You should spend about 40 minutes on this part.
Write about the following topic:
There is an ongoing debate regarding whether tourism accelerates meaningful cultural interaction or leads to the erosion of authentic traditions and the degradation of distant environments. While some argue that tourism encourages global understanding and empathy between cultures, others believe that it exacerbates native practices and environmental degradation. In my opinion, although tourism can broaden global perspectives, its negative impacts on local cultures and vulnerable ecological balances warrant careful consideration.
Advocates of tourism maintain that it enhances local traditions and fosters meaningful interaction between people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Also, communicating with people from different cultures can help dismantle prejudices, promote sociability, and change perspectives. For example, in Portugal, authorities set up complimentary tourist information centres so that visitors can navigate more conveniently and make informed decisions. Furthermore, one of the most important revenue sources is preserving cultural heritage, such as authentic arts, festivals, and traditional cuisine.
Conversely, critics argue that tourism often leads to the degradation of native culture and silences indigenous voices. Moreover, the influx of visitors from around the world can result in environmental harassment and deforestation. For instance, in countries like Venezuela and Paraguay, the cutting of trees by the government has caused deforestation. Additionally, tourists have become bored with the existing activities, which has led to a decline in tourism revenue over the years.
In conclusion, although tourism undeniably benefits national economies, it can lead to environmental disasters and the disappearance of authenticity. To be sustainable, environmental and cultural values should be respected. If such values are destroyed and degraded, tourism and related activities are without ecological balance or enrichment.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.