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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe a Place You Would Like To Visit: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Sep 12, 2024, 10:43

Overview

The IELTS Speaking test topic 'Describe a Place You Would Like To Visit' is a common cue card prompt that invites you to discuss a destination you dream of exploring. This task is part of the second round, known as the individual long turn, where you have 1 to 2 minutes to speak on the subject after a brief preparation time. Key factors to consider include describing the location’s unique features, explaining why you wish to visit, and highlighting any special attractions or experiences associated with it.

 

Practising this topic can significantly enhance your IELTS Speaking skills by helping you develop structured responses and articulate your thoughts clearly. It encourages you to use descriptive language, provide detailed explanations, and stay on topic while speaking for an extended period. Mastering this type of prompt will boost your confidence and fluency, which is essential for achieving a higher band score in the speaking section.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe a Place You Would Like To Visit

You should say

  • Where is it?
  • What are the main attractions?
  • How do you know this place?
  • Why would you like to visit this place?
Sample Answer 1

Introduction (Covers: Where is it?)

 

  • The place I would like to visit is Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan. It’s located in the northern part of India and is renowned for its historic palaces and vibrant culture.
  • Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is famous for its unique architecture and colourful markets. It’s a city steeped in history and tradition.
  • I’ve always been fascinated by Jaipur’s rich heritage and the grandeur of its palaces, such as the Hawa Mahal and the Amber Fort.
  • The city’s strategic location in the desert region adds to its charm, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian history.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What are the main attractions?)

 

  • Jaipur is renowned for its magnificent forts and palaces, like the City Palace and Jantar Mantar. These sites offer a glimpse into the royal past of the region.
  • The local markets, such as Johari Bazaar, are famous for their traditional handicrafts and jewellery. This vibrant shopping experience attracts many visitors.
  • The Rajasthani cuisine, with its rich flavours and unique dishes, is another reason why I’m eager to visit. Dishes like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi are quite popular.
  • Jaipur’s festivals, including the vibrant Teej and Diwali celebrations, offer a great opportunity to experience local traditions and culture.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How do you know this place?)

 

  • I first heard about Jaipur through travel blogs and documentaries that highlighted its cultural significance and architectural beauty.
  • Recommendations from friends who have visited Jaipur provided further insights into its attractions and made me more interested in exploring the city.
  • The city’s reputation as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its historical landmarks adds to my desire to visit and see these wonders firsthand.
  • I’ve also read about Jaipur’s festivals and local traditions, which have piqued my interest in experiencing the city’s vibrant cultural life.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Why would you like to visit this place?)

 

  • I would love to visit Jaipur because it offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine. The city’s architectural marvels and lively markets make it an exciting destination.
  • Experiencing Jaipur’s royal heritage and vibrant festivals would be a memorable addition to my travel experiences.
  • I look forward to the opportunity to explore traditional Rajasthani culture and sample local foods.
  • Visiting Jaipur aligns with my interest in historical sites and cultural exploration, making it a top destination on my travel list.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction (Covers: Where is it?)

 

  • The place I would like to visit is Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in India, located on the banks of the River Ganges in Uttar Pradesh. It is known for its spiritual significance and ancient temples.
  • Varanasi, often referred to as Kashi, is renowned for its ghats, where locals perform daily rituals and ceremonies. It’s a city deeply connected with Hindu spirituality.
  • I’ve always been intrigued by Varanasi’s historical importance and its role as a major pilgrimage site for Hindus.
  • The city’s rich cultural heritage and its spiritual ambience make it an attractive destination for those interested in Indian traditions.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What are the main attractions?)
 

  • Varanasi is famous for its ghats, such as Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat, where you can witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony. These ceremonies are a major highlight for visitors.
  • The city is home to numerous temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists alike.
  • I’m excited about exploring Varanasi’s vibrant street life and sampling local street food like chaat and kachori. The city is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine.
  • Varanasi’s festivals, such as Dev Deepawali, offer a spectacular display of lights and rituals, adding to the city’s allure.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How do you know this place?)
 

