MODEL ANSWER | BAND 7.5

Some people believe that when a person goes to a foreign country, they should follow practices and customs of that country. In my opinion, one should not try to follow foreign culture or one’s own culture blindly. Rather / instead one should adopt the best of both cultures.

When people stay in a foreign country, they should adapt to some of the customs and rituals of that country. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, it is not possible to live in a foreign country completely isolated from foreign people. Outsiders always require some kind of help and support from native people in order to live in a foreign country successfully. Secondly, natives feel happier when they see outsiders adopting some of the customs and practices of locals into their life. This enables foreigners to have a good career and pleasant life in another country. For example, native people feel happy when foreigners greet them according to their style.

On the other hand, it is important for outsiders to practice some of the customs and practices of their own country. It is not possible for them to completely forget their own culture. Celebrating certain festivals of their own country will provide them happiness and deep contentment. They can organise social gatherings with people of their own country. These kinds of activities help them to overcome homesickness and loneliness.

In conclusion, when people move to another country it is not necessary to completely follow practices of that country. Outsiders should adopt some aspects of the foreign culture and at the same time they should not forget the best of their culture.

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MODEL ANSWER | BAND 7.0

According to some people, when we visit a foreign country we should accept /embrace its customs and practices. In my opinion, it is all right to adapt to another culture; however, it should not be at the expense of our own culture. / In my opinion, one should only accept those elements of the foreign culture which one finds acceptable /comfortable with.

While visiting foreign countries or living abroad, one should try to embrace the foreign style of dressing, food habits and other practices only if one finds them pleasant to follow. There is no point in doing something just to fit in. However, before visiting a foreign country it is important to acquire a thorough understanding of their symbols, gestures⊕ and heritage to avoid causing offence.

The acceptance of another culture and lifestyle symbolizes respect for the new community and promotes healthy human relations. For instance, candidates running for American President often talk about their admiration for Indian culture to win the vote of Indian Diaspora living in America. That is because as human beings we automatically develop a liking for those who respect our culture and values. Hence, regard for another culture goes a long way in forming long-lasting connections between people of different race and ethnicity.

Although an individual should be appreciative of the practice of the country he visits, they should not be compelled to give up their own customs. Every region has their own religious beliefs and way of living and people should have the freedom to choose the best lifestyle for themselves. This also ensures harmony among the various ethnicities living together. For instance, India is a country of many religious groups preaching their own teachings and language. In such a country, the peaceful environment is maintained by giving everyone the right to select their way of life.

In conclusion, it is a good way of showing acceptance and affection towards others by following their rituals and ideology but it needs to be an option, not an obligation for visitors to comply with. Affection and harmony can only prosper when everyone shows respect for each other’s traditions voluntarily by choice.