Question: Which is better for knowing more about a country? Travelling or reading books about it?

Analysis

When answering this question, you should compare the advantages of both travelling and reading books for learning about a country. Travelling allows you to experience the culture, people, and environment firsthand, which can give you a deeper and more personal understanding. On the other hand, reading books can provide you with detailed background information, history, and context that you might not get just by visiting. You can mention that both methods have their own benefits, but many people feel that travelling offers a more vivid and memorable experience. You can also give examples, like tasting local food or talking to locals when you travel, versus learning about traditions or history from books.

Synonyms

Try these synonyms instead of repeating the question:
  1. knowing more about→learning about
  2. travelling→visiting
  3. reading books→studying books
Question: Which is better for knowing more about a country? Travelling or reading books about it?

Idea 1

Travelling is better
  1. You can experience the culture firsthand, like trying local food and talking to people
  2. You get to see real life, not just what’s written in books
  3. It’s easier to remember things you’ve seen and done yourself
  4. You can learn about things that aren’t in books, like local customs or slang
  5. Traveling can change your perspective and break stereotypes

Idea 2

Reading books is better
  1. Books can give you a deeper understanding of history and culture
  2. You can learn about a country even if you can’t afford to travel
  3. Books can cover things you might miss as a tourist, like politics or traditions
  4. Reading is more convenient and less expensive
  5. You can read about dangerous or hard-to-reach places

Idea 3

Both are important
  1. Travelling gives you real-life experience, but books give you background knowledge
  2. You can prepare for your trip by reading first
  3. Combining both helps you understand and appreciate a country more
  4. Some things you can only learn by being there, others you need to study
Question: Which is better for knowing more about a country? Travelling or reading books about it?

Related Vocabulary

  1. culture
  2. customs
  3. traditions
  4. locals
  5. first-hand experience
  6. guidebook
  7. landmarks
  8. sights
  9. history
  10. language
  11. perspective
  12. adventure

Authentic Idioms

Try these idioms to get 7+ in IELTS Speaking:
  1. to get a taste of something: to experience a small part of something
  2. to see something with your own eyes: to experience something personally
  3. to broaden your horizons: to expand your knowledge and experience
Band 7 Answer →