Describe A Place You Visited On Vacation: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

Which is the place?
Why did you go there?
What did you do there?
How did you feel about that place?

21 unique answers with expert feedback

What activities would you recommend for someone visiting Wayanad?

I would recommend trekking to Chembara Peak for stunning views, visiting Edakkal Caves for their ancient carvings, and exploring the Meenmutti Waterfall. Additionally, wildlife enthusiasts should take a safari to see elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

How did your experience in Wayanad compare to other vacations you've had?

Wayanad was unique due to its natural beauty and tranquility. Unlike other vacations that were more urban or commercial, Wayanad offered a peaceful escape into nature, which allowed for deeper relaxation and connection with wildlife.

What is the best time of year to visit Wayanad?

The best time to visit Wayanad is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season can also be beautiful, but it may limit some trekking opportunities due to heavy rains.

Band 7

00:00

I visited Switzerland last year, it has always been on my bucket list since my childhood. Switzerland has breathtaking landscapes, picturesque mountains and charming cities. One of the main reasons I visited Switzerland is for the Swiss Alps, I have always been fascinated by snowy mountains and huge mountains. I experienced activities like skiing and snowboarding. The beautiful views of snow covered peaks and crystal clear lakes was a dream come true. Apart from the nature, I was also excited about exploring cities like Zurich. I have heard that Switzerland has a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. I love to stroll down the streets of old town and I had visited historical landmarks and tried authentic Swiss chocolate and cheese. Another reason I visited Switzerland is its peaceful environment. I booked a stay at a cozy wooden cabin. On the night of the stay, I slept very peacefully and the next day morning, I enjoyed a cup of hot chocolate while looking at the stunning mountains. It was a perfect place to relax and escape from the busy routine of my daily life. Overall, Switzerland was my dream destination and I am very happy that I was able to visit and make unforgettable memories there.

Follow up questions

What activities did you enjoy the most in Switzerland?

I really enjoyed skiing and snowboarding in the Swiss Alps. The thrill of gliding down the slopes with stunning views was exhilarating. Additionally, exploring the charming cities and trying local delicacies like Swiss chocolate made my trip even more memorable.

How did you feel about the culture in Switzerland?

I found the culture in Switzerland to be a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition. The historical landmarks and the architecture in cities like Zurich reflect a rich history, while the locals embrace contemporary lifestyles. It was interesting to experience both aspects during my visit.

Would you recommend Switzerland as a vacation destination?

Absolutely! Switzerland offers breathtaking landscapes, a peaceful environment, and a rich cultural experience. Whether you're into outdoor activities or exploring cities, there's something for everyone. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable vacation.

Band 6-7

00:00

To begin with, I would like to talk about my vacation in Bali, Indonesia. It was a beautiful place to visit and I was fortunate enough to make this happen with my friends. We were welcomed at the airport with a garland which was quite interesting and we loved that about their culture. We also learnt a lot of things about their traditions, about their festivities and we were thrilled. We also got to do a lot of activities including ATV rides, jet skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving in addition to cliff jumping as well. Moreover, we were amazed by the culture and food there. The cuisines tasted entirely different from what we've been having in India and it was very fresh and a new touch to the taste. The most beautiful part about the trip was that we were with my friends and we had a great time. We went shopping and also tried different rides and also explored different cafes. The best part of the trip had definitely to be the Temple of the Sun we visited which had deep history rooted with it and had an amazing meaning and we were very excited to learn about the history of the country. We were surprised how they also prayed to the Indian Gods.

Follow up questions

What was your favorite activity in Bali and why?

My favorite activity in Bali was snorkeling. The underwater life was vibrant and colorful, and I was amazed by the variety of fish and coral reefs. It felt like swimming in an aquarium, and I loved the experience of being so close to nature.

How did the culture in Bali differ from your own?

The culture in Bali was very different from mine, especially in terms of their traditions and festivals. They have unique rituals and ceremonies that are deeply rooted in their beliefs. For example, the way they celebrate their festivals with colorful decorations and offerings was fascinating.

Would you recommend Bali to others? Why or why not?

Absolutely, I would recommend Bali to others! The combination of beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals makes it a perfect vacation spot. Plus, the variety of activities available ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

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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Describe A Long Car Journey You Went On

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Describe a place you went to and an outdoor activity you did there

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Describe A Place Where You Are Able To Relax

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Describe a bicycle / motorcycle / car trip you would like to go on

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Describe a garden you remember visiting.

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Describe a popular place for sports (e.g. a stadium) that you've been to

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Describe A Foreign Country You Would Like To Visit In The Future

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Describe a beautiful city

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Describe a long journey you had and would like to take again

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Talk about a trip where you encountered danger.

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Describe A Noisy Place You Have Been To

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Describe a place where you have taken photos more than once

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Describe a historical building you have been to

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Describe A Place In Your Country That You Think Is Interesting

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Describe a crowded place you went to.

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Describe a road trip you would like to go on.

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Describe a cafe you like to visit.

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Describe a place you would like to visit.

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Describe A Special Hotel You Stayed In

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Describe a place in a village that you visited.

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Describe a time you visited a new place

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Describe An Unusual Holiday You Had

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Describe a journey that didn't go as planned.

