Winter often evokes images of cozy fires, snow-capped mountains, and festive cheer. In IELTS Speaking exams, questions about winter destinations are increasingly common, reflecting the global interest in seasonal travel and experiences. This topic allows candidates to showcase their descriptive language skills and share personal experiences, making it a valuable area to prepare for.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about winter and your preferences. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Do you enjoy winter?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I quite like winter. It’s nice to wear warm clothes and enjoy hot drinks. I also like seeing the snow when it falls, it makes everything look pretty.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! Winter holds a special place in my heart. There’s something magical about the crisp air, the way frost glistens on tree branches, and the opportunity to indulge in winter sports. I find the season invigorating and full of unique experiences you can’t get any other time of year.

What’s your favorite winter activity?

Band 6-7 Answer:
My favorite winter activity is probably skiing. I’m not very good at it, but I enjoy going down the slopes and the beautiful mountain views.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m particularly fond of snowboarding. There’s an exhilarating rush that comes with carving through fresh powder, and it’s a fantastic full-body workout. Plus, the breathtaking alpine scenery never fails to leave me in awe of nature’s beauty. It’s not just a sport; it’s a way to fully immerse myself in the winter landscape.

Skiers and snowboarders enjoying winter sports at a mountain resort

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card

Describe a place where you go to enjoy the winter season. You should say:

• Where this place is
• How often you go there
• What you do there
• And explain why you enjoy going to this place in winter

Band 6-7 Sample Answer:

The place I like to go in winter is a small ski resort about two hours from my city. It’s called Pine Mountain Resort. I try to go there at least once or twice every winter season, usually with my friends or family.

When I’m there, I mainly go skiing on the beginner and intermediate slopes. I’m not an expert skier, but I enjoy the thrill of gliding down the snowy hills. Sometimes, I also try snowboarding, though I’m not very good at it yet. In the evenings, we often sit by the fireplace in the lodge, drink hot chocolate, and chat with other visitors.

I really enjoy going to Pine Mountain Resort in winter because it’s a great way to escape the busy city life and enjoy nature. The views of the snow-covered mountains are breathtaking, and the fresh air makes me feel refreshed. It’s also a good opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family, away from our usual routines and distractions.

Band 8-9 Sample Answer:

The winter destination that holds a special place in my heart is the picturesque alpine village of Zermatt, nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn in Switzerland. I make it a point to visit this enchanting winter wonderland at least once annually, typically during the peak of the ski season in January or February.

Zermatt offers an array of exhilarating winter activities that I eagerly partake in. Skiing is undoubtedly the highlight, with its vast network of meticulously groomed pistes catering to all skill levels. I particularly relish tackling the challenging black runs, which offer both a physical test and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. Beyond skiing, I often indulge in snowshoeing through pristine forests, allowing me to explore the serene beauty of the landscape at a more leisurely pace.

What makes Zermatt truly special in winter is its unique ambiance. The car-free village exudes an old-world charm, with its narrow, snow-laden streets and traditional chalets creating a magical, almost fairy-tale-like atmosphere. The crisp mountain air, combined with the glittering snow and the majestic silhouette of the Matterhorn, creates an environment that is both invigorating and deeply peaceful. Moreover, the village’s commitment to sustainability and preserving its natural beauty aligns perfectly with my values, making each visit not just a vacation, but a rejuvenating retreat that nourishes both body and soul.

Picturesque winter scene of Zermatt village with Matterhorn in background

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has this winter destination changed over the years?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Pine Mountain Resort has grown bigger over the years. They’ve added more ski runs and a new hotel. The facilities are more modern now, which is nice for visitors.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Zermatt has undergone a remarkable transformation while maintaining its core charm. The resort has embraced sustainable tourism practices, introducing electric buses and focusing on renewable energy sources. There’s been a significant upgrade in ski infrastructure, with state-of-the-art lifts and snowmaking technology ensuring optimal conditions. However, strict building regulations have preserved the village’s traditional aesthetic, striking a delicate balance between progress and preservation.

2. Do you think winter tourism affects the local environment?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think winter tourism can affect the environment. More people visiting means more trash and energy use. But it also brings money to the local economy, which is good for the people living there.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Winter tourism undoubtedly has a complex impact on the local ecosystem. On one hand, it can lead to increased carbon emissions from travel and energy-intensive activities like snowmaking. There’s also the risk of habitat disruption for local wildlife. However, many winter destinations, including Zermatt, have become pioneers in sustainable tourism. They’ve implemented strict environmental policies, invested in renewable energy, and promoted eco-friendly practices among visitors. This proactive approach can actually raise awareness about environmental issues and drive positive change. The key lies in responsible management and educating tourists about their environmental impact.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

How do you think climate change is affecting winter tourism?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Climate change is making winters warmer in many places. This means less snow in some ski resorts, which is bad for winter tourism. Some places might have to close if they don’t get enough snow. People might have to travel further to find good skiing conditions.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Climate change is having a profound and multifaceted impact on winter tourism. We’re seeing shorter snow seasons and less reliable snowfall in many traditional winter destinations. This unpredictability is forcing ski resorts to adapt their business models, often investing heavily in artificial snow-making equipment, which ironically contributes further to carbon emissions. Some lower-altitude resorts are diversifying their offerings to include year-round activities, anticipating a future where skiing may no longer be viable.

Moreover, there’s a growing ethical dilemma for environmentally conscious travelers who are increasingly aware of the carbon footprint associated with winter sports. This shift in consumer mindset is pushing the industry towards more sustainable practices. On a broader scale, climate change is altering the geographical distribution of suitable winter sport locations, potentially leading to economic challenges for communities that have long relied on winter tourism as their primary source of income.

