Making Travel Plans: Best ESL Practice Conversations

Making travel plans in English, like booking trips and asking locals for advice, etc. is an essential ability ESL students must have.

If you’re teaching speaking skills in your ESL class with a lesson focused on traveling and looking for help choosing the right activity for your ESL speaking class, using sample real-life conversations as a role-play activity is the best option for you.

Teaching travel conversations such as making travel plans or even using public transportation to ESL students involves using travel-related and transportation vocabulary, practicing asking questions and giving answers, and demonstrating real-life conversations for practice.

This post offers 15 conversations at different English levels to help students practice travel talk. These examples help students learn the right words and phrases for travel, making it easier to communicate when they travel.

As an ESL teacher, you can use these conversations in your lesson to help your students be confident in making travel plans and talking about traveling.

Making Travel Plans with a Friend (Informal)

Level: Low intermediate

Context: Two friends discussing a weekend trip.

Emma: Hey Jack, want to go hiking this weekend?

Jack: Sounds fun! Where do you want to go?

Emma: How about Blue Mountain? It’s beautiful there.

Jack: I’ve heard good things about it. Let’s do it!

Emma: Great! We can leave Saturday morning.

Jack: Saturday works for me. What time?

Emma: How about 8 am? We can avoid traffic.

Jack: Perfect! I’ll pack my backpack tonight.

Emma: Awesome! See you Saturday morning then!

Jack: Yep, can’t wait! It’ll be a great trip.

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Booking a Hotel Room (Formal)

Level: Low intermediate

Context: A person calling a hotel to make a reservation.

Sophia: Hello, I’d like to book a room, please.

Receptionist: Certainly, when will you be arriving?

Sophia: I’ll arrive on Friday evening.

Receptionist: How many nights will you be staying?

Sophia: Just one night, leaving Saturday morning.

Receptionist: Alright, we have a single room available.

Sophia: That sounds good. How much is it?

Receptionist: It’s $120 for the night.

Sophia: Okay, I’ll take it. Thank you.

Receptionist: You’re welcome. See you on Friday.

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Discussing Transportation Options (Informal)

Level: Low intermediate

Context: Friends talking about how to get to the airport.

Liam: Hey Mia, how are you getting to the airport?

Mia: I’m thinking of taking a taxi.

Liam: Taxis can be expensive. How about a bus?

Mia: That’s a good idea! Is there a direct bus?

Liam: Yes, there’s one that goes straight to the airport.

Mia: What time does it leave?

Liam: It leaves at 6 am. Will that work?

Mia: Perfect! I’ll take the bus then.

Liam: Great! I’ll see you there.

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Planning a Day Trip with Family (Informal)

Level: Low intermediate

Context: A family discussing a day trip to the beach.

Aiden: Mom, can we go to the beach tomorrow?

Mom: That sounds like a fun idea!

Aiden: Great! Can we bring snacks?

Mom: Of course, we’ll pack a picnic.

Aiden: And can we swim in the ocean?

Mom: Yes, but be careful of the waves.

Aiden: Okay, I’ll stay close to you.

Mom: Sounds like a plan. We’ll leave early.

Aiden: Awesome! I’m excited for tomorrow.

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Making Travel Plans with a Colleague (Formal)

Level: Low intermediate

Context: Two colleagues discussing a business trip.

Olivia: Hi Mark, have you booked your flight for the conference?

Mark: Not yet, I’m looking for good deals.

Olivia: I found a direct flight on Friday morning.

Mark: That sounds convenient. What time is it?

Olivia: It leaves at 9 am and arrives at 11 am.

Mark: Perfect, that gives us time to settle in.

Olivia: I’ll book it for both of us then.

Mark: Great, thanks for taking care of it.

Olivia: No problem, see you at the airport on Friday.

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Planning a Group Vacation (Informal)

Level: High intermediate

Context: A group of friends planning a weekend getaway.

Emma: Hey guys, how about a weekend trip to the beach?

Jack: Sounds awesome! When are we thinking?

Sophia: What about next weekend? Saturday to Sunday?

Liam: That works for me. Any ideas for accommodation?

Emma: I found a beach house we can rent. It sleeps six.

Sophia: That sounds perfect! How much will it cost?

Jack: If we split it, it won’t be too expensive.

Liam: Great! Let’s finalize plans and book it.