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Describe a place you have been to where things are expensive

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Describe Your Favourite Holiday Destination

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Describe A Hotel You Have Stayed In

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Describe A Historical Period

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Describe A Tourist Attraction You Enjoyed Visiting

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Describe an interesting building

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Band 6-7

00:00

Today I am going to discuss a place I want to visit on vacation. The place I want to visit is Delhi because Delhi is a city that has very historical background and also a very newly developed city also. When I visited Delhi in last time in 2007, I am very fascinated with the blend of modern development and historical places. I love the historical monuments which exist in Delhi like Himalaya tomb, Red fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Jantar Mantar etc. Even I love the foods of Delhi, I visited Dariya Ganj near Jama Masjid, there is lots of Indo-Turk food hotel are there and there is one hotel I remember that name Al Jawahar which is very famous for their Mughlai dishes and definitely there is lots of shops like Palika Bazaar from where you can purchase branded products in very cheap price and I also like the communication and transportation.

Follow up questions

What historical sites did you find most interesting in Delhi?

I found the Red Fort and Qutub Minar particularly interesting. The Red Fort showcases Mughal architecture and has a rich history, while Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world and is surrounded by beautiful ruins, reflecting the grandeur of ancient India.

How does Delhi's food culture compare to other places you've visited?

Delhi's food culture is incredibly diverse and vibrant. Unlike other places, it offers a unique blend of traditional Mughlai dishes and street food. The variety is astounding, from the rich flavors of Al Jawahar's Mughlai cuisine to the street-side chaat, making it a food lover's paradise.

What transportation options did you use while in Delhi?

I used the metro system, which is efficient and connects many parts of the city. Additionally, I took auto-rickshaws for short distances, which are convenient and allow you to experience the bustling streets of Delhi up close.

Band 6-7

00:00

Well, although there are many places which I would like to visit, but today I would like to talk about a place that is really close to my heart. And this place is called Kedarkanta, famously known as Kedarkanta trek, which is around 9 to 10 hours drive from Dehradun. And this is a five day trek. This is a moderate trek, and this is a place I visited with my friends a couple of years back. And what I really like about this place is, I mean, you know, I mean, first of all, it is a trek which is situated in hills, so you get to see a lot of beautiful scenic spots. You also get to camp near those spots, which is a first time experience for me, so I can't never forget it. Secondly, you know, once you reach the peak, it's the most amazing visual you can, you know, you can see in your life. You know, it's a panoramic view of 14 to 15 different peaks covered in snow. The only thing I regret during the trip is like I missed the sunrise. By the time I reached the peak, I was quite dehydrated and which made me, you know, I mean, slow down and I took a couple of hours more and I reached the peak by probably 6.30 a.m. and the sunrise happens at around 5 a.m. So I plan to go again, like, you know, this time probably with more fitness. And one thing is like, whenever I feel stressed, I just think about this place, about this peak and really it calms me down. So absolutely it is a place that brings me happiness and I would like to visit many times in my lifetime.

Follow up questions

What other places are on your travel bucket list?

I have a few places on my travel bucket list, including the beaches of Bali, the historical sites in Rome, and the mountains of Switzerland. Each of these places offers unique experiences, from relaxing by the sea to exploring rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes.

How do you prepare for a trekking trip?

Preparing for a trekking trip involves several steps. I usually start by researching the trek, ensuring I have the right gear like hiking boots and a good backpack. I also focus on my fitness by doing cardio and strength training, and I make sure to pack enough food and water for the journey.

What do you think is the importance of nature in our lives?

Nature plays a crucial role in our lives. It provides us with fresh air, clean water, and food. Additionally, spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve mental health, and enhance our overall well-being. It reminds us of the beauty of the world and encourages us to protect it.

Show all 21 answers

Cue 1:Which is the place?

Begin by naming the place you visited and provide a brief description of its location and significance.
Mention any unique features or attractions that make this place special.

Example

The place I visited on vacation was Manali, a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh, India. Nestled in the mountains, it is known for its stunning landscapes, lush green valleys, and snow-capped peaks.

Cue 2:Why did you go there?

Explain the reason for choosing this destination, whether it was for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences.
You can also mention if it was a family trip, a solo journey, or a getaway with friends.

Example

I went to Manali for a week-long vacation with my family. We wanted to escape the heat of the plains and enjoy some quality time together in the cool mountain air.

Cue 3:What did you do there?

Describe the activities you engaged in during your visit, such as sightseeing, adventure sports, or cultural experiences.
Highlight any memorable moments or experiences that stood out during your trip.

Example

During our stay, we explored the local markets, visited the famous Hadimba Temple, and even went paragliding, which was an exhilarating experience. We also took long walks in the scenic valleys, enjoying the breathtaking views.

Cue 4:How did you feel about that place?

Share your overall impression of the place and how it made you feel emotionally.
You can also mention if you would recommend it to others and why.

Example

I absolutely loved Manali! The serene environment and the beauty of nature made me feel rejuvenated. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled vacation.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, my trip to Manali was a memorable experience filled with fun and relaxation. The combination of stunning scenery and enjoyable activities made it a perfect vacation spot for my family and me.

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: Being Too Vague

Candidates often give very general answers without specific details about the place. This can make the response less engaging and informative.

Tip

Include specific details about the location, such as landmarks, activities, and personal experiences to make your answer more vivid.

2: Neglecting Emotional Impact

Some candidates forget to express their feelings about the place, which can make their response feel flat and uninteresting.

Tip

Share your emotions and thoughts about the place, explaining why it was special or memorable to you.

Ignoring the Cues

Candidates sometimes overlook the specific cues provided, leading to incomplete answers that do not fully address the prompt.

Tip

Make sure to answer all the cues systematically, ensuring you cover each aspect of the question for a well-rounded response.

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.