Part 1: Introduction & Interview (2-3 Minutes)

1. Do you enjoy traveling? Why or why not?
   Sample Answer:
   “Yes, I really enjoy traveling because it gives me the chance to explore new cultures, try different cuisines, and meet people from diverse backgrounds. It’s also a great way to relax, take a break from the usual routine, and experience the beauty and uniqueness of various places.”

2. How do you prefer to travel – alone or with others?
   Sample Answer:
   “I actually enjoy traveling with others, especially with friends or family. I think it’s a lot more fun to share experiences and memories, and it also makes things like planning and navigating unfamiliar places easier. That said, I can see the benefits of traveling alone, like the freedom to explore at your own pace and have time for self-reflection.”

3. How has tourism changed the way people experience a country or place?
   Sample Answer:
   “Tourism has made it much easier for people to experience a country, thanks to the development of infrastructure, transport, and information about various destinations. However, it has also led to a certain degree of commercialization, where local culture might be presented in a more tourist-friendly manner, potentially losing its authenticity. It’s a double-edged sword because while tourism opens up access and economic opportunities, it also risks altering the true nature of the place.”

Part 2: Long Turn (4 Minutes)

Prompt:
Describe a memorable trip you have taken.

• You should say:
  • Where you went
  • What you did there
  • Who you went with
• And explain why this trip was memorable for you.

Sample Answer:
“Last summer, I took a memorable trip to Japan with my best friend. We visited several cities, including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, each of which had its own unique charm. In Tokyo, we explored the modern cityscape, tried sushi, and visited places like Shibuya Crossing and Akihabara. In contrast, Kyoto was much more traditional, with beautiful temples, gardens, and tea ceremonies. What made the trip truly memorable was the blend of ancient culture and modern life, which is something I had never experienced before. The hospitality of the people, the cuisine, and the sheer variety of things to do made it an unforgettable experience.”

Follow-up Question:
Would you like to return to this place in the future?

Part 3: Collaborative Task (4 Minutes)

Task Prompt:
Here are some reasons people travel. Talk together about how important each of these reasons is and decide which is the most valuable reason for traveling.

• Relaxation and escape from routine
• Learning about other cultures
• Adventure and thrill-seeking
• Visiting family or friends
• Business opportunities

Sample Discussion Points:
“I think relaxation and getting away from daily life is a very common reason for travel, as it allows people to recharge and come back feeling refreshed. However, I also believe that learning about other cultures can be incredibly enriching, giving a person a wider worldview. What’s your opinion? Which do you think is more valuable?”
“I agree that learning about cultures is enriching, but for some people, adventure and seeking thrill are the main motivations for travel. There's a sense of excitement and fulfillment when you try something new or visit a place you’ve never been to before. Do you think visiting family is equally important compared to these?”

Part 4: Discussion (5 Minutes)

1. What impact does tourism have on the environment?
   Sample Answer:
   “Tourism can have both positive and negative impacts on the environment. On one hand, it encourages the preservation of natural areas and the protection of wildlife to attract visitors. However, mass tourism often leads to pollution, overcrowding, and even damage to natural habitats. For instance, too many visitors to a popular site might lead to littering or put a strain on local resources like water and energy.”

2. Do you think traveling to a foreign country is the best way to learn about its culture?
   Sample Answer:
   “I believe that traveling to a foreign country provides the most immersive and authentic experience of its culture. When you’re physically present, you can observe how people live, try local food, participate in cultural events, and even learn from interacting with locals. However, it’s not the only way; one can still learn a lot about a culture through books, documentaries, and even online virtual tours.”

3. Is tourism beneficial or harmful to local communities?
   Sample Answer:
   “Tourism can be both beneficial and harmful to local communities. On the one hand, it brings in economic benefits, such as job creation and opportunities for local businesses. On the other hand, it can lead to the commercialization of local traditions, rising costs of living, and even cultural dilution. It’s important to find a balance that promotes sustainable tourism—where the local community can benefit economically without losing its cultural identity or negatively impacting the environment.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

1. Diverse backgrounds: People coming from various cultures, lifestyles, and experiences.

   • "Travel allows you to meet people from diverse backgrounds."

2. Relax and take a break: To unwind and de-stress by stepping away from daily activities or work.

   • "Traveling is a great way to relax and take a break from routine."

3. Charm: The attractive quality of a place, often related to its beauty or uniqueness.

   • "Kyoto has a unique charm due to its traditional temples and gardens."

4. Hospitality: The friendly and welcoming behavior towards guests or visitors.

   • "The hospitality of the locals made our trip unforgettable."

5. Recharge: To restore energy, often by relaxing or taking a break.

   • "Traveling to a peaceful destination can help you recharge."

6. Worldview: A particular way of understanding the world, often influenced by one's experiences and culture.

   • "Traveling helps you develop a broader worldview."

7. Thrill-seeking: Actively searching for excitement or adventure.

   • "Many people travel for thrill-seeking activities like bungee jumping."

8. Overcrowding: A situation where too many people are present in a particular area, often causing discomfort or harm.

   • "Overcrowding in tourist destinations can lead to damage to natural sites."

9. Pollution: Contamination of the environment, often caused by human activities, such as littering or emissions from vehicles.

   • "Tourism can contribute to pollution if not managed properly."

10. Natural habitats: The environments in which particular species live and grow naturally.

    • "Over-tourism can damage natural habitats and disturb wildlife."

11. Immersive experience: An experience that deeply involves and surrounds a person, making them feel like part of the environment.

    • "Traveling to a new country offers an immersive experience of the local culture."

12. Interacting with locals: Engaging and communicating with the people who live in a particular place.

    • "Interacting with locals can give you insights into their daily lives."

13. Economic benefits: Financial advantages gained from an activity, like job creation or income generation for businesses.

    • "Tourism brings economic benefits to small communities through increased business."

14. Commercialization: Turning something, such as culture or tradition, into a product or service to be sold.

    • "The commercialization of cultural traditions can sometimes lead to a loss of authenticity."

15. Cost of living: The amount of money required to maintain a certain standard of living, including expenses like housing, food, and transportation.

    • "Tourism can lead to a rise in the cost of living for local residents."

16. Cultural dilution: The process of diminishing or weakening the original culture due to external influences, often from tourism or globalization.

    • "Cultural dilution is a risk when traditional practices are modified for tourist appeal."

17. Sustainable tourism: Tourism that considers its impact on the environment, society, and economy, aiming to support the local community while preserving resources.

    • "Sustainable tourism aims to provide authentic experiences while protecting the local environment."

18. Infrastructure: The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society, like transportation, accommodation, and utilities.

    • "Good infrastructure is essential for supporting the growth of tourism."

19. Double-edged sword: A situation that has both positive and negative consequences.

    • "Tourism is a double-edged sword; it brings economic growth but also risks environmental damage."

20. Authenticity: The quality of being genuine, real, or true to original cultural values.

    • "Tourists often seek authentic experiences that reflect the true culture of a place."