Describe a countryside area that you have been to: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

Where is it?
When and why you went there?
Who you went there with?
And explain how you felt about it.

89 unique answers with expert feedback

What activities do you enjoy doing in the countryside?

In the countryside, I love engaging in outdoor activities like playing games with my family and neighborhood kids. We often play traditional games in the paddy fields, which brings back fond memories of my childhood. Additionally, I enjoy exploring nature, going for walks, and appreciating the serene environment.

How does living in the countryside differ from living in the city?

Living in the countryside is much quieter and more peaceful compared to the hustle and bustle of city life. The community is closer-knit, and people tend to know each other well. There’s a stronger connection to nature, with beautiful landscapes and fresh air, which is often missing in urban settings.

What are some challenges faced by people living in rural areas?

People in rural areas often face challenges such as limited access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities. Infrastructure may not be as developed, making transportation difficult. Additionally, younger generations may move to cities for better prospects, leading to a decline in the rural population.

Band 7

00:00

I usually don't travel because of my grandmother's health. I remember I traveled six years ago to Agran and Mathura. It was a vacation with my family, a summer vacation to be more precisely, and we went to see Taj Mahal. Although the people around me were busy capturing its beauty into their mobile phones, but I was struck seeing its beauty. It was very beautiful, the way the marbles were crafted and the white color in the contrast with the garden around it, as well as whenever the sun illuminates and its light struck to the Taj Mahal makes it glow. It was such a beautiful moment that even today I couldn't forget. I always remember whenever I go to any vacation, but I still couldn't forget the Taj Mahal. As well as, other than Taj Mahal, I also went to Krishan Temple.

Follow up questions

What other places would you like to visit in the countryside?

I would love to visit places like the hills of Himachal Pradesh or the beaches of Goa. The serene environment and natural beauty of these places attract me. I think experiencing the local culture and traditions would also be fascinating.

How do you think countryside areas differ from urban areas?

Countryside areas are usually quieter and more peaceful compared to urban areas. They offer a closer connection to nature, with beautiful landscapes and fresh air. In contrast, urban areas are bustling with activity, but can sometimes feel overwhelming and crowded.

What activities do you enjoy doing in the countryside?

In the countryside, I enjoy activities like hiking, picnicking, and exploring local markets. I also love photography, especially capturing the beauty of nature and landscapes. Spending time with family and friends in such serene settings is always refreshing.

Band 7

00:00

I once visited a countryside area near Udaipur in Rajasthan. I went there last winter during my school holidays with my family. We wanted a break from the busy city life so we planned a short trip. The place was surrounded by green fields, small hills and clear blue skies. I remember walking through narrow village paths, seeing farmers working in the fields and hearing birds everywhere. Like life there felt calm and simple compared to the city. I went with my parents and cousins and we spent the day exploring, eating local food and enjoying the fresh air. I felt very peaceful and refreshed there as if all stress was left behind. It gave me a sense of closeness to nature and a slower, more relaxed lifestyle.

Follow up questions

What activities did you enjoy the most during your visit to the countryside?

I particularly enjoyed exploring the village paths and interacting with the locals. The local food was delicious, and we spent time playing games and relaxing in the open fields, which made the experience even more enjoyable.

How does the countryside compare to city life for you?

The countryside offers a peaceful and serene environment, which is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life. In the countryside, I felt more connected to nature and could enjoy a slower pace, which helped me relax and recharge.

Would you like to visit more countryside areas in the future?

Absolutely! I would love to explore more countryside areas. Each place has its unique charm, and I find the tranquility and natural beauty of rural areas very appealing. It’s a great way to escape the stress of everyday life.

Practice other cue cards

Describe a place in your country or part of your country that you would like to recommend to visitors/travelers

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Describe an unusual but interesting building you would like to visit

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Describe a tourist attraction that very few people visit but you think is interesting

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Describe a place in your country or part of your country that you would like to recommend to visitors/travellers

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Describe a place you have been to and would like to recommend others to live there (not your hometown)

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Describe a place with a lot of trees that you would like to visit (e.g. a forest, oasis)

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Band 7

00:00

A countryside I have been visited is Poonmudi, located in the backdrop of picturesque hills, luscious valleys, verdant landscapes and idyllic countrysides. I visited Poonmudi for the first time in the year 2022 along with my friend for a small staycation in a resort there, named High Hills. I felt a lot of emotions together when I visited there, first and foremost, I felt the place was so colourful and resplendent because of its scenery, it offered me a constant source of comfort and a cathartic relief from the pressure of a busy schedule. What sets Poonmudi apart from other places is its soothing and emotionally enriching climate, Poonmudi not only helps me to unwind, but also connects me to my cultural roots.