Emma: I’ll take care of the booking. Can’t wait!

Sophia: This will be so much fun. Thanks, Emma!

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Booking Train Tickets (Formal)

Level: High intermediate

Context: A person booking train tickets for a business trip.

Oliver: Hello, I’d like to book two tickets to Boston, please.

Ticket Agent: Certainly, when would you like to travel?

Oliver: We need to be there by Friday morning.

Ticket Agent: I have a train leaving Thursday evening at 7 pm.

Oliver: Perfect, that works for us. How much is it?

Ticket Agent: The total for two tickets is $120.

Oliver: Okay, I’ll go ahead and book those.

Ticket Agent: Great, your tickets are confirmed. Safe travels!

Oliver: Thank you, have a good day!

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Discussing a Road Trip Itinerary (Informal)

Level: High intermediate

Context: Friends planning a road trip across the country.

Mia: Hey Ryan, I’ve been planning our road trip.

Ryan: Awesome! What route are you thinking?

Mia: Starting from New York, we’ll head west to California.

Ryan: Sounds like a long drive but exciting!

Mia: Yeah, we can stop in Chicago and Las Vegas on the way.

Ryan: Cool! How many days are we thinking?

Mia: I was thinking two weeks total.

Ryan: That sounds perfect. Let’s do it!

Mia: Great! I’ll map out the stops and share the plan.

Ryan: Can’t wait to hit the road!

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Planning a Family Vacation (Formal)

Level: High intermediate

Context: A family discussing a summer vacation.

Natalie: Hi Dad, have you thought about our summer vacation?

Dad: Yes, I was considering a trip to the mountains.

Natalie: That sounds fun! When are we going?

Dad: How about the second week of July?

Natalie: That works for me. What activities can we do there?

Dad: Hiking, fishing, and maybe some sightseeing.

Natalie: Awesome! I’ll pack our hiking gear.

Dad: Good idea. We’ll need it for sure.

Natalie: I’ll start researching activities and accommodations.

Dad: Great, let me know what you find.

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Discussing Travel Insurance (Formal)

Level: High intermediate

Context: Two travelers discussing travel insurance options.

Lucas: Hello, I’d like to inquire about travel insurance.

Insurance Agent: Of course, what kind of coverage are you looking for?

Lucas: I need coverage for medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Insurance Agent: We have a comprehensive plan that covers both.

Lucas: That sounds good. How much does it cost?

Insurance Agent: The premium for your trip would be $50.

Lucas: Alright, I’ll take that plan. How do I proceed?

Insurance Agent: I’ll need some personal details to set it up.

Lucas: Sure, let me provide that information.

Insurance Agent: Thank you, your policy is now active. Safe travels!

Lucas: Thank you, have a great day!

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Planning an Eco-friendly Vacation (Formal)

Level: Advanced

Context: A travel agent, Isabella, and a client, David, discuss planning an eco-friendly vacation focusing on sustainable tourism.

Isabella: Good afternoon, David. I understand you’re interested in eco-friendly travel options?

David: Hello, Isabella. Yes, I’m looking for destinations that prioritize sustainability and environmental conservation.

Isabella: That’s commendable! I recommend Costa Rica or Norway, known for their eco-tourism initiatives.

David: Both sound intriguing. What activities or experiences can I expect?

Isabella: Costa Rica offers rainforest excursions and eco-lodges. Norway provides eco-friendly cruises and sustainable fishing tours.

David: Those activities align with my interests. How about transportation options?

Isabella: For Costa Rica, we can arrange carbon-neutral transportation. In Norway, electric vehicles and public transport are prevalent.

David: Excellent. Let’s proceed with a detailed itinerary for Costa Rica first.

Isabella: Certainly. I’ll compile a comprehensive package emphasizing sustainability and forward it to you by tomorrow.

David: Thank you, Isabella. I appreciate your expertise in crafting a responsible travel experience.

Isabella: My pleasure, David. I look forward to finalizing your eco-friendly adventure!

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Discussing Travel Photography Tips (Informal)

Level: Advanced

Context: Sophie and Liam, photography enthusiasts, share tips and discuss plans for a photography-focused trip.

Sophie: Hey Liam, I’m planning a trip for photography. Any recommendations?

Liam: Hey Sophie! Consider Iceland or Japan for breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness.

