Cue Card

Describe something special that you took home from a tourist attraction

You should say:

• What it was
• When you bought it
• Where you bought it
• What it was like
• And explain why you think it was special.

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. What are the pros and cons of taking a professional camera with you when traveling?
2. Is it good that the locals sell things to tourists?
3. Why do people like to take photos when traveling?
4. What are the pros and cons of taking a professional camera with you when traveling?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'll never forget the time I visited the Louvre in Paris. I was 19, backpacking through Europe with a friend, and we were determined to see the Mona Lisa. We waited in line for hours, and when we finally got inside, the painting was even smaller than I expected. But what really caught my attention was the gift shop on the way out. I know, I know, it sounds weird, but hear me out. I bought a small, leather-bound journal with a reproduction of the Mona Lisa on the cover. It was love at first sight. I spent the rest of the trip writing in that journal, documenting every detail of our adventures. I wrote about the food, the people, the art, and the history. I even drew little sketches of the landmarks we visited.

That journal became my most prized possession. I took it with me everywhere, filling it with ticket stubs, postcards, and other memorabilia. It's funny, because when I look back, I realize that the journal was more than just a souvenir – it was a way for me to process my experiences, to reflect on what I'd seen and learned. And even though the journal is now worn and dog-eared, I still treasure it. In fact, I've started a new tradition: every time I travel, I buy a new journal and fill it with stories and memories. It's become a way for me to hold onto the magic of each trip, long after I've returned home.

I think that's what I love most about that little journal from the Louvre – it's a reminder that the best souvenirs are the ones that tell a story, that evoke a feeling or a memory. It's not just about buying something to prove you were somewhere; it's about capturing the essence of the experience. And for me, that journal did just that. It's a tangible connection to my past, a reminder of the thrill of discovery and the joy of exploration.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

hold onto

to keep or retain something, often an emotion, memory, or object

I'm trying to hold onto the feeling of relaxation I got from my vacation.

She's been holding onto that grudge for years.

Sample Part 3 Answers

What are the pros and cons of taking a professional camera with you when traveling? When I think about taking a professional camera with me while traveling, I have mixed feelings. On one hand, having a high-quality camera can really make a difference in capturing the beauty of the places I visit. I mean, who doesn't want to take stunning photos that will make their friends and family jealous? But on the other hand, carrying a professional camera can be a real hassle. It's bulky, heavy, and requires a lot of maintenance. I have to worry about damaging it, or worse, losing it. Plus, it can be a real distraction from the actual experience of traveling. I've seen people so focused on getting the perfect shot that they forget to enjoy the moment. So, it's a trade-off between capturing amazing photos and being able to fully immerse myself in the experience.

Is it good that the locals sell things to tourists? I think it's great that locals sell things to tourists. Not only does it provide them with a source of income, but it also allows tourists to take a piece of the local culture home with them. When I visited Japan, I bought a beautiful handmade kimono from a local vendor. It was a really unique and authentic experience, and I felt like I was supporting the local community. Plus, it's a great way to learn about the local customs and traditions. The vendor told me all about the history and significance of the kimono, and I felt like I gained a deeper understanding of the culture. Of course, there's always the risk of over-commercialization, but when done right, I think it can be a win-win for both the locals and the tourists.

Why do people like to take photos when traveling? I think people like to take photos when traveling because it's a way to capture the experience and hold onto the memories. When we're in a new place, everything is so new and exciting, and taking photos helps us to slow down and appreciate the little things. Plus, it's a great way to share our experiences with others. I love looking back on my photos from past trips and reliving the memories. It's like I'm transported back to that moment and place. And let's be real, it's also a great way to show off our adventures on social media! But I think there's something deeper to it too. Taking photos helps us to process and make sense of our experiences. It's a way to reflect on what we've seen and done, and to think about how it's impacted us.

What are the pros and cons of taking a professional camera with you when traveling? When I think about the types of things people buy from tourist attractions, I think it's really varied. Some people like to buy souvenirs that are specific to the place they're visiting, like a t-shirt or a postcard. Others might prefer to buy something more unique, like a piece of local artwork or a handmade craft. I personally like to buy things that are functional, like a beautiful piece of pottery or a handmade journal. I think it's because I want to be able to use it in my daily life and remember my trip every time I do. But I've also seen people buy some pretty weird stuff, like a giant statue of a local landmark or a tacky keychain. I guess it just depends on what you're into! But overall, I think buying souvenirs is a great way to support the local economy and take a piece of the place home with you.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

take a piece of the place home with you

to bring back a souvenir or memento from a place you've visited

I bought a beautiful handmade kimono to take a piece of Japan home with me.

She took a piece of the beach home with her by collecting seashells and sand.