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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe a Hotel You Stayed In: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Sep 12, 2024, 06:52

Overview

The IELTS Speaking Test often includes topics that require you to describe personal experiences, such as "Describe a Hotel You Stayed In." This topic is an opportunity to showcase your ability to discuss a specific place in detail, focusing on key elements like location, amenities, atmosphere, and service. It's important to consider the descriptive language you use, how you organise your thoughts, and your ability to express opinions and comparisons.

 

Practising this topic can significantly improve your IELTS Speaking skills by enhancing your ability to provide detailed descriptions, use a wide vocabulary, and structure your responses coherently. It also helps you to develop fluency in discussing personal experiences, which is crucial for achieving a higher band score.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe a Hotel You Stayed In

You should say

  • Where is it?
  • Why did you go there?
  • What is it like?
  • Explain how you felt about it.
Sample Answer 1

Introduction (Covers: Where is it? Why did you go there?)

 

  • I stayed at The Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai, a well-known luxury hotel near the Gateway of India. 
  • I chose this hotel for a short holiday last winter because it’s famous for its historical significance and splendid architecture. 
  • The location also made it easy for me to visit popular spots around the city, including Marine Drive and Colaba.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion (Covers: What is it like?)

 

  • My experience at The Taj Mahal Palace was truly memorable. 
  • From the moment I arrived, the staff made me feel like a valued guest with their impeccable service. 
  • The room I stayed in was luxurious and offered a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea. 
  • The combination of modern comfort and traditional Indian décor added a special touch to my stay, making it both relaxing and culturally enriching.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: What is it like? Explain how you felt about it.)

 

  • One of the key highlights of my stay was the hotel's exquisite dining options. 
  • I had the opportunity to dine at the famous Wasabi by Morimoto, which offered a blend of authentic Japanese cuisine with an Indian twist. 
  • Another highlight was the hotel's grand heritage tour, which gave me a deep insight into the hotel's history and legacy. 
  • The spa facilities were also exceptional, providing a perfect way to unwind after sightseeing.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain how you felt about it.)

 

  • Overall, my stay at The Taj Mahal Palace exceeded my expectations. 
  • The world-class service, rich history, and luxurious amenities made it an unforgettable experience. 
  • I highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Mumbai, whether for business or leisure, as it offers a perfect blend of comfort and culture.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction (Covers: Where is it? Why did you go there?)

 

  • I stayed at the ITC Grand Chola in Chennai, a five-star hotel in the city's heart. 
  • I decided to stay there during a business trip last year because of its reputation for blending luxury with traditional South Indian hospitality. 
  • Its proximity to the business district made it a convenient choice for my meetings.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion (Covers: What is it like? Explain how you felt about it.)

 

  • My stay at the ITC Grand Chola was nothing short of exceptional. 
  • The hotel's grandeur was evident when I entered the opulent lobby, where the intricate architecture and warm lighting created an inviting atmosphere. 
  • The room was spacious, with a comfortable bed and modern amenities, yet it retained a touch of traditional Tamil décor, which made it feel both luxurious and homely.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: What is it like? Explain how you felt about it.)

 

  • A standout feature of the hotel was its dining options, particularly the South Indian restaurant, which offered an authentic culinary experience. 
  • The breakfast buffet was a treat, with a wide range of local and international dishes. 
  • The hotel’s wellness centre was top-notch; I enjoyed a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage that helped me relax after a long day of work—the staff’s attention to detail and willingness to accommodate my needs added to the experience.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Explain how you felt about it.)

 

  • In conclusion, my stay at the ITC Grand Chola was highly satisfying, and I felt well taken care of throughout my visit. 
  • The combination of luxury, cultural richness, and excellent service made it a memorable experience. 
  • I would recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Chennai, whether for business or leisure, as it perfectly balances tradition and modern comfort.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction (Covers: Where is it? Why did you go there?)
 

