Introduction and Overview

Describing a place you would like to travel to is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This topic allows examiners to assess your ability to express preferences, describe locations, and convey enthusiasm. It’s a versatile subject that can appear in various forms across different test versions, making it crucial for candidates to be well-prepared.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about travel to warm you up. Here are some typical questions you might encounter:

1. Do you like traveling?
2. What kind of places do you usually travel to?
3. How often do you travel?
4. Who do you prefer to travel with?

Let’s focus on answering the first question:

Examiner: Do you like traveling?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I really enjoy traveling. It’s a great way to relax and learn about different cultures. I try to go on a trip at least once a year, usually to beach destinations or historical cities.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m passionate about traveling. It’s not just a hobby for me; it’s a way to broaden my horizons and gain new perspectives on life. I find that immersing myself in different cultures and environments is incredibly enriching, both personally and professionally. Whether it’s exploring bustling metropolises or venturing into serene natural landscapes, each journey offers unique learning experiences that I cherish.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe a place where you would like to travel to
You should say:
• Where it is
• How you know about this place
• What you would like to do there
• And explain why you would like to go there

Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d like to travel to Japan. I first learned about it from watching anime and reading manga when I was younger. Now, I’m more interested in its unique culture and technology. In Japan, I want to visit Tokyo to see the busy city life and try the delicious food, especially sushi and ramen. I also want to see Mount Fuji and maybe climb it if I can. The main reason I want to go there is to experience the mix of old traditions and modern life that Japan is famous for. I think it would be really interesting to see how they balance these two aspects in their daily lives.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’ve long been captivated by the idea of traveling to New Zealand, a country that seems to epitomize natural beauty and adventure. My fascination with this destination was initially sparked by the breathtaking landscapes featured in the “Lord of the Rings” films, but it has since deepened through extensive research and conversations with friends who have visited.

New Zealand’s diverse terrain offers a plethora of activities that I’m eager to experience. Topping my list is a trek through the majestic Fiordland National Park, home to the renowned Milford Sound. I’m particularly drawn to the idea of kayaking through its pristine waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Additionally, I’d love to immerse myself in Maori culture, perhaps by attending a traditional hangi feast and witnessing a powerful haka performance.

The primary reason this destination holds such allure for me is its unique combination of unspoiled wilderness and rich cultural heritage. New Zealand seems to offer a rare opportunity to reconnect with nature in its most awe-inspiring forms, from glaciers to geothermal wonders, while also providing insights into a fascinating indigenous culture. Moreover, the country’s commitment to environmental conservation aligns perfectly with my own values, making it an ideal place to observe sustainable tourism practices in action.

New Zealand's stunning landscape and rich Maori culture

Examiner: What kind of accommodation would you prefer in New Zealand?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think I would prefer to stay in a mix of accommodations. In the cities, I’d like to stay in hotels for convenience. But when visiting natural areas, I’d choose cabins or eco-lodges to be closer to nature. It would be nice to have a comfortable place to rest after long days of exploring.

Band 8-9 Answer:
For my New Zealand adventure, I’d opt for a diverse range of accommodations to fully immerse myself in the country’s unique offerings. In urban areas like Auckland or Wellington, I’d likely choose boutique hotels that reflect the local culture and provide a comfortable base for city exploration. However, when venturing into more remote regions, I’m drawn to the idea of staying in eco-lodges or farm stays. These options not only align with my interest in sustainable tourism but also offer a more authentic experience of New Zealand’s rural life and natural beauty.

I’m particularly intrigued by the concept of “glamping” in some of New Zealand’s national parks. This would allow me to enjoy the serenity of the wilderness without compromising on comfort. Additionally, I’d be keen to spend a night or two in a traditional Maori marae (meeting grounds), if possible, as this would provide an unparalleled opportunity to gain insights into Maori culture and hospitality.

Ultimately, my accommodation choices would aim to enhance my overall experience, allowing me to connect more deeply with New Zealand’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How has technology changed the way people travel?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has made traveling much easier. We can now book flights and hotels online, which saves time. Apps help us find directions and translate languages. Social media lets us share our experiences with friends and family back home. However, some people might spend too much time on their phones instead of enjoying their trip.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology has revolutionized the travel industry in myriad ways, fundamentally altering how we plan, experience, and share our journeys. Perhaps the most significant impact has been the democratization of travel information. With just a few clicks, travelers can now access a wealth of data about destinations, from comprehensive reviews to virtual tours, empowering them to make more informed decisions.

Mobile technology, in particular, has transformed the on-the-ground travel experience. Smart phones equipped with GPS and translation apps have made navigating foreign cities and communicating across language barriers infinitely more manageable. This has opened up previously challenging destinations to a broader range of travelers, fostering greater cultural exchange and understanding.

However, this technological integration also presents challenges. The constant connectivity can sometimes detract from the immersive nature of travel, with some travelers struggling to disconnect from their digital lives and fully engage with their surroundings. Additionally, the rise of Instagram-worthy locations has led to issues of overtourism in some areas, highlighting the need for responsible travel practices.

Despite these concerns, I believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Technology, when used mindfully, can enhance our travel experiences, allowing us to delve deeper into local cultures and navigate unfamiliar territories with greater ease and confidence.

Traveler using smartphone app for navigation

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To elevate your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated vocabulary items and phrases:

1. Wanderlust /ˈwɒndəlʌst/ (noun): A strong desire to travel.
   Example: “My wanderlust was ignited after watching travel documentaries.”

2. Off the beaten track (idiom): Describing places that are not commonly visited by tourists.
   Example: “I prefer to explore destinations that are off the beaten track.”

3. Cultural immersion (noun phrase): The process of surrounding oneself in a foreign culture to learn about it.
   Example: “Cultural immersion is the best way to truly understand a new place.”

4. Awe-inspiring /ɔː ɪnˈspaɪərɪŋ/ (adjective): Causing feelings of awe or admiration.
   Example: “The Grand Canyon is truly an awe-inspiring natural wonder.”

5. To broaden one’s horizons (phrase): To expand one’s knowledge, experience, or outlook.
   Example: “Traveling to different countries helps to broaden one’s horizons.”

6. Wandering soul (noun phrase): A person who loves to travel and explore.
   Example: “As a wandering soul, I’m always planning my next adventure.”

7. To soak up the atmosphere (phrase): To enjoy and experience the feeling of a place.
   Example: “I love to wander through local markets and soak up the atmosphere.”

8. 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.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, particularly when describing a place you’d like to travel to:

1. Develop your ideas fully: Don’t just list facts about the place. Explain your choices and feelings in detail.

2. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced and topic-specific words naturally in your responses.

3. Maintain fluency: Speak at a natural pace, using fillers appropriately to avoid long pauses.

4. Show enthusiasm: Your tone and word choice should convey genuine interest in the topic.

5. Practice regularly: Use various resources like travel blogs or documentaries to expand your vocabulary and ideas about different destinations.

6. Be specific: Instead of general statements, provide concrete examples and personal insights.

7. Demonstrate critical thinking: In Part 3, analyze the broader implications of travel on society, economy, or personal development.

By following these tips and incorporating the provided vocabulary and sample answers, you’ll be well-prepared to describe a tourist attraction that you would like to visit or discuss any travel-related topic in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to enhance your cultural education through your responses, showcasing both your language skills and your worldly knowledge.