GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 226
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In the future, more people will choose to go on holiday in their own country and not travel abroad on holiday.
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.
Model Answer 1: [Agreement]
Many experts predict that an increasing number of individuals will plan a vacation in their home country instead of visiting exotic holiday destinations in the future. In this case, I concur wholeheartedly with the statement because the COVID-19 pandemic has brought international tourism almost to a complete standstill, and has changed the definition of tourism.
As the world is going through a historically unprecedented international health, economic, and social emergency with the coronavirus pandemic, the global tourism industry is among the most affected sectors with hotels and resorts closed, airplanes on the ground and travel restrictions imposed in virtually every country across the globe. To prevent mass contagion, in fact, virtually all governments introduce extreme and strict measures that include airspace and border closures accompanied by travel restrictions and lockdown; therefore, international travel has come to a halt. For instance, the latest data from the World Tourism Organization reveals that global arrivals in 2020 dropped by 78 percent, and seem notoriously uncertain as to how to recover to a pre-pandemic state. It is therefore strongly suggested that people will prefer to visit the nearby countrysides and cities as an alternative in the future.
Besides, the global coronavirus crisis is also regressive, disproportionately hitting middle-income households and medium-sized enterprises that have fewer assets to protect them against insolvency. That is to say that financial circumstances have changed dramatically for many individuals and families. They, in fact, have less disposable income to spend on international tours. On the other hand, domestic tourism offers lower transportation costs, with holidaymakers being able to travel by rail or car. Consequently, tourists will prefer to have a staycation instead of visiting international holiday destinations. A very good example in my case. I have abandoned my plan for visiting Australia next year and instead have planned to visit domestic tourist spots. Thus, this paragraph clearly portrays that a growing number of people will prefer visiting domestic hotspots in the foreseeable future, instead of travelling to foreign tourist destinations.
To conclude, it seems reasonable to assume that more people will travel within their own country for tourism purposes because the COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we perceived international travel and tourism.
Model Answer 2: [Disagreement]
In recent years, there has been a debate about whether more people will opt for domestic tourism over international tourism in the future. In my opinion, I disagree that more people will choose to go on holiday in their own country and not travel abroad. This essay will first discuss the reasons why some people may choose their own country for holidays, and then it will address why an increasing number of people would still prefer to travel abroad.
To begin with, some people may opt for domestic tourism in the future. Firstly, it is often less expensive to travel within one’s own country than to travel internationally. People may also feel more comfortable and secure visiting familiar destinations where they understand the language and customs. For instance, domestic tourists in Japan often visit Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Tokyo, which are well-known and popular destinations.
However, I believe that an increasing number of people will choose to travel abroad for their holidays. Firstly, people may be interested in exploring new cultures and customs, as well as experiencing different types of cuisine. For example, Europeans may travel to Asia to try different types of noodles, soups and sushi. Secondly, many people may be seeking a change of scenery and adventure, which may not be possible in their own country. They may wish to explore natural wonders or ancient architecture, such as the Pyramids in Egypt or the Great Wall of China. For many, experiencing different cultures and customs is important when they choose their holiday destination and they will prefer a foreign country.
In conclusion, while domestic tourism may have certain advantages, I believe that an increasing number of people will choose to travel abroad for their holidays. People are attracted to new experiences and adventure, which cannot be found in their own country. Additionally, international tourism has become increasingly accessible and affordable, which further encourages people to travel abroad.