Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Recent Holiday You Enjoyed

The topic of describing a recent enjoyable holiday is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners. This topic allows candidates to showcase their ability to narrate personal experiences, use descriptive language, and express emotions effectively in English.

Describe a recent travel experience that left an impression on you is a closely related topic that can help you prepare for this question. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about holidays and travel. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. Do you enjoy going on holidays?

   Sample answer (Band 7-8):
   “Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about traveling and always look forward to my holidays. They’re a great opportunity to recharge my batteries and broaden my horizons by experiencing new cultures and meeting different people.”

2. What type of holidays do you prefer?

   Sample answer (Band 8-9):
   “I have a particular fondness for adventure holidays. There’s something exhilarating about pushing my boundaries and immersing myself in nature. Whether it’s trekking through dense forests or scaling mountain peaks, I find these experiences incredibly rewarding and character-building.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card:
Describe A Recent Holiday That You Enjoyed
You should say:

• Where you went
• Who you went with
• What you did there
• And explain why you enjoyed it so much

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about a memorable holiday I took last summer to the pristine beaches of Bali, Indonesia. I went with my best friend, Sarah, who’s been my travel companion for years.

We spent a week exploring this tropical paradise, and every day was filled with exciting adventures. One of the highlights was a sunrise hike to the summit of Mount Batur, an active volcano. The breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape bathed in the golden morning light were truly awe-inspiring.

We also indulged in the local culture by taking a traditional Balinese cooking class. Learning to prepare dishes like Nasi Goreng and Satay gave us a deeper appreciation for the island’s rich culinary heritage.

Tourists enjoying sunset on a Bali beach

Of course, we couldn’t miss out on Bali’s famous beaches. We spent several days lounging on the soft sand, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and even tried our hand at surfing, which was both challenging and exhilarating.

What made this holiday so enjoyable was the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. The warm hospitality of the Balinese people, the stunning natural beauty of the island, and the opportunity to share these experiences with a close friend all contributed to making it an unforgettable trip.

This holiday was particularly rejuvenating as it allowed me to disconnect from my daily routine and immerse myself in a completely different environment. It broadened my perspective and left me feeling refreshed and inspired, which is why I consider it one of the most enjoyable holidays I’ve ever had.”

Follow-up questions:

1. What was the most challenging part of your trip?

   Sample answer (Band 7-8):
   “The most challenging aspect was probably the early morning hike up Mount Batur. We had to wake up at 2 AM and trek in darkness for several hours. It was physically demanding, but the sense of achievement and the spectacular views at the top made it all worthwhile.”

2. How did this holiday compare to others you’ve taken?

   Sample answer (Band 8-9):
   “This holiday stood out from others I’ve taken due to its perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. Unlike city-based trips where I might focus on museums and historical sites, or purely beach holidays where relaxation is the main goal, this Bali trip offered a rich tapestry of experiences. It allowed me to challenge myself physically, engage with local traditions, and still find time for tranquil moments by the sea. This diverse range of activities made it a uniquely fulfilling experience.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Let’s talk about the impact of tourism on local communities. What are some positive and negative effects?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Tourism can have a profound impact on local communities, both positive and negative. On the positive side, it can be a significant economic driver, creating jobs and bringing in revenue that can help improve infrastructure and public services. It can also promote cultural exchange and foster understanding between people from different backgrounds.

Tourists interacting with local vendors at a bustling market in Bali

However, there are also potential drawbacks. Overtourism can lead to environmental degradation, with natural resources being strained by the influx of visitors. There’s also the risk of cultural commodification, where local traditions are packaged and sold to tourists in a way that may dilute their authenticity. Additionally, the economic benefits of tourism don’t always trickle down to local residents, especially if large international companies dominate the industry.

The key to sustainable tourism lies in striking a balance between economic benefits and preserving local culture and environment. This might involve implementing visitor caps, promoting off-season travel, or encouraging eco-friendly practices. It’s crucial for local communities to have a voice in how tourism is developed and managed in their area.”

Describe a place you go to for a day trip could be another interesting topic to explore when discussing travel experiences.

Examiner: How do you think the trend of international travel will change in the future?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe the future of international travel will be shaped by several factors. Firstly, there’s likely to be a greater emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism. Travelers are becoming more environmentally conscious and may prefer destinations and accommodations that prioritize eco-friendly practices.

Technology will also play a significant role. We might see more use of virtual reality for previewing destinations or even for virtual tours, which could change how people plan and experience travel.

The rise of remote work could lead to more ‘digital nomads’ who combine work and travel, potentially resulting in longer stays in foreign countries rather than short holidays.

Lastly, in light of recent global events, there might be an increased focus on health and safety measures in travel, with destinations promoting their cleanliness and healthcare facilities as selling points.

These changes could lead to a more diverse and personalized approach to international travel, catering to evolving traveler preferences and global circumstances.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Pristine /ˈprɪstiːn/ (adjective): In perfect condition; unspoiled.
   Example: “The beach was pristine, with soft white sand and clear blue water.”
2. Awe-inspiring /ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/ (adjective): Extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring great admiration.
   Example: “The view from the mountain top was truly awe-inspiring.”
3. Immerse /ɪˈmɜːs/ (verb): Involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
   Example: “I love to immerse myself in local cultures when I travel.”
4. Rejuvenating /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel younger or more energetic.
   Example: “The holiday was incredibly rejuvenating, leaving me feeling refreshed and energized.”
5. Tapestry /ˈtæpɪstri/ (noun): Used figuratively to describe a complex or varied series of events or experiences.
   Example: “My trip to India was a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, particularly when describing a holiday:

1. Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate a range of descriptive words and avoid repetition.
2. Provide specific details: Instead of general statements, give concrete examples that bring your experience to life.
3. Use a variety of grammatical structures: Demonstrate your command of English by using different tenses and complex sentences where appropriate.
4. Show enthusiasm: Your tone and manner of speaking should convey your enjoyment of the holiday.
5. Structure your answer: For the long turn, organize your thoughts logically, covering all points in the cue card.
6. Extend your answers: In Part 3, develop your ideas fully and consider different perspectives on the topic.

A person planning their next trip using a laptop and a map

Remember, practice is key. Try recording yourself answering these questions and listen back to identify areas for improvement. Describe a traditional meal in your country could be another interesting topic to practice with, as it allows you to combine descriptive language with cultural insights.

By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss your holiday experiences confidently in your IELTS Speaking test.