IELTS Speaking Samples and Answers
Speaking Test - Part 1 (Question Set 3)
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Please continue reading the Questions Set: 3 for more ideas about the IELTS Speaking Test Part 1 (Also known as "Introduction & Interview"). Those questions are taken from real IELTS tests, and their answers are developed in such a way so that you can easily understand them and use them as references to develop your own answer.
IELTS Speaking Test - Part 1 - QUESTION SET: 3
Set 1 | Set 2 | Set 3 | Set 4 | Set 5 | Set 6 |
Topic: Money
Q. When you go shopping, do you prefer to pay for things in cash or by card? [Why?]
Q. Do you ever save money to buy special things? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Would you ever take a job which had low pay? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Would winning a lot of money make a big difference to your life? [Why/Why]
Q. When you go shopping, do you prefer to pay for things in cash or by card? [Why?]
Answer: IWhen I go shopping, I prefer to pay for things by card rather than using cash. There are a few reasons for this. Firstly, using a card offers convenience and eliminates the need to carry around a significant amount of cash, which can be risky. Secondly, card payments provide a record of my transactions, allowing me to track my expenses and manage my budget more efficiently. Additionally, paying by card often comes with added security features, such as fraud protection and the ability to dispute unauthorized charges.
Q. Do you ever save money to buy special things? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I do save money to buy special things. Saving allows me to set aside funds for specific goals or desires that may require a larger amount of money. It gives me a sense of financial discipline and helps me prioritize my spending. A few months ago, I purchased an expensive smartphone for my younger sister with the money I saved. On other occasions, I have also saved money to buy things for myself or for the people I care about.
Q. Would you ever take a job which had low pay? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Taking a job with low pay would depend on various factors. While financial considerations are important, they are not the sole determining factor in choosing a job. If the job aligns with my passion, offers valuable learning opportunities, or provides a chance to gain relevant experience in a field of interest, I may consider it even if the pay is low.
Q. Would winning a lot of money make a big difference to your life? [Why/Why]
Answer: Winning a lot of money has the potential to make a significant difference in my life. The sudden influx of wealth can offer opportunities and possibilities that were previously out of reach. It could allow me to pursue my dreams, fulfil long-held aspirations, and provide financial security for myself and my family. It may open doors to experiences, travel, and personal growth that were previously limited by financial constraints. However, it is important to note that money alone does not guarantee happiness or fulfilment. It is how I choose to manage and utilize that wealth that truly impacts my life.
Topic: Newspapers and Magazines
Q. Which magazines and newspapers do you read? [Why?]
Q. What kinds of article are you most interested in? [Why?]
Q. Have you ever read a newspaper or magazine in a foreign language? [When/Why?]
Q. Do you think reading a newspaper or magazine in a foreign language is a good way to learn the language? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Which magazines and newspapers do you read? [Why?]
Answer: I read the News Express, which is a daily newspaper, every day, and the magazine I like to read the most is “The Week”. I like reading newspapers and magazines whenever I get an opportunity in order to keep myself informed of what is happening in my part of the world as well as the rest of the world. I like reading the magazine because I get to learn about the various subjects of my interest.
Alternative Answer: I enjoy reading a variety of magazines and newspapers, depending on my interests and preferences. I often read magazines related to technology, science, and travel, as these topics intrigue me and keep me updated on the latest advancements and discoveries. Additionally, I like to read newspapers that cover national and international news, providing me with a broader perspective on current affairs. I believe it's essential to stay informed about various subjects, and these magazines and newspapers help me expand my knowledge and engage with different topics of interest.
Q. What kinds of article are you most interested in? [Why?]
Answer: I am into learning important tips about how to remain healthy both physically and mentally, so I read health-related articles. I am also interested in learning about the latest trends in computer technologies since my major is computer science. I try not to miss any important technology-related articles. But it doesn’t necessarily mean that I don’t like to read other kinds of articles such as those which talk about sports and food.
