IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.
Describe a remote/faraway place where you would like to visit.
You should say:
- where it is
- how far it is from your living place
- when and how would you go there
and explain why you would like to visit this place.
[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.]
Model Answer 1:
I like to visit different places, whether they are close by or far away from me. In fact, sometimes, I just wish that I had a lot of money and time so that I could visit all the beautiful places all around the world. But one of the remote places that I would really like to visit is called Hornby Island in British Columbia, Canada.
It is a Salish Sea Island, located near Vancouver Island’s Comox Valley. While it is only about 185 kilometres from the city of Vancouver, from where I live, which is Calgary, it is quite a far distance of about 1155 kilometres via the Trans-Canada Highway.
I would like to visit this beautiful small island next summer, where a small community of about 1000 residents live. I am planning to drive to the city of Vancouver first, and then from there, I would need to travel by ferries, three ferries to be precise, which could actually take the better part of the day to reach the magical island of Hornby.
I would like to visit this place mainly because I have heard so much about it since I was growing up as a young boy. Some call it the “Jewell of the Gulf” while others like to call it the “Hawaii of the North” since it has warm waters and sandy beaches. And, yes, I just love warm waters and sandy beaches.
I would also like to visit this place because it is an incredibly beautiful place with its simple, rural and relaxed atmosphere. Of course, needless to say, I also want to visit the island for its breathtaking views with its spectacular blue sky towering over the blue ocean underneath. Finally, I have always wondered how an island with such a tiny population can survive and thrive while attracting several thousand tourists every year!
Model Answer 2:
One remote and faraway place that I would love to visit is Bhutan, often referred to as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” Located in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is nestled between China and India, making it a truly secluded destination. Before giving details of my plan to visit this faraway place, I would like to thank you for allowing me to talk about this topic.
From my current location, which is Canada, Bhutan is quite a distance away, requiring several flights and possibly some overland travel. Depending on the availability of flights and my schedule, I would aim to visit Bhutan during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.
To reach Bhutan, I would likely fly into Paro International Airport, which is the country’s only international airport. From there, I would explore the country’s pristine landscapes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant culture.
One of the main reasons I’m drawn to Bhutan is its unique approach to measuring national prosperity through the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) rather than Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This focus on holistic well-being and environmental conservation has resulted in Bhutan maintaining much of its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Moreover, Bhutan is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. The country’s numerous Buddhist monasteries and dzongs (fortress-monasteries) add to its mystical allure, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries-old traditions and spiritual practices. Exploring Bhutan’s remote villages, hiking through its pristine forests, and interacting with its warm and welcoming people are experiences that I believe would be truly enriching and unforgettable.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
This topic asks you to describe a remote or faraway place that you would like to visit in the future. You need to mention where the place is located, how far it is from where you live, when and how you would travel there, and why this destination attracts you so much. To make your answer more interesting and vivid, try to describe the natural beauty, culture, climate or special attractions of the place. You can also explain whether this destination has been your dream for a long time and what kind of experiences you hope to have there. Here are a few detailed ideas to help you build your own response naturally and confidently.
1. Iceland:
One faraway place I would really like to visit is Iceland, which is located thousands of kilometres away from where I live. It is famous for glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and the Northern Lights. I would probably visit it during winter so I could experience the snowy landscapes and hopefully see the aurora in the night sky. I would travel there by plane with a few close friends or family members. I want to visit Iceland because its natural beauty looks almost unreal, and I think it would be a peaceful and unforgettable experience.
2. Switzerland:
A remote place I dream of visiting is Switzerland, which is very far from my country and known for its breathtaking mountains and lakes. I would love to go there during the summer or spring when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is colourful. I would most likely travel there by air and then explore different cities by train. I want to visit Switzerland because I admire its natural beauty, clean environment and peaceful lifestyle.
3. Antarctica:
One unusual place I would like to visit is Antarctica, which is one of the most remote places on Earth. It is extremely far from where I live and difficult to reach. I would probably go there as part of a guided expedition in the future. I would travel by plane and then by ship, as that is how most tourists reach the continent. I want to visit it because I am fascinated by ice-covered landscapes, wildlife like penguins, and the idea of experiencing such an isolated environment.
4. The Maldives:
A faraway destination I would love to visit is the Maldives, which is famous for its crystal-clear water and luxurious resorts. It is quite far from my hometown and would require a long flight. I would prefer to visit it during the holiday season when I have enough time to relax. I want to go there because the beaches look stunning, and I would enjoy spending time in a peaceful tropical environment.
