🇨🇦 Recent IELTS Writing Task 2: Hotels vs. Holiday Homes (Canada 2026)

Are you preparing for your IELTS exam in Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary? Our research team at UpScore IELTS has identified a recurring prompt appearing in Canadian testing centers this March.

The Reported Prompt

"Some people prefer staying in hotels when traveling, while others prefer renting holiday homes for a short period of time. Discuss both views and give your own opinion."

This is a classic "Discussion + Opinion" essay. In the Canadian context, examiners are looking for your ability to weigh the convenience of traditional hospitality against the rising trend of "authentic" local living.

Band 9 Model Answer

The choice of accommodation is a pivotal element of the travel experience. While a significant number of travelers remain loyal to the standardized luxury of hotels, an increasing demographic is opting for the privacy and local immersion offered by short-term holiday rentals. This essay will discuss both perspectives and explain why I believe holiday homes provide a superior experience for the modern traveler.

On the one hand, proponents of hotels argue that these establishments offer an unparalleled level of convenience and security. Hotels provide a regulated environment where guests can expect consistent standards of cleanliness and professional service. For example, business travelers in major Canadian hubs like Toronto often rely on 24-hour concierge services and on-site facilities like meeting rooms and fitness centers. This turnkey experience eliminates the stress of domestic chores, allowing guests to focus entirely on their purpose of travel.

On the other hand, many travelers are now gravitating toward holiday homes because they offer a more authentic cultural immersion. Staying in a residential neighborhood allows visitors to "live like a local," frequenting neighborhood markets and experiencing the true pulse of a city. Furthermore, for families or groups, holiday homes are often more economically viable than booking multiple hotel suites. Having access to a private kitchen and living area not only reduces costs but also fosters a sense of intimacy and "home away from home" that a sterile hotel room cannot replicate.

In my opinion, while hotels are suitable for short business trips, holiday homes are the superior choice for leisure travel. The ability to customize one’s environment and engage deeply with the local community provides a more memorable and enriching journey.

In conclusion, hotels offer efficiency and professional care, but holiday homes provide the space, privacy, and authenticity that define contemporary travel. For a truly immersive experience, the residential option remains the most compelling.

🏆 Vocabulary Booster (Band 8+)

To score high in the Canadian exam, replace common words with these "Academic" alternatives:

Strategic Advice for UpScore Readers

When you see a "Discuss both views" prompt, your essay must have:

1. An introduction that paraphrases the prompt.

2. One full paragraph for the first view (Hotels).

3. One full paragraph for the second view (Holiday Homes).

4. A clear opinion (either in its own paragraph or integrated into the conclusion).

Need your essay checked by an expert? Don't leave your Canadian PR or Study Permit to chance. At UpScore IELTS, we provide detailed feedback based on the latest 2026 examiner criteria.

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