Alternative Answer: I am most interested in articles that stimulate my curiosity and offer insights into diverse fields. Science and technology articles fascinate me because they shed light on innovative research, breakthroughs, and the impact of technology on our lives. These articles not only enhance my understanding of scientific concepts but also inspire me to contemplate the possibilities and implications of future advancements. Furthermore, I enjoy reading travel articles that provide destination recommendations, cultural insights, and personal travel experiences. Such articles allow me to explore new places vicariously and spark my wanderlust.
Q. Have you ever read a newspaper or magazine in a foreign language? [When/Why?]
Answer: I have always wanted to read and communicate in a different language(s) other than English and Hindi. But, I have found out that it’s not really easy. However, I know “Bengali” (the mother tongue of a neighbouring country of India called “Bangladesh”) a little which has helped me to read and understand some “Bengali” texts in their newspapers lately. I became interested in reading Bengali newspapers after meeting a Bangladeshi girl who happens to be one of my best friends now.
Alternative Answer: Yes, I have read newspapers and magazines in foreign languages on several occasions. As a language enthusiast, I find it enriching to explore different languages and cultures through their written media. I have read newspapers in French and Spanish during my language studies to improve my language proficiency and expand my vocabulary. Additionally, when I travel to foreign countries, I often pick up local magazines or newspapers to get a better understanding of the culture, current events, and unique perspectives of the locals.
Q. Do you think reading a newspaper or magazine in a foreign language is a good way to learn the language? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Of course, I think reading a newspaper or magazine in a foreign language is an excellent method to learn the language because it helps us to understand the texts of a particular language and their meanings at our own pace and also at a time of our convenience. In fact, English is also a foreign language to me, and I have learnt it by reading English newspapers and journals in addition to following some programmes on the radio and television.
Alternative Answer: Yes, I believe reading newspapers or magazines in a foreign language can be an effective way to learn the language. It exposes learners to authentic written texts, vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and grammatical structures used by native speakers. By immersing themselves in the language through reading, learners can improve their reading comprehension skills, expand their vocabulary, and gain a deeper understanding of the culture and society associated with the language. Additionally, reading in a foreign language helps develop critical thinking skills as learners engage with different perspectives and navigate through complex texts.
Topic: Art
Q. Did you enjoy doing art lessons when you were a child? [Why?/Why not?]
Q. Do you ever draw or paint pictures now? [Why?/Why not?]
Q. When was the last time you went to an art gallery or exhibition? [Why?]
Q. What kind of pictures do you like having in your home? [Why?]
Q. Did you enjoy doing art lessons when you were a child? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I absolutely enjoyed doing art lessons when I was a child. Art provided me with a creative outlet where I could freely express my imagination and emotions. It was a wonderful way to explore different mediums, experiment with colours, and create something unique. Art lessons allowed me to gain a sense of accomplishment when completing a piece of artwork. It was a joyful and enriching experience that sparked my passion for artistic expression.
Q. Do you ever draw or paint pictures now? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I still draw and paint pictures now. Art has remained an integral part of my life, and I continue to find solace and joy in creating visual expressions. Drawing and painting allow me to relax, unwind, and enter a state of flow where I can fully immerse myself in the creative process. It provides me with an opportunity to explore different techniques, experiment with various styles, and bring my ideas to life on a canvas. Moreover, creating art serves as a form of self-expression and allows me to communicate my thoughts and emotions visually.
Q. When was the last time you went to an art gallery or exhibition? [Why?]
Answer: The last time I went to an art gallery was about a month ago. I am drawn to the immersive experience that art galleries and exhibitions offer, where I can explore the works of talented artists and gain inspiration from their creativity. It was a fantastic opportunity to appreciate various art forms, from paintings and sculptures to installations and multimedia art.
