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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behaviour. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behaviour. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences.

In today's globalized world, the issue of how visitors to other countries should behave has become a topic of debate. Some argue that visitors should adhere to the customs and behavior of the host country, while others believe that the host country should embrace cultural differences. Both views have their merits, but I believe that a balance between the two is crucial.

On one hand, proponents of cultural assimilation argue that visitors should respect and adopt the local customs and behavior. They believe that this promotes harmony and understanding between the visitors and the local community. For example, in Japan, it is customary to bow when greeting someone, and failure to do so may be seen as disrespectful.

On the other hand, supporters of cultural diversity argue that the host country should be open to and embrace different cultures. They argue that this enriches the cultural fabric of the society and promotes tolerance. For instance, in many Western countries, it is common to see a variety of ethnic restaurants and cultural festivals, which adds to the diversity and vibrancy of the local community.

In my opinion, a middle ground is necessary. While it is important for visitors to show respect for the customs and behavior of the host country, it is also essential for the host country to be open and welcoming to cultural differences. This approach fosters mutual respect and understanding, leading to a more inclusive and harmonious society.

In conclusion, while there are valid arguments on both sides, I believe that a balanced approach is the most effective in promoting cultural harmony and understanding between visitors and host countries. By respecting local customs and embracing cultural differences, both visitors and host countries can benefit from a more enriched and diverse global community.

Model Essay #2:

Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behaviour. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences.

In today's interconnected world, the question of how visitors to other countries should behave has sparked a heated debate. While some argue that visitors should adhere to the customs and behavior of the host country, others advocate for the celebration of cultural differences. While both views have their merits, I firmly believe that visitors should respect and follow the local customs and behavior of the host country.

Proponents of cultural assimilation argue that visitors should honor the traditions and customs of the host country. They believe that this promotes mutual respect and understanding between visitors and the local community. For instance, in many Middle Eastern countries, it is customary for women to dress modestly, and visitors are expected to adhere to this cultural norm out of respect for the local customs and beliefs.

On the other hand, supporters of cultural diversity argue that the host country should embrace and celebrate cultural differences. They believe that this fosters inclusivity and enriches the cultural tapestry of society. For example, in cosmopolitan cities like London and New York, various cultural festivals and events celebrate the diversity of the population, showcasing the richness of different traditions and customs.

However, I firmly believe that visitors should prioritize respecting and following the local customs and behavior of the host country. This demonstrates a willingness to engage with and understand the cultural norms of the host country, ultimately promoting harmony and mutual respect.

In conclusion, while there are valid arguments for both perspectives, I maintain that visitors should prioritize respecting and adopting the customs and behavior of the host country. By doing so, visitors can contribute to a more harmonious and respectful interaction with the local community, fostering a sense of unity and understanding across cultures.

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