The question of whether travelers should be required to learn local customs before visiting a country is a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared in various forms over the years and is likely to continue being a relevant subject for future exams. It touches on important aspects of cultural awareness, respect, and global interactions, making it a prime candidate for IELTS essay questions.
Let’s examine a specific question that has been featured in past IELTS exams and closely resembles potential future topics:
Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behavior. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that visitors should follow local customs
- Discuss the opposing view that host countries should accept cultural differences
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
The essay should be balanced, addressing both perspectives before concluding with a personal stance. It’s crucial to support arguments with relevant examples and maintain a formal academic tone throughout.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)
In an increasingly globalized world, the question of whether tourists should adopt local customs or maintain their own cultural practices when visiting foreign countries has become a topic of debate. While some argue that visitors should adhere to local norms, others believe that host nations should embrace cultural diversity. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on this complex issue.
Those who advocate for visitors following local customs argue that doing so demonstrates respect and facilitates smoother cultural interactions. By adapting to local practices, tourists can avoid unintentionally offending their hosts and gain a deeper appreciation of the country’s culture. For instance, in Japan, removing one’s shoes before entering a home or certain public spaces is a sign of respect and cleanliness. Visitors who observe this custom are more likely to be welcomed warmly and have more meaningful exchanges with locals.
On the other hand, proponents of cultural diversity argue that host countries should be open to different customs and behaviors. This perspective values the enrichment that comes from cultural exchange and believes that globalization has made societies more adaptable to foreign practices. For example, major international cities like London or New York are known for their multicultural atmosphere, where various customs coexist harmoniously. This acceptance of diversity can lead to innovation and broadened perspectives for both visitors and locals alike.
In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines respect for local customs with an openness to cultural differences is ideal. Visitors should make an effort to learn and observe key local customs, especially those related to religious or social etiquette. However, host countries should also cultivate an atmosphere of tolerance and curiosity towards foreign cultures. This mutual respect and willingness to learn from one another can foster positive international relations and personal growth.
In conclusion, while it is important for travelers to show respect by observing essential local customs, host countries should also remain open to cultural diversity. This balanced approach can lead to enriching experiences for both visitors and locals, promoting global understanding and cooperation in our interconnected world.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 7)
The debate over whether travelers should adapt to local customs or if host countries should welcome cultural differences is a complex one. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and provide my personal opinion on the matter.
Many people believe that visitors should follow local customs when traveling abroad. This approach shows respect for the host culture and can help avoid misunderstandings or offense. For example, in some Middle Eastern countries, it is considered polite to eat with the right hand only. Tourists who observe this practice are more likely to be appreciated by locals and have a more authentic experience.
However, others argue that host countries should be open to cultural differences. They believe that diversity enriches society and that forcing visitors to abandon their customs is unreasonable. For instance, in multicultural cities like Singapore, people from various backgrounds coexist while maintaining their unique traditions. This acceptance of different cultures can lead to a more vibrant and inclusive society.
In my view, a balance between these two perspectives is necessary. Travelers should make an effort to learn and respect important local customs, especially those related to religious or social norms. At the same time, host countries should be tolerant of minor cultural differences and recognize the value of diversity. This approach can foster mutual understanding and create positive experiences for both visitors and locals.
To conclude, while it is important for travelers to show respect by observing key local customs, host countries should also remain open to cultural diversity. This balanced approach can lead to more meaningful cultural exchanges and promote global understanding in our interconnected world.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 6)
The question of whether visitors should follow local customs or if host countries should accept cultural differences is important. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
Some people think visitors should follow local customs. This is good because it shows respect and helps avoid problems. For example, in some countries, it’s rude to show the bottom of your feet. If visitors know this, they can avoid making locals angry. Also, following customs can help tourists learn more about the country they are visiting.
But other people say host countries should welcome different cultures. They think this is good for understanding between countries and can make the host country more interesting. For instance, in big cities like New York, you can see many different cultures living together. This makes the city exciting and helps people learn about other ways of life.
I think both ideas are partly right. Visitors should try to learn some important customs, especially about religion or how to behave in public. But host countries should also be open to some differences. This way, everyone can learn from each other and have a good time.
In conclusion, it’s good for visitors to respect local customs, but host countries should also accept some cultural differences. This can help make travel better for everyone and help people understand each other more.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the response
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control
- Uses a wide range of complex structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Ideas are coherent, with clear progression throughout
- Uses cohesive devices effectively
Band 7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task
- Presents a clear overall position
- Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with good control
- Uses a variety of complex structures
- Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression
- Uses cohesive devices effectively, but there may be some under/over-use
Band 6 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, though conclusions may be unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information coherently and there is overall progression
- Uses cohesive devices but there may be some inaccuracy or over-use
Key Vocabulary
- globalized (adjective) /ˈɡləʊbəlaɪzd/ – characterized by worldwide integration and interdependence
- customs (noun) /ˈkʌstəmz/ – traditional and widely accepted ways of behaving or doing things in a society
- etiquette (noun) /ˈetɪket/ – the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group
- multicultural (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈkʌltʃərəl/ – relating to or containing several cultural or ethnic groups within a society
- diversity (noun) /daɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the state of being diverse; variety
- tolerance (noun) /ˈtɒlərəns/ – the ability or willingness to tolerate something, in particular the existence of opinions or behavior that one does not necessarily agree with
- adaptation (noun) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/ – the action or process of adapting or being adapted
- perspective (noun) /pəˈspektɪv/ – a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view
- assimilation (noun) /əˌsɪmɪˈleɪʃn/ – the process of taking in and fully understanding information or ideas
- enrichment (noun) /ɪnˈrɪtʃmənt/ – the action of improving or enhancing the quality or value of something
In conclusion, the topic of whether travelers should learn local customs remains a relevant and thought-provoking subject for IELTS Writing Task 2. As global travel continues to increase, questions about cultural adaptation and respect are likely to persist. Future exam questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of technology in helping travelers understand local customs
- The impact of mass tourism on traditional cultures
- The balance between preserving cultural identity and embracing globalization
To practice, try writing your own essay on the sample question provided or on one of these related topics. Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.