Describe a city that is very interesting.: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

Which city is it?
What is it famous for?
How do you know about it?
Why is it interesting?

23 unique answers with expert feedback

What are some popular tourist attractions in Bangalore?

Bangalore has several popular tourist attractions, including the Bangalore Palace, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, and Vidhana Soudha. Additionally, the vibrant markets like Commercial Street and the historic temples add to its charm, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

How does the diversity in Bangalore influence its food scene?

The diversity in Bangalore leads to a rich food scene where you can find a variety of cuisines, from traditional South Indian dishes to North Indian, Chinese, and even international options. This melting pot of cultures allows for unique fusion dishes and culinary experiences.

What challenges does Bangalore face due to its rapid development?

Bangalore faces several challenges due to rapid development, including traffic congestion, pollution, and strain on infrastructure. The influx of people has also led to housing shortages and increased living costs, making it essential for the city to find sustainable solutions.

Band 7

00:00

A city that I find very interesting is Valencia. It is the third largest city in Spain and it is famous for its oranges and other fruits. I came to know about Valencia because I heard of a festival that happens near it and I went to attend that festival which gave me the opportunity to visit that city. From the moment I entered that city and when I breathed in the first breath, I was mesmerized by its beauty, its grandeur. It is a coastal town and it has Spain's largest port. The third thing I found most interesting was that a river flows through the center of the city and it dried up decades ago and the people of Valencia decided they want to convert the dried river into a park. So, there is a big park that spans through the entire city which I believe is the heart of this lively city.

Follow up questions

What other attractions does Valencia offer besides the park?

Valencia has many attractions, including the City of Arts and Sciences, beautiful beaches, and historic architecture. The Central Market is also a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and local produce. Additionally, the annual Las Fallas festival showcases incredible fireworks and artistic sculptures.

How does Valencia's culture differ from other Spanish cities?

Valencia has a unique blend of influences, with a strong emphasis on its local traditions, such as the Valencian language and cuisine. The city is known for its paella, which originated here, and its vibrant festivals like Las Fallas, which celebrate art and community in a way that differs from other regions.

What activities can visitors enjoy in Valencia's park?

Visitors to the park can enjoy walking, cycling, and picnicking along the scenic paths. There are playgrounds for children, sports facilities, and even areas for cultural events and concerts. The park is a great place to relax and experience the local lifestyle amidst nature.

Band 7

00:00

I hail from Chennai and I would say that it is the most interesting city to live in. Chennai has the beautiful Marina Beach which is the second longest in the world. It has quite a number of temples. The most interesting thing about Chennai is that it is a home for the migrants from other states. People come here, they feel very comfortable because of the many languages spoken here and the rich culture in Chennai. I could speak a lot about Chennai as I am born and bred over here. The beauty of the city, the hustle and bustle of the traffic and the life in Chennai is always a welcoming spot for anyone. Those born here always prefer to stay here and those who have come to the city for survival, for job opportunities would anyway agree with me. The beauty of the city is depicted in its beautiful architecture of the various buildings. The place is always lit up and it is also one of the safest cities in India. The economy of Chennai is affordable. It has an economy which has food that can range from a minimal price right up to expensive. So it is a home for everyone because of its affordability and the beauty of the city.

Follow up questions

What are some cultural festivals celebrated in Chennai?

Chennai hosts several vibrant cultural festivals, such as Pongal, which celebrates the harvest, and the Chennai Music Season, showcasing classical music and dance. These festivals reflect the city's rich heritage and bring together people from various backgrounds, enhancing the cultural diversity.

How does Chennai's architecture reflect its history?

Chennai's architecture is a blend of colonial and traditional styles, with landmarks like the Kapaleeshwarar Temple and the Fort St. George. This mix showcases the city's historical significance and the influence of various cultures over the years, making it a fascinating place to explore.

What are some popular local dishes in Chennai?

Chennai is famous for its delicious South Indian cuisine, including dishes like dosa, idli, and sambar. The city also offers a variety of street food, such as sundal and murukku, which reflect the local flavors and culinary traditions, making it a food lover's paradise.

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Band 6-7

00:00

Well, there are many cities which I find very interesting and the one which caught my eye is New York City which is very fascinating to know about it and second thing, why I like this city? I like this city due to its rich culture and diversity in the city and it offers a lot of different types of foods like Thai food, French food, Indian food. I came to know about New York City as a friend of mine lives in the city. It is officially known as Big Capital as the city is known for its financial decisions for the country USA. It is also known as financial district of the whole world as the financial decisions taken in New York City have effect on overall the world and it is also known as a city which never sleeps as the people who live there works 24 by 7 round the clock and the people are so amicable over there and additionally, the cuisines and the historical monuments and the tourist attractions are amazing in New York City. When it comes to the skyscrapers, New York has the world's biggest, tallest building which is the World Trade Center Towers.

