The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about travel experiences, and one common topic is describing a trip that didn’t go as planned. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Being prepared to discuss such experiences can significantly boost your performance in the speaking section. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to describe a trip you took that was not as expected.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about travel. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:

Q: Do you enjoy traveling?

A: Absolutely! I find traveling to be an incredibly enriching experience. It allows me to immerse myself in different cultures, try new cuisines, and broaden my horizons. There’s something exhilarating about exploring unfamiliar places and meeting people from diverse backgrounds. It often challenges my perspective and helps me grow as a person.

Part 2: Long Turn

For this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to discuss for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card based on our theme:

Describe A Trip You Took That Didn't Go As Planned.

You should say:
- Where you went
- Who you went with
- What happened that was unexpected
- How you felt about the experience

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

I’d like to talk about a trip I took to Bali last summer with my best friend. We had been planning this vacation for months and were really excited about it. However, things didn’t quite go as we expected.

We arrived at our hotel only to find out that there had been a mix-up with our booking, and our room wasn’t available. The staff apologized and offered us a different room, but it wasn’t as nice as the one we had originally booked. This was quite disappointing, but we tried to stay positive.

The next day, we planned to go on a hiking trip to see the sunrise from Mount Batur. Unfortunately, when we woke up early in the morning, it was pouring rain. The tour company called to cancel the trip, which was a big letdown since we had been looking forward to it.

Despite these setbacks, we tried to make the best of our situation. We spent more time exploring the local markets and trying different restaurants, which turned out to be really enjoyable. In the end, I felt a bit frustrated that things didn’t go according to plan, but I also learned that sometimes unexpected events can lead to new and interesting experiences.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to recount a rather memorable journey I embarked on to Iceland with my sister last winter. We had meticulously planned this trip for months, eagerly anticipating the awe-inspiring Northern Lights and the country’s breathtaking landscapes. However, our experience took quite an unexpected turn.

Upon landing in Reykjavik, we were greeted with the news that an unprecedented volcanic eruption had occurred, causing widespread disruption to local transportation and tourism activities. This unforeseen event threw our carefully crafted itinerary into disarray, as many of the sites we had planned to visit were now inaccessible.

Undeterred by this setback, we decided to embrace the spontaneity of the situation. We quickly adapted our plans, opting to explore the capital city more thoroughly and engaging with locals to discover hidden gems that weren’t on our original agenda. We even had the remarkable opportunity to witness the volcanic eruption from a safe distance, which was an absolutely awe-inspiring spectacle that we hadn’t anticipated experiencing.

This unexpected turn of events initially left me feeling somewhat disconcerted and frustrated. However, as we navigated through the challenges, I found myself increasingly exhilarated by the sense of adventure that comes with embracing the unknown. The experience taught me the value of flexibility and resilience when traveling, and how sometimes the most memorable experiences arise from situations that don’t go according to plan.

In retrospect, while our trip didn’t unfold as we had envisioned, it turned out to be an incredibly enriching and unique adventure that far surpassed our original expectations. It served as a poignant reminder that often, the most rewarding travel experiences are those that challenge us to step out of our comfort zones and adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

Unexpected trip to Iceland with Northern Lights

Follow-up Questions:

Q: How did you handle the unexpected situations during your trip?

A (Band 6-7): We tried to stay calm and look for alternative activities. We asked the hotel staff for recommendations and found some interesting local spots to visit. It was challenging, but we managed to enjoy our trip despite the problems.

A (Band 8-9): We approached the situation with a positive mindset and viewed it as an opportunity for adventure rather than a setback. We leveraged local knowledge by engaging with residents and tourism officials to uncover unique experiences that weren’t part of our original itinerary. This adaptable approach allowed us to make the most of our circumstances and ultimately led to a more authentic and immersive travel experience.

Q: Do you think unexpected events can make a trip more memorable?

A (Band 6-7): Yes, I think they can. When things don’t go as planned, it often creates stories that we remember for a long time. These experiences can also teach us how to be more flexible and patient when traveling.

