When I was learning Japanese, one of the best ways I practiced new vocabulary and grammar was by keeping a journal. Every week, I wrote a page about something interesting that had happened to me, or a topic I was passionate about. Over time, I noticed that both my writing and speaking improved, because I was constantly using the language I had studied.

Each week, I will use my tutor column to give you a journal prompt so that you too can enjoy learning English through writing.

This week's prompt is: 
Write about an unforgettable holiday.

Here are some questions to help you start:
- Where did you go?
- Who did you go with?
- What did you expect before you went on the holiday?
- What did you do on your holiday?
- Can you describe the holiday using the five senses: sight, sound, taste, touch, smell?
- Is there one memory, person or activity that stands out more than others?
- Why was it unforgettable?

Here is some useful vocabulary when talking about travel:
- hazardous (adjective) dangerous, risky
- hectic (adjective) full of non-stop activity
- low-budget (adjective) inexpensive
- diverse (adjective) showing lots of variety
- vibrant (adjective) full of energy and life

Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

Writing a journal is great, and speaking about it is even better. Would you like to practice your pronunciation by hearing your journal read by a native speaker, then reading it out loud? Would you like to practice your speaking skills by answering questions and having a discussion about your journal? If so, I recommend my lesson Journal Writing in English. You can write about anything you want - you are not limited to this journal topic.

Until the end of January, new students can access a coupon using this link.