Real IELTS Writing 2 - Topic Tourism (Similar Cities) & sample band 8.5+

In the past,

allowed people to experience distinct cultures and environments; however, cities around the world today are becoming increasingly alike. In my opinion, this trend is largely driven by globalization and shared lifestyle patterns, and its disadvantages are more significant than the benefits involved.

Globalization and modern development trends have made cities increasingly alike. Regarding the former, this influence is clear in the widespread presence of

s and uniform s. International chain stores, modern shopping malls, and high-rise office buildings now dominate the skylines of cities from Asia to the Americas. As a result, has diminished the distinct visual identities that once set cities apart. Another factor is the influence of and global lifestyle trends. Through social media platforms, people around the world adopt similar tastes in fashion, food, and entertainment. Consequently, this contributes to a growing uniformity in how people live, interact, and consume within urban spaces.

While there are some benefits, the drawbacks of this trend are more concerning. On one hand, having similar services and structures across cities creates a sense of convenience and familiarity.  Travelers and expatriates often encounter recognizable global brands, restaurant chains, and familiar urban layouts when visiting or relocating to a new city. As a result, they find it easier to adapt to unfamiliar environments and manage daily routines, which enhances mobility and comfort in an increasingly interconnected world. On the other hand, this convenience comes at the cost of

. For example, in many cities, s, cuisines, and architectural styles have been overshadowed or replaced by global trends such as fast-food chains and modern high-rises, causing these places to lose much of their unique character. Over time, this diminishes the depth of travel experiences and weakens the heritage that connects communities to their history.

In conclusion, the increasing similarity among cities is largely caused by globalization, the expansion of international brands, and the widespread influence of digital culture. While this trend offers some practical benefits, I maintain that its long-term effect is a loss of cultural diversity and

, which ultimately makes increasing global travel a negative development.