Do you think artificial snow is a good solution for ski resorts facing climate change?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Artificial snow can help ski resorts stay open when there’s not enough natural snow. It’s good for business because people can still go skiing. But it uses a lot of water and energy, which isn’t great for the environment. It’s a tricky situation because resorts need snow to survive, but making fake snow isn’t perfect.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Artificial snow presents a complex and contentious solution to the challenges posed by climate change in ski resorts. On one hand, it offers a short-term lifeline to resorts facing increasingly unreliable natural snowfall, allowing them to maintain their operations and protect local economies that depend heavily on winter tourism. The technology has also improved significantly, producing snow that closely mimics natural conditions.

However, the environmental cost is substantial. Snowmaking requires vast amounts of water and energy, potentially exacerbating the very climate issues it aims to mitigate. There are also concerns about its impact on local ecosystems, particularly water sources. Furthermore, reliance on artificial snow could be seen as merely postponing the inevitable rather than addressing the root cause of climate change.

A more sustainable approach might involve a combination of strategies: investing in snowmaking technology that uses renewable energy, diversifying resort offerings to reduce dependence on snow-based activities, and most importantly, industry-wide efforts to reduce overall carbon footprints. Ultimately, while artificial snow may be a necessary stopgap measure, it should be part of a broader, more comprehensive strategy to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change in winter tourism destinations.

Artificial snow production at a ski resort

How can winter tourism be made more sustainable?

Band 6-7 Answer:
To make winter tourism more sustainable, resorts could use renewable energy like solar or wind power. They could also encourage people to use public transport instead of driving. Educating visitors about protecting the environment is important too. Maybe resorts could offer activities that don’t need snow, so they’re not so dependent on it.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Enhancing the sustainability of winter tourism requires a multifaceted approach that addresses environmental, economic, and social aspects. Firstly, resorts should prioritize renewable energy sources for their operations, including lift systems and snowmaking equipment. This could involve investing in solar, wind, or geothermal technologies tailored to alpine environments.

Transportation is another critical area. Encouraging the use of public transit and electric vehicles, while implementing car-free zones within resorts, can significantly reduce carbon emissions. Some resorts are already experimenting with hydrogen-powered shuttle buses and ski lifts, showcasing innovative solutions.

Biodiversity conservation should be at the forefront, with resorts carefully managing their impact on local ecosystems. This might involve creating wildlife corridors, restricting development in sensitive areas, and educating visitors about local flora and fauna.

Circular economy principles can be applied to resort operations, minimizing waste through recycling programs, composting, and choosing sustainable materials for construction and equipment. Some resorts are even exploring the use of biodegradable ski wax to reduce environmental contamination.

Lastly, fostering a culture of sustainability among visitors is crucial. This can be achieved through educational programs, eco-friendly activity options, and incentives for sustainable behaviors. By engaging tourists in conservation efforts, resorts can create a more meaningful and responsible travel experience.

The key to sustainable winter tourism lies in balancing economic viability with environmental stewardship, ensuring that these beautiful winter destinations can be enjoyed by future generations while preserving the natural landscapes that make them so special.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Winter wonderland /ˈwɪntə ˈwʌndəlænd/ (noun): A place that is especially beautiful in winter.
   Example: The snow-covered village looked like a perfect winter wonderland.

2. Picturesque /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/ (adjective): Visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way.
   Example: The picturesque alpine village was nestled between towering mountains.

3. To hit the slopes (idiom): To go skiing or snowboarding.
   Example: We’re planning to hit the slopes early tomorrow morning to avoid the crowds.

4. Pristine /ˈprɪstiːn/ (adjective): In its original condition; unspoiled.
   Example: The pristine snow glistened in the morning sunlight.

5. Breathtaking /ˈbreθteɪkɪŋ/ (adjective): Astonishing or awe-inspiring in quality, so as to take one’s breath away.
   Example: The view from the mountaintop was absolutely breathtaking.

6. To carve through (phrasal verb): To make a path through something, especially snow while skiing or snowboarding.
   Example: I love carving through fresh powder on my snowboard.

7. Apres-ski /ˌæpreɪ ˈskiː/ (noun): Social activities and entertainment following a day’s skiing.
   Example: The resort offers excellent apres-ski options, including cozy bars and live music.

8. Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated.
   Example: The exhilarating descent down the mountain left us all grinning from ear to ear.

9. To be snowed in (idiom): To be confined or blocked in by heavy snowfall.
   Example: We were snowed in at the cabin for two days, but we had plenty of supplies and enjoyed the peaceful isolation.

10. Winter sports enthusiast (noun phrase): A person who is very interested in and enjoys winter sports.
    Example: As a winter sports enthusiast, I try to visit different ski resorts each year.

Describe a place in your country that is famous for its winter activities can be a great way to showcase your knowledge of local winter destinations and activities. When discussing such places, be sure to use descriptive language and specific details to paint a vivid picture for the examiner.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a winter destination:

1. Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate a range of descriptive words and phrases related to winter and landscapes. This demonstrates your lexical resource.

2. Provide specific details: Don’t just say a place is beautiful; explain why and how. This shows your ability to elaborate and give precise information.

3. Use complex sentence structures: Mix simple and compound-complex sentences to showcase your grammatical range.

4. Include personal experiences: This adds authenticity to your answer and demonstrates your ability to connect ideas.

5. Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without too many hesitations. Regular practice speaking about various winter-related topics can help.

6. Develop your answers: In Part 3, try to give extended responses that explore different aspects of the question. This shows your ability to discuss abstract ideas.

7. Stay on topic: While it’s good to elaborate, ensure your answers remain relevant to the question asked.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Describe a place where you go to relax with family could be another topic where you can apply these skills, especially if your winter destination is a place you visit with family.

By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss winter destinations and other topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!