Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Ace Your Description of a Recent Holiday

Recent holidays are a common topic in IELTS Speaking exams, particularly in Part 2. This theme allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to describe experiences, express emotions, and use a range of vocabulary related to travel and leisure. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle this topic and maximize your score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

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

1. Do you like going on holidays?
2. Where did you go for your last holiday?
3. What type of holidays do you prefer?
4. How often do you go on holiday?

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

Examiner: Where did you go for your last holiday?

Candidate (Band 6-7): I went to Bali, Indonesia for my last holiday. It was a beautiful place with stunning beaches and friendly locals. I spent a week there and really enjoyed the food and culture.

Candidate (Band 8-9): My most recent holiday was a ten-day excursion to Bali, Indonesia. I was captivated by the island’s diverse landscapes, from the pristine beaches of Nusa Dua to the lush rice terraces of Ubud. The warm hospitality of the Balinese people and their rich cultural heritage made the trip truly unforgettable.

IELTS Speaking: Describing a holiday in Bali

Part 2: Long Turn

Now, let’s look at a sample cue card for the main topic:

Describe a recent holiday you had

You should say:
- Where you went
- Who you went with
- What you did there
- And explain why you enjoyed this holiday

Here are sample answers for different band scores:

Band 6-7:

I’d like to talk about my recent holiday to Phuket, Thailand. I went there with my family last summer for a week-long vacation. We stayed in a nice resort near the beach and spent most of our time relaxing and enjoying the sun. We also went on a boat tour to some nearby islands, which was really fun. I enjoyed snorkeling and seeing the colorful fish. The food was delicious, especially the fresh seafood. We also visited some temples and markets in the town. I enjoyed this holiday because it was a good chance to relax and spend time with my family in a beautiful place.

Band 8-9:

I’d be delighted to share my experience of a recent holiday I took to the picturesque island of Phuket in Thailand. This enchanting getaway took place last summer, and I had the pleasure of spending a blissful week there with my immediate family.

We opted for a luxurious resort nestled along the pristine coastline, which served as our home away from home. The majority of our time was spent basking in the tropical sun and indulging in the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea. However, we also ventured out on several exhilarating excursions.

One of the highlights of our trip was a full-day boat tour to the surrounding islands. We marveled at the breathtaking limestone cliffs of Phi Phi Island and explored hidden lagoons. The experience of snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs was truly awe-inspiring – the kaleidoscope of tropical fish darting around us was a sight I’ll never forget.

Back on the main island, we immersed ourselves in the local culture by visiting ornate Buddhist temples and bustling night markets. The culinary delights of Phuket were another aspect that left a lasting impression. We savored an array of mouthwatering dishes, from fragrant street food to exquisite seafood prepared in high-end restaurants.

This holiday was particularly enjoyable for several reasons. Firstly, it provided a much-needed respite from our hectic daily routines, allowing us to recharge and reconnect as a family. The sheer beauty of the natural surroundings was invigorating and served as a constant source of wonder. Additionally, the opportunity to experience a different culture firsthand was both enlightening and enriching. The warmth and hospitality of the Thai people added an extra layer of joy to our experience.

In conclusion, this holiday to Phuket was a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration, making it a truly memorable and cherished experience.

IELTS Speaking: Describing a holiday in Phuket

Follow-up questions:

1. What was the most memorable moment of your trip?
2. How does this holiday compare to others you’ve had?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

The most memorable moment of my trip was undoubtedly our visit to the Elephant Sanctuary. It was a profoundly moving experience to observe these majestic creatures in a natural, ethical environment. We had the opportunity to prepare food for the elephants and watch them bathe in a nearby river. The connection we felt with these intelligent animals was truly special and left an indelible impression on all of us.

Compared to other holidays I’ve had, this trip to Phuket stands out for its perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. While some of my previous vacations have been more action-packed or entirely focused on cultural immersion, this one allowed us to unwind while still experiencing new things. The stunning natural beauty of Phuket, combined with its rich cultural heritage, made it a more well-rounded experience than many of my past trips.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to holidays and travel. Here are some example questions and answers:

Examiner: How have holiday preferences changed in your country over the years?

