Tourism in IELTS Writing Task 2: Agree or Disagree Essay Samples

In the Academic IELTS Writing section, tourism-related essay topics often explore the impact of tourism on economies, cultures, and the environment. Common subtopics may include: the benefits and drawbacks of mass tourism, sustainable tourism practices and the effect of tourism on local cultures, the role of tourism in economic development, the environmental impact of tourism, and the influence of social media on travel trends.

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Essay Topics

Topic 1: Does international travel reduce misunderstandings between countries?
Topic 2: Is group travel with a tour guide the best way to travel?

Task
The growth in international travel means that misunderstandings between countries will inevitably decrease. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

How to approach the essay:

How to approach the essay:

Understand the Question: Identify the cause-effect relationship—international travel is the cause, and reduction in misunderstandings between countries is the claimed effect.
Decide Your Stance: Choose whether you agree, disagree, or partially agree with the statement (this sample essay fully agrees).

Cultural Benefits of International Travel	Economic, Scientific, and Political Benefits
• Enhances appreciation for cultural diversity and traditions • Encourages open-mindedness, tolerance, and respect • Example: Tourism between Japan and South Korea eased historical tensions	• Promotes international business and project collaborations • Example: Erasmus+ programme fosters cross-border academic and professional cooperation • Builds long-term relationships that break stereotypes and support diplomacy

Model AnswerThe phenomenon of international travel has surged in popularity in recent years, driven by advances in transportation and the growing accessibility of global destinations. Many believe that this trend will inevitably lead to greater understanding between nations and their governments, a view with which I fully agree. Enhanced cultural exchange and global cooperation are just some of the key outcomes of this development.

To begin with, traveling abroad fosters a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity. By experiencing diverse lifestyles and unique traditions, tourists often come to recognize the intrinsic value of various cultures. This broader perspective can gradually make them more open-minded, tolerant, and respectful towards others. As a result, countries and their governments may become more willing to engage in international dialogue. For example, increased tourism between Japan and South Korea in recent years has helped soften historical tensions by encouraging cultural exchange and mutual understanding through student programs, culinary tourism, and shared festivals.

Moreover, global travel creates numerous economic, scientific, cultural, and political opportunities. Individuals eager to promote or develop their projects and businesses are often motivated to connect with potential foreign partners. Recent research indicates that the number of international collaborative projects has doubled over the past decade. The Erasmus+ programme in Europe allows students and professionals to study or work abroad, encouraging collaboration and long-term cooperation across borders. Many participants not only gain academic or career advantages but also form lasting relationships that help dismantle stereotypes and foster cross-cultural understanding.

In summary, the continued expansion of international travel fosters greater cultural openness and encourages cross-border collaboration. Consequently, mutual understanding among countries and their governments has grown and will likely deepen in the future.

Essay Questions

Commentary
Essay Question: The growth in international travel means that misunderstandings between countries will inevitably decrease. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?Introduction

Clarity: Yes, the topic of international travel and global understanding is introduced clearly.
Thesis: The writer’s stance is explicitly stated—they fully agree with the statement.

Body Paragraphs

Main Ideas (Pros/Cons):
- Paragraph 1:
  - Exposure to different lifestyles promotes cultural awareness.
  - Travel leads to tolerance, respect, and willingness for international dialogue.
  - Example: Tourism between Japan and South Korea easing historical tensions.
- Paragraph 2:
  - Travel supports international cooperation in economy, education, and science.
  - Example: The Erasmus+ program fostering cross-border collaboration and long-term relationships.
Coherence:
- The essay is logically structured.
- Each paragraph presents a distinct but related idea.
- Smooth transitions connect examples to the main argument.

Conclusion

Summary:
- Clearly restates the writer’s view.
- Effectively summarizes key ideas: cultural openness and cross-border cooperation.
- Forecasts future improvement in international understanding.

Vocabulary & Grammar

High-Level Vocabulary:
- Phenomenon — a notable trend or development.
- Appreciation — recognition of the value of something.
- Collaboration — working together towards a goal.
- Dismantle — to break down (e.g., barriers or stereotypes).
Academic Phrases:
- “Fosters a deeper appreciation of…”
- “Encouraging collaboration and long-term cooperation…”
- “A view with which I fully agree.”
Complex Sentences:
- “By experiencing diverse lifestyles and unique traditions, tourists often come to recognize the intrinsic value of various cultures.”
- “Many participants not only gain academic or career advantages but also form lasting relationships that help dismantle stereotypes…”

Task
Travelling in a group with a tour guide is the best way to travel. Do you agree or disagree?

