Describe A Hotel That You Know: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

Where is it?
Why you went there?
What is it like?
Explain how you felt about it.

31 unique answers with expert feedback

What do you think makes a hotel memorable?

A hotel becomes memorable through its unique experiences, exceptional service, and the ambiance it provides. Personal connections, like the memories created with family or friends, also play a crucial role. For me, the beautiful views and delicious food at the guest house made it unforgettable.

How important is food in a hotel experience?

Food is extremely important in a hotel experience as it can enhance the overall stay. A diverse and delicious menu can leave a lasting impression. In my case, the buffet spreads at the guest house were a highlight, making every meal something to look forward to.

Would you prefer a hotel in a city or a secluded area? Why?

I would prefer a hotel in a secluded area because it offers tranquility and a chance to connect with nature. The guest house in Dahanu provided a peaceful environment, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, which made my stay more enjoyable and relaxing.

Band 7

00:00

One hotel that I know well is the Oberoi Uday Villas located in Udaipur, India. I've never stayed there but I've seen many videos and pictures of it and it looks absolutely stunning. It's known as one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. The hotel is built in a traditional Rajasthani style with beautiful dorms, courtyards and fountains. It's situated right next to a lake so the views are amazing especially during sunset. The rooms are spacious with royal style furniture and private pools in some of them. What I really admire about the hotel is its attention to detail. Guests have mentioned that the staff go out of their way to make you feel welcome. For example, they are always polite, greet you with a warm smile and often and small personal touches like flower arrangements or handwriting notes to enhance your stay. Even though staying there is quite expensive, I think it would be worth it for a special occasion like honeymoon or an anniversary. For me, this hotel represents the perfect combination of culture, comfort and class. I hope I can visit it someday and experience that royal treatment myself. And if I have ever get the chance, I would love to stay there for a night or two. It seems like the perfect place for a relaxing holiday or a romantic getaway. What makes this hotel special is not just its beauty but also the high level of service. People say the staff treat you like royalty and pay attention to every small detail.

Follow up questions

What features of the hotel do you think attract most visitors?

I believe the stunning architecture and the beautiful views of the lake are major attractions. The luxurious amenities, such as private pools and spacious rooms, along with the exceptional service provided by the staff, also draw many visitors looking for a memorable experience.

How do you think the location of the hotel influences its popularity?

The hotel's location next to a lake in Udaipur enhances its appeal significantly. The picturesque views, especially during sunset, create a romantic atmosphere. Additionally, being in a culturally rich city like Udaipur adds to the overall experience for guests, making it a sought-after destination.

What do you think is the importance of customer service in hotels?

Customer service is crucial in the hospitality industry as it can greatly influence a guest's experience. Exceptional service, like the warm greetings and personal touches at Oberoi Uday Villas, can make guests feel valued and enhance their overall stay, leading to positive reviews and repeat visits.

Band 6-7

00:00

I would like to talk about a hotel nearby me, the hotel name was Radhe Krishna Hotel and it is very popular for tourist visitors because it was situated on the bypass of Dhari and New through which travellers go and pause their journey for rest on the hotel. It is right in front of, next to my highway road. I first visited the hotel when I was six years old with my father. It also has a beautiful garden in there, a swimming pool as well and a hot bath steam. It has a club, it has a TV show in this hotel. The restaurant's menu is very good, you have a lot of varieties to choose. You can go for anyone, the most I like is the Malai Paneer and in the non-veg I prefer to go for chicken. I used to go there now regularly to eat eggs to complete my daily protein because I also had gym. So the restaurant is a good place for me.

Follow up questions

What do you think makes a hotel popular among tourists?

I believe a hotel becomes popular due to its location, amenities, and services. A good reputation for cleanliness, friendly staff, and quality food also plays a significant role. Additionally, unique features like a beautiful garden or a swimming pool can attract more visitors.

How important is the restaurant quality in a hotel experience?

The quality of the restaurant is crucial as it can greatly enhance the overall hotel experience. Guests often prefer hotels with diverse and delicious food options. A good restaurant can make a stay more enjoyable, especially for those who travel for leisure or business.

Have you ever had a bad experience in a hotel? What happened?

Yes, I once stayed at a hotel where the service was poor, and the room was not clean. The staff was unhelpful, and the food was below average. This experience taught me to read reviews before booking and to prioritize cleanliness and service quality when choosing a hotel.