A (Band 8-9): Absolutely. Unexpected events often serve as catalysts for personal growth and can transform a routine vacation into an unforgettable journey. They challenge us to think on our feet and often lead to serendipitous encounters or discoveries that we might have otherwise missed. These unplanned moments tend to etch themselves more deeply into our memories, creating rich, multifaceted experiences that we reflect upon and share for years to come.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some examples:

Q: How do you think people can prepare for unexpected situations when traveling?

A (Band 6-7): I think it’s important to have travel insurance and some extra money for emergencies. It’s also good to research the place you’re visiting and know about potential problems that could happen. Having a flexible attitude is really helpful too.

A (Band 8-9): Comprehensive preparation is key to navigating unexpected situations while traveling. This involves not only securing robust travel insurance and maintaining an emergency fund, but also thoroughly researching the destination, including potential cultural, political, or environmental challenges. Developing a flexible itinerary allows for easy adjustments, while cultivating adaptability and problem-solving skills is crucial. Additionally, staying informed about current events and maintaining copies of important documents can prove invaluable. Ultimately, fostering a resilient mindset that views challenges as opportunities for growth and unique experiences is perhaps the most essential preparation of all.

Q: Do you think modern technology has made it easier to deal with unexpected travel situations?

A (Band 6-7): Yes, I think technology has made a big difference. We can use our smartphones to find information quickly, book new accommodations, or contact people for help. Translation apps can also be really useful in foreign countries.

A (Band 8-9): Modern technology has undoubtedly revolutionized our ability to handle unexpected travel situations. Real-time information access through smartphones allows travelers to swiftly adapt to changing circumstances, whether it’s finding alternative routes, locating emergency services, or securing last-minute accommodations. Translation apps and AI-powered assistants have significantly reduced language barriers, facilitating smoother communication in foreign environments. Moreover, social media platforms and travel forums provide instant connections to a global community of travelers, offering valuable advice and support. However, it’s worth noting that while technology offers tremendous advantages, it’s crucial to maintain a balance and not become overly reliant on digital solutions, as cultivating traditional problem-solving skills remains essential for truly resilient travel experiences.

Technology enhancing travel experience

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated terms and expressions:

1. Meticulously planned /məˈtɪkjələsli plænd/ (adv. + v.) – carefully and precisely planned
   Example: We had meticulously planned our itinerary to make the most of our short stay.

2. Unforeseen circumstances /ʌnfɔːˈsiːn ˈsɜːkəmstənsɪz/ (adj. + n.) – unexpected situations
   Example: Our trip was derailed by unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.

3. Adapt to /əˈdæpt tuː/ (v.) – to change to fit a new situation
   Example: We had to quickly adapt to the new situation and find alternative activities.

4. Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (n.) – the ability to recover quickly from difficulties
   Example: Traveling often tests one’s resilience in the face of unexpected challenges.

5. Serendipitous /ˌserənˈdɪpɪtəs/ (adj.) – occurring by chance in a happy or beneficial way
   Example: Our change of plans led to a serendipitous encounter with a local artist.

6. Embrace the spontaneity /ɪmˈbreɪs ðə ˌspɒntəˈneɪəti/ (v. + n.) – to accept and enjoy unplanned events
   Example: When our original plans fell through, we decided to embrace the spontaneity of the moment.

Key vocabulary for IELTS Speaking test

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing unexpected travel experiences, consider the following tips:

1. Practice narrating personal experiences with a focus on describing emotions and reactions to unexpected events.
2. Develop a rich vocabulary related to travel and problem-solving to articulate your thoughts more precisely.
3. Work on your fluency by regularly discussing various travel scenarios with a study partner or language exchange buddy.
4. Improve your pronunciation and intonation to ensure clear communication of your ideas.
5. Familiarize yourself with idiomatic expressions related to travel and unexpected situations to add depth to your responses.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about having interesting experiences to share, but also about how effectively you can communicate those experiences. Regular practice and exposure to a wide range of travel-related topics will help you feel more confident and perform better on test day.