IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays: The Benefits of Community-Based Tourism With Expert Analysis (Band 6-9)

Community-based tourism has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Based on analysis of recent exam patterns, this theme frequently emerges in questions about environmental conservation, economic development, and cultural preservation. Let’s examine a recent IELTS task 2 question that demonstrates how this topic is tested.

The benefits of community-based tourism initiatives show significant potential for sustainable development in many regions. Here’s a common exam question format:

Some people believe that community-based tourism is the best way to develop a region’s economy while preserving local culture and protecting the environment. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Question Analysis

This question requires candidates to:

• Evaluate the effectiveness of community-based tourism
• Consider multiple aspects: economic, cultural, and environmental impacts
• Present a clear position with supporting evidence
• Provide relevant examples and explanations

Local community members selling traditional crafts to tourists

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)

In my opinion, community-based tourism indeed represents one of the most effective approaches to achieving balanced regional development. This model offers numerous advantages that support both economic growth and cultural preservation while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Firstly, when local communities directly manage tourism activities, they receive the primary economic benefits. Unlike conventional tourism where large corporations often dominate, The benefits of community-driven tourism include direct income generation for residents through homestays, craft sales, and guide services. For instance, in villages across Thailand, community-managed tourism programs have significantly increased household incomes while maintaining traditional ways of life.

Furthermore, this approach naturally promotes cultural preservation as communities share authentic experiences rather than commercialized versions of their heritage. When locals have control over tourism development, they can decide how to present their culture while maintaining its integrity. This contrasts sharply with mass tourism, which often leads to cultural commodification.

The environmental benefits are equally significant. The benefits of community-based environmental programs are evident in how local populations, dependent on their natural resources, tend to implement more sustainable practices. For example, many indigenous communities in Ecuador have developed ecotourism initiatives that protect rainforests while providing economic opportunities.

However, successful implementation requires careful planning and support. Communities need training in tourism management, marketing, and sustainable practices. Additionally, government policies must protect local interests while facilitating necessary infrastructure development.

In conclusion, while challenges exist, community-based tourism offers a powerful model for sustainable regional development, effectively balancing economic, cultural, and environmental considerations.

Local guide explaining traditional farming methods to tourists

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)

I agree that community-based tourism is good for developing local economies and protecting culture and environment. This type of tourism has many positive effects on local communities.

First, local people can make money directly from tourism. They can sell traditional products, provide accommodation, and work as tour guides. This helps them earn more income and improve their living standards. For example, in my country, some villages have become richer because of community tourism.

Second, this kind of tourism helps keep local culture alive. When tourists come to see traditional festivals and customs, local people feel proud of their culture and want to preserve it. Young people also learn more about their traditions when they explain them to visitors.

The environment also benefits because local people understand they need to protect nature to attract tourists. The impact of tourism on local economies in developing nations shows that when communities manage tourism, they take better care of their surroundings.

However, there are some problems. Many communities don’t know how to manage tourism properly. They need help from the government and training to do it well.

In conclusion, I think community-based tourism is very good for development if it is done correctly with proper support and training.

Vocabulary Analysis

1. commodification (n) /kəˌmɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ – the process of treating something as a product that can be bought and sold
2. ecotourism (n) /ˈiːkəʊˌtʊərɪzəm/ – tourism directed toward natural environments
3. indigenous (adj) /ɪnˈdɪdʒɪnəs/ – naturally existing in a place or country rather than arriving from another place
4. sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to continue over a period of time without damaging the environment
5. preservation (n) /ˌprezəˈveɪʃən/ – the act of keeping something in its original state or good condition

Key High-Scoring Phrases

1. “This model offers numerous advantages that support both economic growth and cultural preservation”
   • Structure: Subject + verb + object + relative clause
2. “Unlike conventional tourism where large corporations often dominate”
   • Structure: Preposition + adjective + noun + relative clause
3. “When locals have control over tourism development, they can decide how to present their culture”
   • Structure: Time clause + main clause + noun clause

Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion.