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 did you enjoy the most during your vacation in Wayanad?

I particularly enjoyed trekking to Chembara peak, where the view was stunning. The tree house experience was also unique, as it allowed us to connect with nature. Additionally, witnessing the elephants in their natural habitat was a highlight that left a lasting impression on me.

How did visiting Wayanad change your perspective on nature and wildlife?

Visiting Wayanad deepened my appreciation for wildlife. Seeing elephants in the wild made me realize the importance of conservation. It was a reminder of how beautiful and fragile our environment is, and it inspired me to be more mindful of nature in my daily life.

Are there any other places in India you would like to visit for a similar experience?

Yes, I would love to visit places like Coorg and Munnar, which are also known for their lush landscapes and wildlife. Exploring the tea plantations in Munnar or the coffee estates in Coorg would provide a similar connection to nature and adventure.

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 particularly enjoyed skiing and snowboarding in the Swiss Alps. The thrill of gliding down the snowy slopes was exhilarating, and the stunning views made it even more special. I also loved exploring the charming cities and trying out local delicacies.

How did the culture in Switzerland differ from your home country?

Switzerland has a unique blend of modernity and tradition. I noticed that people value both innovation and their historical roots. The cities have a vibrant atmosphere with contemporary architecture alongside well-preserved historical sites, which is quite different from my home country.

Would you recommend Switzerland as a vacation destination? Why?

Absolutely! Switzerland offers breathtaking natural beauty, a peaceful environment, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you're an adventure seeker or someone looking to relax, there's something for everyone. My trip was unforgettable, and I would love to go back.

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. It felt like being in a different world, and I loved the experience of swimming alongside such beautiful marine life.

How did the culture in Bali differ from your own?

The culture in Bali was quite different from mine in India. They have unique traditions, rituals, and festivals that are deeply rooted in their Hindu beliefs. I was fascinated by their ceremonies and the way they honor their gods, which was a refreshing perspective compared to my own cultural practices.

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

Absolutely, I would recommend Bali to others! The combination of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly locals makes it a perfect vacation spot. Plus, the variety of activities available ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation.

Practice other cue cards

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 Long Car Journey You Went On

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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 Tourist Attraction You Enjoyed Visiting

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Describe a city you have been to and want to visit again.

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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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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 site in Delhi impressed you the most?

The Red Fort impressed me the most due to its stunning architecture and rich history. It symbolizes India's heritage and was the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. Walking through its massive gates and exploring its beautiful gardens was a memorable experience.

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

Delhi's food culture is incredibly diverse and vibrant. Unlike other cities, it offers a unique blend of traditional Mughlai dishes and street food. The variety of flavors and the availability of different cuisines, especially in areas like Dariya Ganj, make it a food lover's paradise.

What transportation options did you find most convenient in Delhi?

I found the metro system in Delhi to be the most convenient transportation option. It is efficient, affordable, and connects major parts of the city. Additionally, auto-rickshaws and ride-sharing apps provide easy access to places that are not directly reachable by metro.

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 activities did you enjoy the most during the Kedarkanta trek?

During the Kedarkanta trek, I enjoyed hiking through the beautiful trails, camping under the stars, and taking in the breathtaking views. The camaraderie with my friends added to the experience, making it memorable. The thrill of reaching the peak and witnessing the panoramic views was truly exhilarating.

How did you prepare for the Kedarkanta trek?

I prepared for the Kedarkanta trek by doing regular fitness training, including cardio and strength exercises. I also researched the trek to understand the challenges and packed essential gear like proper footwear, warm clothing, and hydration supplies. This helped me feel more confident and ready for the adventure.

What advice would you give to someone planning to visit Kedarkanta?

I would advise anyone planning to visit Kedarkanta to train adequately for the trek, stay hydrated, and start early to catch the sunrise. It's also important to pack light but carry essential items. Lastly, enjoy the journey and take time to appreciate the stunning scenery along the way.

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.