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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Question Discuss the impact of tourism on local cultures.

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1713371767

Question: "Discuss the impact of tourism on local cultures."

Model Answer:

Tourism has become a significant global industry, contributing substantially to the economies of many countries. However, it is important to consider the effects of this growth on local cultures, as the influx of tourists can have both positive and negative impacts.

On one hand, tourism can be beneficial for preserving and promoting cultural heritage. Tourists often visit places of historical or cultural significance, which generates revenue that can be used to maintain and restore these sites. For example, in Japan, the ancient city of Kyoto has benefited from increased tourism, allowing for better conservation of its temples, shrines, and historic districts. Additionally, local artisans may find an opportunity to showcase their crafts and traditions, such as the pottery workshops in the British town of Stoke-on-Trent.

On the other hand, mass tourism can lead to cultural homogenization, as tourists often seek out familiar experiences rather than engaging with local customs and practices. This can result in the commercialization and commodification of unique aspects of a culture, which may dilute or even erase them. For example, in Bali, Indonesia, the influx of visitors has led to the proliferation of tourist-oriented restaurants and shops that cater to Western tastes, rather than preserving Balinese culinary traditions or supporting local artisans.

Furthermore, tourism can have a negative impact on the environment and natural resources, which are often closely tied to cultural practices. For instance, the overcrowding of popular destinations such as Machu Picchu in Peru has put immense strain on the site's infrastructure and surrounding ecosystem, threatening the integrity of both the natural landscape and the Inca culture that is deeply intertwined with it.

In conclusion, while tourism can have a positive impact on local cultures by preserving cultural heritage sites and promoting traditional crafts, it can also lead to cultural homogenization, environmental degradation, and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources. As such, it is essential for both tourists and the tourism industry to respect and protect the unique aspects of local cultures that make travel worthwhile in the first place.

Overall Band Score: 8.0

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