SPEAKING

UNIT 10: ECOTOURISM

Part 1
Q1: Have you ever traveled to another country? If do, where did you go, and what
did you enjoy most about your trip?
Well, I have not had the chance to travel to another country yet and it is still one of my biggest dreams
until now. I have such a taste for travelling abroad because I believe that it can open up an opportunity for me to
obtain valuable experiences, for example, learning about different cultures and traditions beyond my own
borders, trying new cuisines and broadening my perspective on the world. Therefore, I am definitely looking
forward to the opportunity to travel to another country, maybe England or something, in the near future.

Q2: What kind of tourist attractions do you prefer when you travel: historical sites,
natural wonders, or cultural experiences? Why?
To be honest, I manifest a strong interest in cultural experiences when I travel. While historical sites and
natural wonders are undoubtedly awe-inspiring, I find that immersing myself in different cultures allows me to
gain a deeper understanding of the places I visit and the people who live there. Exploring local customs,
traditions, cuisine, and arts not only enriches my travel experience but also broadens my perspective on the
world. Whether it is attending a traditional festival, visiting a local market, or interacting with residents, I cherish
the opportunity to connect with the cultural fabric of a destination.

Q3: How do you usually plan you trips? Do you prefer to plan everything in
advance or make spontaneous decisions while traveling?
When it comes to planning trips, I tend to strike a balance between preparation and spontaneity. To be
specific, I usually start by researching the destination thoroughly to get an overview of its cultures, attractions,
transportation options and accommodation choices to make sure that I will make the most of my time in a new
destination. However, I would certainly veer off course if something intriguing catches my eyes or some locals
recommend somewhere else. I think that it will be much more stimulating.

Q4: What do you think makes a destination popular among tourists? Is it the
scenery, the food, the activities, or something else?
In my opinion, what makes a destination popular among tourists varies from person to person. However,
if I were to choose one factor, I must say that the scenery plays a significant role. Because people are often
attracted to destinations with breathtaking landscapes, such as stunning beaches, vast mountains, or vibrant
cityscapes. I think that beautiful scenery will offer opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and exploration for
travelers.

Q5: What are some of the benefits of tourism for the local economy in the places
that tourists visit?
When it comes to economic benefits, tourism actually will act as a crucial role. Indeed, the tourism
industry creates employment opportunities for residents across various sectors, including hospitality,
transportation, retail, entertainment, which can provide income and livelihoods for a multitude of individuals.
Moreover, to accommodate tourists, destinations often invest in infrastructure development projects such as road
improvements, transportation systems, airports, hotels, and recreational facilities. Overall, tourism can greatly
stimulate economic growth, promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for residents.

Q6: Do you think it is important for tourists to learn about the customs and
traditions of the places they visit? Why or why not?
Yes of course. I believe that whenever we travel somewhere, we better research the place thoroughly to
have an understanding about the customs and traditions there, which will promote cultural sensitivity and also
show our respect to the locals around. Additionally, we can avoid unintentional offenses or misunderstandings,
or even cultural shocks. Ultimately, learning about customs and traditions while traveling contributes to a more
fulfilling and enlightening journey, enriching both the GP you traveler and the host community.

Q7: Have you ever had any negative experiences while travelling? If so, how did
you handle them?
While travelling, it is indispensable to encounter some challenges. For me, I've once experienced
language barriers when I could not understand whatever the locals say, and I could not get my tongue round a
single word of the language either. Which made me quite confused at first, but I addressed them by using
translation apps and showing respect for local customs. Overall, each obstacle became an opportunity to learn
and adapt, enriching my travel experiences.

Q8: How do you think technology has changed the way people travel in recent
years?
Technology has dramatically altered the landscape of travel in recent years. Mobile apps and websites
offer booking experiences for flights, accommodations, and activities, empowering travelers to plan and
customize their trips with ease. Navigation apps provide real-time directions, eliminating the stress of getting
lost in unfamiliar places. Overall, technology has made travel more accessible, efficient, and interconnected than
ever before.

Q9: What are some of the challenges that tourist might face when visiting a country
where they do not speak the language?
Visiting a country where one does not speak the language can present several challenges.
Communication barriers may make it difficult to ask for directions, order food, or seek assistance in
emergencies. Cultural misunderstandings may arise due to differences in customs, norms, and etiquette.
Understanding signs and instructions can also be a challenge, leading to confusion or unintentional breaches of
local customs. Finally, feeling isolated or disconnected from the local community due to language barriers can
impact the overall travel experience.

