IELTS VocabMaster

Describe somewhere near a natural place that you have been to.

Describe somewhere near a natural place that you have been to. You should say: - where it is - when you went there - what you did there - and explain how you felt about this place

Part 2 model answer

Well, I'd like to talk about a small resort near Lawachara National Park in Sreemangal, which is in the Sylhet division of Bangladesh. Sreemangal is often called the tea capital of the country, and it's surrounded by endless tea gardens and thick green forest.

I went there last winter with three of my cousins. We took an early morning train from Dhaka, and the journey itself was beautiful because as we got closer, the view outside the window turned completely green. We stayed in a little cottage-style resort right on the edge of the forest, so we could hear birds and even monkeys from our room.

During our two-day stay, we did quite a lot. On the first day, we walked through the tea gardens and watched the workers picking tea leaves, which was really interesting. Then we went on a guided trail inside Lawachara forest, where we were lucky enough to spot some rare gibbons swinging in the trees. In the evening, we tried the famous seven-layer tea, which honestly tasted better than I expected.

What I loved most about the place was how peaceful it felt. Living in a busy city, I'm used to constant traffic noise and pollution, so breathing that fresh air was incredibly refreshing. I felt completely relaxed, and for the first time in months, I wasn't even checking my phone much. I'd definitely love to go back there again, maybe during the rainy season, when I've heard the forest looks even more stunning.

Part 3 discussion

Why do people like to visit natural places?

Mainly to escape the stress of city life. Natural places are quiet, the air is fresh, and the scenery is calming, so people can relax and recharge. Many people also enjoy activities like hiking, camping, or photography, which are only possible in natural surroundings.

Does tourism harm natural places?

Unfortunately, it often does. When too many tourists visit, they leave behind plastic waste, disturb wildlife, and damage plants. For example, some beaches in Cox's Bazar and Saint Martin's Island have become quite polluted. However, if tourism is managed responsibly, the damage can be reduced.

How can we protect natural areas?

First, governments should introduce strict rules, like limiting the number of visitors and banning plastic in protected areas. Second, local communities should be involved, because they know the area best and can benefit from eco-tourism. And of course, individuals should be responsible and not litter.

Do you think children should spend more time in nature?

Yes, definitely. These days, children spend most of their time indoors with phones and tablets. Being in nature helps them stay physically active, reduces stress, and teaches them to appreciate the environment. I think schools should organise more outdoor trips and nature-based activities.

Is it better to live in the countryside or in the city?

Both have advantages. The countryside offers fresh air, peace, and a slower pace of life, which is great for health. But cities provide better job opportunities, education, and healthcare. Personally, I think young people prefer cities, while many people like to move to the countryside after retirement.