When discussing places to escape from city life, this topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. As an examiner, I’ve noticed many candidates struggle to provide detailed responses. Let’s explore how to tackle this effectively while relating to describe a place in nature where you like to spend time.
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you prefer living in the city or countryside?
- How often do you travel outside the city?
- What do you usually do to relax?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While I appreciate urban conveniences, I find myself drawn to rural areas for relaxation. I try to venture out of the city at least once a month to recharge my batteries. My preferred way to unwind is immersing myself in nature, whether it’s hiking or simply sitting by a lakeside.”
Serene countryside landscape showing rolling hills and peaceful atmosphere
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a place you would like to go to escape the city
You should say:
- Where this place is
- How you would get there
- What you would do there
- And explain why you would choose this place
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a small beach town called Mui Ne. It’s about 200 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City. To get there, I usually take a bus which takes around 4-5 hours. When I’m there, I enjoy walking on the beach, swimming, and trying local seafood. I choose this place because it’s quiet and helps me forget about work stress.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to elaborate on a hidden gem called Mui Ne, a tranquil coastal paradise situated approximately 200 kilometers from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City. The journey there is part of the experience – I typically opt for a premium coach service, which offers a comfortable escape through the Vietnamese countryside for about 4-5 hours.
Once there, I immerse myself in various activities that help me reconnect with nature. This includes taking leisurely strolls along the pristine shoreline, indulging in water sports like kitesurfing, and savoring the local cuisine, particularly the fresh-off-the-boat seafood.
What makes this destination particularly appealing is its perfect balance of serenity and activity. The gentle ocean breeze, combined with the sound of waves, creates an incredibly therapeutic atmosphere that helps me decompress from urban life. Similar to describe an outdoor event you participated in, the experience offers a complete change of environment.”
Scenic view of Mui Ne beach with traditional fishing boats
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do people need to escape from cities sometimes?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“There are several compelling reasons why urban dwellers seek refuge away from cities. First and foremost, the constant sensory overload in cities – from traffic noise to light pollution – can take a significant toll on mental health. Moreover, cities often create an artificial disconnect from nature, which humans inherently need for wellbeing, much like describe a park or public space in your area that you visit regularly. The fast-paced lifestyle and high-pressure environment can lead to burnout if not balanced with periods of retreat.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Tranquil coastal paradise /ˈtræŋkwɪl ˈkəʊstl ˈpærədaɪs/ (phrase) – a peaceful seaside location
- Hustle and bustle /ˈhʌsl ænd ˈbʌsl/ (phrase) – busy and noisy activity
- Decompress /ˌdiːkəmˈpres/ (verb) – to relax and release pressure
- Therapeutic atmosphere /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk ˈætməsfɪə/ (phrase) – environment that promotes healing and relaxation
Examiner’s Tips:
- Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture
- Include personal experiences to make answers authentic
- Structure responses clearly with proper transitions
- Practice speaking about different locations regularly
- Focus on both physical descriptions and emotional connections
Remember to think about describe a recent day trip you enjoyed when preparing for this topic, as many elements overlap and can enhance your response.
