Describe an expensive hobby you can't pursue daily.: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

What is it?
Why is it expensive?
Why do you wish to pursue it?

43 unique answers with expert feedback

What destinations have you traveled to that you found particularly expensive?

I have traveled to places like Switzerland and Japan, which are known for their high costs. In Switzerland, the prices for accommodation and food are quite steep, while Japan has expensive transportation options, especially the Shinkansen. These experiences made me realize how costly traveling can be.

How do you budget for your travels considering the expenses?

I usually set a specific budget for each trip, which includes transportation, accommodation, food, and activities. I save money in advance and look for deals on flights and hotels. Additionally, I try to travel during off-peak seasons to reduce costs and make the most of my budget.

Are there any hobbies you pursue that are less expensive than traveling?

Yes, I enjoy reading and hiking, which are much less expensive. Reading allows me to explore different worlds without spending much, and hiking is often free or has a minimal cost for park entry. These hobbies provide a great escape without the financial burden of traveling.

Band 6-7

00:00

So my favorite expensive no one of the expensive hobbies that I have is photography. I'd say photography I'd call photography as an expensive hobby because because you need the right equipment to capture images. Yes of course photography can be done with mobile phones which is a cheaper option but if I have to become a professional photographer I would need the right equipment so I think it's that's why it's an expensive hobby and why I would like to pursue photography is because I think I'm really good at it and I can see a career me making a career for myself in photography because I find myself when I do photography like I observe a lot I notice a lot and that's when I started capturing pictures and realized I have a thing for photography

Follow up questions

What specific equipment do you think is essential for photography?

I believe a good camera body is essential, along with high-quality lenses. A sturdy tripod and editing software are also important. These tools help in capturing high-resolution images and allow for better post-processing, which is crucial for professional photography.

How do you think photography can impact your career choices?

Photography can open various career paths, such as becoming a professional photographer, a photojournalist, or working in marketing and advertising. It allows for creative expression and can lead to opportunities in different industries, making it a versatile career choice.

What types of photography are you most interested in pursuing?

I'm particularly interested in landscape and portrait photography. Landscape photography allows me to explore nature and capture its beauty, while portrait photography lets me connect with people and tell their stories through images. Both genres offer unique challenges and rewards.

Band 6-7

00:00

I'm gonna share about the most expensive hobby which I can't pursue daily. It is adventure. I just love doing adventure. I love going on hikes and skydiving, bungee jumping and many other adventure sports. It is very lavish and almost impossible for a middle class to pursue in his daily life because it is very expensive because of its equipments, risks involved in that adventure and the need of highly trained manpower in that particular sort of adventure thing. For an example, if we take skydiving, it involves a plane, a trainer who will jump with you and a cameraman who will record you. So airways is one of the most expensive source of transportation but I still wish to pursue it because it gives you that adrenaline rush and makes you feel that you are living. And for an instance, while you are skydiving, you feel like you are flying like a bird as you reach your terminal velocity and you feel living.

Follow up questions

What other hobbies do you think are expensive?

There are several hobbies that can be quite costly, such as sailing, golfing, or collecting art. Each of these requires significant investment in equipment, maintenance, and sometimes even training. For instance, sailing involves purchasing a boat, which can be very expensive, along with docking fees.

How do you think people can manage expensive hobbies?

People can manage expensive hobbies by budgeting and saving specifically for them. Some might choose to pursue these hobbies less frequently or look for discounts and deals. Others might join clubs or groups that offer shared resources, making it more affordable to enjoy these activities.

Do you think adventure sports are safe?

Adventure sports can be safe if proper precautions are taken. This includes using the right equipment, following safety guidelines, and being trained by professionals. However, there is always an inherent risk involved, which is why it's crucial to choose reputable companies and instructors.

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Band 6-7

00:00

Well, I have many hobbies like playing badminton, cricket, reading, improving my skills. But a very thing that I want to do is to travel around the world. I like to travel around the world, I like to visit the seven miraculous things in the world like Petra in the Jordan, Pyramids of Gaza, Giza, sorry, Pyramids of Giza and Pink Lake in Australia, Northern Lights in the Norway, Cherry Blossom in the Japan and many things like this. I think it is expensive because you have to spend on air tickets, then on hotel, eating out, everything is expensive. So it is quite expensive hobby and I think I have to work a lot just to get done one of them. And one thing I know about myself is it is my dream and I can achieve it someday. Not all of these places but yes some of these which is quite affordable, which is a little bit affordable like Giza, Pyramids of Giza I think is affordable and Petra in the Jordan is affordable.

