Sustainable Tourism Practices have become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject has appeared multiple times in recent years and is likely to continue being a relevant theme in future tests. Given its importance in global discussions about environmental conservation and economic development, it’s crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared to tackle this topic.

In this article, we’ll analyze a typical question related to sustainable tourism practices, provide sample essays for different band scores, and offer insights into the scoring criteria. Let’s dive into a question that closely resembles those seen in recent IELTS exams:

Some people believe that governments should invest in promoting sustainable tourism practices to protect the environment and local cultures. Others argue that this investment should be directed towards more pressing issues like healthcare and education. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question presents a classic IELTS dilemma, asking candidates to discuss two contrasting viewpoints and provide their own opinion. The key elements to address are:

1. The argument for government investment in sustainable tourism practices
2. The counterargument for investing in healthcare and education instead
3. Your personal stance on the issue

Remember to balance your discussion of both views before presenting your opinion, supported by relevant examples and reasoning.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:

In an era of increasing global tourism, the debate over governmental priorities in resource allocation has intensified. While some advocate for investment in sustainable tourism practices to preserve environments and cultures, others argue that funds should be directed towards fundamental sectors like healthcare and education. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a balanced view.

Proponents of government investment in sustainable tourism practices argue that such initiatives are crucial for long-term environmental and cultural preservation. By promoting eco-friendly accommodations, responsible tour operators, and community-based tourism projects, governments can ensure that the economic benefits of tourism do not come at the cost of environmental degradation or cultural erosion. For instance, Costa Rica’s successful ecotourism model has not only protected vast areas of rainforest but also provided sustainable livelihoods for local communities, demonstrating the potential positive impact of such investments.

On the other hand, those who prioritize healthcare and education argue that these sectors form the bedrock of societal development and should take precedence. They contend that a healthy, well-educated population is better equipped to address environmental and cultural issues in the long run. Moreover, improved healthcare and education can indirectly benefit the tourism sector by creating a more skilled workforce and enhancing the overall appeal of a destination. For example, Singapore’s investments in education have contributed to its reputation as a knowledge hub, attracting both tourists and business visitors.

In my opinion, while the importance of healthcare and education cannot be overstated, governments should not overlook the potential of sustainable tourism as a tool for holistic development. A balanced approach that integrates sustainable tourism practices into broader development strategies can yield synergistic benefits. For instance, educational programs can incorporate environmental awareness and cultural preservation, while healthcare initiatives can be extended to remote areas through eco-tourism projects. This integrated approach ensures that tourism contributes positively to a nation’s overall well-being rather than existing in isolation.

In conclusion, the choice between investing in sustainable tourism and core sectors like healthcare and education need not be mutually exclusive. By adopting a nuanced strategy that leverages sustainable tourism to complement and enhance investments in fundamental areas, governments can foster comprehensive development that benefits both their citizens and the environment.

(Word count: 367)

Sustainable tourism education

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellent command of the English language and addresses all parts of the question effectively. Here’s why it would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a clear personal opinion. It offers well-developed ideas and relevant examples.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand”, “Moreover”, “For instance”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is sophisticated and precise (e.g., “eco-friendly accommodations”, “cultural erosion”, “synergistic benefits”). There’s a good range of less common lexical items used appropriately.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of complex structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., “By promoting eco-friendly accommodations…”, “while the importance of healthcare and education cannot be overstated…”).

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

Nowadays, there is a debate about where governments should invest their money. Some people think it’s important to put money into sustainable tourism to protect the environment and local cultures. Others believe that money should go to more important things like healthcare and education. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

On one hand, investing in sustainable tourism can be very beneficial. It can help protect natural areas and wildlife from being damaged by too many tourists. For example, if a government invests in eco-friendly hotels and tour guides who know how to respect nature, it can reduce the negative impact of tourism. Also, it can help local people keep their traditions alive while still making money from tourism. This is important because many cultures are disappearing because of globalization.

On the other hand, healthcare and education are very important for any country. If people are not healthy or educated, they cannot contribute much to society. Governments need to make sure there are enough hospitals, doctors, and schools for everyone. This can help reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for citizens. For instance, if a country has good schools, more people can get good jobs and help the economy grow.

In my opinion, I think both are important, but healthcare and education should come first. Without a healthy and educated population, it’s hard to have successful tourism anyway. However, I believe governments can find ways to support both. They could include lessons about sustainable tourism in schools or train healthcare workers to help in rural areas where tourists visit. This way, they can improve basic services while also supporting sustainable tourism.

In conclusion, while sustainable tourism is important for protecting the environment and cultures, I believe that healthcare and education should be the main focus of government spending. But with careful planning, governments can support both goals and create a better future for their citizens.

(Word count: 329)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates a good attempt at addressing the task, but lacks some of the sophistication and depth of the Band 8-9 essay. Here’s why it would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas are less fully developed compared to the higher band essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses some cohesive devices (e.g., “On one hand”, “On the other hand”, “However”), but not as wide a range as the Band 8-9 essay.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempts at less common lexical items (e.g., “eco-friendly”, “globalization”). However, there’s less precision and sophistication compared to the higher band essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, generally with good control. However, it doesn’t demonstrate the same level of flexibility and accuracy as the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Sustainable tourism (noun): Tourism that respects local communities, culture, and the environment.
   Pronunciation: /səˈsteɪnəbəl ˈtʊərɪzəm/

2. Eco-friendly (adjective): Not harmful to the environment.
   Pronunciation: /ˌiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/

3. Cultural erosion (noun phrase): The gradual loss or disappearance of cultural characteristics.
   Pronunciation: /ˈkʌltʃərəl ɪˈrəʊʒən/

4. Holistic development (noun phrase): Development that considers all aspects of a situation or person.
   Pronunciation: /həˈlɪstɪk dɪˈveləpmənt/

5. Synergistic benefits (noun phrase): Advantages resulting from the interaction of two or more elements.
   Pronunciation: /ˌsɪnəˈdʒɪstɪk ˈbenɪfɪts/

6. Environmental degradation (noun phrase): The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources.
   Pronunciation: /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdegrəˈdeɪʃn/

7. Community-based tourism (noun phrase): Tourism that involves local communities in its development and management.
   Pronunciation: /kəˈmjuːnəti beɪst ˈtʊərɪzəm/

8. Ecotourism (noun): Tourism directed toward exotic, often threatened, natural environments to support conservation efforts.
   Pronunciation: /ˈiːkəʊˌtʊərɪzəm/

Conclusion

Sustainable tourism practices are likely to remain a relevant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The impact of mass tourism on local environments and cultures
• The role of technology in promoting sustainable tourism
• Balancing economic development with environmental conservation in tourism-dependent regions
• The responsibility of tourists in practicing sustainable travel

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about memorizing sample answers, but developing your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and coherently on a range of topics. Practice regularly, focusing on addressing all parts of the question, organizing your ideas logically, and using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately.

We encourage you to try writing your own essay on the topic provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active practice is one of the most effective ways to improve your IELTS writing skills.