Q. What kind of pictures do you like having in your home? [Why?]
Answer: I enjoy having a diverse range of pictures in my home that reflect my artistic taste and personal interests. I prefer artworks that evoke emotions, convey a sense of depth, and stimulate thought-provoking conversations. From abstract pieces with vibrant colours to serene landscapes or portraits, I appreciate artwork that resonates with me on an emotional level. Each piece I choose carries its own story and adds a touch of character to my living space. Having these pictures in my home not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also creates a welcoming atmosphere that inspires and uplifts me on a daily basis.
Topic: Countryside
Q. Can you tell me your full name, please?
Q. What shall I call you?
Q. Tell me about the countryside outside your town/city.
Q. Would you like to live in the countryside or a metropolitan city in the future? [Why?]
Q. Why do some people move to a city from a rural area? Do you know someone who did so?
Q. Do you enjoy visiting large cities or small villages? [Why?]
Q. Can you tell me your full name, please?
Answer: Sure! My full name is Hoang Pham. People call me “Hoang”.
Q. What shall I call you?
Answer: Please call me “Hoang”. Thank you.
Q. Tell me about the countryside outside your town/city.
Answer: I live in Hanoi, the bustling capital city of my country Vietnam. But, our countryside, at least 60-70 kilometres outside of my city, is peaceful and has a very tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by amazingly refreshing landscapes. You will also get to see shades of green, covering the entire landscape, as far as your eyes can see, so much so that you will not ever want to leave!
Q. Would you like to live in the countryside or a metropolitan city in the future? [Why?]
Answer: In the future, I would want to live in the countryside mainly because I love nature, and I like to stay close to Mother Nature. Besides, I firmly believe that living in the countryside is healthier than living in the city as it would allow me to breathe fresh air and drink fresh and uncontaminated water. Finally, I love the simplistic lifestyles that people in the countryside have.
Q. Why do some people move to a city from a rural area? Do you know someone who did so?
Answer: I would assume that some people move to a city from a rural area primarily because it allows them to have better income opportunities. Besides, some people would move to a city because they become attracted to the “flashy” city life in order to enjoy life more. Finally, some people would move to a city because of better educational opportunities. For example, I know of one of my distant cousins who moved to Hanoi to attend a good technical university a few years ago.
Q. Do you enjoy visiting large cities or small villages? [Why?]
Answer: I always enjoy visiting small villages, instead of large cities, mainly because small villages in my country don’t have traffic problems. Besides, more often than not, people in small villages are way friendlier and simpler than people in large cities. Finally, of course, I enjoy visiting villages in my country, whether it is big or small, because they are very beautiful with clear lakes and natural green.
Topic: Age
Q. Are you happy to be the age you are now? [Why/Why not?]
Q. When you were a child, did you think a lot about your future? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Do you think you have changed as you have got older? [Why/Why not?]
Q. What will be different about your life in the future? [Why?]
Q. Are you happy to be the age you are now? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I am happy about my age. I also tend to agree that people may have different perspectives on this. I am content with my current age because of the experiences and wisdom I have gained during the last 30 years or so.
Alternative Answer: Yes, I am happy to be 22 years old. This age signifies a transitional phase in my life where I have completed my graduation and am ready to embark on new experiences. I feel a sense of excitement and potential as I look forward to pursuing higher education in Canada. Being young and full of energy, I have the opportunity to explore new opportunities, meet diverse people, and shape my future. This age allows me to be independent and take charge of my life, which brings me a sense of happiness and optimism.
Q. When you were a child, did you think a lot about your future? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: As a younger child, I did not have a deep understanding of the concept of the future. But when I turned a teenager, I started contemplating my future goals, aspirations, and career paths. My family, teachers, and personal curiosity also shaped the way I thought about my future during this time.
Alternative Answer: When I was a child, I didn't think extensively about my future in a detailed manner. My focus was primarily on enjoying the present moment, learning new things, and experiencing the joy of childhood. However, as I grew older, especially during my teenage years, I started weighing my future dreams and aspirations. I began to think about the career path I wanted to pursue and the steps required to achieve my ambitions.
