IELTS Speaking Part 2: Describe a place where you thought things were too expensive
Describe a place where you thought things were too expensive
You should say:
What the place is like
Why you went there
Why things were expensive there
And explain how you felt about the place
Useful Vocabulary and Expressions
1. What the place is like:
- Vocabulary: luxurious, high-end, upscale, elegant, posh
- Expressions:
- “The place I thought was too expensive is…”
- “It is characterized by…”
- “The ambiance of the place is very…”
2. Why you went there:
- Vocabulary: occasion, event, reason, purpose, visit
- Expressions:
- “I went there because…”
- “The reason for my visit was…”
- “I decided to go there for…”
3. Why things were expensive there:
- Vocabulary: pricing, high cost, premium, exclusive, overheads
- Expressions:
- “Things were expensive there due to…”
- “The high cost is because of…”
- “Prices are elevated because…”
4. How you felt about the place:
- Vocabulary: shocked, surprised, disappointed, overwhelmed, uneasy
- Expressions:
- “I felt very…”
- “My reaction to the prices was…”
- “The experience made me feel…”
Collocations
- high-end establishment
- luxurious ambiance
- upscale venue
- premium prices
- exclusive items
- elegant decor
- special occasion
- costly experience
- high-quality service
- extravagant spending
Sample Answer
The place I thought was too expensive is an upscale restaurant located in the downtown area of my city. It is characterized by its luxurious ambiance, elegant decor, and high-end establishment status. The lighting is dim, with chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, and the tables are set with fine china and crystal glasses.
I went there because it was a special occasion—my best friend’s birthday. We decided to celebrate in style, so we chose this posh venue for its reputation for excellent service and gourmet food.
Things were expensive there due to the premium prices associated with such an exclusive place. The high cost is because of the quality of ingredients, the expertise of the chefs, and the overall experience that the restaurant aims to provide. Prices are elevated because the restaurant caters to a clientele that expects and can afford such extravagant spending.
I felt very shocked and overwhelmed by the prices. My reaction to the prices was one of surprise and unease because even simple dishes had a hefty price tag. The experience made me feel a bit disappointed as I couldn’t fully enjoy the meal knowing how expensive everything was. However, I must admit that the high-quality service and the overall atmosphere did provide a unique and memorable experience, even if it was a costly one.
