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

Analysis

When answering this question, you can compare the advantages of both travelling and reading books. Travelling allows people to experience the culture, language, food, and daily life of a country firsthand, which can be more vivid and memorable. On the other hand, reading books can provide in-depth background knowledge, history, and context that you might not notice while travelling. You can mention that both methods have their own benefits, but many people feel that travelling gives a more direct and personal understanding of a country. Giving examples from your own experience or people you know can make your answer more convincing.

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 tasting local food and meeting people.
  2. You get to see real life, not just what’s written in books.
  3. Travelling lets you discover things that aren’t in guidebooks.
  4. You can learn the language and customs more naturally.
  5. Personal experiences are more memorable than just reading.

Idea 2

Reading books is better
  1. Books can give you detailed background and history you might miss when travelling.
  2. You can learn about places you can’t visit easily.
  3. Books are cheaper and more convenient than travelling.
  4. You can read about the culture, politics, and traditions in depth.
  5. Reading lets you prepare for a trip or understand a country before you go.

Idea 3

Both are important
  1. Travelling gives you practical experience, while books give you deeper understanding.
  2. Combining both helps you get a full picture of a country.
  3. You can read first to plan your trip, then travel to experience it yourself.
  4. Some people prefer one way, but using both is the best approach.
Question: Which is better for knowing more about a country, travelling or reading books about it?

Related Vocabulary

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

Authentic Idioms

Try these idioms to get 7+ in IELTS Speaking:
  1. to see something with your own eyes: to experience something personally
  2. to get a taste of something: to try or experience a little bit of something
  3. to broaden your horizons: to increase your knowledge or experience
Band 7 Answer →