Practice other cue cards

Band 6-7

00:00

so I have been given this opportunity to talk about a hotel that I know or I like there is one hotel in Masoori Taj Hotel it is situated on top of the hills we cannot go by any car or any means of transport we have to use our own feet and we have to trek up on the hills and reach the hotel first of the things that I like most about this hotel is the location and where it is situated it is not situated between the city center it is around one to two kilometers away from the city center making it a place that wherein we are close to nature and wherein there is less pollution and less crowded second thing that it is pretty much affordable for all middle-class people and it has been maintained in the old style old format it is not very equipped with new amenities but all the basic amenities are present in the hotel making it very comfortable stay there is one particular thing that I enjoy about this hotel is that it has a circular bed in most of the rooms and I find it very amusing and I find it very fun to when I see a circular bed in any room because it has been a dream for me since childhood

Follow up questions

What other hotels have you stayed at, and how do they compare to Taj Hotel?

I have stayed at a few other hotels, but none compare to the Taj Hotel in Masoori. The unique location and the trek to reach it make it special. Other hotels I've visited were more modern but lacked the charm and connection to nature that Taj Hotel offers.

What activities can guests enjoy near the Taj Hotel?

Guests can enjoy trekking, nature walks, and exploring the nearby hills. The hotel also offers a peaceful environment for relaxation. Additionally, there are opportunities for photography and enjoying the scenic views of the mountains.

Why do you think the circular bed is special or fun?

The circular bed is fun because it adds a unique touch to the room. It's different from traditional beds and makes the stay feel more playful and memorable. I’ve always dreamed of having a circular bed, so it feels like a whimsical experience when I see one.

Band 6-7

00:00

In today's world there are a variety of accommodations ranging from hotels to airbnbs but hotels have been there since a very long time and one of the oldest hotels that I have visited and also is my favourite is called Atlantis. It is located in Dubai. I visited it approximately 2-3 years back with my mother and sister. Then we went on a trip to Dubai and stayed there for only a day. With the experience it gave us, it was worthwhile. It did not just feel like a hotel, it was a different experience altogether. It had everything that a person could ever need from comfort to a variety of food options in the buffet, in the dining place as well as it also had a built-in aquarium for its guests with an infinity pool where guests can relax in the evening. Although it was a little too expensive but I feel it was definitely a good choice as it was an unforgettable experience and if got a chance to visit it again, I would definitely and if anybody asks me for any recommendations for any places they should visit, I would prefer and I would suggest them to visit that particular hotel for the comfiest day.

Follow up questions

What amenities do you think are essential in a hotel?

I believe essential amenities in a hotel include comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and good dining options. Additionally, facilities like a gym or pool can enhance the experience. A hotel should also provide excellent customer service to make guests feel welcome and valued.

How do you think hotels can improve their services?

Hotels can improve their services by offering personalized experiences, such as tailored recommendations for activities. They can also enhance cleanliness and safety measures, provide better staff training for customer service, and incorporate technology for easier check-ins and room service.

What factors influence your choice of hotel when traveling?

When choosing a hotel, I consider location, price, reviews, and available amenities. I also look for special features like unique dining options or recreational facilities. Ultimately, I want a place that offers comfort and convenience while fitting my budget.

Show all 31 answers

Cue 1:Where is it?

Begin by mentioning the location of the hotel, including the city and any notable landmarks nearby.
You can also describe the accessibility of the hotel, such as proximity to the airport or public transport.

Example

The hotel I want to describe is the Taj Mahal Palace, located in Mumbai, right next to the Gateway of India. It’s a prominent landmark and easily accessible from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

Cue 2:Why you went there?

Explain the reason for your visit, whether it was for leisure, business, or a special occasion.
Mention any specific events or experiences that prompted you to choose this hotel.

Example

I went there to celebrate my parents' wedding anniversary. They had always wanted to stay at this iconic hotel, so I decided to surprise them with a weekend getaway.

Cue 3:What is it like?

Describe the ambiance and facilities of the hotel, such as the decor, rooms, and services offered.
Highlight any unique features that stood out to you during your stay.

Example

The hotel is luxurious, with stunning architecture and elegant interiors. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, offering a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea. The service was impeccable, with friendly staff catering to our every need.

Cue 4:Explain how you felt about it.

Share your personal feelings and impressions about the hotel experience.
Discuss any memorable moments that made your stay special.

