Mastering the IELTS Speaking Test: How to Effectively Describe a Recent Holiday

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about recent experiences, and describing a holiday is a common topic. This article will guide you through answering questions related to “Describe A Recent Holiday You Went On” effectively, helping you achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking exam.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about holidays. Here are some common questions and sample answers:

Do you like going on holidays?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I really enjoy going on holidays. It’s a great way to relax and see new places. I try to go on holiday at least once a year, usually during the summer.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I find holidays incredibly rejuvenating. They provide an excellent opportunity to broaden my horizons and immerse myself in different cultures. I make it a priority to take at least one substantial trip annually, often exploring destinations off the beaten path.

What kind of places do you like to go on holiday?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I prefer going to places with nice beaches and warm weather. I enjoy relaxing by the sea and trying local food. Sometimes I also like visiting big cities to see famous landmarks.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m particularly drawn to destinations that offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. While I appreciate the allure of pristine beaches, I’m equally fascinated by historical sites and quaint villages that provide insights into local traditions. I also have a penchant for off-the-grid locations that allow for authentic experiences and meaningful interactions with local communities.

IELTS Speaking: Describing a beach holiday

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our topic:

Cue Card

Describe a recent holiday you went on.
You should say:

• Where you went
• Who you went with
• What you did there
• And explain why you enjoyed this holiday

Sample Answer (Band 6-7)

I’d like to talk about a holiday I went on last summer. I visited Bali, Indonesia, with two of my close friends. We stayed there for a week in a nice hotel near the beach.

During our trip, we did many fun activities. We spent a lot of time at the beach, swimming and sunbathing. We also went on a tour to see some temples and rice fields, which was really interesting. One day, we tried surfing lessons, which was challenging but exciting.

I really enjoyed this holiday because it was a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. The weather was great, and the local people were very friendly. It was also nice to spend time with my friends and create many good memories together.

Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and I’d love to go back to Bali someday.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9)

I’d be delighted to share details about a remarkable holiday I embarked on just a few months ago. My destination was the enchanting island of Bali in Indonesia, a journey I undertook with two of my closest confidants. We indulged in a week-long sojourn at an exquisite beachfront resort.

Our itinerary was a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. We spent leisurely mornings basking in the golden sunlight on pristine beaches, followed by afternoons exploring the island’s rich cultural heritage. A particular highlight was our visit to the iconic Tanah Lot temple, perched majestically on a rocky outcrop, where we witnessed a breathtaking sunset. We also ventured into the heart of Ubud, known for its lush rice terraces and vibrant arts scene.

One of the most exhilarating experiences was our attempt at surfing. Despite being novices, we embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, finding joy in each small victory as we gradually improved our skills under the guidance of patient instructors.

This holiday stands out in my memory for several reasons. Firstly, the sheer beauty of Bali – from its picturesque landscapes to its warm, turquoise waters – was truly awe-inspiring. The genuine warmth and hospitality of the Balinese people added an extra layer of enjoyment to our experience. Moreover, sharing these moments with close friends strengthened our bonds and created lasting memories.

In essence, this trip was a perfect amalgamation of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and personal growth, leaving me with a profound appreciation for travel and a strong desire to return to this captivating island paradise.

IELTS Speaking: Describing Tanah Lot temple in Bali

Follow-up Questions

1. Do you think you’ll visit this place again in the future?
2. How do you usually plan your holidays?

Band 6-7 Answer:

1. Yes, I think I’ll definitely visit Bali again. There’s still so much to see and do there, and I really liked the atmosphere.
2. I usually plan my holidays by looking at travel websites and asking friends for recommendations. I like to book flights and hotels in advance to get good deals.

Band 8-9 Answer:

1. I’m quite certain I’ll make a return trip to Bali in the future. The island’s diverse offerings and serene ambiance have left an indelible impression on me. I’m particularly keen to explore some of the lesser-known regions and delve deeper into the local customs and traditions.

