UNIT 12: HOME
Part 1: Interview
1. Can you describe your hometown?
My hometown is Da Nang, Vietnam, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant
culture, and modern infrastructure. It is a perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty,
with stunning landscapes such as the Marble Mountains, Ba Na Hills, and My Khe Beach.
The city is also famous for its hospitality, clean streets, and delicious cuisine, particularly
seafood and the iconic Mi Quang noodles. Compared to other major cities, Da Nang has a more
relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal place to live and visit.
2. What do you like about the area where you live?
One of the things I love about my city is the quality of life. Da Nang is not too crowded, which
means the traffic is manageable, and the air quality is much better compared to larger cities like
Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. Additionally, the city has a well-developed infrastructure, a
strong sense of community, and plenty of green spaces for people to relax. The cost of living
is also relatively affordable, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without excessive
expenses.
3. What things in your town or city do you not like?
Although Da Nang is a fantastic city, there are a few things that could be improved. Firstly,
public transportation is still underdeveloped. Unlike larger cities, there are no metro systems,
and bus services are limited, making it necessary for most people to rely on motorbikes or cars.
Secondly, tourism can sometimes be overwhelming, especially during peak seasons, leading to
overcrowded beaches and higher prices in some areas. Lastly, while the city is developing
rapidly, there is still a need for more international entertainment and shopping options.
4. How is the area changing?
Over the past decade, Da Nang has undergone significant transformation. The city has seen a
surge in modern infrastructure, with new bridges, highways, and commercial centers being
developed. Tourism has also been booming, leading to the construction of high-end resorts,
hotels, and amusement parks. Additionally, there is a growing focus on sustainability and
environmental preservation, with more green spaces, smart city initiatives, and eco-friendly
projects being implemented. The local government is also working to improve public services,
making Da Nang a more attractive place for both residents and investors.
PRACTICE: Most Worth-Living City – Choosing Da Nang
If I had to choose the most worth-living city among New York, Sydney, and Da Nang, I would
definitely choose Da Nang for several reasons.
First, Da Nang offers an exceptional quality of life. Unlike New York, which is known for its
high cost of living and fast-paced lifestyle, Da Nang provides a much more affordable and
relaxed environment. The city is clean, well-organized, and has a strong focus on maintaining a
balance between urban development and natural beauty.
Second, Da Nang is safer and less crowded than Sydney. While Sydney is a fantastic city with
great infrastructure, it can be quite expensive, and traffic congestion is a major issue. In contrast,
Da Nang is one of the safest cities in Vietnam, with friendly locals and a low crime rate,
making it an ideal place for families and retirees.
Moreover, Da Nang has a thriving economy and excellent tourism opportunities. The city is
a major hub for both business and leisure, with world-class resorts, beautiful beaches, and a
welcoming culture. Unlike New York, which can sometimes feel overwhelming due to its high
population density and stress levels, Da Nang provides a perfect balance between modern
amenities and a peaceful atmosphere.
Therefore, when considering affordability, safety, quality of life, and environmental
sustainability, Da Nang stands out as the best choice.
Speaking Part 3: Topic Development
Topic: The Benefits of Living in Big Cities
1. Better Education Opportunities
Big cities offer a wide range of educational institutions, including top universities,
international schools, and specialized training centers. This allows students to access
high-quality education, diverse courses, and experienced teachers, giving them better
career prospects.
2. Better Infrastructure
Major cities have well-developed infrastructure, including modern transportation
systems, highways, and advanced communication networks. This makes commuting
more convenient and enhances the overall living experience.
3. Better Medical Care
Big cities are home to state-of-the-art hospitals and medical specialists, ensuring
residents receive high-quality healthcare. Access to advanced treatments, highly
qualified doctors, and emergency services is a major advantage of urban living.
4. More Job Opportunities
Urban areas have a wide range of industries and businesses, offering better
employment prospects with higher salaries. People can find work in sectors such as
technology, finance, healthcare, and entertainment.
5. Diverse Entertainment and Cultural Activities
Big cities provide a vibrant social life, with museums, theaters, concerts, festivals, and
various recreational activities. This allows residents to enjoy a rich cultural experience
and stay engaged in different forms of entertainment.
6. More Public Services and Amenities
Cities offer modern shopping malls, fitness centers, libraries, and parks, enhancing
the overall quality of life. These facilities provide residents with convenience and
comfort that smaller towns may lack.
7. Better Connectivity
Living in a big city means better access to airports, train stations, and digital
infrastructure, allowing people to travel easily and stay connected globally. This is
particularly beneficial for professionals and businesspeople.
8. Diversity and Inclusivity
Big cities attract people from different backgrounds, creating a multicultural society
where individuals can learn from one another and experience different cultures, foods,
and traditions.
FOLLOW UP QUESTIONS
1. Problems of Living in Big Cities
Big cities offer many opportunities but come with challenges such as high living costs, traffic
congestion, pollution, noise, overcrowding, and crime. Expensive housing and daily expenses
put financial strain on residents, while traffic and public transport issues cause stress. Air and
noise pollution negatively impact health, and social isolation is common despite the large
population. Additionally, higher crime rates raise safety concerns. While cities provide better
jobs, education, and entertainment, these issues can significantly affect quality of life.
2. Is It Bette for Children to Grow Up in the City or Countryside?
Both environments offer unique advantages. The countryside provides a healthier lifestyle,
cleaner air, open spaces, and a strong sense of community, allowing children to grow up in a
peaceful environment. However, limited education and career opportunities may require them
to move to cities later in life.
In contrast, cities offer better schools, healthcare, cultural exposure, and extracurricular
activities, giving children a competitive edge. They also learn to adapt to diverse cultures and
modern technology. However, pollution, traffic, and safety concerns can make urban
childhood stressful, with less outdoor playtime and increased screen time.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on family priorities, and suburban living may offer a
balance between both worlds.
3. Why Do People Move to the Countryside When They Retire?
Many retirees move to rural areas for a slower, more peaceful lifestyle after years of working in
fast-paced, stressful environments. The lower cost of living allows them to enjoy a
comfortable retirement, while clean air and natural surroundings contribute to better
physical and mental health.
Community life in rural areas is often stronger, reducing feelings of loneliness. Additionally,
lower crime rates make retirees feel safer. Many also move to pursue hobbies like gardening,
fishing, or painting, which they couldn’t focus on earlier.
However, limited healthcare facilities and transportation options can be challenges. Despite
this, the benefits of affordability, health, and tranquility often outweigh the drawbacks,
making the countryside an appealing choice for retirees.
