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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Tourism is becoming increasingly important as a source of revenue to many countries, but its disadvantages should not be overlooked. To what extent do you agree or disagree? You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Tourism is becoming increasingly important as a source of revenue to many countries, but its disadvantages should not be overlooked. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Tourism has become a significant source of income for many countries. While it brings about numerous benefits, there are also drawbacks that should not be ignored. In this essay, I will discuss the extent to which I agree with this statement.

On the one hand, tourism plays a crucial role in boosting a country's economy. For instance, countries like Thailand and France heavily rely on tourism as a major source of revenue. Tourists spend money on accommodation, food, transportation, and souvenirs, thus contributing to the local economy. Additionally, the tourism industry creates job opportunities for local residents, ranging from tour guides to hotel staff, which can help reduce unemployment rates.

On the other hand, the rapid growth of tourism can lead to negative consequences. Overcrowding at popular tourist destinations can put a strain on local infrastructure and the environment. For example, the excessive number of visitors to fragile ecosystems such as coral reefs or national parks can lead to environmental degradation. Furthermore, the influx of tourists can also lead to cultural erosion as local traditions and customs may be overshadowed by commercialized attractions aimed at tourists.

In conclusion, while tourism undoubtedly brings economic benefits, its drawbacks should not be overlooked. Governments and local authorities need to strike a balance between promoting tourism and preserving the environment and local culture. Sustainable tourism practices and responsible travel behavior should be encouraged to ensure that the negative impacts of tourism are mitigated.

(251 words)

Model Essay #2:

Tourism is becoming increasingly important as a source of revenue to many countries, but its disadvantages should not be overlooked. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Tourism has emerged as a vital source of income for many nations, and its significance cannot be understated. While it has its downsides, the advantages of tourism far outweigh its disadvantages. In this essay, I will outline the reasons why I strongly agree with this viewpoint.

To begin with, tourism brings substantial economic benefits to countries. Revenue generated from tourism can bolster a nation's GDP and contribute to the development of infrastructure, healthcare, and education. For example, countries like Maldives and New Zealand have experienced remarkable economic growth due to the influx of tourists. Moreover, the expansion of the tourism industry creates diverse employment opportunities, from hotel management to local handicraft production, thereby reducing unemployment rates and improving living standards.

Furthermore, tourism fosters cultural exchange and understanding among people from different backgrounds. When tourists visit foreign countries, they immerse themselves in local customs, traditions, and cuisines, leading to a rich cultural exchange. This exposure to different ways of life promotes tolerance and harmony among nations, ultimately contributing to global peace and cooperation.

While it is true that uncontrolled tourism can lead to environmental degradation and cultural dilution, these issues can be effectively managed through sustainable tourism practices and responsible travel behavior. By implementing regulations and guidelines, governments can ensure that tourism development is conducted in an environmentally and culturally sensitive manner.

In conclusion, the benefits of tourism in terms of economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange are undeniable. By addressing the potential drawbacks through sustainable practices, countries can harness the positive impacts of tourism while mitigating its negative effects.

(266 words)

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