I. Sample Essay on an Unusual Vacation You Had
1. Essay Prompt
Tell me about a vacation that was out of the ordinary. You should mention:
- When and where you went
- Who you went with
- What you did there
And explain why it was so different.
2. Sample Speaking: Tell me about a vacation that was out of the ordinary
Although my family usually doesn’t let me travel to many places, I had a rather unique vacation a few years ago. It happened in the summer of 2019 when I decided to explore a small, lesser-known village nestled in the Nepalese mountains. It’s not a typical tourist spot. What made it different was that I traveled there alone, which was quite unusual for me. Normally, I prefer traveling with friends or family, but this time I sought solitude and a break from my busy life. The village, surrounded by towering peaks, was a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life. With no hotels around, I stayed in a modest guesthouse managed by a local family. My days were filled with hiking through rugged terrain and immersing myself in the local culture. I even helped the villagers with their daily tasks like farming and cooking. They welcomed me warmly and shared insights into their way of life, which fascinated me as it was so different from mine. This vacation stood out due to its simplicity and its stark contrast to my usual routine. There was no internet, no fancy restaurants, just me, the mountains, and the locals. It was a humbling experience that allowed me to appreciate a slower pace of life and find joy in the simplest things. This trip was more about self-discovery and connecting with nature than typical sightseeing, making it one of my most unique and memorable vacations.
Useful vocabulary for describing an unusual vacation:
- Allow (v): Cho phép
- Tourist destination (n): Địa điểm du lịch
- Out of the ordinary (phrsal): Khác thường
- Prefer (v): Thích
- Solitude (n): Cô đơn
- Hectic (adj): Bận rộn
- Immerse myself in something: Đắm mình vào một cái gì đó
- Simplicity (n): Sự đơn giản
- Humbling (adj): Khiêm nhường
- Memorable (adj): Đáng nhớ
II. Model Answer for IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Describe an unusual vacation you had
1. What are the pros and cons of embarking on an unplanned journey?
I would argue that spontaneous trips can be exhilarating and unplanned. They allow you to embrace the thrill and go wherever the moment takes you, similar to a teenager opting for an unplanned road trip with friends. However, the lack of planning can result in insufficiencies such as lacking essential items, lodging, or transportation arrangements. This may lead to inconvenience or discomfort during the journey.
Therefore, unplanned trips offer spontaneity but come with potential disadvantages such as increased uncertainty. The suitability of an unplanned trip depends on your preferences and willingness to embrace unpredictability.
- Spontaneous (adj): Tự phát, không chuẩn bị trước
- Embrace (v): Ôm
- Impromptu (n): Ngẫu hứng
- Inadequate (adj): Không đầy đủ
- Accommodation (n): Chỗ ở
- Drawback (n): Nhược điểm
- Unpredictability (n): Tính không thể đoán trước
2. How do older and younger individuals differ in their overseas travel experiences?
I believe age is just one factor influencing how travelers experience and approach overseas travel. Elderly travelers often possess more life experience and may be seasoned travelers. They may have a more relaxed and patient approach to travel, having encountered various cultures and places. In contrast, younger travelers seek adventure and exploration. They may be more inclined to backpack, engage in outdoor activities, and immerse themselves in local experiences. There is truly no right or wrong way to travel.
- Approach (v): Tiếp cận
- Globetrotter (n): Những người thích đi du lịch và đã đi du lịch được nhiều nơi
- Inclined to (v): muốn làm gì đó
3. Must people journey afar to enjoy an unconventional vacation?
Not exactly. Unique or special vacations can be enjoyed in your local area or within a short distance from your home. Staycations are quite popular, allowing individuals to explore their city or town from a different angle. They can visit local museums, parks, or landmarks they haven't explored before, or try out new dining spots and activities. Another way to have a unique experience is to set off on a road trip to nearby destinations. Discovering lesser-known spots, small towns, or natural wonders within a few hours' drive can create lasting memories.
- Unique (adj): Độc đáo
- Distance (n): Khoảng cách
- Staycation (n): Lưu trú
- Perspective (n): Quan điểm
- Embark on a road trip (phrasal): đi chơi, đi du lịch
- Hidden (adj): bị giấu đi
4. Would you enjoy unexpected surprises while traveling?
It largely depends on their personality and preferences. Some individuals thrive on spontaneity and find joy in unexpected discoveries during their travels. These surprises can make the journey more exciting and unforgettable. For instance, stumbling upon a local festival, meeting interesting people, or discovering hidden gems can add a sense of adventure to the trip, much like a teenager cherishing unexpected experiences with friends. However, not everyone may be comfortable with unexpected surprises. Some travelers prefer detailed planning to ensure a smooth and predictable experience, avoiding potential inconveniences or disturbances.
- Preference (n): Niềm yêu thích
- Thrive on (phrasal verb): Phát triển
- Spontaneity (n): Tính tự pháT
- Meticulous (adj): Tỉ mỉ
- Disruption (n): Sự gián đoạn
5. Do you think people in your country have sufficient long holidays?
In Vietnam, the duration of holidays sparks debate. While traditional festivals provide extended breaks, the standard annual leave for employees is relatively limited. This creates hesitation among workers, limiting their ability to embark on extended vacations or engage in extensive travel.
- Duration (n): Thời lượng
- Contention (n): Tranh cãi
- Modest (adj): Khiêm tốn
- Hesitation (n): Sự do dự
- Prolonged (adj): Kéo dài
- Extensive (adj): Rộng rãi
6. What are the popular holidays in your country?
Major holidays in Vietnam include Tet, the Lunar New Year, celebrated with enthusiasm across the nation. Other significant festivals include the Mid-Autumn Festival and Independence Day. These festive occasions unite the country, nurturing a sense of cultural identity.
- Prominent (adj): Nổi bật
- Fervor (n): Nhiệt tình, mạnh mẽ
- Notable (adj): Đáng chú ý
- Unify (adj): Thống nhất
- Cultural identity (n): Bản sắc văn hóa
7. Are there any well-known holiday destinations in your country?
Vietnam features a variety of popular vacation spots. Coastal areas such as Halong Bay and cultural treasures like Hoi An attract tourists. The picturesque Mekong Delta and the mountainous Sapa provide diverse experiences. These locations showcase Vietnam's natural beauty while international tourism enhances cultural exchange.
- Boast (v): Khoe khoang
- Coastal area (n): Vùng ven biển
- Enrich (v): Làm giàu
8. Do you believe holidays help people learn about other countries' cultures?
Holidays serve as cultural windows, allowing individuals to explore and value diverse traditions. Vietnamese holidays, such as Tet, highlight rich customs, traditional cuisines, and familial bonds. Exposure to these practices promotes intercultural awareness, bridging gaps and fostering international understanding.
- Appreciate (v): Đánh giá cao
- Showcase (v): Trưng bày
- Cuisine (n): Ẩm thực
- Cross-cultural (adj): Đa văn hóa
- Global understanding (n): Hiểu biết toàn cầu
9. Why do some individuals dislike holidays?
Certain individuals maintain reservations about holidays, associating them with stress or familial responsibilities. The pressure to adhere to societal expectations during celebrations can lead to anxiety. Reluctance might arise from concerns about financial strain or personal reasons, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of individual perspectives on holidays.
- Harbor (v): Nghĩ ngợi về điều gì đó một thời gian dài
- Obligation (n): Nghĩa vụ
- Conform (v): Tuân thủ
- Expectation (n): Kỳ vọng
- Hesitation (n): Sự lưỡng lự
- Highlight (v): Đánh dấu
- Nuanced (adj): sắc thái khác nhau
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