The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about travel and tourism, making it essential for candidates to be well-prepared on this topic. One particular subject that may arise is describing a tourist attraction that is not popular but interesting. This topic allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, creativity, and ability to provide detailed descriptions. Let’s explore how to effectively answer such questions and achieve a high band score.
Describe a crowded place you have visited is another common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. However, today we’ll focus on less-known attractions that can still captivate visitors.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about travel and tourism. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: Do you enjoy visiting tourist attractions?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy visiting tourist attractions. I find it interesting to learn about different cultures and history through these places. However, I prefer going to less crowded attractions where I can have a more peaceful experience.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m fascinated by tourist attractions, especially those that offer a unique glimpse into local culture and history. While I appreciate popular landmarks, I’m particularly drawn to off-the-beaten-path destinations that provide a more authentic and immersive experience. These lesser-known spots often allow for a deeper connection with the place and its people.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a tourist attraction that is not popular but interesting
You should say:
- Where it is located
- How you found out about it
- What makes it interesting
- And explain why it is not as popular as other attractionsBand 6-7 Answer:
I’d like to talk about a small museum in my hometown that’s not very well-known but quite interesting. It’s located in the old part of the city, in a renovated traditional house. I found out about it from a local history book I was reading.
What makes it interesting is that it showcases the everyday life of people from our region 100 years ago. They have old tools, clothes, and even recreated rooms from that time. It’s fascinating to see how people lived back then.
I think it’s not as popular as other attractions because it’s quite small and doesn’t have big advertising budgets. Also, many tourists prefer more famous sites like the city’s main cathedral or the central square. However, for those interested in local history, this museum is a hidden gem.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d like to shed light on a truly captivating yet underappreciated tourist attraction – the Underground City of Naours in Northern France. This hidden gem is nestled beneath the picturesque countryside of the Somme region, about 20 kilometers north of Amiens.
I stumbled upon this fascinating site while researching lesser-known World War I locations for a history project. What piqued my interest was the juxtaposition of its ancient origins and its significant role during the Great War.
The Underground City of Naours is a labyrinth of man-made caves and tunnels, carved out of the chalky soil over centuries. What makes it particularly intriguing is its dual historical significance. Originally created in the Middle Ages as a refuge for villagers during invasions, it found a new purpose during World War I when it served as a haven for soldiers on the Western Front.
The site boasts an impressive network of galleries, rooms, and passages spanning over two kilometers. Visitors can explore centuries-old graffiti left by soldiers, providing a poignant and tangible link to the past. The juxtaposition of medieval architecture with World War I artifacts creates a unique and immersive experience that bridges different historical eras.
Despite its historical importance and archaeological value, the Underground City of Naours remains relatively unknown compared to more prominent World War I sites or popular French tourist destinations. This lack of popularity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, its remote location off the main tourist routes makes it less accessible. Secondly, limited marketing resources have resulted in minimal publicity for the site. Lastly, the subtle nature of its attractions may not appeal to those seeking more visually spectacular or well-known landmarks.
However, for history enthusiasts and those seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, the Underground City of Naours offers a rich tapestry of French history and a thought-provoking journey through time.
Follow-up questions:
Examiner: How did you prepare for your visit to this attraction?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Before visiting the Underground City of Naours, I did some online research about its history and what to expect. I made sure to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing as I knew it would be cool underground. I also brought a camera to document the experience.
Band 8-9 Answer:
To ensure a meaningful visit to the Underground City of Naours, I undertook extensive preparation. I delved into academic papers and historical accounts to gain a comprehensive understanding of its significance. I also reached out to local historians for insider knowledge. Practically, I equipped myself with appropriate gear, including sturdy footwear and layered clothing to adapt to the subterranean environment. To fully immerse myself in the experience, I downloaded an audio guide app that provided in-depth commentary on various points of interest within the underground complex.
Examiner: Do you think this attraction could become more popular in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it could become more popular. If they improve their marketing and maybe create some interactive exhibits, more people might be interested in visiting. They could also work with travel agencies to include it in tour packages.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I believe the Underground City of Naours has significant potential to gain popularity, provided certain strategies are implemented. Leveraging social media and digital marketing could dramatically increase its visibility. Collaborating with universities for archaeological studies could generate academic interest and media coverage. Developing immersive experiences, such as virtual reality tours or historical reenactments, could appeal to a broader audience. Additionally, forging partnerships with larger, more established World War I sites could help integrate it into wider historical tours. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between increased tourism and preservation to maintain the site’s authenticity and historical integrity.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think technology is changing the way we experience tourist attractions?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology is definitely changing how we experience tourist attractions. Now, we can use virtual tours to see places before we visit them. At many attractions, there are audio guides or apps that give us information as we walk around. This makes it easier to learn about the history and importance of what we’re seeing.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology is revolutionizing our experience of tourist attractions in multifaceted ways. Augmented reality applications are enhancing on-site visits by overlaying historical reconstructions or additional information onto real-world views. This creates a more immersive and educational experience. Virtual reality is enabling people to explore inaccessible or fragile sites without physical presence, preserving these locations while still allowing for cultural engagement.
Moreover, AI-powered chatbots and personalized recommendation systems are tailoring experiences to individual interests, maximizing visitor satisfaction. Social media platforms have transformed how we share and discover attractions, with user-generated content often influencing travel decisions more than traditional marketing.
However, this technological integration also poses challenges. There’s a risk of over-reliance on digital interfaces, potentially detracting from the authentic, sensory experience of a place. Striking a balance between technological enhancement and preserving the intrinsic character of attractions is crucial for sustainable tourism development.
Describe a time you visited a famous landmark can be another interesting topic to explore in IELTS Speaking, especially when comparing the experience to visiting lesser-known attractions.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help elevate your responses:
-
Shed light on /ʃed laɪt ɒn/ (phrasal verb): To reveal or explain something
Example: “This museum sheds light on the daily lives of our ancestors.” -
Captivating /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Very attractive or interesting
Example: “The underground city offers a captivating glimpse into medieval life.” -
Juxtaposition /ˌdʒʌkstəpəˈzɪʃən/ (noun): The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect
Example: “The juxtaposition of ancient architecture and modern technology creates a unique visitor experience.” -
Pique one’s interest /piːk wʌnz ˈɪntrəst/ (phrase): To arouse curiosity or interest
Example: “The mysterious carvings on the walls piqued my interest in the site’s history.” -
Immersive /ɪˈmɜːsɪv/ (adjective): Providing, involving, or characterized by deep absorption or immersion in something
Example: “The virtual reality tour provides an immersive experience of the ancient city.”
Describe a historic building you have been to is another topic where you can apply these vocabulary items effectively.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing tourist attractions:
- Provide rich details: Don’t just list facts; paint a vivid picture with your words.
- Use a variety of descriptive language: Employ adjectives, adverbs, and idiomatic expressions to make your description more engaging.
- Structure your answer logically: Use discourse markers to guide the listener through your description.
- Show enthusiasm: Your tone and choice of words should convey genuine interest in the topic.
- Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with describing various types of attractions, both popular and lesser-known.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
Describe an interesting place you visited recently can be an excellent topic to practice these skills and showcase your ability to provide detailed, engaging descriptions.
By following these guidelines and incorporating sophisticated vocabulary and structures, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about tourist attractions in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect, so try describing various attractions regularly to build your confidence and fluency.