How to approach the essay:

How to approach the essay:

Understand the Question: Identify the topic (group travel with a tour guide) and the claim (it is the best way to travel).
Take a Position: Decide whether you fully agree, disagree, or partly agree.
Body Paragraph 1: Present reasons in favor of group travel—e.g., affordability, structured planning.
Body Paragraph 2: Present counterpoints—e.g., lack of freedom, inconvenience, limited privacy—then reinforce your stance in the conclusion.

Advantages of Group Travel	Disadvantages of Group Travel (Benefits of Independent Travel)
• Cost-effective for families or travelers with limited budgets • Pre-planned itineraries offer convenience and time efficiency • Helpful structure for visiting multiple attractions	• Loss of privacy and personal space during group trips • Logistical delays from waiting on group members • Rigid schedules restrict personal exploration and flexibility

Model AnswerThere is no doubt that, in contemporary society, travel has become an important aspect of many people’s lives. The question arises: is it preferable to travel in a group under the guidance of a tour leader? In this essay, I will examine both views before presenting my conclusion.

On the one hand, supporters of group travel argue that it is a convenient and cost-effective option for many. One key reason for this view is that it is often more budget-friendly, making it suitable for those with limited financial resources. For instance, families with tight budgets may struggle to afford the expenses of independent travel. By joining a group tour, they can take advantage of the chance to visit new places without straining their finances. Furthermore, planned itineraries offer a clear structure for the trip, acting as a useful guide that helps travelers make the most of their time and see a range of attractions within a short timeframe.

On the other hand, opponents argue that traveling in a group can be quite inconvenient. Firstly, the loss of privacy is a significant drawback of this travel style. Travelers must share their experiences with others, which can diminish the sense of personal space and solitude that many value during their trips. Secondly, the presence of a large group can lead to logistical challenges. Participants often find themselves waiting for others to gather before moving on to the next destination, which can be frustrating and time-consuming. Additionally, the rigid schedule imposed by group travel can feel restrictive, as individuals must adhere to predetermined timelines rather than exploring at their own pace.

In conclusion, although group tours offer practical benefits like lower costs and well-organized schedules, they often come at the expense of personal freedom and comfort. In my view, independent travel provides a more rewarding experience, as it grants individuals the freedom to explore at their own pace and shape their journey according to their unique interests and goals.

Commentary
Essay Question: Is it preferable to travel in a group under the guidance of a tour leader?Introduction

Clarity: The topic is clearly introduced with a direct reference to the rise of travel and the question about group tours with a tour guide.
Thesis: The writer states that they will examine both sides and present their own conclusion, providing a balanced approach to the topic.

Body Paragraphs

Main Ideas (Pros/Cons):
- Pros:
  - Group travel is affordable, making it ideal for those on a budget (e.g., families).
  - Provides structured itineraries, maximizing time and covering multiple destinations.
- Cons:
  - Loss of privacy as travelers share experiences.
  - Logistical issues, such as waiting for the group, can be frustrating.
  - Rigid schedules limit personal exploration.
Coherence:
- The essay presents both sides clearly, starting with pros and moving to cons.
- Smooth transitions between ideas.

Conclusion

Summary: The conclusion effectively summarizes the points: group tours are affordable and structured but lack freedom.
Reflection of Opinion: The writer clearly favors independent travel for its flexibility and personal exploration.

Vocabulary & Grammar

High-Level Vocabulary:
- Straining — putting pressure.
- Convenient — easy to use or access.
- Logistical — relating to the organization of complex operations.
- Restrictive — limiting freedom or flexibility.
Academic Phrases:
- “In this essay, I will examine both views before presenting my conclusion.”
- “One key reason for this view is…”
- “Additionally, the rigid schedule imposed by group travel can feel restrictive.”
Complex Sentences:
- “By joining a group tour, they can take advantage of the chance to visit new places without straining their finances.”
- “Travelers must share their experiences with others, which can diminish the sense of personal space and solitude that many value during their trips.”