Q. Do you think you have changed as you have got older? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I believe that it is common for individuals to experience changes as they grow older, and I am not an exception to this. I have experienced physical changes, such as appearance and health, as well as emotional and psychological changes. My life experiences, learning, and personal development have also shaped my perspectives, values, and beliefs, leading to changes in my behaviour and attitudes.
Alternative Answer: Yes, I believe I have changed as I have gotten older. The experiences and challenges I encountered along the way have shaped my personality, perspective, and priorities. I have gained a deeper understanding of myself, my strengths, and my values. I have become more independent and responsible, taking ownership of my decisions and actions. Moreover, as I completed my graduation and prepare for higher education, I have developed a stronger sense of determination, motivation, and drive to pursue my goals.
Q. What will be different about your life in the future? [Why?]
Answer: I have always believed that the future is uncertain, and it is challenging to predict specific aspects of my life. However, some possible differences in my future could arise from various factors such as career choices, personal goals, relationships, and so on. For example, I will love to start a family soon and or pursue higher education in the UK.
Alternative Answer: In the future, several aspects of my life will be different. Pursuing higher education in Canada will provide me with new opportunities for learning, exposure to a different culture, and expanding my global network. It will be a transformative experience that will enhance my knowledge and skills, shaping my career path and opening doors to exciting professional opportunities. Additionally, living independently in a new country will foster personal growth, self-reliance, and adaptability. The challenges and experiences I will encounter in my educational journey will contribute to my overall development and shape the course of my future life.
Topic: Laughing
Q. What kinds of thing make you laugh?
Q. Do you like making other people laugh? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Do you think it’s important for people to laugh? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Is laughing the same as feeling happy, do you think? [Why/Why not?]
Q. What kinds of thing make you laugh?
Answer: They say that laughter is a great medicine, and I also believe it. So, I like to laugh whether my friend is cracking a joke or watching a comedy movie with my family and friends. But, what really makes me laugh the most is the funny activities of my pet cat. In fact, my cat makes so many “funny” moves to make me laugh that I even record them on my video camera.
Q. Do you like making other people laugh? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Well, it depends on how much I actually know them, and what kind of circumstances are prevailing. But, in principle, I don’t really like to make people laugh because sometimes, the humorous act might actually offend them, since I wouldn’t really know what they have been going through, or what kind of mood they are really in.
Q. Do you think it’s important for people to laugh? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I do think that it is important for people to laugh whenever an opportunity arrives because a good laugh almost always helps us relieve physical and mental tension and stress. Besides, laughter also helps promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain in us. Finally, laughter is important also because it brings us closer to each by remaining positive about ourselves and our lives.
Q. Is laughing the same as feeling happy, do you think? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I do believe that we like to laugh when we are happy, and that is a universally accepted expression for us - humans.
But, that does not mean that laughing is the same as feeling happy. In fact, people can be in pain, and sad, and still they are able to laugh to cheer others. Then, there also are many people in this world for whom laughter is just an “expression”. For example, we can laugh at a “party” or some other social gatherings in order to just go along with the “flow”, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that we are happy.
Topic: Food and cooking
Q. What kinds of food do you like to eat?
Q. What kind of new food would you like to try? [Why?]
Q. Do you like cooking? [Why/Why not?]
Q. What was the last meal you cooked?
Q. Do you prefer home-cooked food or food from restaurants? [Why?]
Q. What kinds of food do you like to eat?
Answer: I like to eat pretty much all kinds of food whether they are European, American or Oriental. But, since I am an “Aussie”, I mostly like to eat meat or fish no matter what kind of dishes I am being offered to eat. However, my favourite dishes are chicken parmigiana, a classic Aussie chicken dish, and a burger with “the lot” with lots of “goodies” in it.
Q. What kind of new food would you like to try? [Why?]
Answer: I have heard a lot about Indian foods, and I would really like to try them sometimes because, as I have heard, they are not really fatty like the other food. Besides, I would like to try them also because they taste really good because of using different kinds of spices in perfect combination, and the dish I would really like to try is “palak chicken curry” made with spinach and chicken.
