Global tourism and its effects on cultural preservation is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared in various forms over the years and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners. Its relevance to contemporary issues of globalization and cultural identity makes it an ideal subject for testing candidates’ ability to analyze complex ideas and present coherent arguments.
Let’s examine a question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that tourists should accept local traditions and behaviors when traveling to other countries. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome tourist behaviors. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question touches on the effects of global tourism on cultural preservation and the potential conflicts between tourist expectations and local customs. Let’s break down the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analysis of the Question
The question presents two contrasting viewpoints:
- Tourists should adapt to local traditions and behaviors.
- Host countries should accommodate tourist behaviors.
To effectively answer this question, you need to:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide reasons and examples for each view
- State your own opinion and justify it
Now, let’s look at two sample essays that address this question, one aimed at a Band 8 score and another at a Band 6 score.
Band 8 Sample Essay
Tourism has become a global phenomenon, raising questions about the interaction between visitors and local cultures. While some argue that tourists should conform to local customs, others believe that host countries should be more accommodating. In my opinion, a balanced approach that respects both local traditions and tourists’ comfort is ideal.
Those who advocate for tourists adapting to local norms argue that it shows respect for the host culture and enhances the travel experience. By observing local customs, such as dress codes or dining etiquette, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the destination’s heritage. For instance, visitors to religious sites in India or the Middle East often cover their heads or remove shoes as a sign of respect, which not only adheres to local expectations but also allows for a more authentic cultural immersion.
On the other hand, proponents of host countries accommodating tourist behaviors emphasize the economic benefits of tourism and the need for cultural exchange. They argue that being overly strict with customs might deter visitors and limit cultural dialogue. For example, relaxing certain rules in tourist areas, such as allowing more lenient dress codes on beaches, can make destinations more appealing to international visitors while still maintaining core cultural values in other spaces.
In my view, the ideal approach lies in finding a middle ground. Tourists should make an effort to understand and respect fundamental local customs, especially those related to religious or social norms. Simultaneously, host countries can benefit from being flexible in areas frequented by tourists, creating a welcoming atmosphere without compromising their cultural integrity. This balanced approach fosters mutual respect and understanding, enhancing the tourism experience for both visitors and locals.
In conclusion, while it’s important for tourists to show respect for local traditions, host countries can also benefit from some degree of adaptability. By striking a balance between preserving cultural authenticity and accommodating diverse visitor needs, destinations can create a harmonious environment that enriches both tourists and local communities.
Analysis of Band 8 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
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Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion.
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Balanced argument: Both perspectives are discussed thoroughly, with specific examples provided for each.
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Personal opinion: The writer clearly states their own view and supports it with reasoning.
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Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow smoothly between paragraphs, with effective use of linking words and phrases.
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Lexical resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, such as “cultural immersion,” “economic benefits,” and “cultural integrity.”
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Grammatical range and accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used correctly throughout the essay, demonstrating a high level of grammatical control.
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Task response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, providing a comprehensive and nuanced response to the topic.
Band 6 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many people travel to different countries for holidays. Some think tourists should follow local customs, but others believe host countries should accept tourist behaviors. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, tourists should respect local traditions when they visit other countries. This is important because it shows respect for the local culture and helps prevent misunderstandings. For example, in some countries, it is rude to wear shoes inside homes or temples. If tourists follow this rule, they will not offend local people. Also, learning about local customs can make the trip more interesting for tourists.
On the other hand, some people think host countries should be more welcoming to tourists and their habits. They say that tourism brings money to the country, so it’s important to make tourists feel comfortable. For instance, popular tourist destinations often have restaurants serving international food because not all visitors want to eat local dishes every day. This makes tourists happy and more likely to return.
In my opinion, both tourists and host countries should try to understand each other. Tourists should learn about important local customs before their trip and try to follow them. At the same time, host countries can be a little flexible with some rules to make tourists feel welcome. This way, everyone can have a good experience.
To conclude, while it’s good for tourists to respect local traditions, host countries can also do some things to make visitors comfortable. Finding a balance between these two ideas is the best way to make tourism successful for everyone.
Analysis of Band 6 Essay
This essay demonstrates several characteristics typical of a Band 6 response:
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Addresses the task: The essay covers both viewpoints and includes a personal opinion, fulfilling the basic requirements of the task.
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Structure: There is a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, although the development of ideas is simpler compared to the Band 8 essay.
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Cohesion: Basic linking words are used to connect ideas, but the essay lacks the sophisticated coherence of higher band scores.
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Vocabulary: The essay uses some topic-specific vocabulary, but the range is more limited compared to the Band 8 essay.
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Grammar: Sentence structures are generally accurate but less varied. There’s a mix of simple and compound sentences, with fewer complex structures.
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Examples: The essay provides examples to support its points, although they are less developed than in the Band 8 essay.
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Opinion: A personal opinion is clearly stated, but the justification is less nuanced than in higher band responses.
The main differences between this Band 6 essay and the Band 8 essay lie in the depth of analysis, range of vocabulary, and complexity of grammatical structures used. While the Band 6 essay adequately addresses the task, it lacks the sophistication and nuance of the higher band response.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Cultural preservation (noun) – The protection and conservation of cultural heritage and traditions.
Pronunciation: /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌprɛzəˈveɪʃən/ -
Global tourism (noun phrase) – Worldwide travel for leisure or business purposes.
Pronunciation: /ˈɡləʊbəl ˈtʊərɪzəm/ -
Cultural immersion (noun phrase) – The process of deeply engaging with a different culture.
Pronunciation: /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪˈmɜːʃən/ -
Customs (noun) – Traditional practices or behaviors of a particular society.
Pronunciation: /ˈkʌstəmz/ -
Etiquette (noun) – The customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group.
Pronunciation: /ˈɛtɪkɛt/ -
Authentic (adjective) – Genuine or real, not fake or imitation.
Pronunciation: /ɔːˈθɛntɪk/ -
Accommodate (verb) – To adapt or adjust to new conditions or needs.
Pronunciation: /əˈkɒmədeɪt/ -
Cultural integrity (noun phrase) – The state of being whole and undiminished in terms of cultural values and practices.
Pronunciation: /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪnˈtɛɡrɪti/
These vocabulary items are particularly relevant to discussions about how globalization is changing local cultures and can be used effectively in essays on similar topics.
In conclusion, the topic of global tourism’s impact on cultural preservation is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of technology in preserving cultural heritage in tourist destinations
- The balance between economic development through tourism and maintaining local traditions
- The impact of mass tourism on indigenous communities
To prepare for such topics, practice writing essays that discuss the pros and cons of tourism’s influence on local cultures, and develop arguments that consider multiple perspectives. Remember to use a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures to enhance your writing. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.