Follow up questions

What other cities do you find interesting and why?

Apart from New York City, I find cities like Tokyo and Paris very interesting. Tokyo is known for its blend of traditional and modern culture, while Paris is famous for its art, history, and cuisine. Each city offers unique experiences that reflect their cultural heritage.

How does the culture of New York City compare to your hometown?

The culture in New York City is much more diverse and vibrant compared to my hometown. While my hometown has a more homogenous culture, New York is a melting pot of different cultures, which is reflected in its food, festivals, and community events.

What are some must-visit places in New York City?

Some must-visit places in New York City include Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Each of these locations offers a unique glimpse into the city's history and culture, making them essential stops for any visitor.

Band 6-7

00:00

Mumbai, previously known as Bombay, popularly known as the city of dreams or the business capital of India. I've always had a very strong connection with the Mumbai city. I don't know what it is about the city or why I feel such an instant, sudden connect with the city, but all I know is I've always felt that. Growing up, every summer vacation, my family and I would visit Mumbai because we had family living there. However, as I grew up, the visits became less frequent, which made me really, really sad. Personally, I think Bombay or Mumbai is just the perfect city to live in. It's a city that has everything, be it beaches, be it amazing opportunities, be it Bollywood, be it business opportunities, just everything that you could ask for, you'll get in Mumbai. I find the city extremely interesting because somehow, in the weirdest way possible, people from every part of the world live in Mumbai and that is because the city is just the most welcoming place in the world. What makes Mumbai so, so interesting are the people of Mumbai. The people of the city are just...

Follow up questions

What specific experiences made you feel connected to Mumbai?

During my summer vacations, I spent time with my family exploring the city, visiting local markets, and enjoying the beaches. These experiences created lasting memories and a deep emotional connection to Mumbai, making it feel like a second home.

How do you think Mumbai compares to other cities in India?

Mumbai stands out due to its vibrant culture, diverse population, and economic opportunities. Unlike other cities, it has a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it a hub for business and entertainment, which I find fascinating.

What aspects of Mumbai's culture do you find most interesting?

I find Mumbai's culture incredibly rich and diverse. The fusion of various traditions, languages, and cuisines creates a vibrant atmosphere. Festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and the city's nightlife showcase its dynamic cultural landscape, making it truly captivating.

Show all 23 answers

Cue 1:Which city is it?

Begin by clearly stating the name of the city you find interesting.
Provide a brief description of its location and any unique characteristics.

Example

The city I find very interesting is Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, India. Known as the Pink City, it is famous for its stunning palaces and vibrant culture.

Cue 2:What is it famous for?

Mention specific landmarks or cultural aspects that make the city famous.
Include any festivals or events that showcase the city's uniqueness.

Example

Jaipur is famous for its magnificent forts like Amber Fort and City Palace, as well as its colorful bazaars. The city also hosts the Jaipur Literature Festival, attracting writers and readers from around the world.

Cue 3:How do you know about it?

Share personal experiences or stories that led you to learn about the city.
Mention any books, movies, or travel blogs that inspired your interest.

Example

I first learned about Jaipur through a travel documentary that showcased its rich history and architecture. Later, I read a book about Rajasthan, which deepened my fascination with the city.

Cue 4:Why is it interesting?

Discuss the aspects of the city that captivate you personally.
Explain how its history, culture, or people contribute to its interest.

Example

Jaipur is interesting to me because of its blend of history and modernity. The vibrant culture, friendly locals, and the stunning architecture create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and alive.

Conclusion

Summarize your main points about the city.
Express your desire to visit or learn more about it in the future.

Example

In conclusion, Jaipur is a city that fascinates me with its rich heritage and lively culture. I hope to visit it soon and experience its beauty firsthand.

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: Avoid Vague Descriptions

Using vague language can make your answer less engaging and informative. Candidates often fail to provide specific details about the city, which can lead to a lack of clarity.

Tip

Include specific landmarks, cultural aspects, or historical facts to make your description vivid and interesting.

2: Don't Rush Your Answer

Rushing through your response can lead to incomplete thoughts and missed opportunities to elaborate. This can make your answer sound unprepared and disorganized.

Tip

Take a moment to think before you speak, and structure your answer to cover all the cues clearly and thoroughly.

Avoid Overly Simple Language

Using overly simple language can limit your ability to express complex ideas and reduce the overall quality of your answer. This may not showcase your language proficiency effectively.

Tip

Use a variety of vocabulary and sentence structures to demonstrate your language skills while still being clear and understandable.

IELTS Cue Cards asked last week

Reported by Leap students who gave IELTS

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.