How to Excel in IELTS Speaking: Describing Your Travel to a New City

Traveling to a new city is a common experience that many IELTS candidates can relate to. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2, where candidates are asked to describe a specific experience. Understanding how to effectively articulate your travel experiences can significantly boost your speaking score. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

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

Sample Questions:

1. Do you like traveling to new places?
2. How often do you travel?
3. What’s your favorite way to travel?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

Examiner: Do you like traveling to new places?

Candidate: Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about exploring new destinations. There’s something incredibly exciting about immersing myself in different cultures and environments. Every trip is an opportunity to broaden my horizons and gain fresh perspectives on life.

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 main topic:

Cue Card:

Describe A Time When You Traveled To A New City

You should say:

• Where you went
• Why you chose to go there
• What you did there
• And explain how you felt about this experience

IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

Last summer, I had the chance to visit Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand. I chose this destination because I’ve always been fascinated by Thai culture, especially their food and beautiful temples. During my stay, I explored the city’s famous landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. I also indulged in delicious street food at the bustling night markets.

The experience was eye-opening for me. I felt a mix of excitement and slight nervousness as I navigated the busy streets and tried to communicate with locals. Overall, I found the trip rewarding as it pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to gain insights into a different way of life.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

Two years ago, I embarked on a journey to the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo, Japan. I was drawn to this destination due to its unique blend of cutting-edge technology and rich traditional culture. My itinerary was packed with diverse activities, from marveling at the futuristic skyline in Shinjuku to experiencing the serenity of ancient temples in Asakusa.

One of the highlights of my trip was immersing myself in the local food scene. I savored everything from world-class sushi at the Tsukiji Fish Market to hearty bowls of ramen in tiny, hidden alleyways. The experience was nothing short of transformative. I was awestruck by the efficiency of the city’s infrastructure and the impeccable politeness of its residents. This journey broadened my perspectives and left me with a profound appreciation for Japanese culture and way of life.

Follow-up Questions:

1. Did you face any challenges during your trip?
2. Would you recommend this city to others? Why or why not?

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. Indeed, I did encounter some challenges. The language barrier was initially daunting, but it pushed me to be more resourceful. I found myself relying on a mix of basic Japanese phrases, translation apps, and non-verbal communication. This experience enhanced my problem-solving skills and made me more adaptable in unfamiliar situations.

2. I would wholeheartedly recommend Tokyo to others. The city offers an unparalleled blend of tradition and modernity that caters to a wide range of interests. From its efficient public transportation to its diverse culinary scene, Tokyo has something for everyone. Moreover, the experience of navigating such a unique cultural landscape can be incredibly enriching and eye-opening for travelers from different backgrounds.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic of travel and cities.

Sample Questions and Answers:

Examiner: How do you think travel experiences contribute to personal growth?

Candidate (Band 7-8): I believe travel experiences can be tremendously beneficial for personal growth. When we visit new places, we’re exposed to different cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking. This exposure can broaden our perspectives and make us more open-minded. Additionally, dealing with the challenges of being in an unfamiliar environment can boost our confidence and problem-solving skills.

Candidate (Band 8-9): Travel experiences are instrumental in fostering personal growth on multiple levels. Firstly, they challenge our preconceptions and expand our worldview, as we’re confronted with diverse cultures and lifestyles. This exposure cultivates empathy and cultural sensitivity, which are invaluable in our increasingly globalized world. Moreover, navigating unfamiliar territories hones our adaptability and resilience, crucial life skills that extend far beyond the travel experience itself.

Furthermore, travel often pushes us out of our comfort zones, encouraging us to try new things and take calculated risks. This process of self-discovery can lead to increased self-awareness and personal confidence. Lastly, the memories and experiences gained through travel enrich our personal narratives, providing us with a wealth of knowledge and stories that can inspire and influence our future decisions and relationships.

Examiner: In what ways do you think cities will change in the future to accommodate increasing numbers of tourists?

Candidate (Band 7-8): I think cities will need to adapt in several ways to handle more tourists. They might need to expand their public transportation systems to make it easier for visitors to get around. Also, we might see more multilingual signs and services to cater to international travelers. Cities may also need to develop sustainable tourism practices to protect local cultures and environments.

Candidate (Band 8-9): The future landscape of urban tourism will likely be shaped by a multifaceted approach to accommodate growing numbers of visitors while maintaining the city’s integrity and livability for residents. Firstly, we can anticipate a surge in smart city initiatives, leveraging technology to optimize resource allocation and improve the overall tourist experience. This might include AI-powered information kiosks, augmented reality tours, and real-time crowd management systems to prevent overcrowding at popular attractions.

Infrastructure will undoubtedly need to evolve, with cities potentially investing in expandable, modular accommodations that can be adjusted based on seasonal tourist influxes. We may also see a rise in vertical urban planning, with multi-use skyscrapers incorporating tourist facilities alongside residential and commercial spaces to maximize land use efficiency.

Moreover, there will likely be a greater emphasis on promoting cultural exchange and authentic local experiences, rather than just catering to mass tourism. This could involve incentivizing homestays, community-led tours, and interactive cultural workshops to foster meaningful connections between visitors and residents.

Lastly, sustainability will be at the forefront of these changes. Cities may implement stricter eco-tourism regulations, encourage the use of renewable energy in the hospitality sector, and develop green spaces that serve both environmental and recreational purposes. The goal will be to strike a delicate balance between welcoming tourists and preserving the city’s unique character and resources for future generations.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Embark on (phrasal verb) /ɪmˈbɑːrk ɒn/ – to start a journey or new project
   Example: “I embarked on a journey to explore Southeast Asia.”

2. Immerse oneself in (phrase) /ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself ɪn/ – to become completely involved in something
   Example: “During my trip, I immersed myself in the local culture.”

3. Broaden one’s horizons (idiom) /ˈbrɔːdn wʌnz həˈraɪznz/ – to expand one’s range of experiences, interests, or knowledge
   Example: “Traveling to new cities helps broaden my horizons.”

4. Eye-opening (adjective) /aɪ ˈəʊpənɪŋ/ – revealing new and surprising facts or information
   Example: “Visiting Tokyo was an eye-opening experience for me.”

5. Vibrant (adjective) /ˈvaɪbrənt/ – full of energy and life
   Example: “Bangkok is known for its vibrant street life and markets.”

6. Cultural sensitivity (noun phrase) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌsensəˈtɪvəti/ – awareness and respect for cultural differences
   Example: “Traveling has taught me the importance of cultural sensitivity.”

Tips from an IELTS Examiner

1. Practice regularly: Dedicate time each day to speaking English, even if it’s just talking to yourself about your daily activities.

2. Use a variety of vocabulary: Don’t just stick to basic words. Incorporate idioms, phrasal verbs, and advanced vocabulary where appropriate.

3. Structure your answers: In Part 2, use the cue card points to organize your speech. In Part 3, try to give balanced answers with examples or explanations.

4. Be honest and personal: Examiners appreciate genuine responses. Share your real experiences and opinions.

5. Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the questions fully before answering. It’s okay to ask for clarification if needed.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about perfect grammar, but about communicating effectively and confidently. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!

For more tips on acing your IELTS Speaking test, you might find these articles helpful:

• Describing a Special Family Celebration
• Talking About a Place You’ve Visited Multiple Times
• Discussing a Famous Place You’ve Visited