Describe a place in your country or part of your country that you would like to recommend to visitors/travellers: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What is that tourist attraction?
Where is this tourist attraction in your country?
What can the visitors see and do at this tourist attraction?
Explain why you would recommend this tourist attraction.

120 unique answers with expert feedback

What other cities in India would you recommend for their cultural significance?

Apart from Banaras, I would recommend Jaipur for its rich history and architecture, and Delhi for its blend of modernity and tradition. Each city has its own unique cultural heritage that is worth exploring.

How does the cuisine in Banaras compare to other regions in India?

The cuisine in Banaras is unique, especially its street food like chaat and jalebi. While other regions have their specialties, Banaras offers a distinct flavor profile that reflects its cultural diversity, making it a must-try for food lovers.

What activities can travelers do in Banaras besides visiting temples?

Travelers can enjoy boat rides on the Ganges, explore local markets, attend Ganga Aarti ceremonies, and participate in yoga sessions. The vibrant atmosphere and spiritual experiences make Banaras a multifaceted destination.

Band >7

00:00

One of the major tourist attractions in India includes the Himalayas. They are located in the northern part of the country in the states of Himachal Pradesh and the mountains span across a vast range of area. It is really recommended to go to the Himalayas and experience the serene beauty that is present in that location. Anyone who goes there is always mesmerized by seeing the valleys, the trees, the snow capped mountains. Along with that, everyone is really intrigued and excited to play in the snow, especially small children. Along with that, any adventure seekers who wish to do paragliding or cliff jumping especially can go to the Himalayas and experience this adventurous sport. Similarly, people can go skiing and also enjoy the gondola rides that are present at Himalayas certain tourist attractions. Along with that, it is really important to consider the fact that this is a beautiful and endangered area where people can experience a lot of different sights which are not normally seen in the jungles where they live, in the concrete jungles that they live in. Along with that, people who like to go for treks should definitely go and do a 7-day or an 8-day trek in the Himalayas. It is really mesmerizing and you tend to identify a new personality which is present within yourself. Along with that, it is really important that you visit these places so as to make peace with yourself because you will be able to find out different traits that are present within you which are going to be helping you in calming down your mind.

Follow up questions

What activities can visitors do in the Himalayas besides skiing?

Visitors can engage in various activities such as trekking, paragliding, cliff jumping, and enjoying gondola rides. The region offers a range of adventure sports that cater to thrill-seekers, as well as peaceful nature walks for those looking to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Why do you think the Himalayas are considered an endangered area?

The Himalayas are considered endangered due to climate change, deforestation, and increasing tourism. These factors threaten the unique ecosystems and biodiversity of the region, making it essential for visitors to be mindful of their impact and to promote conservation efforts.

How does visiting the Himalayas help in personal development?

Visiting the Himalayas can lead to personal development by providing a chance for self-reflection and introspection. The serene environment encourages visitors to disconnect from their daily lives, helping them discover new aspects of their personality and find inner peace.

Band >7

00:00

Tourist places can be attractive as well as informative for oneself as they have a footprint of previous cultures of a nation. So I want to shed a light about a place where I have visited and I want to recommend other tourists to go there and enjoy the culture and the architecture of the buildings. So the monument is the Taj Mahal. It is constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as well as the building was built by Shah Jahan to show his love for his beloved Begum. So yeah tourist can enjoy there a lot of things. Firstly the building of that monument is enormous and even it's fully made of marble and as well as there are engravings, very beautiful engravings I can say. So one should go there and enjoy the nature of beauty of this monument. As well as one can learn many things about the culture of India and this monument is situated in Agra, the east side of India.

Follow up questions

What other historical sites are there in Agra?

Agra is home to several historical sites besides the Taj Mahal, such as the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. The Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases stunning Mughal architecture and has a rich history. Fatehpur Sikri, another UNESCO site, was once the capital of the Mughal Empire and features impressive palaces and mosques.

How can visitors best experience the culture in Agra?

Visitors can immerse themselves in Agra's culture by trying local cuisine, attending cultural performances, and visiting markets. Engaging with local artisans who create traditional crafts can also provide insight into the region's heritage. Participating in guided tours can enhance the understanding of the historical context of the sites.

What is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal?

The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is during the cooler months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. Early mornings or late afternoons are particularly beautiful times to visit, as the light enhances the monument's marble facade and reduces crowds.

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 Quiet Place You Like To Go

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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 place in my country that I would recommend to visitors or travellers is Goa. It is a sea beach located in a small union territory called Goa. This place stands out from other sea beaches because it offers a lot of different entertainments. First there is an option for doing sea sports while others can choose to spend a quiet afternoon on the porch of their hotel while looking out at the sea especially if they have a place in South Goa. This place is also filled with bustling malls as well as flea markets. A lot of beautiful handmade products can be purchased at quite low prices. There are museums here, art galleries and a lot of eating places. If somebody likes the nightlife, it is a place which offers a lot of nightclubs to visit. I would recommend people to go here for a relaxing holiday because you can enjoy the nature and the calm of the sea in your hotel room and you can go out and visit different places as well.