Follow up questions

What activities did you enjoy while visiting Poonmudi?

During my visit to Poonmudi, I enjoyed hiking through the lush trails, exploring the local flora and fauna, and simply relaxing at the resort. The serene environment allowed me to engage in meditation and photography, capturing the stunning landscapes.

How does visiting the countryside differ from urban areas for you?

Visiting the countryside like Poonmudi offers a stark contrast to urban life. In the countryside, I experience tranquility, fresh air, and natural beauty, which helps me recharge. Urban areas, while vibrant, can be overwhelming and stressful due to noise and crowds.

Would you recommend Poonmudi to others? Why?

Absolutely! I would recommend Poonmudi to anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. Its breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and the opportunity to connect with nature make it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Band 7

00:00

A countryside area that I have recently been to is Bhutan. In Bhutan, I specifically went to a Dzong, Dzong is nothing but a temple and it was situated in this countryside with water, surrounded with mountains and also a very small bridge. I went there in the month of March for the purpose of vacation for 10 days. The weather was super cold, the temperature was around 5 degrees to 10 degrees and I went there along with a group of 10 Bhutan people, 3 of them were girls including me and the rest of them were boys. This experience was exhilarating, amazing and also overwhelming. This Dzong was situated in such an area where nature came alive. My soul literally felt devotion, there was a glimpse of the cultural blast, the tradition of the Bhutanese festivals, what they wear, the colours, it was explosive.

Follow up questions

What activities did you do while visiting the Dzong in Bhutan?

During my visit to the Dzong, I participated in guided tours where I learned about the history and architecture. I also enjoyed taking photographs of the stunning landscapes and the intricate details of the temple. Additionally, I had the chance to interact with locals and experience some traditional Bhutanese customs.

How does the countryside in Bhutan compare to your hometown?

The countryside in Bhutan is much more serene and untouched compared to my hometown. While my hometown is more urbanized, Bhutan's countryside is characterized by lush greenery, majestic mountains, and a slower pace of life. The cultural richness and the simplicity of life there were truly refreshing.

What did you learn about Bhutanese culture during your visit?

I learned a lot about Bhutanese culture, especially their festivals and traditional attire. The vibrant colors of their clothing and the significance of their festivals reflect their deep-rooted traditions. I also discovered their philosophy of Gross National Happiness, which emphasizes well-being over material wealth.

Show all 89 answers

Cue 1:Where is it?

Begin by mentioning the name of the countryside area and its location in India.
Describe some notable features of the area, such as its natural beauty or landmarks.

Example

The countryside area I visited is called Coorg, located in the southern part of India, in the state of Karnataka. It is known for its lush green hills, coffee plantations, and stunning waterfalls.

Cue 2:When and why you went there?

Mention the time of year you visited and the occasion for your trip.
Explain your motivation for choosing this particular destination.

Example

I went to Coorg last summer during my vacation in June. I wanted to escape the heat of the city and experience the serene beauty of nature, as I had heard so much about its picturesque landscapes.

Cue 3:Who you went there with?

Talk about the people you traveled with and your relationship to them.
Share any special memories or activities you enjoyed together.

Example

I traveled with my family, including my parents and my younger sister. We had a wonderful time exploring the coffee estates and trekking to the Abbey Falls, which brought us closer together as we shared laughter and created lasting memories.

Cue 4:And explain how you felt about it.

Express your emotions and thoughts about the experience.
Mention any lasting impressions or lessons you took away from the trip.

Example

I felt incredibly relaxed and rejuvenated during my time in Coorg. The fresh air and beautiful scenery made me appreciate the simplicity of nature. It was a refreshing break from my busy life, and I returned home with a sense of peace and a desire to explore more of India’s countryside.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, my visit to Coorg was a memorable experience that allowed me to connect with nature and my family. It reminded me of the beauty that exists outside the hustle and bustle of city life, and I hope to visit more countryside areas in the future.

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 less engaging and informative. Avoid general statements that do not provide specific details about the countryside area.

Tip

Include specific features of the area, such as landscapes, activities, or local culture, to create a vivid picture for the examiner.

2: Ignoring the Cues

Failing to address all the cues can lead to an incomplete answer. This may result in a lower score as it shows a lack of structure in your response.

Tip

Make sure to systematically answer each cue, such as location, time, companions, and feelings, to provide a comprehensive response.

Overly Simple Language

Using overly simple language can limit your ability to showcase your English proficiency. This may not impress the examiner and could affect your score.

Tip

Try to use a variety of vocabulary and sentence structures to express your thoughts more clearly and effectively.

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