Plan this discussion essay about tourism with the ideas and outline below, write it on a 40-minute timer, then compare it with a band-8 model answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think governments should spend money to attract tourists. Others think that money should be used for local people's needs.
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.
GoPrep wrote this practice question in the style of the exam. It is not an official IELTS question.
Pick two or three points from one or both columns. You do not need all of them, and your own examples score better than memorised ones.
Spend the first few minutes planning, then write.
0 words of 250 minimum
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Write your own answer first, then compare: how it answers the exact question, what each paragraph does, and which phrases you could borrow.
Some people believe governments should spend money on attracting tourists, while others think public funds should be used to meet the needs of local people. I agree that residents' needs should come first, though I think some tourism spending can be justified.
Supporters of tourism promotion argue that it brings income and employment. Visitors spend money on hotels, restaurants and transport, creating jobs and tax revenue that the government can use elsewhere. A successful advertising campaign can also improve a country's international image and attract future investment. Furthermore, the facilities built for tourists, such as airports, roads and public transport, are used by residents too, so spending in this area can improve life for everyone. Countries like Turkey and Thailand have shown that tourism can become a major driver of the economy.
On the other hand, there are many basic needs which must come before promotion. Healthcare, education and housing are essential, and in countries where hospitals lack equipment or schools are overcrowded, it is hard to justify spending large sums on advertising. There is also no guarantee that the benefits of tourism will reach ordinary people. Profits often go to hotel chains and tour companies, while local residents face higher prices and crowding. Marketing campaigns are costly and may not succeed, particularly in a competitive market where many destinations are trying to attract the same visitors.
In my opinion, a balanced approach is best. Governments should ensure that essential public services are adequately funded first. After that, targeted investment in tourism, for example in transport links and the protection of heritage sites that benefit residents as well, can be a sensible way to create jobs and income.
In conclusion, tourism spending can strengthen the economy, but meeting local people's basic needs must take priority, and only well-planned projects should receive support.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| tourism promotion | advertising to attract visitors |
| public funds | government money |
| foreign currency | money from abroad |
| residents' needs | requirements of local people |
| priority | something most important |
| return on investment | profit from spending |
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