The topic of describing an ideal place to stay is a popular one in IELTS Speaking exams, frequently appearing in Part 2 and sometimes in Part 1 or 3. As an experienced IELTS examiner, I’ve noticed this theme’s recurrence and expect it to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to excel in answering questions related to this topic across all parts of the IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you might encounter questions about your current living situation or preferences for accommodation. Here are some common questions and a sample answer:
- “Do you like the place where you’re living now?”
- “What kind of accommodation do you prefer?”
- “Have you ever stayed in a hotel? How was your experience?”
Let’s focus on answering the second question:
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I prefer spacious apartments with plenty of natural light. I find that having a well-lit living space really boosts my mood and productivity. Ideally, I’d love a place with a small balcony where I can enjoy my morning coffee and perhaps grow some herbs. It’s also important to me that the apartment is in a convenient location, close to public transportation and amenities like grocery stores and cafes.”
This answer demonstrates a good range of vocabulary, clear organization of ideas, and personal examples, which are key factors in achieving a higher band score.
Part 2: Long Turn
Now, let’s look at a potential cue card for this topic:
Describe an ideal place where you would like to stay.
You should say:
• Where it is located
• What it looks like
• What facilities it has
• And explain why you would like to stay thereSample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my ideal place to stay, which would be a charming cottage nestled in the countryside of Scotland. This picturesque retreat would be located in a secluded area, surrounded by rolling hills and lush green meadows, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The cottage itself would be a quaint stone building with a thatched roof, exuding rustic charm and character. Its exterior would be adorned with climbing roses and ivy, creating a fairytale-like appearance. Inside, the cottage would boast a cozy living room with a roaring fireplace, perfect for curling up with a good book on chilly evenings.
In terms of facilities, this ideal accommodation would strike a balance between modern comfort and traditional aesthetics. It would feature a fully-equipped kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, allowing me to indulge in my passion for cooking. The bathroom would have a clawfoot bathtub for long, relaxing soaks. Additionally, there would be a small study nook with high-speed internet, ensuring I can stay connected if needed.
I’m particularly drawn to this type of accommodation because it offers a perfect blend of tranquility and comfort. The serene surroundings would provide an ideal environment for rejuvenation and self-reflection. Moreover, staying in such a place would allow me to immerse myself in the local culture and perhaps gain a deeper appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. It’s the kind of experience that I believe would be not just a vacation, but a truly transformative journey.”
This response demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and clear organization. The speaker provides detailed descriptions and explains their preferences, which are key elements for achieving a high band score.
Follow-up questions:
- “How does this ideal place differ from where you currently live?”
- “Do you think staying in such a place could have any drawbacks?”
Sample Answer for Question 1 (Band 8-9):
“The stark contrast between this idyllic cottage and my current urban apartment is quite striking. While I currently reside in a bustling metropolis, surrounded by skyscrapers and constant noise, this cottage offers a serene escape into nature. The pace of life would be significantly slower, allowing for more mindfulness and appreciation of my surroundings. Additionally, the cottage’s traditional architecture and rustic charm are a far cry from the modern, minimalist design of my city apartment, offering a refreshing change of aesthetic and atmosphere.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to accommodation and travel. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- “How do you think accommodation preferences differ between generations?”
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe there’s a notable disparity in accommodation preferences across generations. Younger people, particularly millennials and Gen Z, often prioritize experiences over possessions. They might prefer staying in unique Airbnbs or boutique hotels that offer Instagram-worthy moments and opportunities to connect with locals. In contrast, older generations tend to value comfort and familiarity, often opting for traditional hotels or resorts with comprehensive amenities.
Moreover, younger travelers are generally more tech-savvy and may prefer accommodations with smart features and strong Wi-Fi connectivity. They’re also more likely to consider eco-friendly options, reflecting their heightened environmental consciousness. Older generations, on the other hand, might place more emphasis on personal service and established reputation when choosing where to stay.”
- “Do you think the rise of home-sharing platforms like Airbnb has changed the way people travel?”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, I believe home-sharing platforms have revolutionized the travel industry in numerous ways. Firstly, they’ve democratized the accommodation market, allowing ordinary people to become hosts and travelers to find more diverse and affordable options. This has led to a more immersive travel experience, as guests can now stay in residential areas and live like locals, rather than being confined to tourist districts.
Furthermore, these platforms have fostered a sense of community and cultural exchange. Travelers can interact directly with hosts, gaining insider knowledge about the destination and sometimes forming lasting friendships. This personalized approach to travel aligns well with the modern desire for authentic experiences.
However, it’s worth noting that this shift has not been without controversy. In some cities, the proliferation of short-term rentals has been blamed for driving up housing costs and changing the character of neighborhoods. This has led to regulatory challenges and debates about the balance between tourism and local residents’ needs.
Despite these challenges, I believe the overall impact has been positive, encouraging people to travel more frequently and to a wider range of destinations. It’s democratized travel in a way that was previously unimaginable, making it more accessible and personalized for a broader spectrum of society.”
This answer demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the topic, using a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. The speaker provides a balanced view, considering both positive and negative aspects, which is crucial for achieving a high band score in Part 3.
Key Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these advanced words and phrases:
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Picturesque /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/ (adjective): visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way
Example: “The cottage was set in a picturesque village surrounded by rolling hills.” -
Immerse /ɪˈmɜːrs/ (verb): involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest
Example: “Staying in a local home allowed me to immerse myself in the culture.” -
Rejuvenate /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪt/ (verb): give new energy or vigor to; revitalize
Example: “A week in the countryside completely rejuvenated my spirits.” -
Amenities /əˈmenətiz/ (noun): desirable or useful features or facilities of a place
Example: “The hotel offered a wide range of amenities, including a spa and fitness center.” -
Idyllic /ɪˈdɪlɪk/ (adjective): extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque
Example: “We spent an idyllic week in a secluded beach house.”
Remember to use these words naturally and in context to showcase your vocabulary range effectively.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing an ideal place to stay:
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Practice describing various types of accommodation using rich, descriptive language. This will help you build a diverse vocabulary related to the topic.
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Develop your ideas fully. Don’t just list features; explain why they appeal to you and how they would enhance your stay.
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Use personal anecdotes to illustrate your points. This adds authenticity to your responses and demonstrates your ability to communicate real experiences in English.
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Work on your fluency by regularly discussing travel and accommodation preferences with others or recording yourself speaking on these topics.
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Stay informed about current trends in travel and accommodation. This will help you engage more meaningfully in Part 3 discussions.
By following these tips and incorporating advanced vocabulary and structures, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about ideal places to stay in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to speak naturally and confidently while showcasing your language skills.
If you found this guide helpful, you might also be interested in learning how to describe a concert you want to attend or describe a famous historical building in your country. These topics can help you further expand your descriptive language skills for the IELTS Speaking test.