In the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner evaluates your fluency, coherence, vocabulary, grammatical range, and pronunciation. Specifically, questions that ask you to “Describe a time when you visited a new place” are quite common. In this article, we will provide practical examples, strategies, and vocabulary to help you achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

Typically, Part 1 includes general questions about yourself, your life, and your experiences. To get started, here are some common questions and a sample answer:

Common Questions

1. Do you like traveling to new places?
2. What kind of new places do you prefer to visit – cities or nature spots?
3. Can you describe an exciting new place you have recently visited?

Sample Answer

Question: Have you visited any interesting places recently?

Answer: Yes, I recently visited Hoi An, an ancient town in Vietnam. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and vibrant culture. I spent a day there exploring the narrow cobbled streets lined with lantern-lit shops and cozy cafes. It was a pleasant experience immersing myself in the rich history and unique atmosphere of the town.

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card

Describe a time when you visited a new place. You should say:

• Where the place is
• How you got there
• What you did there
• And explain how you felt about visiting this place

Sample Answer

I’d like to talk about a time I visited Da Nang, a coastal city in central Vietnam. Last summer, my friends and I decided to take a weekend trip to explore the city’s famous attractions. We took a two-hour flight from Hanoi, and upon arrival, we were greeted by breathtaking views of the beach.

We spent the first day visiting the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five marble and limestone hills. The experience of climbing up the stone steps and discovering ancient Buddhist pagodas nestled inside caves was exhilarating. In the evening, we strolled along the Dragon Bridge, which is uniquely designed to look like a massive dragon and illuminates the entire cityscape with its stunning lights.

On the second day, we visited Ba Na Hills, a hill station with a French village perched at its peak. The highlight was taking the cable car ride; the panoramic views of lush green valleys below were absolutely stunning. We also walked along the Golden Bridge—a giant hand structure that seems to support the walkway, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape.

Visiting Da Nang was an incredibly rewarding experience. I felt rejuvenated and awed by the natural beauty and the harmonious blend of traditional and modern elements in the city.

Follow-up Questions

1. Why did you choose to visit that particular place?
2. How did the visit to the new place impact you personally?
3. Would you recommend this place to others? Why or why not?

Sample Answers:

1. We chose Da Nang because we had heard glowing reviews from friends about its serene beaches and picturesque landscapes. Additionally, it’s a city rich in culture and historical significance.

2. The visit had a profound impact on me. It broadened my horizon, allowing me to appreciate more deeply the natural and cultural wealth of my own country. It also gave me a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

3. Definitely, I would recommend Da Nang to anyone looking for a destination that offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s a place where one can truly unwind and experience a different way of life.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic introduced in Part 2.

Examiner Questions

1. Why do people visit new places?
2. How does tourism impact the local environment and culture?
3. What are the benefits and drawbacks of traveling?

Sample Answers

1. People visit new places to explore different cultures, broaden their horizons, and sometimes to seek respite from their daily routines. Traveling can be a form of education and self-discovery, offering insights into new ways of life and different perspectives.

2. Tourism can have both positive and negative impacts. Economically, it injects much-needed revenue into local communities, creates jobs, and promotes cultural exchange. However, it can also lead to environmental degradation, cultural dilution, and sometimes even exploitation of local resources.

3. Traveling has numerous benefits, including personal enrichment, relaxation, and the opportunity to meet new people. On the flip side, it can be costly and sometimes stressful due to planning and logistical challenges. Moreover, excessive tourism can contribute to environmental problems and the commodification of local cultures.

Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

• Breathtaking (adj.): Stunning, very beautiful
• Cobblestone (adj.): Made of rounded stones used in streets
• Immersing oneself (v.): To be deeply involved in something
• Rejuvenating (v.): Making someone feel fresh or full of energy
• Respite (n.): A short period of rest or relief
• Exhilarating (adj.): Making one feel very happy and excited
• Harmonious blend (adj. + n.): A well-balanced mixture
• Panoramic views (adj. + n.): Wide, comprehensive views of an area
• Injection (n.): Supply of money or other resource.

Examples:

• The breathtaking views from the cable car left a lasting impression on me.
• The old town had quaint cobblestone streets lined with cafes.
• I found the entire trip to be deeply immersing as I learned about new cultures.
• A weekend getaway often gives a much-needed respite from our hectic lives.

Tips for Achieving a High Band Score

1. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice will significantly improve your fluency and confidence.
2. Expand Your Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary and try to avoid repetition.
3. Structured Answers: Make sure your responses are well-structured. Start with an introduction, dive into the main points, and end with a conclusion.
4. Pronunciation and Intonation: Practice good pronunciation and use intonation to maintain the listener’s interest.
5. Stay Calm and Confident: Being relaxed during the test will help you think more clearly and perform better.

By incorporating these strategies and structures, you can effectively prepare to describe a time when you visited a new place and achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Panoramic View of Da Nang

For more topic-specific practice check Describe a place you would like to visit and Describe a time when you moved to a new place.

Remember, the key to excelling in your speaking test is preparation and practice. Good luck!