IELTS Speaking Cue Card

I like travelling and usually go on a trip every two or three months with my family or friends. I always buy something from every place I visit to keep it as a souvenir. I like visiting local markets from those places to look at local handlooms and handmade items buying which encourages the vendors.

Last year, I visited Goa, a coastal state with exotic beaches and picturesque views. The place has many local markets and stalls that sell various handmade items including jewellery for affordable prices. I spent more money on buying things from those shops than what I had to spend on tickets for the vacation. 

Anyway, on the last day of my trip, I visited the famous Panaji flea market where beautiful handmade jewellery and crafts are available. I have bought numerous things from the market, but of all, a necklace with seashells is the most memorable. It was an antique piece, embedded with ravishing gemstones and seashells. I was not sure if it would look good on me as I wear a lot of modern outfits but the beauty of the necklace captivated my heart. I tried it on and to my surprise, my friends complimented it and described how well it matched my outfit. I looked at myself in the mirror and realised I looked stunning. I immediately bought it for a thousand rupees without bargaining.

Although I bought it last year, it holds a special place in my heart. It is not only due to its alluring beauty but also due to the fact that it was one of the most exciting holidays I had with my family. I still wear it often when I go out to meet my friends.

 

Vocabulary:

1. Picturesque- scenic
2. Ravishing - beautiful
3. Stunning- extremely attractive
4. Alluring - charming

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Part 3 Follow Up - Questions & Answers

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1. What kind of markets are there in India?

India is a country with diversity. It has a variety of markets like local, street markets, exclusive vegetable markets, handloom markets, small to large shopping malls. People visit malls or go to street markets to buy various things on a daily basis.

2. Do you think small markets will disappear in the future?

No, I believe small markets will continue to thrive in the future because they have their own specialty and importance. In general, people have to plan and visit malls but they can visit a small market any day and they offer similar items at a cheaper rate. Also, local street markets cater to the daily needs of people while being nearer and affordable.

3. Have people’s shopping habits changed in recent years?

Absolutely, people used to go out for hours with their friends or family to shop for things they needed in the past while these days, people prefer shopping online as it saves transportation costs and online shopping sites are just a touch away. People can find everything online and there are dedicated sites making it easier to look for things.

4. What are the differences between shopping in street markets and big shopping malls?

Big malls are usually located far away from cities and take time to get there leading to a possibility of traffic congestion while local shops can be found in every street. However, malls have everything in one place which is an advantage. There are fewer people that guide customers on which products are the latest and best suited. The prices are also comparatively higher than that offered by local shops.