Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published August 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics (restaurants) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Each answer should be at least 2-3 sentences long.
TIP >> Listen carefully to the question so that you answer in the correct tense.
TIP >> When answering a yes/no question – answer then give your reasons for your answer. You must extend your answer to gain more marks.
TIP >> Just relax and think of it as a regular conversation you are having, make eye contact and be positive.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘restaurants‘ >>
Q: Do you like to eat out?
A: Absolutely! I love going to a restaurant either in town or by the sea. There are so many restaurants that are by the sea here in Corfu, that it is impossible not to go!
Q: Where do you like to go?
A: I like to visit restaurants by the sea that serve fresh fish. My husband’s godparents own a fantastic fish taverna, that we visit regularly and it is situated on a private beach with fantastic waters for swimming.
Q: Are there any restaurants you can recommend in your hometown?
A: In the city where I grew up there are many restaurants serving various cuisine from around the world. Unfortunately, the Greek restaurants there do not serve the same quality of food as you can find in Greece. So when I am there I like to go to Yo Sushi, the experience is a good as the food itself!
Q: Can you tell me about a memorable experience you had at a restaurant?
A: It was my mom’s birthday and friends and family were at the beachside taverna for a Greek night, with dancing and live music. We had organised a surprise cake for my mom and when it came out she was so happy. The night was one big happy occasion, filled with good food, cake and of course traditional dancing!
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published August 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics (travel) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Each answer should be at least 2-3 sentences long.
TIP >> Listen carefully to the question so that you answer in the correct tense.
TIP >> When answering a yes/no question – answer then give your reasons for your answer. You must extend your answer to gain more marks.
TIP >> Just relax and think of it as a regular conversation you are having, make eye contact and be positive.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘travel‘ >>
Q: What do you do on your vacation?
A: Depending on the location when I go on holiday I like to relax, see the sights and take photographs. I also like to go shopping, visit museums and galleries. I am very interested in art and architecture, so love to see as much as I can when I go on holiday.
Q: Do you think vacations are becoming more and more important?
A: Yes, I think that many people are working longer hours and have more stress than ever placed upon them. taking a break is necessary to unwind and recharge so that they can let go of the stress and focus on their own well-being.
Q: What kind of places do you want to travel to?
A: I really want to visit the USA more and explore cities like New York, Chicago and Boston. I would also like to visit Canada to go skiing and perhaps in the spring to visit Italy, to see some galleries.
Q: Do you prefer travelling alone or in a group?
A: I prefer to travel in a group, as I think it is more fun being able to share experiences with friends or family. Travelling alone is not always safe and in some places could be very risky.
Q: Who do you usually spend your vacation with?
A: I always go on vacation with my husband, we travel a lot mainly around Greece either to the mainland or to other islands. We also like to visit cities like London, Barcelona, Rome and New York to experience various cultures.
Q: Why are vacations important to you?
A: They are much needed during certain times of the year, for example when the weather becomes too hot to bear or I feel as though I need a break from work. They help me to relax and de-stress from everything.
Q: If you could take a vacation anywhere in the world, where would you go? Why?
A: I would like to visit a pretty place with snow, lots and lots of snow, somewhere like Canada or maybe even in the mountains in Greece during the winter months. I would like to go skiing, try snowboarding and stay in a well-decorated log cabin, with a large real fireplace.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