Example

I felt incredibly happy and relaxed during our stay. The highlight was a dinner at their rooftop restaurant, where we enjoyed delicious food while watching the sunset. It was a truly unforgettable experience that made my parents feel cherished.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, the Taj Mahal Palace is not just a hotel; it’s a place filled with history and elegance. My experience there was wonderful, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a luxurious stay in Mumbai.

Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.

Tips to answer this Cue Card

1: Vague Descriptions

Using vague language can make your answer unclear and unengaging. Specific details help the examiner understand your experience better.

Tip

Include specific details about the hotel's location, amenities, and your personal experiences to create a vivid picture.

2: Ignoring Emotional Impact

Failing to express your feelings about the hotel can make your response less personal and relatable. Emotions add depth to your answer.

Tip

Share how the hotel made you feel, whether it was relaxing, exciting, or disappointing, to connect with the examiner.

Lack of Structure

A disorganized response can confuse the listener. A clear structure helps convey your thoughts more effectively.

Tip

Follow the cue prompts in order: start with the location, then your reason for visiting, describe the hotel, and conclude with your feelings.

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Describe your favourite food at a traditional festival or a special event in your country

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

Pitampura Test Centre, New Delhi

Answer

I like to taste different types of cuisine. Here I would like to talk about my favorite dish at my traditional festival of Onam which is Sadya. Sadya is popular in my city. We are experimenting these cuisines on Onam festival day. Onam is a famous festival in my city. All family members get together in my home and we make a delicious Sadya. There are many ingredients includes that Sadya. Moreover, we make a big feast that day as well as we create a lot of memories together and we wear that day the traditional dress called Sari and men wear the Dhotis. That festival is really important to us because the whole day we are conducting different kinds of games at our homes and all the family members came together. It's a memorable day in my life. This is the festival. We are making the Sambar and Aviyal. These all the kinds of foods are making with the vegetables.

Talk about a toy you liked in your childhood

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 8

Sector 34 Test Centre, Chandigarh

Answer

The toy which I liked in my childhood was a panda doll, which makes me pleasant and makes me more blush. The pandas are the most beautiful creatures of the world, which looks gigantic and has pooshy cheeks and they are like stars in the clouds and they dream in me. Furthermore, these have been given by my father. My father is a very very beautiful artistic person, who makes me think of that. Every day you will face every difficulties and make you suffer and move forward. Pandas are always seen in Japanese countries. It is my lifelong dream to visit a Japanese country and click a photo with the original pandas, which makes sounds better.

Describe a time you were in a place where you didn't know the local language

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 6.5

Whitefield Test Center, Bengaluru

Answer

As India is a very large country full of diversity, so there are many places which have their own language and speak their native language. The place which I visited and I didn't know about their language was Leladakh, which is about 300 km away from my hometown and it is a very good place as it consists of different kind of trees, animals and have many scenic views and I visited over there last year in summers as it was the best time to visit because it has many, it was cold over there and we had summers in our area so it was the best time to visit over there and I went over there with my whole family.

Describe a time when your friend damaged something you owned

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7

Begumpet Test Centre, Hyderabad

Answer

When I was a kid, I had a little pencil box which had these four buttons which gave the pencil box an operative use. When you press the button, the box would open up. When you press the second button, a little part of it would slide out. Basically it was just a little electronical and a fun thing to have and I owned it when I was in 6th. One day after break, I was standing and talking there with one of my friends and another friend of mine was running through the hallway and accidentally she pushed my shoulder and my pencil box hit the ground and it broke into multiple pieces to the point that it was not functional anymore.

Describe a book you recently read

Reported by

Anonymous student Band 7.5

CBD Belapur Test Centre, Navi Mumbai

Answer

It Ends With Us is a book I read recently. It's by the author Colleen Hoare. It's mainly a story about two teenagers, Atlas and Lily, and how they just handle their life going through high school, adolescence, and just domestic violence at home. Both of them come from very, very different families. However, they have one common determining factor between them, which is domestic violence. The abuse that they've seen their moms go through is just insane, and they connect through that on a different level. They're actually in the same high school, but they never speak to each other until Atlas actually crashes into an empty house next to Lily's villa. When Atlas is homeless and he doesn't have anywhere to go, he just comes and breaks into the house next to Lily's, and Lily helps him with all the daily necessities like clothes and food, medicines and stuff. Furthermore, their friendship blossoms into love, but it doesn't really fructify as Atlas has to leave. This book really gave me a lot of knowledge about domestic abuse and how to deal with it.