leap-scholar-logo
hamburger-menu
cue_card_backround_image_mobile

IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe a Special Hotel You Stayed In: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Sep 11, 2024, 08:52

Overview

The IELTS Speaking topic "Describe a Special Hotel You Stayed In" asks you to recall and articulate a memorable experience at a hotel, focusing on its unique features and the reasons it stood out. To effectively answer this question, it's important to consider aspects like the hotel's ambience, location, and services, as well as how these elements contributed to your overall experience.
 

Practising this topic can significantly enhance your IELTS Speaking skills by helping you organise your thoughts, use descriptive language, and convey personal experiences clearly and confidently. This exercise encourages fluency, expands your vocabulary, and improves your ability to structure responses under exam conditions.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe A Special Hotel You Stayed In

You should say

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

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

 

  • One special hotel I stayed in was The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur. This luxurious hotel is situated on the banks of Lake Pichola, offering stunning views of the lake and the city’s historic palaces.
  • I chose this hotel for a special occasion because of its reputation for luxury and exceptional service. The hotel’s architecture and ambience reflect the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal heritage.
  • My stay at The Oberoi Udaivilas was unforgettable, filled with comfort, elegance, and a deep sense of tranquillity.

 

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

 

  • When I arrived at the hotel, I was greeted with a traditional Rajasthani welcome, complete with a garland and a refreshing drink. This warm reception set the tone for my stay.
  • The room was beautifully designed, blending traditional Rajasthani decor with modern amenities. It offered a breathtaking view of the lake, making it a perfect place to unwind.
  • The hotel’s facilities were outstanding, from the infinity pool overlooking the lake to the spa offering rejuvenating treatments. Every aspect of the stay was designed to provide luxury and relaxation.

 

Key Highlights 

 

  • One highlight was the dining experience. The hotel’s restaurants served exquisite Indian and international cuisine, with the option to dine by the lakeside under the stars, creating a magical atmosphere.
  • Another highlight was the guided boat ride on Lake Pichola, which the hotel arranged. It provided a unique perspective of Udaipur’s palaces and was a serene experience.

 

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

 

  • My stay at The Oberoi Udaivilas was a luxurious and memorable experience. The combination of stunning architecture, exceptional service, and beautiful surroundings made it truly special.
  • This hotel exemplified the best of Rajasthani hospitality and luxury, leaving me with lasting memories of my time in Udaipur.
Sample Answer 2

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

 

  • Another special hotel I stayed in was the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur. This iconic hotel is situated in the middle of Lake Pichola, offering a unique and breathtaking setting.
  • I chose this hotel for its historical significance and romantic ambience. The palace, built in the 18th century, was originally a royal summer retreat, and staying there felt like stepping back in time.
  • My stay at the Taj Lake Palace was a dreamlike experience. I was surrounded by the beauty of Udaipur and the elegance of a bygone era.

 

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

 

  • The journey to the hotel began with a short boat ride across Lake Pichola, adding to the stay's excitement and allure. The view of the palace from the water was simply stunning.
  • The room was richly decorated, featuring traditional Rajasthani artwork and luxurious furnishings. The attention to detail in the decor made the stay feel truly royal.

 

Key Highlights 

 

  • One highlight was the evening dining experience on the terrace, with a panoramic view of the City Palace and the surrounding hills. The ambience was magical, and the food was exquisite.
  • Another highlight was the spa treatment I indulged in, which was set in a serene location within the palace. Combining traditional therapies and the tranquil setting made it a rejuvenating experience.

 

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

 

  • Staying at the Taj Lake Palace was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The unique setting, combined with luxurious accommodations and top-notch service, made it an unforgettable stay.
  • This hotel embodies Udaipur’s royal heritage, offering guests a chance to experience the opulence and charm of a royal palace.
Sample Answer 3

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

 

  • A special hotel I stayed in was The Leela Palace in New Delhi. Located in the heart of the capital, this hotel combines traditional Indian elegance with modern luxury.
  • I chose The Leela Palace for a business trip because of its reputation for excellent service and its convenient location near many of the city’s key attractions and business centres.
  • My stay at The Leela Palace was marked by comfort, sophistication, and a sense of grandeur that made it stand out as one of the best hotels I’ve ever stayed in.

 

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

 

  • The hotel’s lobby, with its grand chandeliers and stunning artwork, made an immediate impression. The opulent decor reflected a blend of Indian and contemporary styles.
  • My room was spacious and luxurious, featuring high-end amenities and a beautiful view of the city skyline. The attention to detail in the room’s design added to the overall experience.
  • The hotel offered excellent facilities, including a well-equipped gym, a luxurious spa, and a rooftop swimming pool that provided a refreshing escape after a busy day.

 

Key Highlights 

 

  • One highlight was the fine dining experience at the hotel’s award-winning restaurants. The food was exceptional, with a menu that offered a fusion of traditional Indian and international cuisines.
  • Another highlight was the rooftop pool, which offered panoramic views of the city. It was a perfect spot to relax and unwind, especially in the evenings.

