Plan this opinion 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:
Tourists should learn some of the local language and customs before they visit another country.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
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
Your answer stays on this page only. Copy it before you leave.
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 say that visitors should learn something of the local language and customs before travelling. I agree with this opinion to a great extent, although I accept that full preparation is not always realistic.
The most important reason is respect. When tourists make an effort to greet people in their language or to follow local etiquette, such as removing shoes in a temple or dressing modestly, the hosts feel appreciated and are generally more welcoming. Preparation also makes communication easier. Knowing a few phrases for ordering food, asking directions or saying thank you can prevent misunderstandings and open the door to friendlier conversations. Finally, it improves safety and enjoyment. A traveller who knows which behaviours are offensive, or what the local customs are for bargaining and tipping, is less likely to cause problems and can relax and take more from the experience.
There are some counter-arguments. In many tourist destinations, local people speak English, so visitors can manage without any other language. For short trips of a few days, it may seem too much effort to study a language that they will probably never use again, and some travellers visit several countries on one trip. Technology also helps, since translation apps can solve most immediate problems.
Even so, I believe a small amount of preparation is realistic for everyone. Learning ten or twenty useful words and reading a short guide about customs takes only an hour or two, and the benefit is out of proportion to the effort. Travel companies and guidebooks could include such information as standard.
In conclusion, tourists should learn basic phrases and customs because it shows respect, improves communication and makes the trip safer and more enjoyable, even if fluency is not expected.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| local customs | traditional habits of an area |
| show respect | behave politely |
| get by | manage in a situation |
| phrasebook | book of useful sentences |
| tourist etiquette | polite behaviour for visitors |
| cultural sensitivity | awareness of other cultures |
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