Q10: What can the government do to encourage more people to visit their country
as tourists?
Governments can take several measures to attract more tourists to their country. Investing in tourism
infrastructure such as transportation, accommodation, and attractions can enhance the overall visitor experience.
Implementing visa facilitation measures, such as streamlined application processes or visa waivers for certain
nationalities, can make it easier for travelers to visit. Launching marketing campaigns to promote the country's
unique attractions, cultural heritage, and natural beauty can increase awareness and interest among potential
tourists. Lastly, offering incentives or subsidies to tour operators and travel agencies to develop and promote
tour packages can stimulate tourism growth.
Part 2
Q1: Describe a memorable ecotourism experience you have had.
One of my most memorable travel experience that I would like to share to you today must be my trip to
Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone, located in Ninh Binh Province. This place was a true hidden gem, where nature's
beauty and cultural richness come together in harmony, offering travelers like me an unforgettable experience.
To begin with, I started my trip with a peaceful boat ride along the winding waterways. I found myself
surrounded by the majestic beauty of such breathtaking mountains. During the trip, the atmosphere was so
tranquil, allowing me to soak in the sights and sounds of the vibrant ecosystem. On top of that, I had a chance to
spot rare bird, which was a completely new experience to you. I had seen many many kinds of bird and had a
deeper knowledge about them thanks to the expert guidance of local guides.
However, what struck me most about Thung Nham was its ability to display Vietnam's rich cultural
heritage. There were also many ancient temples and pagodas where I could be immersed in centuries-old
traditions and spiritual practices, deepening my connection to the local culture.
Well, Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone plays as a vital role in protecting the environment by promoting
eco-friendly practices and preserving natural habitats. This place also benefits local communities by providing a
number of jobs across various aspects, improving the quality of life of the local communities. This would be
such a travel experience that I will never forget.

Q2: Talk about an ecotourism destination you would like to visit in the future.
One ecotourism destination that has always on my bucket list is Trang An Ecotourism located in Ninh
Binh Province, Vietnam. This place is renowned for its ability to offer tourists with a once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity to explore the beauty of nature.
It is surrounded by stunning limestone karst formations and winding waterways, giving it this magical
vibe. What has got me hooked is the chance to hop on those boat tours and explore the hidden caves and spot
different rare birds.
What is really cool about Trang An is their commitment to keeping things eco-friendly. They are all
about preserving the environment and making sure tourism does not harm the area. To be honest, it feels good to
know that by visiting, I am not just having a wonderful time, but also doing my bit to help out.
On top of that, I have heard that apart from the boat tours, there are also hiking trails and cycling routes
that take you through the picturesque landscapes, offering even more opportunities to connect with nature. And
let us not forget about the chance to explore ancient temples and pagodas scattered throughout the region, adding
a cultural dimension to the adventure.
I believe that visiting this place can raise awareness about environmental conservation by showcasing
sustainable practices and the importance of preserving natural habitats. Experiencing the beauty of Trang An
firsthand inspires visitors to become grateful to the environment, encouraging them to take action to protect our
planet.
Overall, I cannot wait to immerse myself in the beauty and culture of Trang An, to breathe in the fresh
air, and to witness firsthand the wonders of this remarkable ecotourism destination.

Part 3
Q1: How has the concept of ecotourism evolved in recent years, and what are some
of the key benefits and challenges associated with this form of travel?
In recent years, the concept of ecotourism has evolved significantly as a response to increasing
environmental awareness, emphasizing sustainable travel practices and authentic experiences with nature. This
type of travel has brought about a multitude of benefits, including conservation of natural habitats, economic
development for local communities, cultural exchange, and environmental education for travelers. However, the
government still encounters many challenges, the most noticeable of which is to meet the need of tourists while
still can minimize environmental impact. To address these challenges, ecotourism requires careful management
and collaboration between policymakers to maximize its positive impacts and mitigate potential harm to
ecosystems and communities at the same time. Embracing ecotourism can be seen as a win-win situation for
both tourists and the environment.

Q2: In what ways can governments and tour operators promote sustainable
tourism practices while still meeting the demands of travelers for unique and
memorable experiences?
Governments and tour operators play a crucial role in promoting sustainable tourism practices by
implementing regulations and incentives that encourage environmentally friendly initiatives. Specifically, by
investing in infrastructure and supporting community-based tourism initiatives, destinations can attract
conscientious travelers while minimizing negative environmental impacts. On top of that, education campaigns
aimed at tourists can raise awareness about the importance of sustainable travel choices. Ultimately, striking a
balance between economic development and environmental conservation is key to ensuring the long-term
viability of tourism destinations.

Q3: What role do you think education and awareness play in encouraging tourists
to make environmentally responsible choices when travelling? How can individuals
contribute to sustainable tourism efforts during their trips?
Education and awareness play a crucial role in encouraging tourists to make environmentally responsible
choices while traveling. By launching education campaigns, we can provide information about sustainable travel
practices and the ecological significance of destinations. As a result, with a profound understanding of the
significance of environmental conservation, tourists are more likely to adopt behaviors that minimize their
ecological footprint such as: choosing eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local businesses, and respecting
cultural and natural heritage sites. Additionally, reducing waste, conserving water and energy, and opting for
low-impact transportation options like walking, cycling, or using public transit can all make a positive
difference. Ultimately, each traveler's conscientious actions contribute to the collective effort of preserving
destinations and promoting sustainable tourism practices for future enjoyment.