Share experience travelling from "summary" of IELTS Speaking Practice Tests Questions #1 Sets 1-10 by Jason Hogan

A highlight of one of my trips was overseas. I cannot begin to describe the thrill, amazement and wonder that I experienced during the journey. Everything from the awe-inspiring landscapes and soaring skylines to the unparalleled cuisine and friendly hospitality made it a journey I will never forget. Moreover, meeting individuals from various backgrounds opened up a world of cultural appreciation and led me to recognize beauty in humanity I never knew existed.

One of my best travel experiences was to a small town in the countryside. I had heard stories about its unique culture and wanted to visit it with my family. We were so excited when we got there, and everything turned out exactly as they said it would! The local people welcomed us with kindness and we enjoyed strolling around all the colorful markets, sampling authentic foods, seeing the beautiful architecture and taking part in some traditional rural activities.

On a different trip, I had the opportunity to explore a historic city bursting with art and culture. Every day was a new adventure, visiting unique galleries, museums, churches and monuments while listening to street concerts and indulging in delicious international cuisines. From sipping once-in-a-lifetime wines to getting lost in the hustle and bustle of the old quarter, this experience left me feeling truly invigorated and moved.

My latest vacation was to a quiet mountain retreat. Words can’t explain how stunning the view was from the top – snow capped peaks on one side and a vast ocean on the other. Our days were filled with restorative hikes through valleys full of wildflowers and streams cascading over rocks, memories we’ll never forget no matter how many times we go back. During the evening, we’d take long drives around the lake and stare up at the starry sky above.

A leisurely sailboat cruise along a river was one of the most refreshing experiences of my life. Watching nature's grandeur unfold around us and reveling in the peaceful sounds of waves gently swaying against the boat while the soft breeze ran through our hair created an entirely unique brand of relaxation. Along the way, we sampled exotic regional delicacies and picked up mementos from cute riverside villages.

Another one of my favorite travels was to an island holiday destination. We chose the island because of its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters and lush tropical rainforests. While our days were spent scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, jet skiing or enjoying a romantic sunset stroll along the coastline, in the evenings we'd be swept away by the incredible nightlife of live music, vibrant bars and exquisite restaurants.

Jamaica has been on my bucket list since childhood and did not disappoint when I eventually made it there. Touring through the mountainous region was like living inside of a postcard. The sight of lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls and next-level sunsets was breath-taking. Not only that, but the sound of reggae music, the smell of jerk chicken and a sparkling, turquoise sea kept us entertained throughout the entire week.

Even more memorable was a trip to a desert oasis. Despite its dry climate, it was surprisingly green and alive with a broad variety of wildlife. After leisurely exploring ancient archaeological sites, sand dunes, petrified wood forests, and magical canyons, we finished off our stay in the Valley of Kings taking in a colorful Moroccan souk before soaking up poolside relaxation under clear blue skies.

Once, I visited a Mediterranean village nestled between azure waters and rolling hills. Our days quickly filled with lazing in sun-speckled plazas, browsing open-air markets for locally crafted trinkets, cycling through olive groves and lingering in cafes where locals freshly brewed and served fragrant coffees. As the sun set behind jagged cliffs, we'd appreciate nightly rituals of unseen village life coming out into the streets.

Hiking deep within stunning National Park provided me with a chance to step away from civilization and bask in the beauty of untouched natural environments. Headed on trails surrounded by ravishing views of majestic trees towering high above, roaring rivers carving through mountainsides and exciting wildlife we stumbled across during our expedition, was simply mesmerizing. What started out as just another journey ended up fulfilling far beyond my highest expectations.