Follow up questions

What activities can visitors enjoy in Goa besides beach relaxation?

In addition to relaxing on the beach, visitors can enjoy various sea sports like jet skiing and parasailing. Goa also offers vibrant nightlife with numerous nightclubs, as well as cultural experiences through museums and art galleries. Shopping at flea markets for handmade products is another popular activity.

How does Goa's culture influence its attractions?

Goa's culture is a blend of Indian and Portuguese influences, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. Visitors can explore historical churches, enjoy local seafood dishes, and participate in vibrant festivals like Carnival, making it a culturally rich destination.

What is the best time to visit Goa for travelers?

The best time to visit Goa is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for beach activities. This period also coincides with various festivals and events, making it a lively time to experience the local culture and attractions.

Band 7

00:00

I would like to recommend a place in Meghalaya called Shillong. It's one of the most scenic tourist attractions in this country. It's also commonly known as the Scotland of India. You can get to Meghalaya by travelling to Guwahati first. From Guwahati you can take a 2 hours drive which is also equally scenic and it will make you feel like it's talking to your soul. There are so many places in Shillong where you can visit. There are lakes and there are waterfalls like Niagara Waterfalls and lakes like Dawki Lake. It is also known as the cleanest lake in Asia because if you go there to boat or if you are swimming you can literally see the bed of the lake. So I would think that would be one of the best destinations to visit. And also Shillong has one of the cleanest villages in Asia. So Shillong is made up of a lot of small villages. Not an island particularly but it's situated in a mountain hill area. So it's filled with lot of important statues and monuments that any tourist that comes here should visit and definitely visit in order to understand the cultural significance and the cultural depth of this place. Secondly, Shillong with its scenic beauty and all the greenery that one can see around themselves they might feel like they are inside a painting, a renaissance painting. And as a result of which it might help them breathe their soul. And also I think that Shillong is one of the best places to visit.

Follow up questions

What activities can visitors do in Shillong?

Visitors can enjoy boating in Dawki Lake, explore waterfalls like the Niagara Waterfalls, and hike in the scenic hills. They can also visit local markets, experience the culture through traditional music, and interact with the friendly locals to understand the rich heritage of the area.

How does Shillong compare to other tourist destinations in India?

Shillong offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and cleanliness that sets it apart. Unlike many bustling cities, it provides a serene environment with picturesque landscapes, making it ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility, which is often missing in other tourist hotspots.

What is the best time to visit Shillong?

The best time to visit Shillong is during the spring and autumn months, from March to June and September to November. During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty is at its peak, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

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Cue 1:What is that tourist attraction?

Begin by naming the tourist attraction clearly and concisely.
Provide a brief overview of what makes this place special or unique.

Example

The tourist attraction I would like to recommend is the stunning backwaters of Kerala, often referred to as 'God's Own Country'. This place is famous for its serene waters, lush greenery, and traditional houseboats.

Cue 2:Where is this tourist attraction in your country?

Mention the specific location of the attraction within India.
Include any notable cities or landmarks nearby to give context.

Example

The backwaters are located in the southern state of Kerala, particularly around the city of Alleppey, which is easily accessible from major cities like Kochi.

Cue 3:What can the visitors see and do at this tourist attraction?

Describe the activities that visitors can engage in while at the attraction.
Mention any sights or experiences that are particularly memorable.

Example

Visitors can enjoy a relaxing houseboat ride through the tranquil waters, explore the lush paddy fields, and witness the local village life. There are also opportunities for bird watching and enjoying traditional Kerala cuisine at local eateries.

Cue 4:Explain why you would recommend this tourist attraction.

Share your personal feelings or experiences related to the attraction.
Highlight the unique aspects that make it a must-visit for travelers.

Example

I highly recommend the backwaters of Kerala because it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The peaceful environment allows for relaxation and reflection, making it a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. I have visited this place multiple times, and each visit has left me rejuvenated.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, the backwaters of Kerala are a breathtaking destination that showcases the beauty of nature and the richness of Indian culture. I believe every traveler should experience this magical place at least once in their lifetime.

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 unclear. Avoid general statements that do not provide specific details about the attraction.

Tip

Use descriptive adjectives and specific examples to paint a vivid picture of the place you are recommending.

2: Ignoring the Cues

Failing to address all the cues can lead to an incomplete answer. This may result in lower scores for coherence and relevance.

Tip

Make sure to answer each cue clearly and in order, ensuring you cover what visitors can see, do, and why you recommend it.

Lack of Personal Connection

Not sharing personal experiences or feelings can make your response less engaging. Candidates often miss the opportunity to connect with the listener.

Tip

Include personal anecdotes or emotions related to the attraction to make your recommendation more compelling and relatable.

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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.