  • I learned about Varanasi from travel documentaries and books that showcased its cultural and spiritual significance.
  • Friends who have visited the city shared their experiences, describing the unique atmosphere and spiritual essence of Varanasi, which sparked my interest.
  • The city’s reputation as a spiritual hub and its historical importance in Hinduism are key reasons why I’m eager to visit.
  • Articles and reviews about Varanasi’s festivals and local traditions have further piqued my curiosity about experiencing the city’s cultural richness.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Why would you like to visit this place?)

 

  • Visiting Varanasi would be a dream come true because of its deep spiritual significance and historical charm. The ghats and temples are major attractions for anyone interested in Indian culture.
  • I look forward to experiencing the city’s unique rituals and vibrant festivals, which are central to its identity.
  • The chance to explore traditional foods and witness the Ganga Aarti are highlights I’m excited about.
  • Varanasi perfectly aligns with my interests in spirituality and historical exploration, making it a top destination on my travel wishlist.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction (Covers: Where is it?)

 

  • The place I would like to visit is Goa, a popular state located on the western coast of India. It is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
  • Goa is renowned for its scenic coastline, including famous beaches like Baga and Anjuna. It also has a unique blend of Portuguese and Indian culture.
  • I’ve always been fascinated by Goa’s relaxed atmosphere and its reputation as a top beach destination in India.
  • The combination of stunning beaches and rich cultural history makes Goa a compelling choice for a holiday.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What are the main attractions?)

 

  • Goa’s beaches, such as Palolem and Vagator, are famous for their natural beauty and are ideal for relaxation and water sports. These beaches are a major attraction for visitors.
  • The state is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous clubs and beach parties that draw people from around the world.
  • I’m eager to explore Goa’s local cuisine, especially seafood dishes like fish curry and prawn balchão, which are popular among locals and tourists alike.
  • Goa’s cultural festivals, such as Carnival and Shigmo, offer a lively experience with traditional music and dance, adding to the city’s appeal.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How do you know this place?)
 

  • I first became interested in Goa through travel magazines and online articles that highlighted its picturesque beaches and vibrant culture.
  • Recommendations from friends who have visited Goa and enjoyed its beaches and nightlife have increased my curiosity about the place.
  • The state’s reputation for offering a mix of relaxation and adventure makes it a highly recommended destination for many travellers.
  • Reviews and travel blogs about Goa’s festivals and food have further fueled my desire to experience its unique charm.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Why would you like to visit this place?)
 

  • Visiting Goa would be an exciting opportunity to enjoy its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and diverse cuisine. The state offers a unique holiday experience.
  • I look forward to relaxing on its sandy shores and participating in its famous festivals, which reflect the vibrant culture of the region.
  • Exploring local food and enjoying the beach parties are activities I am particularly eager to experience.
  • Goa aligns perfectly with my interests in beach holidays and cultural exploration, making it a top destination on my travel list.

 

Also Read: Best IELTS Cue Cards for 7+ Band Score

When the cue card section begins, the examiner will hand you a cue card titled "Describe a Place You Would Like To Visit." 


You will have one minute to prepare your response and make notes if you wish. After this, you will need to speak on the topic for up to two minutes.


The best way to answer a cue card is to break it down into smaller pieces: introduction, describing your experience, key highlights, and conclusion. To structure your response effectively, you can explore various tips and tricks for the IELTS speaking test.

 

Introduction (Covers: Where is it?)

 

  • Name the place you would like to visit.
  • Provide a brief description of its location.
  • Mention how you became interested in this place.
  • Give a short overview of why it stands out to you.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What are the main attractions?)

 

  • Highlight the main attractions or features of the place.
  • Explain what makes these attractions special or unique.
  • Discuss any personal experiences or expectations related to the place.
  • Mention any cultural, historical, or natural aspects that draw you to it.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How do you know this place?)

 

  • Describe how you first heard about this place.
  • Mention any sources of information like books, media, or travel guides.
  • Explain what aspects of the place you have researched or are excited about.
  • Include any recommendations or reviews that influenced your interest.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Why would you like to visit this place?)