Follow up questions

What destinations are on your travel bucket list?

I have a long list of places I want to visit, including the Great Wall of China, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and the beaches of Bali. Each destination has its own unique culture and beauty that fascinates me, and I hope to experience them all one day.

How do you plan to save money for your travels?

I plan to save money by budgeting my expenses, cutting down on unnecessary purchases, and setting aside a portion of my income specifically for travel. Additionally, I might look for part-time work or freelance opportunities to boost my savings.

What do you enjoy most about traveling?

What I enjoy most about traveling is experiencing new cultures, meeting different people, and trying local cuisines. Each trip offers a chance to learn and grow, and I find it incredibly rewarding to explore the world beyond my own environment.

Band 6-7

00:00

The expensive hobby that I see daily in my life is swimming. Why I am considering it as an expensive hobby? The initial investment is huge in terms of buying swimsuit and goggles, the nose pin and also the pair of swimsuits. Considering the initial investment and also daily we need to pay the hourly rate. For example, for one hour if I want to swim, I need to pay 200 rupees as a hourly rate charges. So because of that I consider swimming as an expensive sport in my life. Although I consider it as an expensive sport but it has so many advantages. If we swim daily, we will be very fit and we will be able to burn out the calories very easily. And swimming is considered as one of the risk-free sports. You will not be getting injury as like other sports that we play. For example, cricket, football, these are very injury prone sports. But unlike those, swimming is very injury-free sports in my point of view.

Follow up questions

What other hobbies do you think are expensive?

Other hobbies that can be considered expensive include golfing, skiing, and photography. Each of these requires significant investment in equipment, lessons, and maintenance. For instance, golfing requires clubs, balls, and green fees, while skiing involves gear and lift tickets.

How do you think expensive hobbies impact people's lifestyles?

Expensive hobbies can significantly impact lifestyles by limiting the time and resources available for other activities. People may prioritize their finances to support these hobbies, which can lead to less spending on other leisure activities or necessities. It can also create a sense of community among those who share similar interests.

Do you think swimming should be more accessible to everyone?

Yes, I believe swimming should be more accessible. Making swimming pools more affordable and available can encourage more people to take up the sport. Community programs or subsidies could help reduce costs, allowing more individuals to enjoy the health benefits of swimming without financial strain.

Show all 43 answers

Cue 1:What is it?

Begin by clearly stating the hobby you are referring to.
Provide a brief description of what the hobby entails and why it interests you.

Example

One expensive hobby that I can't pursue daily is scuba diving. It involves exploring underwater ecosystems and experiencing marine life up close, which I find incredibly fascinating.

Cue 2:Why is it expensive?

Discuss the costs associated with the hobby, such as equipment, training, and travel.
Mention any additional expenses that may arise, like maintenance or membership fees.

Example

Scuba diving is quite expensive due to the high costs of the necessary equipment, such as wetsuits, tanks, and regulators, which can easily add up to several thousand rupees. Additionally, I need to pay for training courses and travel to dive sites, which further increases the overall expense.

Cue 3:Why do you wish to pursue it?

Explain your passion for the hobby and what you hope to gain from it.
Share any personal experiences or aspirations related to this hobby.

Example

I wish to pursue scuba diving because it allows me to connect with nature in a unique way. I have always been captivated by the ocean, and diving gives me the chance to explore its beauty. I dream of visiting the Great Barrier Reef one day and witnessing its vibrant marine life firsthand.

Conclusion

Summarize your feelings about the hobby and its significance in your life.
Mention any future plans or hopes related to pursuing this hobby.

Example

In conclusion, while scuba diving is an expensive hobby that I can't engage in daily, it holds a special place in my heart. I hope to save up and dive more frequently in the future, as it brings me immense joy and a sense of adventure.

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

Avoid being too general when describing your hobby. Vague answers can make it hard for the examiner to understand your passion and interest in the hobby.

Tip

Provide specific details about the hobby, such as what it involves, your experiences, and any unique aspects that make it special to you.

2: Ignoring Financial Aspects

Not explaining why the hobby is expensive can lead to an incomplete answer. The examiner expects to understand the financial implications of your hobby.

Tip

Clearly outline the costs involved, such as equipment, materials, or membership fees, and explain how these contribute to the overall expense.

Lack of Personal Connection

Failing to express your personal desire to pursue the hobby can make your answer less engaging. The examiner wants to hear your motivations and feelings.

Tip

Share your personal reasons for wanting to pursue the hobby, such as enjoyment, relaxation, or personal growth, to create a more compelling narrative.

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