Q. Do you like cooking? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Cooking is like a great hobby to me, and I do like to cook once in a while as it allows me to cook my favourite dishes just the way I like them! Besides, I like to cook also because it allows me to be creative and indulge in some “fun and play” time by getting busy chopping, stirring and tasting. Finally, I like cooking because it gives me an opportunity to express my love and care for them.
Q. What was the last meal you cooked?
Answer: The last meal I cooked was a chicken parmigiana, which is one of my favourites, about a week ago. Of course, it took me a while to prepare the food, but it was just perfect in its taste and texture at the end of the day.
Q. Do you prefer home-cooked food or food from restaurants? [Why?]
Answer: While I enjoy eating at restaurants from time to time, I certainly prefer home-cooked foods primarily because they are usually more healthy with less fat and more nutritional value. Besides, eating at restaurants can be expensive. Finally, enjoying a home-cooked meal over dinner with family members, while enjoying laughs and chats with them, is way better than eating some food, and being surrounded by some completely unknown faces.
Topic: Daily Routine
Q. What would you like to change in your daily routine?
Q. Are all your days the same?
Q. Tell me about your typical weekday and your typical weekend.
Q. What is the balance of work/study and free time in your normal day?
Q. What would you like to change in your daily routine?
Answer: Spending too much time watching too much television after coming back from my work has become like a daily routine to me for the last several months, and I would really like to change it. It is not that only my wife dislikes this terrible routine, I also dislike it a lot because this extra television-watching habit/routine doesn’t allow me to have enough sleep at the end of the night.
Q. Are all your days the same?
Answer: No, all my days are not the same just like a day in the winter time and a day during the summer season are not the same. And, as a result, I remain happy some of the days while “not-so” happy during the others. Also, some days, I become very productive at my work while some other times, I only wish that I could be more “productive.”
Q. Tell me about your typical weekday and your typical weekend.
Answer: My typical weekday starts with paying little “tribute” to my “Goddess” mother (which I do every day regardless of the weekday or the weekend). Then after taking my shower and breakfast, I hit the road on my motorbike to go to my work and arrive there at around 9 am. I finish my work at around 6 pm and then go to a nearby local marketplace to buy some fresh groceries and meats and fish. By the time, I return home, it is almost 8 pm in the evening. I finish my meal after that and immediately start watching TV and continue watching it until I go to bed after midnight most of the days.
My weekends are pretty much the same as the weekdays except I don’t go to work on the weekends. Of course, sometimes, during the weekend, I do take my wife and family out to a nearby park or restaurant to enjoy some quality time together.
Q. What is the balance of work/study and free time in your normal day?
Answer: I like to believe that my work life and free time for leisure and other activities in a normal day are pretty balanced since I almost always have enough time at my disposal, after my work hours, in order to interact with my family members and attend other important things, like doing grocery shopping and worshipping at temples.
Topic: Travelling to work or college
Q. How do you usually travel to work or college? [Why?]
Q. Have you always travelled to work/college in the same way? [Why/Why not?]
Q. What do you like about travelling to work/college this way?
Q. What changes would improve the way you travel to work/college? [Why?]
Q. How do you usually travel to work or college? [Why?]
Answer: I usually travel to work on my motorbike since I live in a remote village area where we don’t really have any reliable public transportation system to commute back and forth from our work. Besides, I like my little motorbike as it is convenient to use, and I can park it anywhere very easily.
Q. Have you always travelled to work/college in the same way? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I have always travelled to my work in the same way with my bike mainly because using a bike is very convenient for me since I have the freedom to go anywhere at my own pace. Besides, I have found out that travelling on my bike costs me significantly lesser than travelling on a public bus which, by the way, is not very reliable because of the poorly-built roads in the area where I live.
Q. What do you like about travelling to work/college this way?
Answer: The best thing, which I really like about travelling with my little motorbike, is that I can reach my destination within a short period of time which certainly wouldn’t be possible if I was to commute by a bus. Besides, after finishing my office work, I have to go to different places sometimes, such as visiting my relatives and doing grocery shopping, and doing those things on time would be really difficult for me if I didn’t have my bike with me.
