The topic of describing a memorable hotel stay is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to recount past experiences, express opinions, and use descriptive language. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic across all parts of the IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about hotels and your experiences staying in them. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question: Do you often stay in hotels?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I do stay in hotels occasionally, especially when I’m traveling for work or on vacation. I’d say I stay in hotels a few times a year, depending on my travel plans.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I wouldn’t say I’m a frequent hotel guest, but I do find myself booking accommodations several times a year. Whether it’s for business trips or leisurely getaways, I appreciate the convenience and comfort that hotels provide. In fact, I recently stayed at a charming boutique hotel during a weekend escape to the countryside.”
Hotel reception desk for check-in
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
For this part, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s an example related to describing a hotel stay:
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you stayed in a hotel
You should say:
- Where the hotel was
- Why you stayed there
- What the hotel was like
- And explain how you felt about staying there
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d like to talk about a time I stayed in a hotel last summer. The hotel was located in the heart of Paris, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. I was there on a vacation with my family, and we chose this hotel because of its central location and good reviews online.
The hotel itself was quite nice. It was a mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms and modern amenities. Our room had a small balcony with a view of the city streets, which was lovely. The staff were friendly and helpful, always ready to offer advice on local attractions and restaurants.
Overall, I felt very positive about my stay at this hotel. The location was perfect for sightseeing, and the comfortable room provided a great place to rest after long days of exploring the city. The experience really enhanced our trip to Paris, and I would definitely consider staying there again if I return to the city.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d be delighted to share my experience of a particularly memorable hotel stay. The hotel in question was a picturesque chateau-turned-luxury-resort nestled in the Loire Valley of France. I had the pleasure of staying there for a long weekend to celebrate my wedding anniversary with my spouse.
We chose this hotel for its rich history and reputation for impeccable service. The allure of spending a few nights in a genuine French castle was simply irresistible. Upon arrival, we were immediately struck by the grandeur of the place. The hotel seamlessly blended 18th-century architecture with modern luxuries. Our room, or rather suite, was opulently furnished with period pieces, yet equipped with all the contemporary comforts one could desire.
What truly set this hotel apart was its attention to detail. From the Michelin-starred restaurant that served exquisite local cuisine to the meticulously manicured gardens that seemed to stretch endlessly, every aspect was carefully curated to provide an unforgettable experience. The staff, dressed in period-appropriate attire, were exceptionally attentive and knowledgeable about the chateau’s history.
My feelings about the stay were a mix of awe and deep satisfaction. It felt like we had stepped back in time while still enjoying modern comforts. The experience was truly transformative, allowing us to disconnect from our daily lives and immerse ourselves in the romance and history of the French countryside. It was, without a doubt, one of the most unique and luxurious hotel experiences I’ve ever had, and it created memories that will last a lifetime.”
Follow-up questions:
- What amenities do you think are essential in a good hotel?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I believe essential amenities in a good hotel include clean and comfortable rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, a decent breakfast, and friendly staff. It’s also important to have good security and a convenient location.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“In my opinion, a truly exceptional hotel should offer a range of amenities that cater to both comfort and convenience. Beyond the basics of cleanliness and comfort, I believe essential amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and dietary requirements, and a well-equipped fitness center. Additionally, thoughtful touches like in-room coffee makers, quality toiletries, and 24-hour concierge service can significantly enhance the guest experience. In this digital age, I also appreciate hotels that offer mobile check-in and keyless room entry for added convenience.”
- How do you think the hotel industry has changed in recent years?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“The hotel industry has changed a lot recently. Many hotels now offer online booking and check-in, which makes things more convenient. They also focus more on sustainability and try to be eco-friendly. Another big change is the rise of alternative accommodations like Airbnb, which has created more competition for traditional hotels.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The hotel industry has undergone a paradigm shift in recent years, largely driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. We’ve seen a significant move towards digitalization, with many hotels implementing contactless check-in processes, mobile room keys, and AI-powered concierge services. There’s also been a growing emphasis on personalization, with hotels leveraging data analytics to tailor experiences to individual guests’ preferences.
Moreover, the industry has had to adapt to the rise of the sharing economy, particularly platforms like Airbnb. This has led many hotels to focus on creating unique, Instagram-worthy experiences that can’t be replicated in a private home. Sustainability has also become a key focus, with many establishments implementing eco-friendly practices and showcasing their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Lastly, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated many of these trends and placed a renewed emphasis on cleanliness and safety protocols. Hotels have had to adapt quickly, implementing rigorous sanitation procedures and flexible booking policies to instill confidence in travelers. These changes have fundamentally reshaped the industry and are likely to have lasting impacts on how hotels operate and compete in the future.”
Describe a person who is passionate about their career can be an interesting topic to explore when discussing the hospitality industry and hotel staff who are dedicated to providing exceptional service.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic of hotels and accommodation. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question: How do you think the role of hotels might change in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think hotels in the future will become more high-tech. They might use robots for some services and have more automated systems. Hotels might also focus more on providing unique experiences to compete with home-sharing platforms. They might also need to be more environmentally friendly to meet customer expectations.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The future role of hotels is likely to evolve in several fascinating ways. Firstly, I believe we’ll see a greater integration of technology in every aspect of the hotel experience. This could include the use of AI for personalized recommendations, virtual reality tours of rooms before booking, and even robots handling certain concierge duties.
