Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe Exploring a New Place on Your Own

Describing a time when you explored a new place on your own is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to narrate personal experiences. It’s essential to be prepared for this topic as it has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners.

Woman exploring a city on her own

Describe a family trip you enjoyed can be a related topic that may help you prepare for this question as well. However, let’s focus on how to effectively answer questions about exploring a new place independently.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about traveling and exploration. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:

Examiner: Do you enjoy traveling alone?
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely, I find solo travel incredibly rewarding. It allows me to immerse myself fully in new experiences and challenge my comfort zone. When I’m on my own, I have the freedom to set my own pace and make spontaneous decisions, which often leads to unexpected adventures and personal growth.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe A Time When You Explored A New Place On Your Own
You should say:

• Where you went
• Why you decided to go alone
• What you did there
• And explain how you felt about the experience

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to recount my experience of exploring Tokyo, Japan, entirely on my own. This solo adventure came about after I had completed a work assignment in the country and decided to extend my stay to immerse myself in the vibrant city culture.

My decision to go alone was driven by a desire for personal growth and the freedom to tailor my itinerary to my specific interests. I was particularly keen on experiencing the city’s unique blend of traditional and ultra-modern elements without the constraints of group travel.

During my exploration, I embarked on a whirlwind tour of Tokyo’s diverse neighborhoods. I started in the historic district of Asakusa, where I visited the iconic Sensoji Temple and navigated the bustling Nakamise shopping street. The following day, I contrasted this experience by venturing into the futuristic Akihabara area, known for its electronics shops and anime culture.

Tourist visiting Sensoji Temple in Tokyo

One of the highlights of my trip was participating in a traditional tea ceremony in a serene garden, which offered a moment of tranquility amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. I also challenged myself by attempting to order meals in local restaurants using my limited Japanese, which led to some amusing miscommunications but ultimately enhanced my cultural understanding.

Reflecting on this solo exploration, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and independence. Navigating the complex Tokyo subway system and overcoming language barriers boosted my confidence significantly. The experience also fostered a deep appreciation for Japanese culture and left me with a newfound passion for solo travel.

In essence, this solo adventure in Tokyo was not just about discovering a new place, but also about discovering new aspects of myself. It reinforced my belief in the transformative power of travel and the unique opportunities for growth that come from stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

Follow-up questions:

1. Did you face any challenges during your solo exploration?
2. Would you recommend solo travel to others? Why or why not?

Sample answers:

Band 6-7:

1. Yes, I had some difficulties. The language barrier was the biggest challenge. I couldn’t read many signs and had trouble communicating with locals sometimes. Also, navigating the subway system was confusing at first, but I got better at it after a few days.
2. I would recommend solo travel to others because it helps you become more independent. You learn to solve problems on your own and gain confidence. However, it’s important to be careful and plan well, especially if you’re not used to traveling alone.

Woman navigating the Tokyo subway system

Band 8-9:

1. Indeed, I encountered several hurdles during my solo expedition. The most significant challenge was overcoming the language barrier, particularly when trying to decipher intricate subway maps or communicate with locals in less touristy areas. Additionally, adapting to the cultural nuances of Japanese etiquette presented a learning curve, from mastering the art of chopstick use to understanding the complexities of bowing in different social contexts.
2. I wholeheartedly endorse solo travel for its transformative potential. It serves as a catalyst for personal growth, fostering self-reliance and adaptability in unfamiliar environments. The experience cultivates a heightened sense of cultural awareness and often leads to profound self-discovery. However, I would advise potential solo travelers to meticulously research their destination, prioritize safety precautions, and remain open-minded to fully embrace the unique opportunities that independent exploration offers.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How has technology changed the way people explore new places?

Band 6-7 response:
Technology has made exploring new places much easier. With smartphones and GPS, we can easily find our way around unfamiliar cities. Online reviews and travel apps help us discover good restaurants and attractions. Social media allows us to share our experiences instantly with friends and family. However, sometimes technology can make us too dependent and we might miss out on unexpected discoveries.

Band 8-9 response:
Technology has revolutionized the landscape of exploration, democratizing travel information and enhancing accessibility to an unprecedented degree. Sophisticated mapping applications and augmented reality tools have transformed navigation, allowing travelers to confidently traverse unfamiliar terrain while simultaneously overlaying historical and cultural context onto their surroundings. The proliferation of user-generated content on platforms like TripAdvisor and Instagram has created a vast repository of firsthand experiences, enabling prospective explorers to make informed decisions and discover off-the-beaten-path gems.

However, this technological saturation is not without its drawbacks. The constant connectivity and information overload can potentially diminish the serendipitous encounters and authentic discoveries that have traditionally been the hallmark of exploration. There’s a risk of travelers becoming overly reliant on digital recommendations, potentially homogenizing experiences and reducing cultural immersion. Striking a balance between leveraging technology and maintaining an open, spontaneous approach to exploration is crucial for modern travelers seeking genuine and enriching experiences.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Immerse oneself /ɪˈmɜːs/ (verb): To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
   Example: I wanted to immerse myself in the local culture during my solo trip.
2. Spontaneous /spɒnˈteɪniəs/ (adjective): Performed or occurring as a result of a sudden impulse without premeditation.
   Example: Solo travel allows for more spontaneous decisions and unexpected adventures.
3. Itinerary /aɪˈtɪnərəri/ (noun): A planned route or journey.
   Example: I crafted a flexible itinerary that allowed for both structure and spontaneity.
4. Navigate /ˈnævɪɡeɪt/ (verb): To plan and direct the course of a ship, aircraft, or other form of transportation.
   Example: Learning to navigate Tokyo’s complex subway system was a challenge I enjoyed.
5. Cultural immersion /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪˈmɜːʃn/ (noun phrase): The process of becoming deeply involved in a particular culture.
   Example: Participating in a traditional tea ceremony provided a profound cultural immersion experience.
6. Transformative /trænsˈfɔːmətɪv/ (adjective): Causing a marked change in someone or something.
   Example: My solo exploration of Tokyo was a transformative experience that boosted my confidence.

Describe a memorable experience you had while traveling can be another excellent way to practice using these vocabulary items and phrases in context.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a time you explored a new place on your own:

1. Use a variety of descriptive language and advanced vocabulary to bring your experience to life.
2. Structure your response logically, addressing all parts of the question.
3. Provide specific examples and personal anecdotes to support your points.
4. Demonstrate your ability to discuss abstract concepts related to travel and exploration in Part 3.
5. Practice speaking fluently and coherently about your experiences, focusing on maintaining a natural rhythm and pace.

Remember, the key to success lies in thorough preparation and regular practice. Consider exploring topics like describe a nature documentary you watched and what you learned to broaden your vocabulary and improve your ability to discuss diverse subjects fluently.