Essays

Escape To the Country - Should You?(C2)

CEFR C2

A magazine is interviewing local citizens about living in the countryside versus living in the city. Those who were present have expressed their opinions below: 

"Big city glamour? Balderdash."

"Raising a baby in a New York City apartment is like growing an oak tree in a thimble".

"My children can run around in the countryside and get to know and experience nature in their life."

Write which do you prefer and why? Include specific details and examples to support your choice.

Write your article.

Escape To The Country - Should You?

Urbanization from the beginning of industrialization to the present day has brought opportunities and prosperity to this modern society. Courtesy of advanced technology, life in contemporary urban areas has become all the more expeditious, thrilling, and convenient. Many are attracted by its glamour, convinced by the fascinating prospects of job employment, advanced education, and medical facilities. This may seem appealing, but in a recent interview, one who has been living in a city for decades claim "Big city glamour? Balderdash."

With an increasing population, the complexity and amount of challenges also increase in metropolitan cities. Another citizen states that "Raising a baby in a New York City apartment is like growing an oak tree in a thimble". Overcrowding, exorbitant property prices, and increased stress along with tension remain an unfortunate drawback in reality brought by the high cost of living, especially among the less well-off, where the expectation of better life drastically turns to an even lower standard of living instead. In contrast, a number of city-dwellers move back to the countryside with a dream of living a landlord's life. Conversely, is this the perfect move for escaping from the hustle and bustle of cities?

It's undeniable that living in the country has its advantages, for instance better health quality, due to a considerable lack of noise and air pollution. The smog and dust which bring respiratory problems to residents in cities are replaced and blessed by clean and refreshing air from the countryside. 

Unlike kids from the city, who barely know what a "meadow" is, children in the countryside can be freely immersed in wildlife and experience nature in their childhood. Moreover, studies show that people in rural areas appear to be friendlier. The neighborhood represents a more tight-knit group and helps mutually when troubles and accidents occur.

Nevertheless, the lack of infrastructure and economic opportunities in the countryside also hesitates those considering moving there. Transportation methods are limited, meanwhile public transport still remains a state of near hopelessness. Though roads are paved, those made from dirt or gravel risk wear and corrosion in extreme conditions. The average income per household has hit an all-time low, and the effects of unemployment, as well as underemployment, has become increasingly grueling on its economy each year.

Considering the solution, greater investment in education, public transportation, and overall infrastructure is recommended. If implemented, the development gaps in both areas would be significantly reduced, and the disparity between the wealthy and poor as well. Overall, it might seem that the countryside has both its advantages and disadvantages also. Perhaps the countryside would be a more desirable choice... when certain measures are taken by the government.