IELTS VocabMaster

Describe a short trip you often take but do not like.

Describe a short trip you often take but do not like. You should say: - where you go - how often you take this trip - how you travel - and explain why you do not like it

Part 2 model answer

A short trip I take quite often but really dislike is my journey from home to Farmgate, where my IELTS coaching centre is located. It's only about seven kilometres away, but honestly, it feels much longer than that.

I make this trip three times a week, usually in the late afternoon, because my classes start at five. Normally, I travel by local bus, since it's the cheapest option. Sometimes, if I'm running late, I take a CNG auto-rickshaw, but that's quite expensive, so I try to avoid it.

There are several reasons why I don't like this trip. First of all, the traffic is terrible. A journey that should take twenty minutes often takes over an hour, especially around Bijoy Sarani, where the vehicles barely move. Secondly, the buses are always overcrowded. Most of the time, I don't get a seat, so I have to stand squeezed between other passengers, holding onto the rail while the bus jerks forward and stops suddenly. In summer, the heat makes it even worse, and I usually arrive at class sweaty and exhausted. On top of that, the constant honking and noise give me a headache.

The worst part is that it wastes so much of my time, time that I could use for studying. To make it a bit more bearable, I've started listening to IELTS listening tracks and English podcasts on my phone during the ride. That way, at least I feel I'm doing something useful. But still, I'm really looking forward to the day when I finish my course and don't have to make this trip anymore.

Part 3 discussion

Why do people often complain about their daily commute?

Mainly because commuting takes up a lot of time and energy, especially in big cities with heavy traffic. Public transport is often crowded, uncomfortable, and unreliable. After a long day of work, spending another hour or two on the road can be really exhausting. On top of that, the cost of transport keeps rising, which adds financial stress as well.

How can governments reduce traffic congestion?

They can invest in better public transport, like metro rail and more modern buses, so fewer people need private cars. Building flyovers and improving road management can also help. Strict enforcement of traffic rules is essential too. In Dhaka, for example, the metro rail has already reduced travel time for many commuters on certain routes.

Do you think working from home is a good solution to commuting problems?

Yes, to some extent. Working from home saves time, money, and reduces traffic and pollution. However, it isn't possible for every job, such as doctors, factory workers, or shopkeepers. Also, some people feel isolated and less productive at home. So a mix of office and remote work might be the most practical solution.

What is the best way to travel short distances in cities?

For really short distances, walking or cycling is the best option, as it's healthy, cheap, and environmentally friendly. However, in many cities, footpaths are poor and roads are unsafe for cyclists. That's why many people still rely on rickshaws or buses. If cities improved walking and cycling infrastructure, more people would definitely choose these options.

How will transport in cities change in the future?

I think electric vehicles will become much more common, which will reduce pollution. Public transport systems like metro rail will probably expand further. We might also see self-driving cars and smarter traffic systems using artificial intelligence. Hopefully, these changes will make travelling in cities faster, safer, and much less stressful.