Q. What changes would improve the way you travel to work/college? [Why?]
Answer: As far as changes are concerned, I would certainly like to see a much better public transportation system in the area where I live because, sometimes, on rainy days, it becomes really difficult and dangerous to commute on a motorbike. Besides, the roads in my area need to be rebuilt since they haven’t been repaired or rebuilt in a long time.
Topic: Cold weather
Q. Have you ever been in very cold weather? [When?]
Q. How often is the weather cold where you come from?
Q. Are some parts of your country colder than others? [Why?]
Q. Would you prefer to live in a hot place or a cold place? [Why?]
Q. Have you ever been in very cold weather? [When?]
Answer: I live in the Southern Bhutan area bordering India where the weather is hot and humid with the effects of a monsoon season. However, I did live in very cold weather for some time when I visited the northern part of Bhutan, bordering with Tibet, in order to live with my paternal aunt for some time when I was about a 10 years old boy almost 16 years ago. Of course, I loved the snow there, but it was just way too cold for me probably because I am born and raised in a different kind of weather.
Q. How often is the weather cold where you come from?
Answer: Where I live in Bhutan, the weather remains cold for about 3 to 4 months from Mid-November to February, sometimes stretching till the month of March. However, our winter period can be really dry where temperatures can vary from 10 degree Celsius to 25 degree Celsius.
Q. Are some parts of your country colder than others? [Why?]
Answer: Bhutan is a rather small country, but its temperatures can vary extremely from the North to the South as well as valley to valley, depending on the elevation. For example, the northern part of Bhutan, bordering with Tibbet, can be extremely cold, and can be covered with snow because it sits on a rather high altitude while the western, eastern and, central Bhutan (cities like Ha, Paro, Thimphu, Wandue, Tongsa, Bumthang, Trashi Yangtse, Lhuntse) mostly experience European-like weather because of its little lower altitude where winter typically lasts from November to March.
Q. Would you prefer to live in a hot place or a cold place? [Why?]
Answer: Sometimes, I feel cold even during the summer time (probably because of my low body temperature, I suppose). Therefore, the hotter the weather is, the better it so for me. Besides, I feel that putting on too many clothes every time I go out, and then taking them off after coming back home, is just a terrible waste of time. Then again, I could be wrong too about this “whole practice” of changing clothes!
Topic: Keeping in contact with people
Q. How do you usually contact your friends? [Why?]
Q. Do you prefer to contact different people in different ways? [Why?]
Q. Do you find it easy to keep in contact with friends and family? [Why/Why not?]
Q. In your country, did people in the past keep in contact in the same ways as they do today? [Why/Why not?]
Q. How do you usually contact your friends? [Why?]
Answer: I usually contact my friends by phone or email if they are far from me because it is more convenient and easy than meeting them in person. However, if my friends live within the close proximity of where I live, I always try to meet them in person because the practice helps create a stronger bond of friendship.
Q. Do you prefer to contact different people in different ways? [Why?]
Answer: No, I don’t try to contact different people in different ways. My preferred method of contacting people, be they my friends, family members or relatives, is to call them on their phones because it helps me to convey my message and feeling in a more direct and effective manner. Of course, if there is a situation where no phone number is listed to reach, and if somebody prefers me to contact him/her by email for more formal reasons, then I don’t mind using email to contact them.
Q. Do you find it easy to keep in contact with friends and family? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: With the advent of mobile phones and the internet, contacting friends and families has certainly become very, very easy. In fact, contacting with friends and family has become much more personal also these days because we can not only talk with them but also “view” them at the same time on our phones or computers, no matter whether they live next door or in another corner of the world.
Q. In your country, did people in the past keep in contact in the same ways as they do today? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: No, people in my country didn’t exactly keep in contact with each other in the same ways in the past as they do today. In fact, in the past and before the arrival of smartphones and the internet, people used to contact each other via postal mail and land phones. And, if there was a situation where one would need to contact others on an urgent basis in the past, people would choose to take the help of “telegram” as well.
