Describe a river, lake or sea which you like

IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card 432 with Model Answer:

Describe a river, lake or sea which you like.

You should say:

• what the river, lake or sea is called
  
• where it is
  
• what the land near it is like
  

and explain why you like this river, lake or sea.

[You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]

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Model Answer 1:
Ethnically diverse, Malaysia is not only popular as true Asia and the land of beaches, skyscrapers and waterfalls, but it also has some mystic lakes which captivate the attention of all travellers. Today, I would like to talk about one such lake which I really like.

The name of this lake is “Lake Bera”, or “Tasik Bera” in our language. Located in southwest Pahang, Tasik Bera is the largest natural freshwater lake in Peninsula Malaysia. It is situated in the saddle of the main and eastern mountain ranges of the Peninsula and is approximately 35km long and 20km wide.

Tasik Bera has remained a unique and remote wetland wilderness, which is surrounded by a patchwork of dry lowland forests. Having pretty clear water, this Bera Lake is a sanctuary for 328 species of flora, 200 bird species, 50 mammals, and more than 95 species of fish.

Around the lake, there is a huge area of dry land which is covered by different kinds of trees and plants, making it essentially look like a forest that supports a diverse range of larger vertebrates including the Asian Tapir, Asian Elephant, Clouded Leopard and rare Tigers. However, visitors are unlikely to encounter these animals. Of course, there are no viewing hides in place for the visitor to remain concealed. Besides, there is some extended wetland around the lake, with a depth of only as little as one meter, where endangered reptilian species such as the Malayan False Gharial (a freshwater, fish-eating crocodile) can be seen. 

By the way, the relatively isolated and tranquil surroundings of the open water are also perfect for boating or kayaking. Visitors can cruise river channels and inlets in search of vegetation and wildlife.

Well, I like this lake, mainly because being there is very calming and serene for restless minds. Besides, I could also do fishing, trekking in the jungle, and boating in the lake in order to find some rare wildlife, when I am in the mood for some adventure.

Sample Answer 2:
Well, one of the water bodies that I truly admire is Lake Tahoe, nestled between the states of California and Nevada in the United States. This stunning lake, renowned for its beauty and crystal-clear waters, is a magnificent alpine lake surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

The area around Lake Tahoe is a picturesque setting, with dense pine forests, snow-capped peaks, and serene beaches dotting its shoreline. The combination of natural beauty and the tranquil ambience around the lake makes it an unparalleled destination.

What captivates me most about Lake Tahoe is the pristine clarity of its waters, which allows for breathtaking views of the lake bed. The shades of blue in the water, especially on a sunny day, are mesmerizing. The surrounding landscape, with its lush greenery and scenic hiking trails, offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for both relaxation and outdoor adventures.

Moreover, the diversity of activities available at Lake Tahoe makes it a remarkable destination. From skiing in the winter to water sports in the summer, and hiking or simply enjoying the scenic beauty year-round, there's always something for everyone. The lake's serene beauty combined with its range of activities makes it an ideal escape from the bustling city life.

Overall, Lake Tahoe's natural splendour, the clear waters, and the stunning vistas it offers make it an enchanting destination for me. It's a place where one can find tranquillity amidst nature's beauty, which is why I hold it in such high regard.