  • I stayed at The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur, a luxury hotel on Lake Pichola's banks. 
  • I chose this hotel for a family vacation last summer, as it’s renowned for its regal architecture and serene lakeside setting. 
  • The hotel’s location allowed us to explore the historic city of Udaipur while enjoying a peaceful retreat.
     

Describing Your Experience/Opinion (Covers: What is it like? Explain how you felt about it.)
 

  • My experience at The Oberoi Udaivilas was truly enchanting. 
  • The hotel’s design, inspired by the palaces of Rajasthan, made me feel like royalty from the moment I arrived. 
  • The room was elegantly decorated, with intricate carvings and traditional Rajasthani artwork, yet equipped with all modern comforts. 
  • The view from the balcony, overlooking the serene lake, was simply breathtaking and added to the tranquillity of the stay.
     

Key Highlights (Covers: What is it like? Explain how you felt about it.)
 

  • One of the highlights of my stay was the evening boat ride arranged by the hotel, which offered a spectacular view of the sunset over Lake Pichola. 
  • The hotel’s dining options were also exceptional; I particularly enjoyed the traditional Rajasthani thali, which allowed me to savour the local flavours in a luxurious setting.
  • Another memorable experience was the heritage walk through the hotel, where we learned about the region’s rich history and the inspiration behind the hotel’s architecture.
     

Conclusion (Covers: Explain how you felt about it.)
 

  • Overall, my stay at The Oberoi Udaivilas was nothing short of magical. 
  • The combination of regal architecture, serene surroundings, and impeccable service made it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 
  • I recommend this hotel to anyone looking to experience the royal heritage of Rajasthan in a luxurious setting.

When the cue card section of the IELTS Speaking Test begins, the examiner will hand you a card with a topic and a few questions. Once you receive the cue card, you'll have one minute to prepare your response, during which you can make notes to organise your thoughts. 
 

This brief preparation time is crucial for planning how to address each prompt effectively, ensuring that your response is well-structured and covers all aspects of the topic.


The best way to answer cue card topics like ‘Describe a Hotel You Stayed In’ is to break your response into clear, manageable sections. By dividing your answer into an introduction, describing your experience or opinion, highlighting key details, and concluding your response, you ensure that your answer is well-organised and easy to follow.

 

Introduction:

 

  • Start by briefly mentioning the name and location of the hotel.
  • Include when you stayed there to set the context.
  • This gives the listener a clear idea of the setting and helps to frame the rest of your response.

 

Describing Your Experience or Opinion:

 

  • Share your overall impression of the hotel, whether positive or negative.
  • Mention how you felt during your stay and why.
  • Focus on specific aspects like service, comfort, or value for money to personalise your response.

 

Key Highlights:

 

  • Highlight specific features of the hotel, such as amenities, location, or dining options.
  • Discuss your unique experiences, such as a memorable meal or a stunning view.
  • Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture for the listener.

 

Conclusion:

 

  • Summarise your overall experience and give a final opinion.
  • Indicate whether you would recommend the hotel to others.
  • This ties your response together and provides a clear closing statement.

 

Following this structured approach can deliver a well-rounded and compelling response that fully addresses the cue card topic.

 

Also read: IELTS Speaking Vocabulary

Follow-Up Questions

In the IELTS Speaking Test, after completing the cue card section, the examiner will ask follow-up questions about the topic you discussed. This section is known as the ‘Two-way discussion.’
 

These follow-up questions are designed to explore your thoughts and opinions further and test your ability to expand on your initial responses. Expect these questions to delve into broader aspects of the topic, allowing you to demonstrate a deeper understanding and provide more detailed answers. 
 

Here are some common questions.

Q1. Does the rating of the people influence their choice?

Answer 1: Yes, ratings and reviews greatly influence my choice of a hotel. I often read reviews on various platforms to gauge the quality of the hotel. Positive reviews and high ratings generally indicate that previous guests had a good experience, which makes me more confident in booking. Conversely, I would likely choose a different option if a hotel has a low rating and numerous negative reviews.
 