Candidate (Band 6-7): I think people in my country now prefer more active holidays than before. In the past, many just wanted to relax at the beach, but now they like to try new activities and experiences. Also, more people are interested in traveling abroad to see different cultures.

Candidate (Band 8-9): There has been a notable shift in holiday preferences in my country over recent years. While traditional beach vacations still hold appeal, there’s a growing trend towards more experiential and adventurous travel. People are increasingly seeking out holidays that offer unique cultural experiences or opportunities for personal growth.

We’re seeing a surge in popularity for eco-tourism and sustainable travel options, reflecting a heightened awareness of environmental issues. Additionally, there’s been a marked increase in solo travel and digital nomadism, particularly among younger generations who value flexibility and new experiences over conventional package holidays.

Another significant change is the rise of short-term, frequent getaways as opposed to longer, less frequent vacations. This shift can be attributed to increased work pressures and the desire for regular breaks to maintain work-life balance.

Changing holiday preferences in IELTS Speaking

Examiner: Do you think international travel is important for young people? Why or why not?

Candidate (Band 8-9): I firmly believe that international travel is immensely valuable for young people for several reasons. Firstly, it broadens their horizons and exposes them to diverse cultures, fostering a more open-minded and globally aware perspective. This cultural immersion can lead to greater empathy and understanding of different ways of life.

Secondly, international travel often pushes young people out of their comfort zones, encouraging personal growth and independence. Navigating unfamiliar environments and overcoming language barriers can boost confidence and problem-solving skills.

Moreover, travel can provide educational opportunities that complement formal learning. Visiting historical sites, museums, or natural wonders can bring textbook knowledge to life and inspire further study or career choices.

Lastly, in our increasingly interconnected world, the interpersonal skills and global perspective gained through international travel can be invaluable assets in many professional fields.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that international travel shouldn’t be seen as a prerequisite for personal development. There are many ways to gain cross-cultural understanding and life experiences without leaving one’s country, especially given the financial constraints many young people face.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of advanced vocabulary and complex structures. Here are some key terms and phrases from the sample answers, along with their definitions and examples:

1. Captivated (verb) – fascinated and charmed
   Example: I was captivated by the intricate designs of the ancient temples.

2. Pristine (adjective) – in perfect condition; unspoiled
   Example: The pristine beaches of the island were a sight to behold.

3. Enchanting (adjective) – delightfully charming or attractive
   Example: The enchanting melody of local music filled the air.

4. Indulge in (phrasal verb) – allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of
   Example: We indulged in various local delicacies during our trip.

5. Marvel at (phrasal verb) – be filled with wonder or astonishment
   Example: We couldn’t help but marvel at the magnificent sunset.

6. Immerse oneself (verb phrase) – involve oneself deeply in a particular activity
   Example: We immersed ourselves in the local culture by attending traditional ceremonies.

7. Respite (noun) – a short period of rest or relief from something difficult
   Example: The holiday provided a much-needed respite from our busy work lives.

8. Invigorating (adjective) – making one feel strong, healthy, and full of energy
   Example: The invigorating mountain air made us feel refreshed and energized.

describe a dish you tried for the first time

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a recent holiday, consider the following tips:

1. Prepare a range of holiday experiences: Have several holiday stories ready to discuss, as this topic is common in IELTS Speaking.

2. Use descriptive language: Employ vivid adjectives and adverbs to bring your holiday experience to life.

3. Structure your answer: In Part 2, organize your thoughts according to the cue card prompts, ensuring a logical flow.

4. Extend your answers: Especially in Parts 1 and 3, provide detailed responses with examples and explanations.

5. Incorporate idiomatic expressions: Use relevant idioms and collocations to demonstrate language proficiency.

6. Practice pronunciation: Focus on clearly articulating place names and cultural terms related to your holiday.

7. Show enthusiasm: Convey genuine interest and excitement when discussing your holiday experiences.

8. Be prepared for follow-up questions: Anticipate and practice answering questions that delve deeper into your holiday experiences or travel in general.

describe a family celebration you enjoyed recently

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a recent holiday. Remember, the key is to demonstrate not just your language skills, but also your ability to communicate effectively and engagingly about your experiences.