Band 7

Agree

Some people argue that international travel is a waste of time and money, and I agree with this opinion.

Firstly, travelling abroad often requires large expenses on flights, hotels, and visas. Many families spend thousands of dollars on a short trip, which could be used for education, healthcare, or improving their lifestyle. For instance, a two-week holiday in Europe can cost as much as a year’s savings for some people.

Secondly, international travel can be tiring and stressful. Long flights, cultural differences, and language barriers sometimes cause frustration rather than relaxation. Tourists may also face risks such as theft or illness in foreign countries.

Finally, in today’s world, most experiences are available online. People can watch travel videos, learn about other cultures, and even attend virtual events without leaving their country. This makes physical travel less necessary.

In conclusion, international travel often costs a lot and causes inconvenience. Therefore, I believe it is not always a wise use of time and money.

Disagree

Although some people think travelling abroad is a waste of resources, I strongly disagree.

Firstly, international travel provides real experiences that cannot be gained at home. Visiting a country allows people to interact with local people, taste authentic food, and see cultural traditions directly. These experiences are more meaningful than watching videos online.

Secondly, travelling abroad broadens knowledge and understanding. People learn new languages, explore history, and develop tolerance by seeing different lifestyles. For example, visiting Japan teaches not only about its culture but also about discipline and respect in daily life.

Moreover, tourism supports global economies. Many countries depend on international visitors for jobs in hotels, restaurants, and transport. Without tourism, millions of people would lose income.

In conclusion, international travel is not a waste but an investment in education and cultural exchange. It benefits both individuals and societies, making it a valuable experience.

Band 8

Agree

It is often argued that travelling abroad is unnecessary and wastes valuable resources. I agree with this opinion to a large extent because international trips involve high costs, stress, and alternatives already exist.

The first reason is financial. Flights, accommodation, and visa fees are often extremely expensive, making international travel affordable only for the wealthy. For middle-class families, the same money could be spent on more practical needs such as housing, healthcare, or children’s education. In fact, a short trip abroad may consume savings that take years to build.

Another issue is stress and inconvenience. Travellers often face long flights, strict airport security, and unfamiliar customs. Language barriers and cultural misunderstandings can also cause frustration. Instead of feeling relaxed, some tourists return more exhausted than before.

Furthermore, the development of technology offers alternatives. Through documentaries, virtual reality, and online cultural exchanges, people can now explore other cultures without leaving their homes. These methods are cheaper, safer, and more convenient, making physical travel less necessary.

That said, it is important to acknowledge that travel can still provide valuable personal experiences. However, for most people, the disadvantages outweigh the benefits.

In conclusion, while travelling abroad may be enjoyable for some, it is often costly, stressful, and replaceable by digital alternatives. Therefore, I believe international travel is largely a waste of time and money.

Disagree

Some people believe international travel is a waste of time and money, but I strongly disagree. In my view, it offers unique benefits for individuals and societies that cannot be replaced by alternatives.

One of the greatest advantages of travelling abroad is cultural exposure. Meeting local people, experiencing traditions, and tasting authentic food provide a depth of understanding that books and videos cannot match. For example, visiting India during Diwali allows visitors to experience the festival’s atmosphere in a way that no online material could reproduce.

Another reason is personal growth. Travel encourages independence, problem-solving, and adaptability. Navigating a foreign city or communicating in another language builds confidence and life skills. These experiences often have a lasting positive effect on people’s personal and professional lives.

In addition, international tourism contributes greatly to global economies. Many developing countries depend heavily on foreign visitors for jobs in hospitality, transportation, and entertainment. Without international travel, millions of people would lose income, and cultural heritage sites would receive less support.

Of course, travel can be expensive, and not everyone can afford it. However, the knowledge, friendships, and memories gained often outweigh the costs. Unlike material possessions, experiences enrich people’s lives permanently.

In conclusion, international travel is not a waste but a meaningful investment. It broadens horizons, strengthens global connections, and supports economies, making it one of the most valuable ways to spend time and money.