 

  • Summarise why you want to visit this place.
  • Highlight what you hope to gain from the visit.
  • Explain any personal or emotional significance the place holds.
  • Reflect on how this visit aligns with your personal interests or goals.

 

By following this structure, you can ensure your response is clear, organised, and within the two-minute limit.

 

Also Read:

 

Follow-Up Questions

In the follow-up questions round, also known as Round 3, the examiner will ask you questions related to the topic you discussed in the cue card. This part of the test aims to assess your ability to discuss ideas and express opinions in more detail. 

 

Expect questions that delve deeper into the topic, allowing you to expand on your initial responses. You’ll need to articulate your thoughts clearly and provide well-reasoned answers, demonstrating your language proficiency and critical thinking skills.

Q1. What problems can people have when they are on their journey, for example, to work or school? Why is this?

Answer 1: People often face traffic congestion during their commute, which can lead to delays and increased stress. This is especially common in large cities where the number of vehicles exceeds the capacity of the roads. Additionally, public transport can be overcrowded, causing discomfort and delays. These issues are usually due to inadequate infrastructure and high population density.

 

Answer 2: Commuters frequently encounter problems such as long travel times and unreliable transport services. Traffic jams and frequent delays are common in busy urban areas. Moreover, issues like maintenance strikes or breakdowns can disrupt schedules. These problems typically arise from insufficient planning and the growing demand for efficient transport systems.

Q2. Why do people need to travel every day?

Answer 1: People need to travel daily for work or education, as it is essential for their professional and academic commitments. Commuting allows them to access job opportunities or attend classes that are not available in their immediate vicinity. Additionally, daily travel helps maintain a work-life balance by separating personal time from professional responsibilities.

 

Answer 2: Daily travel is necessary for people to fulfil their work or study obligations. Most jobs and educational institutions are located in different areas, requiring individuals to commute regularly. This routine helps them stay engaged with their professional or academic goals while also contributing to their personal growth and social interactions.

Q3. Can travel make a positive difference to a country's economy? How?

Answer 1: Yes, travel can positively impact a country’s economy by boosting tourism revenue. Visitors spend money on accommodation, food, and attractions, which support local businesses and create jobs. Additionally, increased tourism can lead to better infrastructure development, benefiting both locals and visitors alike.

 

Answer 2: Travel contributes to a country’s economy by generating income through tourism and related services. When people visit different regions, they spend on various services, which stimulates economic growth and job creation. Furthermore, the influx of tourists can encourage investment in infrastructure, leading to long-term economic benefits.

Q4. What do you think people can learn from travelling to other countries?

Answer 1: Travelling to other countries offers valuable cultural insights and broadens one's perspective. People can learn about different traditions, languages, and lifestyles, enhancing their understanding of global diversity. It also fosters personal growth by challenging one’s assumptions and promoting adaptability.

 

Answer 2: Through international travel, people gain knowledge about various cultures and historical contexts. They experience different ways of life and develop a greater appreciation for diversity. Travelling also helps build communication skills and understand global issues, contributing to a more informed and empathetic worldview.

 

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FAQs

Q. How to answer part 2 in IELTS?

Ans. To answer Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test, carefully read the Cue Card and use the 1-minute preparation time to outline your response. Speak for 1-2 minutes, addressing all points on the card with relevant examples and details. Structure your response logically with an introduction, main content, and conclusion. Practice speaking on various topics to build fluency and confidence.

Q. Is there a specific structure I should follow when responding to speaking test topics?

Ans. While there is no rigid structure, a clear approach involves starting with an introduction, covering the main points, and ending with a conclusion. Begin by briefly introducing the topic, elaborate on the main ideas with examples or details, and summarise or conclude your response. This structure helps maintain clarity and coherence throughout your answer.

Q. What should I include in my response to cover all parts of the cue card?

Ans. Ensure you address each aspect of the prompt, including the main topic, any sub-points, and specific details mentioned. Structure your answer clearly by following the cue card’s points. Include relevant personal anecdotes or examples where appropriate to illustrate your points. Make sure to stay within the allotted time by practising your response structure. Summarise briefly if needed to cover all parts effectively.

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