You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that both travellers and business people must have the same attitude to local people and the traditions of countries they visit.
Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion.
Should Travellers and Business People Have the Same Attitude to Local People? A Band 9 Strategy
If you're looking for band 9 sample essays, they're just a scroll away! However, before diving into the essays, let's explore the best strategy for tackling this question. The topic revolves around whether travellers and business people should adopt the same attitude to local people and traditions. A Band 9 essay on this topic requires you to focus on one or two well-explained points rather than cramming multiple ideas into your response. Remember, IELTS examiners value quality over quantity. Pick a position you can argue convincingly, and don’t stress over real-world implications—your goal is to showcase clear reasoning and excellent language use. Support your ideas with examples, whether from personal experience or scenarios you create. They don’t need to be factual, but they must be relevant. To meet the Band Descriptors, ensure your essay is well-organized, uses a wide range of vocabulary naturally, and maintains grammatical accuracy throughout.
To enhance your preparation, explore the resources available on this website. Download our comprehensive eBooks in PDF format, packed with detailed tips, strategies, and step-by-step examples that guide you through every aspect of IELTS Writing. You’ll also find practice questions from recent IELTS exams to sharpen your skills. For a truly personalized approach, take advantage of our essay correction service. Our dedicated IELTS examiner will provide detailed feedback on your writing within 24 hours, helping you identify your strengths and areas for improvement. These resources are designed to ensure you achieve your desired band score.
Sample Essay 1
Some argue that travellers and business people should adopt a similar attitude to local people and their traditions when visiting different countries. I disagree with this view, as the nature of their interactions and objectives often differ significantly. This essay will discuss how the purpose of their visit shapes their approach to engaging with local people and why a uniform expectation may not always be practical or beneficial.
Business people often visit foreign countries for professional objectives, such as establishing partnerships, negotiating deals, or attending meetings. Their attitude to local people is largely shaped by the need to maintain professionalism and align with business etiquette, which can vary significantly across cultures. For instance, in Japan, bowing is a common professional greeting, whereas in Western cultures, a handshake is preferred. Adapting to such professional norms helps foster trust and mutual respect in business relationships. However, expecting business professionals to immerse themselves deeply in local traditions or lifestyles may be unrealistic given their limited time and focus on achieving specific business goals. Therefore, their engagement with local customs tends to be purpose-driven rather than comprehensive.
On the other hand, travellers often aim to experience the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the places they visit. Their attitude to local people typically involves curiosity, openness, and a willingness to adapt, as their goal is to gain an authentic understanding of the local way of life. For example, a traveller visiting India might choose to participate in a traditional festival or learn about local cuisine by engaging directly with residents. Such attitudes enhance cultural exchange and foster mutual understanding, which is at the core of meaningful travel experiences. Requiring travellers and business people to exhibit the same level of cultural immersion overlooks the distinct purposes of their visits.
In conclusion, while respecting local traditions and people is important for both travellers and business people, their attitudes are shaped by the differing objectives of their visits. A flexible approach is more practical and effective than imposing a uniform expectation.
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Sample Essay 2
Visitors to foreign countries, whether travellers or business people, should exhibit a respectful and adaptive attitude to local people and their traditions. This uniform approach is essential for fostering mutual respect and understanding in a globalized world. This essay argues that adopting such attitudes not only enhances interpersonal relationships but also helps avoid cultural insensitivity, which can have serious social and professional repercussions.
One compelling reason for maintaining a consistent attitude to local people and their traditions is that it promotes cultural harmony and mutual respect. By showing genuine interest in local customs and adapting to social norms, visitors can bridge cultural divides and create positive interactions. For instance, travellers visiting a conservative region might choose to dress modestly, respecting the cultural sensitivities of the community. Similarly, business professionals who learn about local communication styles or gift-giving traditions demonstrate their willingness to connect meaningfully with their counterparts. Such gestures not only leave a favorable impression but also encourage locals to reciprocate with openness and goodwill, thereby fostering a more inclusive global culture.
Another reason for adopting this uniform attitude is the potential to avoid misunderstandings or conflicts that arise from cultural insensitivity. Ignoring local traditions can sometimes be perceived as arrogance or disrespect, which may lead to strained relationships. For instance, a businessperson who dismisses traditional greetings in a formal setting might unintentionally offend their host, jeopardizing negotiations or partnerships. Likewise, travellers who disregard local norms—such as littering in a sacred area—may face backlash from communities or authorities. By consciously aligning their behavior with local expectations, both travellers and business people can avoid such pitfalls, ensuring smoother interactions and positive outcomes during their visits.
In conclusion, a shared attitude of respect and adaptability towards local people and their traditions is essential for both travellers and business professionals. By fostering mutual respect and avoiding cultural insensitivity, this approach ensures harmonious and meaningful interactions in diverse cultural contexts.
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