Answer 2: Ratings are a key factor in my decision-making process. I tend to rely on reviews from other travellers to assess whether a hotel meets my expectations. High ratings usually suggest good service and amenities, which reassures me. On the other hand, negative reviews can highlight potential issues, making me wary of booking that hotel.

Q2. How do people reserve rooms?

Answer 1: Most people reserve hotel rooms online nowadays. I prefer booking through websites like Booking.com or directly on the hotel’s site because it allows me to compare prices and read guest reviews. This method is convenient and often offers better deals. I find that online booking also provides immediate confirmation, which is reassuring.


Answer 2: Room reservations are commonly made online or over the phone. I usually book online, as it’s more efficient and provides access to various options and special offers. Online booking sites also allow me to see reviews and ratings, which helps me make a more informed decision.

Q3. What influences people’s choice of a hotel?

Answer 1: Several factors influence my choice of a hotel, including its location, price, and amenities. I usually look for a hotel conveniently located near tourist attractions or business centres. The price is also crucial; I want to find a good balance between cost and quality. Amenities like free Wi-Fi and breakfast can also be deciding factors.


Answer 2: When selecting a hotel, people often consider factors such as the hotel's location, the cost, and the facilities offered. I look for a hotel that is ideally situated for my travel needs, whether for sightseeing or business. Additionally, I consider the overall value for money and the range of amenities, such as a gym or pool, that the hotel provides.

Q4. What is the difference between a hotel in our country and a hotel abroad?

Answer 1: Hotels abroad often differ from those in our country regarding design and service. For example, international hotels may incorporate local cultural elements into their décor or offer regional cuisine. Additionally, the level of service and the range of facilities can vary, with some hotels abroad providing more luxurious options.


Answer 2: Hotels in other countries can vary significantly from those in our own. Often, international hotels offer unique features that reflect the local culture, such as traditional décor or local dishes. The quality of service can also differ, with some hotels abroad providing additional amenities that are less common in our country.

Q5. Which feature is the most important facility you look for while staying in a hotel?

Answer 1: The most important feature I look for in a hotel is a comfortable bed. After a long day, a good night’s sleep is essential, so I prefer hotels with high-quality mattresses and bedding. I also appreciate a clean and modern bathroom, which offers a more comfortable stay.

 

Answer 2: I prioritise free Wi-Fi when choosing a hotel, as it allows me to stay connected and manage any work or personal tasks. I also value a clean and well-maintained bathroom, as it significantly enhances the comfort and convenience of my stay.

FAQs

Q. What is the IELTS Speaking Test?

Ans. The IELTS Speaking Test is a crucial part of the IELTS exam, designed to assess your English language communication skills. It consists of a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner who evaluates your speaking abilities, including fluency, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.

Q. How long does the IELTS Speaking Test last?

Ans. The IELTS Speaking Test generally lasts between 11 to 14 minutes, though the exact duration can vary based on the examiner’s questions and your answers. The test is divided into three sections:

 

  • Part 1: Lasts about 4-5 minutes, where the examiner asks introductory questions about your background, such as your name, origin, and occupation or studies.
  • Part 2: Lasts around 3-4 minutes. You will receive a cue card with a topic and prompts, and you'll have one minute to prepare before speaking for 1-2 minutes.
  • Part 3: Lasts approximately 4-5 minutes and involves a more in-depth discussion based on the topic from Part 2, focusing on abstract ideas and social issues.
Q. What are the three parts of the IELTS Speaking Test?

Ans. The IELTS Speaking Test comprises three parts:

 

  • Part 1: The examiner asks introductory questions about your personal background, including details about your name, place of origin, and your current studies or job.
  • Part 2: You are given a cue card with a topic and prompts, with one minute to prepare notes before speaking for 1-2 minutes.
  • Part 3: This section involves a more detailed discussion related to the topic from Part 2, exploring abstract ideas and social issues.

IELTS Important Information

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