Topic: Visitors
Q. What would you suggest a visitor should see and do in your country?
Q. Are there any traditional arts or music you would recommend?
Q. Tell me about the kind of foreign visitors or tourists who go to your country.
Q. In what ways has tourism changed your country?
Q. What would you suggest a visitor should see and do in your country?
Answer: Bhutan is a very beautiful country to visit, and there are just too many things to do there. Once you visit this Himalayan country, you will be able to see some of the most beautiful and, of course, the tallest mountain ranges in the world apart from the Himalayas. One can also see beautiful forests and ancient Buddhist architectural sites.
Once arriving in Bhutan, one chooses to do a lot of things, but one thing which almost everybody wants to do is to hike The Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), which certainly is one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks and is located at the side of a steep cliff wall in the Paro valley. But, if you are really into learning about the festivals of the Bhutanese people, you can always enjoy some religious festivals (called “Tsechus”) from up close. You can also meet the locals and enjoy their traditional foods.
Q. Are there any traditional arts or music you would recommend?
Answer: Bhutanese arts, culture, traditions and music are well-rooted in the religion of Buddhism. As far as music is concerned, I would recommend folk songs (traditional music) which can be classified as Zhungdra and Boedra. Zhungdra is sung by the use of extended vocal tones and a relatively simple instrumental melody. I would also recommend the “Cham” dance which involves a series of masked dances by wearing colourful costumes during religious festivals.
Q. Tell me about the kind of foreign visitors or tourists who go to your country.
Answer: Most tourists, who come to visit Bhutan, arrive on a short-term basis, and they are mostly nationals of Asian countries, followed by Europeans and Americans. Since tourism began in Bhutan in 1974, the number of visitors to this Himalayan country has only increased with 260,000 people arriving in the year of 2018.
Q. In what ways has tourism changed your country?
Answer: Tourism has changed Bhutan in many ways. Because of tourism, seeing teenagers in jeans and hooded sweatshirts, smoking cigarettes, instead of wearing the traditional Gho (a knee-length robe) is a normal phenomenon these days. It is because of tourism that Bhutan has seen better roads being built, instructions in English for schoolchildren is being mandated, as well as the television network and the Internet service being introduced.
Topic: Travelling
Q. How did you reach the examination centre? [Why?]
Q. Do you like travelling? [Why?/Why not?]
Q. How do you usually travel? [Why?]
Q. What are the most common types of transportation run on the streets in your country?
Q. Which types of transportation do people in your country often use to move?
Q. How did you reach the examination centre?
Answer: The examination centre is far from where I live. So, I had to take a bus to reach the examination centre by road. I chose to take a bus to reach here quickly. As I do not own a personal car, I often rely on public transport like buses and trains to commute.
Q. Do you like travelling? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I do like travelling, whenever I get an opportunity, to see what my country and the rest of the world have in store for us. So far, I have travelled to India, Nepal, Turkey, Malaysia and Bangladesh outside of my country. I like to travel because it allows me to explore new places, cultures and landscapes. It allows me to step outside of my comfort zone, discover new experiences and learn new things. Finally, travelling gives me a break from my daily routine and allows me to relax and unwind.
Q. How do you usually travel? [Why?]
Answer: I usually travel by road on a bus unless I am going to nearby places in which cases, I usually walk or ride a bicycle. In case I am travelling to a foreign country, then I, of course, take a plane. I like to walk and use a bicycle because they help me keep fit. I also use buses to travel long distances because they are cheap and convenient.
Q. What are the most common types of transportation run on the streets in your country?
Answer: The most common types of transportation in my country are public buses and Taxis. We also do have a railway system and the government is planning to expand our water transportation system.
Q. Which types of transportation do people in your country often use to move?
Answer: People mostly use public buses and four-wheel-drive pickups to move around. A large number of them use their own bicycles and motorbikes while affluent people use private cars.
