Planning a trip to Sapa - Example Talk about your holiday in Sapa
Describe a recent good decision you made. You should say:
- What the decision was
- When you made the decision
- How you made the decision
- And explain why you think it was a good decision.
Sample 1 - Planning a trip to Sapa - Example Talk about your holiday in Sapa
Listen to the audio file about Planning a trip to Sapa - IELTS Speaking part 2 here!
I want to discuss my decision to embark on an impromptu journey to Sapa during my last New Year holiday, approximately 4 months ago. Initially, I planned to spend time with a close group of friends, but as the date approached, most of them lost interest.
I was frustrated with them so I thought that I would do something out-of-character to blow off some steam. I had always been careful with how I spend my money, but on that day, I just booked a flight ticket to Sapa without any hesitation. I eventually spent my 2-day holiday exploring this scenic and majestic town in northern Vietnam.
I did many activities in Sapa yet the trekking tour through mountainous trails stood out the most. My tour guide was a Hmông woman in her early 20s. During the course of the day, we walked for 15 kilometers through three different Hmông villages. The trail was treacherous and slippery but the breathtakingly tranquil beauty of the rice terraces made all the challenges seem like a small price to pay.
At each village, my guide showed me about her people’s way of life. I got to see the process of making Hmông renowned indigo fabric and was offered their specialty of mèn mén, a dish made from locally grown corn.
When I got home, I felt relaxed, rejuvenated and I also worked more effectively. After this trip, I learned that going on an adventure on a whim can have positive effects on my mental health. I’m looking forward to making other similar decisions that would enrich myself further.
Lexicon:
- Rustrated (adj): cảm thấy chán nản, ức chế
- Out-of-character (adj): không thường làm, trái với thường ngày
- To blow off some steam (expression): giải tỏa căng thẳng, áp lực
- Hesitation (n): sự do dự
- Majestic (adj): lộng lẫy, uy nghi
- Trail: đường mòn. Mountainous trail: Đường mòn lên núi
- Treacherous (adj): nguy hiểm, cheo leo
- Breathtakingly (adv): một cách ngoạn mục, quá đỗi (không nói thành lời)
- Tranquil (adj): thanh bình
- Renowned (adj): nổi tiếng, trứ danh
- Indigo (adj, màu): màu chàm. Indigo fabric: chất liệu có màu chàm
- Specialty (n): đặc sản
- On a whim (expression): một cách ngẫu hứng
- Mental (adj): (liên quan đến) tinh thần
- To enrich (v): làm giàu, làm phong phú
Example 2 - Discussing a trip to Sapa - Sample Talk about your holiday in Sapa
Listen to the audio file about Discussing a trip to Sapa - IELTS Speaking part 2 here!
When discussing renowned tourist destinations in Vietnam, my thoughts immediately turn to Sapa, a picturesque town located in Sapa district. Sapa’s charm lies in its unique mountainous location, which provides respite from the sweltering summer heat. The cool, refreshing climate during this season captivates numerous tourists. Sapa’s chilliness adds an element of excitement to the experience.
Beyond its delightful weather, Sapa boasts breathtaking mountainous landscapes. Verdant hills shrouded in layers of mist create a captivating sight. Moreover, the locals are incredibly welcoming. Upon my first visit to Sapa, I had the pleasure of dining in a local’s home, where we gathered around a warm stove, sharing meals and engaging in pleasant conversations.
A visit to Sapa would be incomplete without a trip to the summit of Fansipan, one of Sapa’s most iconic destinations. Gazing down from this vantage point, one can’t help but be awestruck by the tranquil beauty of this region. If given the opportunity, I would eagerly return to Sapa to relish the comfort it offers.
Lexical items:
- Tourist destinations: địa điểm du lịch
- Sweltering: oi bức
- Shrouded: che phủ
- Awestruck: kinh ngạc
- Gathered: tập hợp lại
Example 3 - Discussing a trip to Sapa - Sample Talk about your holiday in Sapa
Listen to the audio file about Discussing a trip to Sapa - IELTS Speaking part 2 here!
Summer is synonymous with travel in my family. Each year, we embark on a new adventure for our vacation. Last year, we chose Sapa as our destination. The moment I stepped off the bus, I could feel the chill in the air, a stark contrast to the hot and muggy city I was accustomed to. Our accommodation in Sapa was at a hotel, and my initial impression was of the impeccable cleanliness and the warm welcome from the front desk staff.
After settling into our room, my family and I decided to explore the area. We started by taking a leisurely walk through a bustling market where vendors offered an array of homemade souvenirs, each reflecting the unique beauty of the local ethnic culture. I couldn’t resist purchasing some bracelets as gifts for my friends. Given that we visited during the peak tourist season, the crowds were quite substantial, prompting us to be extra cautious with our belongings.
Following our market excursion, we decided to elevate our experience by taking a cable car ride to soak in the stunning scenery. As we ascended, the people below appeared as mere specks amidst the encompassing mountains and forests. The weather was on our side that day, with minimal fog, affording us the opportunity to savor the breathtaking vistas. The cable car made a stop, attracting a bustling crowd, and we took several memorable photos to cherish the moment.
After a day of exploration, we headed back to the hotel to prepare dinner. The Sapa trip left an indelible impression on me, and I am certain I’ll return to this remarkable place someday.
- Stepped off: bước ra khỏi
- Muggy: nóng ẩm
- Impeccable: hoàn hảo
- Vendors: nhà cung cấp
- Bracelets: vòng tay
- Substantial: đáng kể
- Stunning scenery: phong cảnh tuyệt đẹp
- Breathtaking vistas: khung cảnh ngoạn mục
- Bustling crowd: đám đông nhộn nhịp
- Indelible: không thể xóa nhòa
Example 4 - Discussing a trip to Sapa - Sample Talk about your holiday in Sapa
Listen to the audio file about Discussing a trip to Sapa - IELTS Speaking part 2 here!
My studies can be quite demanding, so to unwind, my dad and I make it a tradition to visit Sapa every summer. Typically, our Sapa vacation spans a week, and we embark on the journey in our family car. We have a cozy little house there, furnished with comfortable items to make our stay enjoyable. Given Sapa’s chilly climate, I always make sure to pack a jacket and long-sleeved shirts.
As a regular visitor to Sapa, I’ve had the chance to get to know the friendly neighbors. What I adore most about Sapa is the serene ambiance it offers, even during the bustling tourist season. I spend my time connecting with the locals, often cooking and singing together. I’ve also picked up guitar skills, and it’s heartwarming to hear people say they enjoy my music.
The Sapa market is another favorite spot of mine. It’s brimming with captivating merchandise. Whenever I’m in Sapa to unwind, I make sure to pick up some charming items as gifts for my friends and to adorn my bookshelf. Each of these items holds a special place in my heart.
As my vacation draws to a close, bidding farewell is always bittersweet. Every parting leaves me with a sense of longing. I have a deep affection for the natural beauty and the wonderful people in Sapa.
Lexicon:- Embark: tham gia
- Captivating merchandise: hàng hóa quyến rũ
- Heartwarming: ấm lòng
- Bittersweet: vừa đắng vừa ngọt