Tourism has become a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, with questions often exploring the preferences between foreign and local destinations. This theme has appeared in various forms over the years, and its relevance is likely to continue given the global focus on travel and cultural exchange. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this trend:
Some people believe that tourists should be encouraged to visit local tourist destinations rather than traveling to foreign countries. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question touches on the core debate of domestic versus international tourism, a topic that resonates with many IELTS test-takers from countries with rich cultural heritage like India, China, and Vietnam. Let’s analyze this prompt and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
The question asks for your opinion on whether tourists should be encouraged to visit local destinations instead of foreign countries. Key points to consider:
- The main focus is on encouraging local tourism.
- It implies a comparison between local and foreign travel.
- You need to state your level of agreement or disagreement.
- You should provide reasons and examples to support your stance.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that demonstrates excellent language use and coherent arguments:
Tourism has become an integral part of modern life, offering people opportunities to explore new places and cultures. While some argue that local tourism should be prioritized over international travel, I disagree with this viewpoint. I believe that both forms of tourism have their merits, and individuals should have the freedom to choose their destinations based on personal preferences and circumstances.
Firstly, international travel broadens one’s horizons in ways that domestic tourism often cannot match. Experiencing foreign cultures, languages, and customs firsthand fosters global understanding and tolerance. For instance, a Chinese traveler visiting Italy not only enjoys the country’s renowned art and cuisine but also gains insights into European lifestyles and values. This cultural exchange is crucial in our increasingly interconnected world, promoting mutual respect and reducing prejudices.
On the other hand, local tourism undoubtedly has its advantages. It supports domestic economies, preserves cultural heritage, and often has a lower environmental impact due to reduced travel distances. Countries like India and Vietnam have recognized this and have launched campaigns to promote internal tourism. These initiatives not only boost local businesses but also help citizens appreciate their own country’s diversity and richness.
However, encouraging people to focus solely on local destinations could lead to a form of cultural isolationism. The tourism industry thrives on diversity and international exchange. Many countries depend heavily on foreign tourists for economic growth. For example, the effects of global tourism on cultural preservation have been significant in places like Bali, where traditional arts and crafts have been revitalized due to international interest.
Moreover, the choice between local and foreign travel should remain a personal decision. Factors such as individual interests, budget constraints, and available time all play roles in determining travel plans. Governments and tourism boards should focus on promoting their destinations effectively rather than discouraging international travel.
In conclusion, while local tourism certainly deserves support and promotion, it should not come at the expense of international travel. A balanced approach that recognizes the value of both forms of tourism is ideal. This way, we can enjoy the benefits of exploring our own countries while still embracing the enriching experiences that foreign travel offers.
Diverse tourism experiences: local and foreign destinations
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a high band score (8-9):
- Clear position: The writer disagrees with prioritizing local tourism over international travel.
- Coherent structure: Each paragraph focuses on a specific point, with a clear introduction and conclusion.
- Varied vocabulary: Uses sophisticated words like “cultural isolationism,” “revitalized,” and “enriching experiences.”
- Complex sentence structures: Employs a mix of simple and complex sentences.
- Relevant examples: Provides specific instances, such as Chinese travelers in Italy and tourism in Bali.
- Balanced argument: Acknowledges benefits of both local and international tourism.
- Appropriate tone: Maintains a formal, academic style throughout.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Now, let’s look at a sample essay that would typically score in the 6-7 band range:
Nowadays, tourism is becoming more and more popular. Some people think that we should encourage tourists to visit local places instead of going to other countries. I partly agree with this idea because both local and foreign tourism have their own good points.
On one hand, local tourism can be very good for a country. When people travel in their own country, they spend money there, which helps the local economy. For example, if more Indians travel in India, it can create jobs in hotels and restaurants in different parts of the country. Also, local tourism is often cheaper and easier for people, especially families with children or older people who find it hard to travel far.
However, I think foreign tourism is also important. When we visit other countries, we learn about different cultures and ways of life. This can make us more open-minded and understanding of other people. For instance, when a Vietnamese person visits Japan, they can see how Japanese people live and work, which can be very interesting and educational.
Another point is that many countries depend on foreign tourists for their economy. Places like Thailand and Bali get a lot of money from people visiting from other countries. If everyone only traveled in their own country, these places might have economic problems.
In my opinion, the best solution is to have a balance between local and foreign tourism. Governments can promote local tourism by improving facilities and advertising beautiful places in their country. At the same time, they should not discourage people from traveling abroad if they want to.
To conclude, while encouraging local tourism is a good idea, I believe that both local and foreign travel have benefits. People should have the choice to travel where they want, whether it’s in their own country or abroad.
Balancing local and foreign tourism choices
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 score:
- Clear position: The writer partly agrees with encouraging local tourism.
- Adequate structure: Has an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Relevant ideas: Discusses economic benefits, cultural learning, and personal choice.
- Some examples: Provides general examples like Indians traveling in India and Vietnamese visiting Japan.
- Appropriate vocabulary: Uses relevant terms like “open-minded” and “economic problems.”
- Mostly correct grammar: Has some complex sentences, with occasional errors.
- Coherent argument: Ideas are logically connected, though not as sophisticated as the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Cultural exchange (noun) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪksˈtʃeɪndʒ/ – The sharing of ideas, traditions, and customs between different cultures.
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Domestic tourism (noun) – /dəˈmestɪk ˈtʊərɪzəm/ – Travel within one’s own country.
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Cultural isolationism (noun) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌaɪsəˈleɪʃənɪzəm/ – The practice of separating oneself or one’s country from the cultural influences of other nations.
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Economic impact (noun) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈɪmpækt/ – The effect that an event, policy, or market condition has on the economy.
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Global understanding (noun) – /ˈɡləʊbəl ˌʌndəˈstændɪŋ/ – The ability to comprehend and appreciate different cultures and perspectives around the world.
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Cultural heritage (noun) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society.
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Environmental impact (noun) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈɪmpækt/ – The effect of human activities on the natural environment.
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Open-minded (adjective) – /ˌəʊpən ˈmaɪndɪd/ – Willing to consider new ideas and perspectives.
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Revitalize (verb) – /ˌriːˈvaɪtəlaɪz/ – To give new life or vigor to something.
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Mutual respect (noun) – /ˈmjuːtʃuəl rɪˈspekt/ – A feeling of admiration for someone or something based on their abilities, qualities, or achievements, reciprocated by both parties.
Conclusion
The debate between promoting local versus foreign tourism remains a relevant and complex topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As demonstrated in our sample essays, a well-structured response should consider both sides of the argument, provide relevant examples, and express a clear personal stance.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The environmental impact of international tourism versus local travel.
- The role of tourism in preserving or eroding local cultures.
- The economic benefits and drawbacks of relying heavily on foreign tourism.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to practice regularly, focusing on developing clear arguments, using varied vocabulary, and maintaining coherent structure. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
