Ielts writing Essentials (book 2)

TOPIC NO. 7
IMPORTANCE OF HOLIDAYS
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
According to those in the travel business, the nature of the average ‘holiday’ is changing.
Rather than seeking a relaxing break in a faraway place, people now want excitement on
their holidays and are keen to participate in unusual and challenging activities. Do you
agree or disagree?
You should write at least 250 words.
Holidays are important because they provide a break from our normal daily routine and from
the world of work. Traditionally, holidays have been seen as a time for relaxation and as an
opportunity to visit another country in order to find out about its geography and customs.
Nowadays, however, it seems that other types of holidays are becoming popular.
Some people want their holiday to be a kind of adventure, and find this more exciting than
going to the beach or visiting museums. On an adventure holiday, you may stay in a quiet
basic accommodation, rather than a luxurious hotel. Activities may involve things, such as
bush walking or cycling, or may form part of an aid project designed to help communities in
remote areas. Holidays, such as these are popular with people of all ages and can often, help
to promote tourism in rural environments.
The increasing popularity of dangerous sports has also boosted the number of adventure
holidays; for example, water sports, mountain climbing or paragliding. These holidays are
more popular with the younger generation, as they can be both physically and mentally
demanding. Participants are often seeking the sort of thrills that they cannot get in ordinary
life.
There is now greater awareness of the damaging effects of mass tourism and this may be one
reason for the changing nature of holidays. This can only be a good thing. But perhaps,
people are also discovering that it is just as refreshing to take an active holiday, as it is to lie
on a beach - though that is still a question of personal preference.

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