GT Writing Task 2 (Essay Writing) Sample # 47
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In the past, people used to travel abroad to see the difference from their home country. However, the sceneries in places all around the world seem more and more similar nowadays.
What are the causes of the similarities?
Do you think the advantages of these similarities outweigh the disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
Global tourism upsurged during the last two decades and people rushed to exotic cities to enjoy the unique features of those places and appreciate the architecture and sceneries. However, tourist destinations, in most parts of the world, are becoming similar while compromising their unique cultural and structural features. Globalisation and the advancement of technology, in my opinion, are the reason behind this.
Globalisation has unified the world in many different aspects. The same architect is designing the buildings in the US as well as in Europe and Asia. Construction materials for infrastructural development are also the same. So it is obvious that those buildings look alike. Besides, technology has enabled people to learn about foreign cultures and adapt to them pretty swiftly. As a result, unique cultural hallmarks are becoming less obvious while the world is embracing a similar lifestyle, food habits, fashion and technology. This is why a teenager in Tokyo follows the same fashion and style as teenagers from New York. Moreover, MacDonalds, KFC and Pizza Hut are popular in Bangkok as they are back in California. Tourist attractions cannot escape from this sweeping trend and that is why Kuala Lumpur is not much different than Beijing or Hong Kong.
This phenomenon might seem advantageous to some, but, in my opinion, disturbing and dangerous for cultural identity and global tourism. People may already have sacrificed too many of their cultural identities despite agreeing that our unique culture is our most treasurable heritage that is supposed to be passed on from generation to generation. Personally, I would not like to travel thousands of miles to land in a city that looks just like mine. So similarities among cities will not benefit the global tourism industries.
In conclusion, we cannot deny the effects of globalisation and how it connects the world. But when it comes to preserving our unique cultural identities and planning our cities, we should be more of a nationalist than a global citizen.
Model Answer 2:
In the past, travelling abroad was an exciting opportunity to experience new cultures and witness the stark differences between countries. However, in recent times, it seems that the sceneries in different parts of the world have become increasingly similar. This essay will explore the causes behind this trend and evaluate whether the advantages of these similarities outweigh the disadvantages.
There are several factors contributing to the increasing similarities in sceneries worldwide. Firstly, globalization and the ease of travel have led to the diffusion of ideas and styles across borders. The interconnectedness of cultures has resulted in the adoption of similar architectural designs, urban planning, and even fashion trends. Additionally, the rise of mass tourism has led to the development of standardized tourist areas that cater to the expectations of a global audience. These areas often prioritize commercialization over preserving authentic local culture, thereby creating a sense of uniformity.
While the increasing similarities in sceneries may have some benefits, they also come with certain drawbacks. On the positive side, the standardization of tourist areas ensures that travellers can enjoy familiar amenities and services wherever they go. This can provide a sense of comfort and convenience for tourists who appreciate consistency. However, one of the main drawbacks is the loss of cultural diversity and the erosion of unique local identities. As sceneries become more homogenous, the distinctiveness and authenticity of each destination diminish, making it harder for travellers to experience genuine cultural immersion. Additionally, the focus on catering to mass tourism often leads to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and the exploitation of local resources. So it is apparent that the trend has more drawbacks than its benefits.
In conclusion, the increasing similarities in sceneries worldwide can be attributed to globalization, mass tourism, and the ease of travel. While there are advantages such as convenience and economic benefits, the disadvantages include the loss of cultural diversity and the degradation of local environments. Ultimately, the disadvantages of this phenomenon outweigh the advantages.