IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1268 - Today more and more tourists are visiting places where conditions are difficult
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Today more and more tourists are visiting places where conditions are difficult, such as the Sahara desert or the Antarctic.
What are the advantages and disadvantages for tourists who visit such places?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
Tourism has expanded its horizon, and today, adventurous tourists are increasingly seeking places where the conditions are challenging, such as arctic regions, tropical rainforests, or high-altitude mountainous regions. The benefits and disadvantages for such tourists are numerous and complex.
The main benefit for tourists visiting such difficult places is the unique experience they offer. It is an opportunity for them to explore the extreme wilderness, observe rare wildlife, and challenge themselves physically and mentally. For example, tourists who visit the arctic regions, such as Greenland or the North Pole, have the opportunity to witness the majestic aurora borealis and explore icebergs, glaciers and frozen landscapes. Similarly, tourists who venture into the dense tropical rainforests, such as the Amazon, can experience a rich diversity of flora and fauna, and learn about indigenous cultures. Such experiences can be life-changing and unforgettable.
There are also numerous disadvantages to visiting such places. The harsh climate, rough terrain, and lack of basic amenities can pose serious risks to tourists. For example, tourists visiting high-altitude mountainous regions, such as the Himalayas, can face the risk of altitude sickness, frostbite, or hypothermia. In addition, the lack of proper infrastructure, medical facilities, and communication networks can leave tourists vulnerable in case of emergencies.
In conclusion, visiting challenging places can provide unique and unforgettable experiences, but it can also be risky and have negative impacts. It is important for tourists to be well-prepared and informed before visiting such places, and for governments to regulate and manage tourism activities in these regions to ensure the safety of tourists and the sustainability of the environment and local communities.
Model Answer 2:
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of tourists visiting extreme destinations, such as Mount Everest, the Sahara Desert or the Antarctic. This essay will discuss the advantages and drawbacks for tourists who choose to visit such places.
There are numerous benefits to visiting extreme destinations for travellers. Firstly, it allows tourists to experience and appreciate the natural beauty and unique features of these locations. For example, the Sahara desert offers an opportunity to witness stunning sunsets and the natural oasis while the Antarctic offers a chance to witness beautiful wildlife such as penguins and seals. Secondly, visiting such destinations can be a great challenge and can help to build resilience and confidence in tourists. It requires physical and mental stamina to adapt to extreme weather conditions and unfamiliar environments. This sense of accomplishment can be a great source of personal satisfaction and growth for tourists.
On the other hand, there are also several disadvantages associated with visiting such harsh destinations. Firstly, it can be dangerous for tourists if they are not adequately prepared or if they do not take proper precautions. For instance, dehydration is a common problem for tourists who visit the Sahara desert, and frostbite is a risk for those who travel to the Antarctic. Secondly, the cost of travelling to these destinations can be prohibitive for many tourists, making it an option only for those who can afford it.
In conclusion, visiting extreme destinations can have both benefits and disadvantages for tourists. While it offers an opportunity to witness unique natural beauty and can help to build resilience and confidence, it can also be dangerous and expensive. It is important that tourists are adequately prepared and take proper precautions when visiting such places to ensure their safety and to fully enjoy the experience.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay Question:
Nowadays, more and more tourists are visiting challenging environments, such as the Sahara Desert or the Antarctic.
What are the advantages and disadvantages for tourists who visit these places?
Essay Type:
Advantage/ Disadvantage Essay
Main Questions of this IELTS Essay:
A) What are the advantages for tourists visiting extreme environments?
B) What are the disadvantages for tourists visiting these locations?
Advantages of visiting extreme places:
1. Personal growth and resilience:
Visiting extreme environments requires individuals to push their limits, leading to increased self-confidence and resilience. Overcoming challenges in difficult conditions often results in significant personal growth. For example, successfully trekking through the harsh conditions of Antarctica can greatly boost one's confidence in overcoming life's difficulties.
2. Memorable experiences:
Extreme destinations offer unique experiences that cannot be replicated elsewhere, providing lifelong memories. These exceptional journeys can greatly enrich a person's life. As an example, observing the Northern Lights in remote Arctic regions creates lasting memories that traditional tourist spots cannot match.
3. Enhanced appreciation for nature:
Tourists develop greater environmental awareness and appreciation by witnessing pristine, untouched natural landscapes. This exposure can encourage conservation-minded behaviours. For instance, travelers returning from Antarctica often advocate strongly for environmental protection after experiencing its fragile ecosystem firsthand.
4. Educational and cultural experiences:
Extreme locations often feature unique cultural communities adapted to harsh environments, offering deep educational insights. Travellers can gain a better understanding of human adaptability. For example, interacting with Bedouin tribes in the Sahara Desert allows tourists to learn about survival techniques and traditional desert lifestyles.
5. Adventure and unique experiences:
Challenging environments offer thrilling adventures unavailable elsewhere, attracting tourists seeking extraordinary experiences. These adventures make life exciting and fulfilling. For instance, trekking in Antarctica or hiking volcanoes provides a sense of accomplishment and adventure far exceeding conventional holidays.
Disadvantages for tourists visiting extreme places:
1. Significant safety risks:
Extreme locations pose considerable risks, including harsh weather, isolation, and potential accidents. Tourists could be unprepared for emergencies or dangers inherent in such trips. For example, climbers in the Himalayas regularly face severe weather conditions that can result in injuries or fatalities.
2. High financial costs:
Visiting remote or harsh areas often involves high expenses due to specialised equipment, guides, and transportation costs. This makes such trips unaffordable for many. For instance, expeditions to Antarctica typically cost thousands of pounds, limiting access to wealthy tourists only.
2. Environmental harm:
Increased tourism to fragile environments can lead to pollution, destruction of ecosystems, and disturbance to wildlife. The ecological balance in remote regions can easily be upset by tourism. For example, waste left by visitors has significantly polluted Mount Everest, endangering local biodiversity.
4. Strain on local resources:
The influx of tourists in remote areas can strain local resources, such as water and food supplies, negatively impacting local communities. This additional strain can exacerbate resource scarcity. For instance, increased tourism in desert regions can significantly deplete already limited water resources.
5. Limited emergency services:
Extreme locations often have inadequate emergency response infrastructure, making it challenging to address medical or safety emergencies promptly. This increases the danger associated with tourism. For example, a medical emergency in remote Antarctic research stations often requires complicated evacuation processes due to the lack of nearby hospitals or rescue facilities.
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