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IELTS Speaking Part 2: Individual Long Run - IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.

[The topic for your talk will be written on a card which the examiner will hand over to you. Read it carefully and then make some brief notes.]

Describe a beautiful city that you have visited.

You should say:

• what city it was
• how you got there
• what you saw or did there

and explain why you think it was a beautiful city.

[Instruction: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]

[Examiner: All right? Remember you have one to two minutes for this, so don't worry if I stop you. I'll tell you when the time is up. Can you start speaking now, please?]

Model Answer 1:

Thank you very much for this topic. Here, I will talk about a really beautiful city that I have been lucky enough to visit. Let me tell you about the beautiful city of Copenhagen in Denmark. I had the opportunity to visit Copenhagen a couple of years ago, and it was truly a mesmerizing experience that I will perhaps never forget.

I flew into Copenhagen from my hometown, and as soon as I landed, I was greeted by the charm and beauty of this city. One of the things that struck me the most about Copenhagen is its stunning architecture. The city is dotted with colourful buildings, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals, giving it a fairy-tale-like ambience.

During my time in Copenhagen, I made sure to visit some of its famous landmarks, such as the iconic Nyhavn harbour. Walking along the waterfront, surrounded by vibrant buildings and lively cafes, was an absolute delight. I also explored the historic district of Frederiksstaden, home to the majestic Amalienborg Palace and the breathtaking Marble Church.

One of the highlights of my trip was visiting Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. Stepping into Tivoli felt like entering a magical wonderland, with its enchanting gardens, thrilling rides, and captivating entertainment.

What makes Copenhagen truly beautiful, in my opinion, is its perfect blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Despite being a bustling metropolis, Copenhagen has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage while embracing innovation and progress. The city's commitment to sustainability, green spaces, and cycling culture also adds to its allure.

My visit to Copenhagen was nothing short of unforgettable. Its beauty, charm, and vibrant atmosphere left a lasting impression on me, and I can't wait to go back and explore more of this enchanting city.

Model Answer 2:

Please let me share with you my enchanting experience in Kyoto, Japan, which I guess I will remember for a really long time. Before I get into the details of my experience of visiting this beautiful city, I'd like to thank you for the time and opportunity to let me talk about it. 

Kyoto is a city steeped in rich history and culture, with its serene temples, lush gardens, and traditional tea houses. Upon arriving in Kyoto, I was immediately struck by the city's timeless beauty and elegance. The streets are lined with traditional wooden houses, adorned with intricate details and surrounded by colourful gardens. The city's historical charm is palpable as you wander through its ancient alleyways and narrow lanes.

One of the highlights of my visit to Kyoto was exploring its magnificent temples and shrines. I had the opportunity to visit iconic sites such as the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, where the majestic temple is reflected in the tranquil waters of its surrounding pond. Additionally, I explored the serene Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its Zen rock garden, which exudes a sense of calm and tranquillity.

Another aspect of Kyoto that captivated me was its vibrant traditional culture. I had the chance to witness a mesmerizing tea ceremony, where every movement was choreographed with grace and precision, and I participated in a traditional Japanese cooking class, learning the art of preparing sushi and tempura.

Furthermore, Kyoto's natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring. The city is nestled amidst scenic mountains and surrounded by picturesque bamboo forests. One of my most memorable experiences was taking a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where the towering bamboo stalks sway gently in the breeze, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere. What sets Kyoto apart is its ability to seamlessly blend its rich cultural heritage with modernity, and my visit to Kyoto was a journey back in time to a world of timeless beauty and elegance.

Model Answer 3:

Introduction:
In my opinion, one of the most beautiful cities I have ever visited is Victoria, the capital of British Columbia in Canada. It is a charming and picturesque city known for its stunning natural scenery, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. My visit to Victoria was truly unforgettable, and I was captivated by its beauty from the moment I arrived. I am glad to be able to describe this beautiful and mesmerizing city here. 

What city it was:
Nicknamed "the Garden City," Victoria is a captivating destination and a well-known tourist hotspot. Victoria is a coastal city located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is famous for its British colonial heritage, well-preserved historic buildings, lush gardens, and breathtaking waterfront views. The city offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for visitors from all over the world.

How you got there:
I travelled to Victoria from Vancouver by ferry. The journey itself was an amazing experience as I got to enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding islands. The ferry ride took about 90 minutes, and I was fascinated by the sight of marine life, including seals and seabirds, along the way. After arriving at Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, I took a short bus ride to the city centre.

What you saw or did there:
During my visit, I explored some of Victoria’s most iconic landmarks. One of the highlights was Beacon Hill Park famous for its scenic beauty, wildlife, walking trails, and a petting zoo. I also visited the Royal BC Museum, where I learned about the region’s rich history and indigenous culture. Walking along the Inner Harbour was another memorable experience, as it offered stunning waterfront views and a lively atmosphere with street performers and local artists. Additionally, I toured the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel and admired its grand architecture.

And explain why you think it was a beautiful city:
Victoria is a truly beautiful city because of its stunning natural surroundings, well-preserved heritage, and peaceful atmosphere. The city’s gardens, parks, and waterfront areas create a refreshing and picturesque environment. The combination of historic buildings, charming streets, and modern attractions makes it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration. What I loved most about Victoria was its slower pace of life compared to larger cities, which allowed me to fully appreciate its beauty and enjoy my time there. My visit to Victoria was an unforgettable experience, and I would love to visit this beautiful city again.

Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:

We often visit cities that leave a lasting impression due to their beauty, culture, or atmosphere. Below are several ideas describing beautiful cities you might have visited, or know about along with specific experiences. Please pick one that you like and develop your own answer for this topic:

1. Paris, France:
You traveled to Paris by airplane during your vacation. You visited iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and walked along the Seine River. The architecture, street cafés, art galleries, and romantic ambiance made Paris exceptionally charming.

2. Kyoto, Japan:
You arrived in Kyoto via bullet train to explore its historic temples, peaceful Zen gardens, and traditional tea houses. The sight of cherry blossoms, especially in spring, created picturesque views, making Kyoto a uniquely beautiful city.

3. Victoria, Canada:
You took a ferry from Vancouver to Victoria, British Columbia, during your holiday. You visited the Inner Harbour, Butchart Gardens, and historical buildings. The lush gardens, ocean views, and elegant Victorian architecture made the city extraordinarily appealing.

4. Sydney, Australia:
You flew to Sydney to experience famous landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Enjoying the stunning beaches, vibrant harbor activities, and the blend of modern and historic buildings created a memorable impression of beauty and liveliness.

5. Prague, Czech Republic:
You traveled by train to Prague, exploring the old town, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle. The medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and picturesque river views made the city feel magical and visually captivating.

6. Barcelona, Spain:
You visited Barcelona via flight for a summer vacation. You admired Gaudí’s architecture, including the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. The city’s vibrant colors, unique architecture, and lively atmosphere made it breathtakingly beautiful.

7. Venice, Italy:
You reached Venice by train and explored its canals by gondola, visiting St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge. The city’s intricate waterways, historic architecture, and romantic atmosphere created an unforgettable scenic beauty.

8. Cape Town, South Africa:
You flew into Cape Town to see Table Mountain, stunning beaches, and the vibrant waterfront area. The dramatic landscape of mountains meeting the ocean, combined with rich cultural heritage, made it exceptionally scenic.

9. Istanbul, Turkey:
You traveled by air to Istanbul, visiting the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazaar. The city’s unique blend of East and West, historical buildings, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus Strait made it exceptionally beautiful.

10. San Francisco, USA:
You drove into San Francisco and experienced iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, and the steep, picturesque streets. The city’s vibrant neighborhoods, historic charm, and scenic bay views made it visually stunning.

11. Chiang Mai, Thailand:
You traveled to Chiang Mai by plane and spent your vacation exploring ancient temples, night markets, and vibrant street food stalls. The city's beautiful temples, lush mountains, and charming cultural atmosphere created a serene yet lively experience.

12. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:
You visited Kuala Lumpur by air, enjoying the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, vibrant shopping districts, and bustling street markets. The striking skyline, diverse cultural heritage, and modern architecture blended beautifully to form a stunning urban landscape.

13. Singapore:
You flew to Singapore for sightseeing and visited attractions like Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and Sentosa Island. The city's modern architecture, pristine cleanliness, lush greenery, and impressive skyline made it uniquely beautiful and welcoming.

14. Shanghai, China:
You traveled by air to Shanghai, enjoying the Bund waterfront area, Oriental Pearl Tower, and vibrant shopping streets like Nanjing Road. The city's futuristic skyline, beautifully preserved colonial buildings, and lively atmosphere gave it a distinctive beauty and charm.

15. Hanoi, Vietnam:
You reached Hanoi by plane to explore its historical Old Quarter, serene lakes, and traditional pagodas. The city’s blend of ancient architecture, bustling markets, rich history, and tree-lined boulevards created a picturesque and culturally enriching experience.

Vocabulary for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:

When describing a beautiful city, using expressive vocabulary can help vividly illustrate your experience. Below are some such words and phrases to enhance your description:

Cosmopolitan – A city that has people from many different cultures and countries.
Architectural marvels – Impressive or extraordinary buildings.
Bustling streets – Streets full of energetic activity and people.
Historical landmarks – Places of historical significance, such as monuments or buildings.
Scenic beauty – Visually pleasing natural landscapes or urban areas.
Vibrant nightlife – Exciting and lively entertainment available at night.
Cultural heritage – Traditions, customs, and historical sites passed down through generations.
Urban skyline – The outline of buildings and structures seen against the sky.
Picturesque – Visually charming, like a beautiful picture.
Metropolitan – Related to a large city or urban area.
Lively ambiance – An energetic and enjoyable atmosphere.
Enchanting streets – Charming or delightful city streets.
Iconic – Famous and representative of a particular place or idea.
Panoramic views – Wide-ranging, extensive views, typically breathtaking.
Quaint – Attractively unusual or old-fashioned, often charming and appealing.
Captivating – Fascinating or very attractive.
Well-preserved – Kept in good condition, often referring to historical sites or buildings.
Blend of tradition and modernity – Combination of historical charm and modern conveniences.
Local cuisine – Traditional dishes specific to a city or region.
Heritage site – A location of cultural or historical significance.
Majestic – Having impressive beauty, grandeur, or dignity.
Tranquil spaces – Calm and peaceful areas within a city.

This vocabulary will help you describe the beauty, culture, and atmosphere of any city effectively during your IELTS speaking test.

If you prepare for the topic "Describe a beautiful city that you have visited", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:

1) Describe a place you would like to visit soon.
2) Describe a large city where you had been to as a tourist.
3) Describe a crowded city you know about.
4) Describe a place that you spent time in the past.
5) Describe a beautiful city where many tourists visit.

• IELTS Cue Card
• Candidate Task Card
• Describe a place
• Speaking Part 2
• Describe a city

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