5. Japan:
One country I would really like to visit is Japan, which is located far from where I currently live. I would love to go there during the cherry blossom season because the streets and parks look incredibly beautiful at that time. I would travel by plane and probably explore the country using its famous train system. I want to visit Japan because of its unique culture, advanced technology and delicious food.
6. Alaska:
A remote place I would like to explore is Alaska, which is located in the far northern part of the United States. It is extremely far from my home and would require long flights and careful planning. I would love to visit it during the summer to enjoy hiking and wildlife. I want to go there because I enjoy nature, mountains and peaceful environments away from crowded cities.
7. New Zealand:
One faraway country I would like to visit is New Zealand, which is famous for its dramatic landscapes and outdoor activities. It is located very far from my country, so reaching there would take a long journey. I would probably visit it with friends during a long vacation. I want to go there because I love natural scenery and adventure activities like hiking and exploring mountains.
8. The Sahara Desert:
A remote place I would love to experience is the Sahara Desert in North Africa. It is very far from where I live and completely different from my usual environment. I would probably visit it during a cooler season and travel there as part of a guided tour. I want to experience the desert because I think the endless sand dunes and quiet atmosphere would be both challenging and fascinating.
9. Patagonia:
One destination I would really like to visit is Patagonia, located in the southern part of South America. It is extremely far from my country and known for its mountains, glaciers and beautiful landscapes. I would love to travel there in the future during a long holiday. I want to visit Patagonia because it looks untouched and adventurous, and I enjoy places connected with nature and exploration.
10. Greenland:
Another remote place I would like to visit is Greenland, which is famous for its icy landscapes and Arctic beauty. It is very far away and not a common tourist destination. I would probably go there as part of a guided trip in the future. I want to visit it because I am curious about extreme environments and would love to experience a place that feels completely different from everyday life.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card:
Secluded: (Of a place) not seen or visited by many people; sheltered and private.
Example: I am drawn to this island because it features a secluded beach far away from commercial resorts.
Off-the-beaten-path: In or into any place that is not frequently visited; remote.
Example: I prefer travelling to off-the-beaten-path destinations rather than popular tourist hotspots.
Pristine: In its original condition; unspoiled.
Example: The mountain range is famous for its pristine lakes and untouched forests.
Inaccessible: Difficult or impossible to reach.
Example: During winter, this remote village becomes completely inaccessible by road, requiring a helicopter to reach it.
Tranquillity: The quality or state of being calm and peaceful.
Example: The main reason I want to visit this faraway valley is to experience its absolute tranquillity.
Wilderness: An uncultivated, uninhabited, and hospitable region.
Example: Trekking through the vast Arctic wilderness has always been a dream of mine.
Breathtaking: Astonishing or awe-inspiring in quality, to take one’s breath away.
Example: The view of the northern lights from that remote island is supposed to be absolutely breathtaking.
Exotic: Originating in or characteristic of a distant foreign country.
Example: The region is home to a variety of exotic wildlife species that cannot be found anywhere else on earth.
Idyllic: Like an idyll; extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque.
Example: It sounds like an idyllic sanctuary where one can fully unplug from modern technology.
Solitude: The state or situation of being alone, typically in a lonely or secluded place.
Example: I am looking forward to the peaceful solitude that only a remote desert landscape can offer.
Untamed: Left in a natural or wild state.
Example: The coast offers miles of untamed cliffs and crashing waves, completely free of human development.
Panoramic: (Of a view) unbroken of a whole region surrounding an observer.
Example: Climbing to the top of the ridge provides a panoramic view of the entire valley below.
Long-haul: Involving travel over a long distance.
Example: Reaching this faraway destination requires a long-haul flight followed by a twelve-hour ferry ride.
Sanctuary: A place of safety, or a nature reserve.
Example: The remote island serves as a protected sanctuary for endangered sea birds.
Picturesque: Visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way.
Example: We passed through several picturesque fishing villages that looked like they belonged on a postcard.
Getaway: A short holiday or a place suitable for a holiday.
Example: A cabin in the deep woods is the ultimate getaway from the stresses of daily city life.
If you prepare for the topic “Describe a remote/faraway place where you would like to visit”, you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a place where you would like to visit.
2) Describe a place you have recently visited and liked.
3) Describe a city where you would like to live.
4) Describe a beautiful place you have visited.
5) Describe a country you want to visit in the future.
6) Describe a place you want to visit because it offers exciting activities.
7) Describe a naturally beautiful place you know about.