Tourism’s impact on historical preservation has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 3-4 times annually in recent years. This topic intersects with the influence of global tourism on local traditions and cultural heritage management, making it highly relevant for test-takers.
Analysis of Recent Exam Question
Some people believe that the presence of tourists helps protect historical buildings and locations, while others argue that tourism damages these sites. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Tourism’s dual impact on historical preservation
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key areas to address:
- Positive effects of tourism on historical sites
- Negative impacts of tourism on historical preservation
- Personal stance with supporting arguments
Tourism's impact on historical buildings and preservation efforts
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
Tourism’s influence on historical preservation is a contentious issue that merits careful consideration. While some argue that tourist presence contributes to site protection, others contend that it leads to deterioration. In my view, although tourism can pose challenges, its benefits for historical preservation outweigh the drawbacks when properly managed.
Tourist activities can significantly contribute to the preservation of historical sites through various mechanisms. Primarily, the revenue generated from entrance fees and related tourism services provides essential funding for maintenance and restoration projects. For example, the income from visitors to the Taj Mahal enables authorities to employ conservation experts and implement sophisticated preservation techniques. Furthermore, international tourist interest often catalyzes government action to protect historical assets, as demonstrated by how tourism affects cultural identity in small communities.
However, critics argue that tourism can harm historical locations. Excessive foot traffic can accelerate wear and tear on ancient structures, while increased humidity from visitors’ breath can damage delicate artifacts and paintings. Additionally, some tourists may engage in vandalism or disrespectful behavior, as witnessed at numerous heritage sites worldwide. These concerns mirror broader issues related to how tourism affects the environment in developing nations.
In my opinion, the positive impacts of tourism on historical preservation can be maximized while minimizing negative effects through proper management strategies. Implementation of visitor capacity limits, advanced booking systems, and strict preservation protocols can help achieve this balance. The success of such approaches is evident in sites like Machu Picchu, where controlled tourism has funded extensive conservation efforts while protecting the site’s integrity.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
The impact of tourism on historical buildings is a topic that many people discuss today. Some think tourists help protect these places, but others believe they cause damage. I will discuss both sides and share my opinion.
On the positive side, tourism brings money to historical sites. When tourists pay to visit places like museums and old temples, this money can be used to fix and maintain these buildings. Also, when many tourists visit a place, the government pays more attention to keeping it in good condition. This aspect relates to Cultural tourism impacts on local communities?.
However, there are some problems that tourism can cause. Too many tourists walking around old buildings can damage the floors and walls. Sometimes tourists touch things they shouldn’t or take photos when it’s not allowed. This can harm delicate historical items. Additionally, more tourist facilities like shops and parking lots might need to be built, which can affect the original environment.
I think tourism is mostly good for historical places if it is controlled properly. We need rules about how many people can visit at one time and better security to protect important sites. This way, we can use tourist money to protect these places while making sure they don’t get damaged.
Vocabulary Highlights
- contentious (adj) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- deterioration (n) /dɪˌtɪriəˈreɪʃn/ – the process of becoming progressively worse
- catalyze (v) /ˈkætəlaɪz/ – to cause or accelerate change
- vandalism (n) /ˈvændəlɪzəm/ – deliberate destruction or damage of property
- protocols (n) /ˈproʊtəkɔlz/ – official procedures or systems of rules
Effective strategies for managing tourism at historical sites
For practice, try writing your own essay addressing Environmental impacts of tourism: mitigate how? and share it in the comments for feedback. Consider how different types of tourism affect historical sites in your country or region.
