Aptis Speaking Exam: Tourism & Travels

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Do you enjoy traveling? Why or why not?
- Answer: "Yes, I absolutely love it. I think traveling is the best way to broaden your horizons and learn about different cultures. It’s not just about seeing new places, but also about trying new foods and meeting people from all walks of life."
Tell me about your favorite holiday destination.
- Answer: "My favorite place is a small coastal town in Portugal. It has stunning beaches and the seafood is incredible. I find it very relaxing because it's not as crowded as other tourist spots, so I can truly unwind."
Do you prefer traveling alone or with friends?
- Answer: "To be honest, I prefer traveling with friends. It's great to share experiences and memories with others. Plus, it’s usually safer and more cost-effective to split the expenses for accommodation or transport."

Describe this picture (Image A).
- Answer: "In the foreground, I can see many passengers waiting near the boarding gates. Some are looking at the flight information screens, while others are sitting with their luggage. It looks like a hectic international airport."
What are the differences between these two types of holidays?
- Answer: "The main difference is the atmosphere and the pace. Airport travel usually implies a fast-paced city break or a long-distance trip, which can be quite stressful. On the other hand, camping is much more laid-back and focused on nature and simplicity."
Which one would you choose for a summer break?
- Answer: "I would probably go for the campsite. After a busy year of work, I prefer to avoid large crowds and tourist traps. Being in the fresh air and sleeping under the stars sounds much more refreshing than navigating a busy airport."

Describe these two ways of traveling.
- Answer: "The first photo shows a massive cruise ship, which represents all-inclusive luxury and comfort. The second image shows a backpacker, which suggests a more adventurous, low-budget, and perhaps more authentic way of exploring a country."
What are the pros and cons of each?
- Answer: "Cruises are very convenient because you have everything in one place, but they can be harmful to the environment. Backpacking is cheaper and gives you more freedom, but it can be physically demanding and less comfortable."
How has tourism changed in the last 20 years?
- Answer: "I think it has changed massively due to technology. Before, people used travel agencies, but now we book everything online. Also, mass tourism has become a problem in many cities, leading to a rise in 'sustainable tourism' initiatives."

Tell me about a time you had a problem while traveling. How did you solve it? Do you think travel insurance is necessary?
- Answer: "I remember a trip to London a few years ago when my flight was cancelled due to a strike. I was stranded at the airport for hours! Luckily, I kept calm and went to the information desk. They eventually put me on a flight the next morning and provided a hotel voucher. It taught me that things don't always go as planned. Regarding travel insurance, I think it's paramount. It might seem like an extra expense, but it gives you peace of mind. If you have a medical emergency or lose your luggage, the costs can be exorbitant, so it’s better to be safe than sorry."

To broaden one's horizons: Ampliar los horizontes (aprender cosas nuevas).
- Ex: "Traveling helps you broaden your horizons."
To recharge one's batteries: Descansar para recuperar energía.
- Ex: "A weekend getaway is perfect to recharge your batteries."
To travel light: Viajar con poco equipaje.
- Ex: "I always try to travel light to avoid paying for extra suitcases."
A stone's throw away: Muy cerca, a tiro de piedra.
- Ex: "The hotel was just a stone's throw away from the beach."

Get away: Irse de vacaciones para escapar de la rutina.
Check in/out: Registrarse o dejar un hotel/vuelo.
Set off: Empezar un viaje.
- Ex: "We set off at 5 AM to avoid the traffic."
See someone off: Ir al aeropuerto o estación a despedir a alguien.

Bustling: Lleno de gente y actividad (muy positivo para describir ciudades).
Off-the-beaten-track: Lugares poco conocidos por los turistas.
Swamped/Crowded: Muy lleno de gente (negativo).
Stunning / Picturesque: Muy bonito, como de postal.

Tourist trap: Un sitio diseñado para sacar dinero a los turistas (caro y poco auténtico).
Package holiday: Un viaje "todo incluido" organizado por una agencia.
Peak season: Temporada alta.
Sightseeing: La actividad de visitar los monumentos de una ciudad.