The IELTS is a widely taken English proficiency test for non-native speakers. Over 3.5 million people take it annually to study or work in English-speaking countries. The IELTS has four sections: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. In the Speaking test, there are three parts. Part 2, known as the cue card section, lasts 4-5 minutes. You get a topic on a cue card, have 1 minute to prepare, and speak for 2 to 3 minutes.
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How to Answer the IELTS Cue Card: Describe an Unusual Holiday You Had
To answer a cue card properly, follow a good structure. Start with a short introduction about the topic, then provide detailed explanations. Finish your answer with a brief conclusion. Breaking down the cue card topic into 4 to 5 questions will help you answer more comprehensively. Address each question and make sure you cover all of them. Avoid going into too much detail on just one answer.
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Introduction
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What holiday was it?
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Who were you with?
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What did you do?
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Why is it unusual?
Describe an Unusual Holiday You Had: Sample Answer 1
Introduction
One of my most cherished holiday memories is a camping trip that turned into an unexpected adventure in the wilderness.
What holiday was it?
It was a long weekend during the summer break, and my family had planned a camping trip to a nearby national park.
Who were you with?
I was with my parents, my younger brother, and two cousins who had joined us for the trip.
What did you do?
We set up our tents, hiked through the lush forest trails, and spent evenings around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. However, on the second day, a sudden rainstorm hit, and our campsite was flooded. We had to seek shelter in a nearby cave until the storm passed.
Why is it unusual?
The unexpected turn of events, where we found ourselves stranded in a cave during a camping trip, made this holiday unique and memorable. It was an adventure we hadn't planned for, but it brought us closer together as a family, and we learned valuable lessons about adapting to nature's unpredictable ways.
Describe an Unusual Holiday You Had: Sample Answer 2
Introduction
One of my most cherished holiday memories is a cultural exchange program that allowed me to experience a unique and enriching cultural immersion.
What holiday was it?
It was during the winter break when I had the opportunity to participate in a student exchange program in Japan.
Who were you with?
I was part of a group of ten students from my university, accompanied by two faculty members.
What did you do?
We stayed with host families in a small rural town, where we learned about traditional Japanese customs, attended cultural workshops, and participated in various activities like tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons, and even a traditional Japanese cooking class.
Why is it unusual?
This holiday was unusual because it allowed me to step outside my familiar surroundings and fully immerse myself in a different culture. Living with a host family, learning about their daily routines, and experiencing their traditions firsthand provided me with a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and a unique perspective on life.
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Describe an Unusual Holiday You Had: Sample Answer 3
Introduction
One of my most cherished holiday memories is a solo backpacking trip that taught me invaluable lessons about independence and self-discovery.
What holiday was it?
It was during my college summer break, and I decided to embark on a solo backpacking adventure through the scenic mountains of Nepal.
Who were you with?
For the majority of the trip, I was by myself, navigating the trails and immersing myself in the breathtaking natural surroundings.
What did you do?
I hiked through remote villages, interacted with local communities, and camped under the stars, surrounded by the majestic Himalayan peaks. Along the way, I faced challenges such as navigating unfamiliar terrain and overcoming language barriers, but these experiences taught me resilience and self-reliance.
Why is it unusual?
This holiday was unusual because it was a solo adventure that pushed me out of my comfort zone. Traveling alone in a foreign country, without the usual support system, forced me to confront my fears, trust my instincts, and embrace the thrill of the unknown. It was a transformative experience that helped me grow as an individual.
Describe an Unusual Holiday You Had: Sample Answer 4
Introduction
One of my most cherished holiday memories is a volunteering trip that allowed me to make a difference in the lives of others while creating lasting connections.
What holiday was it?
It was during the winter break when I participated in a volunteering program in a remote village in rural India.
Who were you with?
I was part of a small group of volunteers from different parts of the world, united by a common desire to contribute to the local community.
What did you do?
Our primary focus was to assist in the construction of a new school building for the village children. We worked alongside the residents, digging foundations, mixing cement, and even teaching basic literacy classes to the children in the evenings.
Why is it unusual?
This holiday was unusual because it combined the joy of travel with the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Rather than merely sightseeing, we immersed ourselves in the community, learned about their challenges, and worked hand-in-hand to create a lasting impact. It was a humbling and rewarding experience that taught me the true value of service and cross-cultural connections.
Follow Up Questions
Q1. How do unusual holidays contribute to personal growth and understanding of different cultures?
Ans. Unusual holidays contribute significantly to personal growth by exposing individuals to diverse cultures and perspectives. Immersing oneself in unfamiliar environments fosters adaptability, tolerance, and a broader worldview. These experiences challenge preconceived notions, encouraging individuals to embrace differences and facilitating personal development.
Q2. In what ways did an unusual holiday challenge your expectations or perceptions about travel?
Ans. An unusual holiday challenged my expectations by taking me away from conventional tourist destinations. It made me realize that the most fulfilling experiences often come from exploring offbeat places. It challenged my preconceived notions about travel, emphasizing that there's more to discover beyond popular destinations.
Q3. How can the tourism industry encourage more people to explore unique and offbeat destinations?
Ans. The tourism industry can encourage the exploration of unique destinations by promoting them as hidden gems with distinct cultural experiences. Offering unique packages and discounts, and highlighting the authenticity of these places, can attract travelers seeking something different. Social media campaigns showcasing the beauty of offbeat locations also generate curiosity and interest among potential tourists.
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Tips to Answer IELTS Cue Card ![]()
From the Desk of Yocket
The IELTS speaking section, part 2, is an essential tool to evaluate the aspirants' ability to communicate effectively and think quickly. As communication is one of the most important means to navigate their lives abroad, IELTS allows test-takers to demonstrate their confidence.
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