The topic of government’s role in promoting ethical tourism has become increasingly relevant in recent IELTS exams. This trend is likely to continue as sustainable travel gains more attention globally. Let’s explore this topic through a sample IELTS Writing Task 2 question and provide a high-scoring essay response.
Analyzing the Task
Some people believe that governments should take measures to promote ethical tourism. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question asks for your opinion on whether governments should actively encourage ethical tourism practices. It’s crucial to clearly state your position and provide well-reasoned arguments to support it.
Government promoting ethical tourism
Band 8-9 Essay Sample
Here’s a sample essay that could score in the Band 8-9 range:
Governments play a crucial role in shaping various aspects of society, and tourism is no exception. In my opinion, I strongly agree that governments should take active measures to promote ethical tourism, as this approach can yield significant benefits for local communities, the environment, and the tourism industry itself.
Firstly, government intervention in promoting ethical tourism can help protect local cultures and communities. By implementing regulations and guidelines, authorities can ensure that tourism activities respect local customs and traditions. For instance, in Hoi An, Vietnam, the government has successfully preserved the ancient town’s architectural heritage and traditional crafts by enforcing strict building codes and supporting local artisans. This not only maintains the town’s unique character but also provides sustainable livelihoods for residents.
Moreover, government-led initiatives can significantly reduce the environmental impact of tourism. Through legislation and incentives, governments can encourage sustainable practices among tourism businesses. For example, Costa Rica’s government has implemented a Certification for Sustainable Tourism program, which rewards eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators. This has positioned the country as a leader in sustainable tourism, attracting environmentally conscious travelers and preserving its natural resources.
Furthermore, governments are uniquely positioned to coordinate efforts across various sectors to promote ethical tourism. They can facilitate partnerships between tourism businesses, local communities, and environmental organizations to develop sustainable tourism strategies. The New Zealand government, for instance, has launched the ‘Tiaki Promise’ initiative, which encourages both visitors and locals to act as guardians of the country’s natural and cultural heritage. This comprehensive approach ensures that ethical tourism practices are integrated into all aspects of the visitor experience.
However, it is important to acknowledge that government intervention should be balanced and not overly restrictive. Excessive regulations might stifle innovation in the tourism industry or deter visitors. Therefore, governments should focus on creating incentives, providing education, and fostering a culture of responsible tourism rather than relying solely on punitive measures.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that governments should take an active role in promoting ethical tourism. By doing so, they can help preserve local cultures, protect the environment, and create a more sustainable tourism industry. While the approach should be measured, the potential benefits for both host communities and visitors make government involvement in ethical tourism not just desirable, but essential for the future of travel.
(Word count: 377)
Key Writing Techniques for Band 8-9
- Clear position: The essay clearly states the writer’s opinion in the introduction.
- Well-developed arguments: Each paragraph focuses on a specific aspect of government involvement in ethical tourism.
- Relevant examples: The essay provides concrete examples from Vietnam, Costa Rica, and New Zealand to support its arguments.
- Balanced view: While strongly agreeing with the statement, the essay acknowledges potential drawbacks of excessive government intervention.
- Cohesive structure: The essay uses appropriate linking words and maintains a logical flow of ideas.
- Sophisticated vocabulary: The writer employs a range of advanced vocabulary relevant to the topic.
- Varied sentence structures: The essay includes a mix of simple and complex sentences.
Important Vocabulary for Ethical Tourism Essays
Sustainable tourism (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈtʊərɪzəm/: Tourism that respects local cultures, benefits local communities, and minimizes environmental impact.
Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/: Not harmful to the environment.
Cultural preservation (noun) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌprezəˈveɪʃn/: The protection and maintenance of traditional customs and heritage.
Responsible travel (noun) /rɪˈspɒnsəbl ˈtrævl/: Travel that minimizes negative impacts on local communities and the environment.
Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of human activities.
Overtourism (noun) /ˈəʊvəˈtʊərɪzəm/: The negative impact of too many tourists visiting a destination.
Ecotourism (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˈtʊərɪzəm/: Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people.
Conclusion
The role of governments in promoting ethical tourism is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key issues and using appropriate vocabulary and structures, you can craft a compelling essay on this subject. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the importance of environmental sustainability in economic planning or measures to protect wildlife, to further improve your skills.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.