 

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

 

  • My stay at The Leela Palace in New Delhi was a luxurious and memorable experience. The combination of elegant decor, outstanding service, and top-notch amenities made it a standout hotel.
  • This hotel exemplifies the best of Indian hospitality and luxury, providing guests with an unforgettable experience in the heart of the capital.

 

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

When the cue card section begins, the examiner will hand you a card with a topic and some prompts. You will have one minute to prepare your response and can make notes. 

 

This structure helps you stay organised and covers all topic aspects clearly and logically.

 

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

 

  • Mention the hotel’s name and location.
  • Explain why you chose to stay there.
  • Briefly touch on your initial impression upon arrival.

 

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

 

  • Highlight specific aspects of the hotel that made it memorable (e.g., exceptional service, unique décor).
  • Share your feelings or opinions about the atmosphere and amenities.
  • Discuss any particular moments or experiences that were especially significant.

 

Key Highlights 

 

  • Mention any outstanding services or facilities (e.g., a rooftop pool or a Michelin-starred restaurant).
  • Talk about the quality of the room, the view, or any special touches that enhanced your stay.
  • If relevant, describe the location and how it added to your experience.

 

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

 

  • Summarise the key points you’ve discussed.
  • Mention whether you would recommend the hotel to others.
  • Conclude with a final thought or reflection on the experience.

 

IELTS Speaking Cue Card 2024 Topics With Samples

Follow-Up Questions

In the IELTS Speaking test, Part 3 follows the cue card round with a two-way discussion. Here, the examiner asks follow-up questions that delve deeper into the topic introduced in the cue card. 
 

This section evaluates your ability to elaborate on ideas, offer explanations, and engage in a more spontaneous and detailed conversation. The questions posed by the examiner cover a range of topics, from personal opinions to broader perspectives related to the cue card topic, allowing you to demonstrate your ability to discuss and analyse various aspects effectively.

Q1. What made this hotel stay special for you?

Answer 1: The hotel stay was special because of its exceptional service and unique atmosphere. The staff were incredibly attentive and went out of their way to make my stay comfortable. The hotel also had a charming design with local artwork and traditional decor, which gave it a distinctive character that I really appreciated.

Answer 2: This stay was memorable due to the stunning views from my room and the tranquil environment of the hotel. Waking up to a beautiful sunrise over the mountains each morning was a highlight. Additionally, the hotel’s cosy and welcoming atmosphere made it feel like a home away from home, adding to its special appeal.

Q2. How did the location of the hotel contribute to your experience?

Answer 1: The hotel’s location played a significant role in making my stay special. It was situated right by the beach, allowing me to enjoy the sound of the waves and easy access to the shore. The serene surroundings added to the relaxation and made it an ideal spot for unwinding and enjoying nature.

Answer 2: Being located in the heart of the city, the hotel offered convenient access to major attractions and cultural sites. This made it easy for me to explore the area and immerse myself in the local culture. The central location was perfect for making the most of my trip, and it added a sense of excitement to my stay.

Q3. What kind of amenities or services did the hotel offer that impressed you?

Answer 1: The hotel offered a range of impressive amenities, including a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city, which was a real treat. The spa services were also top-notch, providing a relaxing experience after a day of sightseeing. Additionally, the personalised concierge service made dining and activity recommendations that perfectly suited my preferences.

Answer 2: I was particularly impressed by the hotel’s attention to detail in its amenities, such as the luxurious bedding and high-quality toiletries. The complimentary breakfast was another highlight, featuring a variety of fresh, locally-sourced foods. The hotel also offered free bicycles for exploring the surrounding area, which added an extra layer of enjoyment to my stay.

Q4. Would you stay in this hotel again? Why or why not?

Answer 1: I would definitely stay in this hotel again because of the wonderful experience I had. The combination of excellent service, beautiful surroundings, and comfortable accommodations made it a place I would love to return to. It felt like a perfect retreat, and I would highly recommend it to others as well.

Answer 2: I would certainly consider staying at this hotel again, primarily due to the exceptional service and the unique ambiance it offered. The location and amenities were exactly what I was looking for, and the overall experience exceeded my expectations. It’s a place that left a lasting impression, and I’d be happy to visit again.

 

Pace Up Your IELTS Preparation With Our Expert Masterclass!

FAQs

Q. What is IELTS Speaking Part 2?

Ans. IELTS Speaking Part 2 is the cue card section where test takers are given a specific topic to speak about for up to two minutes. It assesses the ability to speak fluently and coherently on a given topic.

Q. How long do I have to prepare for Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking?

Ans. For IELTS Speaking Part 2, you will be given 1 minute to prepare before you have to speak about the given topic for up to two minutes. This preparation time allows you to gather your thoughts and structure your response.

Q. What type of topics can I expect in IELTS Speaking Part 2?

Ans. In IELTS Speaking Part 2, you can expect to receive a cue card with a specific topic or task to speak about. These topics can range from personal experiences to abstract ideas, allowing you to demonstrate your speaking skills effectively.

IELTS Important Information

IELTS Accepting Countries

IELTS Accepting Universities

Read More about IELTS Practice Test

Top Speaking Sample with Answers

IELTS Test Centre and Dates in India

Start a Free Speaking Session