Sophie: Iceland’s Northern Lights and Japan’s cherry blossoms are on my list. Any photography tips?

Liam: Focus on golden hour shots for Iceland’s landscapes. In Japan, capture candid street scenes during festivals.

Sophie: Great advice! What about equipment and camera settings?

Liam: Pack a wide-angle lens for landscapes. For Japan, a prime lens with low aperture for night shots.

Sophie: Noted! I’ll also research local customs to respect cultural sensitivities while photographing.

Liam: Excellent! Understanding the culture enhances the storytelling aspect of your photos.

Sophie: Absolutely! Thanks for the insights, Liam. I’m excited to plan this trip.

Liam: My pleasure, Sophie. Looking forward to seeing your stunning captures!

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Planning a Culinary Journey (Formal)

Level: Advanced

Context: Elena, a food blogger, consults with Chef Marco about planning a culinary journey focusing on regional cuisines.

Elena: Good morning, Chef Marco. I’m planning a culinary journey for my blog. Any destination suggestions?

Chef Marco: Good morning, Elena. Consider Italy for authentic Mediterranean cuisine experiences.

Elena: Italy sounds perfect! What regions should I focus on?

Chef Marco: Tuscany for rustic dishes, Sicily for seafood, and Emilia-Romagna for pasta and cheese.

Elena: Those regions offer diverse culinary experiences. Any specific restaurants or chefs to collaborate with?

Chef Marco: I recommend Chef Massimo Bottura in Modena and Chef Antonia Klugmann in Friuli.

Elena: Fantastic! I’ll reach out to them for interviews and tasting sessions.

Chef Marco: Great! Engaging with local chefs adds authenticity to your culinary journey.

Elena: Absolutely! I’ll also explore food markets and cooking classes for a comprehensive experience.

Chef Marco: Perfect! I’m excited to follow your gastronomic adventure, Elena.

Elena: Thank you, Chef Marco. Your guidance is invaluable for this project.

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Discussing Sustainable Travel Practices (Informal)

Level: Advanced

Context: Nina and Carlos, friends passionate about sustainable living, discuss incorporating eco-friendly practices into their travel plans.

Nina: Hey Carlos, I’m planning a trip and want to make it sustainable. Any ideas?

Carlos: Hey Nina! Opt for eco-friendly accommodations and support local businesses.

Nina: Good point! What about transportation within the destination?

Carlos: Use public transport, bike rentals, or electric cars when exploring. Minimize carbon footprint.

Nina: I’ll prioritize eco-friendly transport and accommodations. How about minimizing waste?

Carlos: Carry reusable items like water bottles and food containers. Avoid single-use plastics.

Nina: Great tips! I’ll also research eco-conscious tours and activities to support responsible tourism.

Carlos: Excellent! It’s essential to travel responsibly and minimize environmental impact.

Nina: Totally agree! Thanks for the sustainable travel insights, Carlos.

Carlos: Anytime, Nina. Let’s inspire others to travel sustainably!

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Planning a Cultural Immersion Trip (Formal)

Level: Advanced

Context: Aisha, an anthropologist, consults with Professor Lee about planning a cultural immersion trip focusing on indigenous communities.

Aisha: Professor Lee, I’m planning a cultural immersion trip to study indigenous communities. Any recommendations?

Professor Lee: Aisha, consider visiting the Maori in New Zealand or the Navajo Nation in the United States.

Aisha: Both are rich in cultural heritage. What aspects should I focus on during my study?

Professor Lee: Study their traditions, rituals, and art forms. Engage with community elders for authentic insights.

Aisha: That’s insightful. How can I approach the communities respectfully?

Professor Lee: Seek permission, listen actively, and contribute positively to their community. Respect their customs and traditions.

Aisha: I’ll prioritize building trust and forming meaningful connections. Any ethical considerations I should be aware of?

Professor Lee: Ensure informed consent for any research or documentation. Prioritize community benefits over personal gains.

Aisha: Understood! I’ll design my study with ethical considerations and community benefits in mind.

Professor Lee: Excellent! Ethical and respectful engagement is crucial for meaningful cultural studies.

Aisha: Thank you, Professor Lee. Your expertise is invaluable for this cultural immersion journey.

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Conclusion

Practicing travel conversations with these examples can help ESL students improve their English skills and feel more confident when traveling or talking about travel plans.