2. My approach to holiday planning is typically quite methodical. I start by extensively researching potential destinations, utilizing a combination of reputable travel blogs, guidebooks, and firsthand accounts from friends and fellow travelers. I pay close attention to factors such as cultural events, seasonal weather patterns, and off-peak travel times to optimize my experience. I also make it a point to balance my itinerary between popular attractions and hidden gems, ensuring a well-rounded and authentic experience.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some sample questions and answers:

How have holidays changed in your country over the past few decades?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Holidays have changed quite a lot in my country. In the past, people usually went to nearby places for short trips. Now, more people can afford to travel abroad and stay for longer periods. Also, people are more interested in trying new experiences rather than just relaxing.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The evolution of holidays in my country has been quite remarkable over the past few decades. We’ve witnessed a significant shift from predominantly domestic, family-oriented vacations to more diverse and international travel experiences. This transformation can be attributed to several factors, including increased disposable income, improved transportation infrastructure, and greater exposure to global cultures through media and the internet.

There’s also been a noticeable trend towards experiential travel. While traditional beach holidays and sightseeing tours remain popular, many travelers now seek immersive experiences that allow them to engage more deeply with local cultures. This has led to a rise in eco-tourism, volunteer vacations, and adventure travel.

Furthermore, the advent of budget airlines and online booking platforms has democratized travel, making it more accessible to a broader segment of the population. This has not only changed where people go on holiday but also how they plan and book their trips.

IELTS Speaking: Modern travel planning methods

Do you think holidays are important for a healthy work-life balance?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think holidays are very important for a good work-life balance. They give people a chance to relax and forget about work stress. Holidays also help people spend time with family and friends, which is good for mental health.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I firmly believe that holidays play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In our increasingly fast-paced and demanding work environments, regular breaks from routine are not just beneficial, but essential for overall well-being.

Holidays provide an opportunity for physical and mental rejuvenation. They allow individuals to step back from their daily responsibilities and gain perspective, often leading to increased creativity and problem-solving abilities upon return to work. This time away can also foster personal growth through exposure to new experiences and cultures, which can indirectly benefit professional life.

Moreover, holidays offer precious time for strengthening personal relationships with family and friends, which are often neglected due to work pressures. These social connections are vital for emotional health and can serve as a support system during challenging times.

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of holidays in promoting work-life balance depends on how they are utilized. Truly disconnecting from work during time off is crucial, as is engaging in activities that are genuinely restorative and enjoyable.

In essence, regular holidays should be viewed not as a luxury, but as an integral component of a sustainable and productive work life.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, incorporate these advanced words and phrases:

1. Rejuvenating /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel younger or more energetic.
   Example: “I found the mountain air incredibly rejuvenating.”

2. Immerse oneself /ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself/ (phrasal verb): To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
   Example: “During my trip, I tried to immerse myself in the local culture.”

3. Off the beaten path /ɒf ðə ˈbiːtn pɑːθ/ (idiom): In or to an isolated place; away from frequently traveled routes.
   Example: “We prefer to explore destinations that are off the beaten path.”

4. Enchanting /ɪnˈtʃɑːntɪŋ/ (adjective): Delightfully charming or attractive.
   Example: “The enchanting landscapes of Bali left us in awe.”

5. Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated.
   Example: “Surfing for the first time was an exhilarating experience.”

6. Amalgamation /əˌmælɡəˈmeɪʃn/ (noun): The action, process, or result of combining or uniting.
   Example: “The trip was a perfect amalgamation of relaxation and adventure.”

Remember to use these words and phrases naturally and in context to showcase your language proficiency.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a holiday:

1. Practice extensively: Regularly describe various aspects of holidays to friends or in front of a mirror.

2. Develop your vocabulary: Learn and use a wide range of travel-related terms and descriptive adjectives.

3. Structure your answers: Organize your thoughts logically, especially in Part 2. Use connectors to link your ideas smoothly.

4. Provide specific details: Instead of general statements, give concrete examples and personal anecdotes.

5. Show enthusiasm: Use appropriate intonation and body language to convey your interest in the topic.

6. Extend your answers: In Part 3, try to discuss broader implications and provide balanced viewpoints.

7. Stay relevant: Always address the question directly, avoiding unnecessary digressions.

By following these tips and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle holiday-related questions in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect!

Describe a meal you had with a friend recently could be another interesting topic to explore for your IELTS Speaking preparation. It’s always beneficial to practice a variety of topics to enhance your overall performance.