Secondly, hotels may increasingly position themselves as experiential hubs rather than just places to sleep. We might see more hotels partnering with local businesses and artists to offer unique, location-specific experiences that can’t be replicated elsewhere. This could help them differentiate themselves from home-sharing platforms and appeal to travelers seeking authentic, memorable experiences.
Moreover, I anticipate that sustainability will become a central focus, with hotels potentially becoming showcases for eco-friendly innovations. This could involve everything from energy-efficient building designs to zero-waste restaurants and even urban farming initiatives on hotel rooftops.
Lastly, as remote work becomes more prevalent, hotels might adapt by offering more flexible, long-term stay options and co-working spaces. They could evolve into hybrid spaces that blur the lines between work, leisure, and living accommodations, catering to the needs of digital nomads and long-term travelers.”
Question: Do you think luxury hotels will always be in demand?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think luxury hotels will always be popular. There will always be people who want to experience high-end services and amenities when they travel. Luxury hotels offer a level of comfort and service that many people enjoy, especially for special occasions or business trips.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I believe luxury hotels will continue to be in demand, but their definition and offerings may evolve to meet changing consumer preferences. The concept of luxury is increasingly being redefined, shifting from mere opulence to more experiential and personalized offerings.
Luxury hotels are likely to remain appealing to a segment of travelers who value exceptional service, exclusivity, and unique experiences. These establishments often provide a level of comfort and attention to detail that is difficult to replicate in other accommodation types. Moreover, they often serve as status symbols and provide networking opportunities, particularly for business travelers and high-net-worth individuals.
However, to maintain their appeal, luxury hotels will need to adapt to changing values. This might include incorporating more sustainable practices, offering authentic local experiences, and providing cutting-edge technology. The future of luxury might lie in creating bespoke, transformative experiences rather than just providing high-end amenities.
Additionally, as wealth distribution patterns change globally, we may see increased demand for luxury accommodations in emerging markets. This could lead to a geographical shift in where new luxury hotels are developed.
In conclusion, while the demand for luxury hotels is likely to persist, the industry will need to continuously innovate and redefine what ‘luxury’ means to stay relevant and attractive to discerning travelers.”
Describe a recent gathering with your friends could be a great opportunity to discuss social events that might take place in hotel settings, such as reunions or celebrations in hotel restaurants or function rooms.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance when discussing hotel experiences, consider using these advanced vocabulary words and phrases:
Amenities /əˈmenətiz/ (noun): useful features or facilities of a place
Example: “The hotel offered a wide range of amenities, including a spa and fitness center.”Accommodation /əˌkɒməˈdeɪʃn/ (noun): a place to stay
Example: “We were impressed by the luxurious accommodation provided by the resort.”Picturesque /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/ (adjective): visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way
Example: “The hotel was situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains.”Impeccable /ɪmˈpekəbl/ (adjective): in accordance with the highest standards; faultless
Example: “The staff provided impeccable service throughout our stay.”Opulent /ˈɒpjʊlənt/ (adjective): ostentatiously luxurious
Example: “The hotel lobby was decorated in an opulent style, with crystal chandeliers and marble floors.”To cater to (phrasal verb): to provide what is wanted or needed by someone
Example: “The hotel catered to business travelers with its well-equipped conference rooms.”Boutique hotel (noun phrase): a small, stylish hotel typically situated in a fashionable urban location
Example: “We prefer staying in boutique hotels for their unique character and personalized service.”All-inclusive (adjective): (of a hotel or holiday) including all meals, drinks, and activities in the price
Example: “We booked an all-inclusive resort for our family vacation to avoid any extra expenses.”
Describe a person you often talk to could be related to discussing interactions with hotel staff or fellow travelers you meet during your stay.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a hotel experience:
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives to make your account vivid and engaging.
- Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally into your responses.
- Provide specific details and examples to support your points and demonstrate the depth of your language skills.
- Practice speaking about different aspects of hotel stays, from check-in procedures to room features and hotel services.
- Be prepared to discuss broader topics related to travel and accommodation in Part 3 of the test.
- Work on your pronunciation and fluency by regularly practicing speaking English, perhaps by describing hotels you’ve stayed in or seen in movies and TV shows.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clear pronunciation, natural intonation, and a confident delivery.
Describe a travel experience that went wrong could be an interesting contrast to discussing positive hotel experiences, allowing you to demonstrate a range of vocabulary and expressions.
Luxury hotel room with a stunning view
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss hotel experiences and related topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember to stay calm, speak clearly, and enjoy the opportunity to showcase your English language skills.
Describe a time when you experienced extreme weather could be an interesting topic to connect with hotel stays, discussing how weather conditions might affect travel plans or hotel experiences.