Describe something special that you took home from a tourist attraction
Archived Old Topic
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
- What are the pros and cons of taking a professional camera with you when traveling?
- Is it good that the locals sell things to tourists?
- Why do people like to take photos when traveling?
- 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.
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