure activities and places you enjoy visiting. One common topic is describing a place where you like to spend your weekends. This article will provide you with valuable tips and sample answers to help you excel in this part of the exam.

Understanding the Task

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to understand that this topic falls under the broader category of describing places and experiences. Examiners are looking for your ability to:

1. Provide detailed descriptions
2. Express personal preferences
3. Use a range of vocabulary related to places and activities
4. Speak fluently and coherently

Now, let’s break down the task into the three parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about weekends and leisure activities. Here are some possible questions:

1. Do you usually have free time on weekends?
2. What do you like to do in your free time?
3. Is there a particular place you enjoy visiting on weekends?
4. Do you prefer to spend your weekends alone or with others?

Let’s look at a sample answer for question 3:

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“Yes, there’s a lovely park near my home that I absolutely adore visiting on weekends. It’s a serene place with lush green spaces and a picturesque lake. I find it incredibly relaxing to spend time there, either reading a book under a tree or simply taking a leisurely stroll around the lake.”

Serene park with lake

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s an example related to our theme:

Describe a place where you enjoy spending your weekends.
You should say:

• Where it is
• What you do there
• Who you go there with
• Why you enjoy spending time there

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“I’d like to talk about a place I absolutely love spending my weekends at – it’s a charming little café in the heart of my city. This café is tucked away on a quiet street, just a stone’s throw from the bustling main square.

When I go there, I usually indulge in their delectable pastries and expertly brewed coffee. I often bring a book or my laptop, as the café has a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for reading or getting some work done. The ambient music and the soft chatter of other patrons create a soothing background noise that helps me focus.

I typically go there either alone or with a close friend. When I’m by myself, it’s a great opportunity for some much-needed me time. With a friend, it becomes a delightful spot for catching up and having meaningful conversations.

I enjoy spending time there because it offers a perfect blend of comfort, relaxation, and productivity. The friendly staff, the aromatic coffee, and the charming decor all contribute to creating an inviting environment. It’s become my go-to place to unwind and recharge after a busy week. In fact, I’ve come to see it as my home away from home on weekends.”

Examiner’s follow-up questions:

1. How often do you visit this café?
2. Has the café changed since you first started going there?
3. Do you think it’s important for people to have a place like this to relax?

Sample Answer for Question 3 (Band 8-9):

“Absolutely. I believe having a go-to spot for relaxation is crucial in today’s fast-paced world. Such places serve as sanctuaries where people can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and recharge their batteries. They provide an opportunity for introspection and self-care, which are vital for maintaining good mental health. Moreover, these spaces often become integral parts of our personal identities and routines, offering a sense of stability and comfort in an otherwise chaotic world. Whether it’s a café, a park, or any other location, having a place where one can unwind and feel at ease is, in my opinion, essential for a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

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

1. Do you think people’s choices of weekend activities have changed over the years?
2. How important is it for people to have a good work-life balance?
3. In what ways can cities provide better recreational facilities for their residents?

Let’s look at a sample answer for question 2:

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I believe maintaining a healthy work-life balance is absolutely crucial in today’s fast-paced society. It’s essential for several reasons. Firstly, it significantly contributes to an individual’s mental and physical well-being. When people have time to unwind and pursue their interests outside of work, they’re less likely to experience burnout and stress-related health issues.

Secondly, a good work-life balance enhances productivity and job satisfaction. Employees who feel they have a fulfilling life outside of work tend to be more engaged and motivated when they’re on the job. This, in turn, can lead to increased efficiency and creativity in the workplace.

Moreover, it’s vital for maintaining healthy relationships. Having time for family, friends, and personal pursuits allows people to nurture their personal connections and develop a sense of fulfillment that extends beyond their professional lives.

However, achieving this balance can be challenging in our increasingly connected world, where the lines between work and personal time often blur. It requires a conscious effort from both employers and employees to set boundaries and prioritize personal time.

In conclusion, I believe that recognizing the importance of work-life balance and actively working towards achieving it is essential for individual well-being, professional success, and societal health as a whole.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To score high in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s important to use a range of vocabulary and phrases. Here are some that can help you describe your favorite weekend spot:

1. Serene /sɪˈriːn/ (adj): peaceful and calm
   Example: “The park has a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation.”

2. Picturesque /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/ (adj): visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way
   Example: “The picturesque lake in the park is a popular spot for photographers.”

3. Unwind /ʌnˈwaɪnd/ (v): to relax after a period of work or tension
   Example: “I love to unwind at the café after a long week of work.”

4. Ambient /ˈæmbiənt/ (adj): relating to the immediate surroundings
   Example: “The ambient music in the café creates a relaxing atmosphere.”

5. Recharge /riːˈtʃɑːdʒ/ (v): to regain energy or spirit
   Example: “Spending time in nature helps me recharge my batteries.”

6. Sanctuary /ˈsæŋktʃueri/ (n): a place of refuge or safety
   Example: “The quiet corner of the park is my personal sanctuary.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing your favorite weekend spot:

1. Be specific: Provide detailed descriptions of the place, including sights, sounds, and atmosphere.
2. Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate a range of adjectives and phrases to make your description vivid.
3. Express personal feelings: Explain why you enjoy the place and how it makes you feel.
4. Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly and confidently about the topic.
5. Develop your answers: Expand on your points with examples and explanations.

Remember, the key to success is practice. Try describing different places you enjoy visiting, and record yourself to identify areas for improvement. With consistent effort, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this topic in your IELTS Speaking test.

For more tips on describing places in the IELTS Speaking test, check out our guide on how to describe a place where you go to think deeply.