Topic: Television programmes
Q. Where do you usually watch TV programmes/shows? [Why?/Why not?]
Q. What’s your favourite TV programme/show? [Why?]
Q. Are there any programmes/shows you don’t like watching? [Why?/Why not?]
Q. Do you think you will watch more TV or fewer TV programmes/shows in the future? [Why?/Why not?]
Q. Where do you usually watch TV programmes/shows? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: I usually watch TV programmes and shows at my home after I return from the office. It provides a comfortable and relaxing environment where I can unwind and enjoy my favourite shows without any distractions. Being at home allows me to have control over the viewing experience, such as adjusting the volume, choosing the seating arrangement, and having access to snacks and beverages.
Q. What’s your favourite TV programme/show? [Why?]
Answer: I have a few favourite TV programmes and shows that I enjoy watching. Recently, I have been captivated by popular series like "Altered Carbon", "Stranger Things", "Westworld" and "Breaking Bad." Additionally, I find educational programs on History channels and Discovery channels intriguing. Moreover, documentaries on platforms like Netflix have caught my interest due to their informative and thought-provoking content. I appreciate these shows for their engaging storytelling, well-developed characters, and high production quality.
Q. Are there any programmes/shows you don’t like watching? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: While I enjoy a wide range of TV programmes and shows, there are certain genres and types that I don't particularly enjoy watching. I tend to avoid poorly made and directed movies, as they often lack compelling narratives and fail to engage my interest. Additionally, I'm not a fan of horror films as they can be too intense or unsettling for my personal preference. However, everyone's tastes differ, and what may not appeal to me might be enjoyable for others.
Q. Do you think you will watch more TV or fewer TV programmes/shows in the future? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: In the future, I believe I might watch fewer TV programmes and shows. With the advancements in technology and the availability of online streaming platforms, the way we consume entertainment is evolving. I anticipate that I may allocate more time to other activities such as reading, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in outdoor pursuits. However, I still appreciate the value of well-crafted storytelling and quality television, so I'm likely to continue enjoying my favourite programmes, albeit in a more balanced and selective manner.
Topic: Your neighbourhood
Q. Do you like the neighbourhood you live in? [Why/Why not?]
Q. What do you do in your neighbourhood in your free time? [Why/Why not?]
Q. What new things would you like to have in your neighbourhood [Why/Why not?]
Q. Would you like to live in another neighbourhood in your town or city? [Why/Why not?]
Q. Do you like the neighbourhood you live in? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I do like the neighbourhood I live in. It's a peaceful and well-established residential area with beautiful surroundings. The community is friendly, and I feel safe and comfortable here. Additionally, it offers convenient access to essential amenities like grocery stores, parks, and schools, which makes it an ideal place to live.
Q. What do you do in your neighbourhood in your free time? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: In my free time, I often take leisurely walks or bike rides around the neighbourhood. It allows me to enjoy the pleasant scenery, get some exercise, and unwind from daily routines. I also take the opportunity to interact with neighbours, participate in local events, or engage in activities at nearby recreational facilities.
Q. What new things would you like to have in your neighbourhood [Why/Why not?]
Answer: While I appreciate the existing amenities in my neighbourhood, it would be great to have more community spaces or gathering areas. It could be a community centre where residents can socialize, organize events, or participate in workshops. This would further strengthen the sense of community and provide additional opportunities for people to connect and engage with one another.
Q. Would you like to live in another neighbourhood in your town or city? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Currently, I am content with my neighbourhood and have no immediate desire to move elsewhere within the city. I have established relationships with my neighbours, and I am familiar with the surroundings. However, in the future, if there are opportunities for personal or professional growth in a different neighbourhood, I would be open to considering a change of residence.
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I'm Behnaz and I'm preparing for IELTS till January. I'm looking for a speaking partner. I'm a girl and I prefer my partner to be a girl also. If you are a girl and would like to practice, please contact me via my email behnazbaha@hotm ail.com.
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