IB Geography - Sports Leisure Tourism

Which of the following best explains the shift in leisure activities from primarily physical and communal to more individualized and technology-driven in many developed nations?

• Decreased access to public spaces and recreational facilities.

• A decline in disposable income among the middle class.

• Increased urbanization and the rise of digital technologies.

• Government policies promoting traditional forms of leisure.

Answer explanation

• (C) is correct because urbanization often leads to smaller living spaces and less access to open areas, while digital technologies offer personalized entertainment and social connection from home.

• (A) is incorrect as many developed nations invest in public spaces, though their use may change.

• (B) is incorrect because while income distribution varies, overall disposable income has generally increased in developed nations, allowing for spending on technology and leisure.

• (D) is incorrect as government policies often adapt to changing leisure trends rather than strictly promoting traditional forms.

A less developed nation is experiencing rapid economic growth and a burgeoning middle class. Which of the following is the most likely consequence for the nation's leisure and tourism sector?

• A decline in ecotourism due to increased industrialization.

• A surge in domestic tourism and demand for international travel.

• A focus on preserving traditional cultural practices over modern leisure activities.

• A decrease in participation in sports due to longer working hours.

Answer explanation

• (B) is correct because a growing middle class with increased disposable income will seek out leisure opportunities, both within their country and abroad.

• (A) is plausible but not the most likely overall consequence as some nations may strategically develop ecotourism alongside industrialization.

• (C) is incorrect as while cultural preservation is important, economic growth often leads to a blending of traditional and modern leisure activities.

• (D) is incorrect as increased wealth often leads to more leisure time and participation in sports, even if working hours initially increase.

A remote, mountainous region with limited infrastructure is considering developing its tourism sector. Which of the following is the MOST crucial factor to consider for the success of tourism in this region?

• The popularity of international sporting events held in the region.

• The cost of travel and accommodation for potential tourists.

• The duration of stay preferred by tourists seeking urban experiences.

• The availability of diverse and accessible sports sites within the region.

Answer explanation

• (B) is correct because in a remote region with limited infrastructure, the cost of accessing the destination and staying there will be a major determinant of tourist interest. High costs could deter potential visitors.

• (A) is incorrect as the popularity of international sporting events is less relevant to a remote region with limited infrastructure, and may not be feasible to host.

• (C) is incorrect because urban experiences are not relevant to a remote, mountainous region.

• (D) is incorrect as while sports sites are important, accessibility and cost are more fundamental considerations for a remote region with limited infrastructure.

A coastal city is experiencing a surge in popularity for water sports like surfing and kiteboarding. Which of the following is the MOST likely impact of this trend on the city's tourism and sporting activities?

• A decline in demand for traditional land-based sports due to space constraints.

• Increased investment in specialized sports sites and facilities along the coastline.

• A shift towards longer-duration, high-cost tourism packages focused on cultural experiences.

• A decrease in the overall popularity of the city as a tourist destination due to overcrowding.

Answer explanation

• (B) is correct because the growing popularity of water sports will likely lead to investment in infrastructure to support those activities, such as designated surfing areas, equipment rental, and training facilities.

• (A) is plausible but not the most likely overall impact, as cities can often adapt to accommodate various sports.

• (C) is incorrect as the trend is towards water sports, not necessarily cultural experiences, and the duration and cost may vary.

• (D) is incorrect as increased popularity of water sports is more likely to boost the city's tourism appeal rather than decrease it.

A developed nation experiences a significant increase in its aging population. Which of the following is the MOST likely change in the nation's leisure and tourism sector?

• A decrease in demand for accessible travel and leisure facilities.

• A focus on developing adventure tourism catering to younger demographics.

• An expansion of health-focused leisure activities and senior-friendly travel options.

• A decline in participation in cultural events due to reduced mobility among the elderly.

Answer explanation

• (C) is correct because an aging population will likely demand leisure activities that cater to their specific needs, such as health and wellness programs, accessible travel, and age-friendly facilities.

• (A) is incorrect as demand for accessible travel and leisure facilities will likely increase.

• (B) is incorrect as adventure tourism is more appealing to younger demographics, not the aging population.

• (D) is plausible but not the most likely overall change, as cultural events can be adapted to be more accessible for seniors.

Consider two societies: one in a highly developed nation and the other in a rapidly developing nation. Which TWO of the following statements are MOST likely to be true regarding the link between economic development and participation in leisure activities in these societies? (select more than one)

• The developed nation will likely see a higher participation rate in high-cost, specialized leisure activities due to greater disposable income.

• The developing nation will likely see a decline in traditional communal leisure activities as urbanization and industrialization increase.

• Both nations will experience a significant increase in participation in outdoor recreational activities due to growing environmental awareness.

• Both nations will show an equal distribution of leisure participation across all socio-economic groups.

Answer explanation

• (A) is correct because higher disposable income in developed nations allows for greater participation in expensive leisure activities.

• (B) is correct because urbanization and industrialization in developing nations often disrupt traditional community structures and leisure patterns.

• (C) is plausible but not necessarily true for both nations. Environmental awareness may be higher in developed nations, but access to outdoor recreation may be limited in developing nations due to infrastructure challenges.

• (D) is incorrect because leisure participation is often influenced by socio-economic factors, leading to disparities in both developed and developing nations.

All of the following factors would generally increase female participation in sports EXCEPT:

• Increased visibility of female athletes in mainstream media.

• Availability of gender-segregated sports facilities with limited resources.

• Educational programs promoting the benefits of sports for girls and women.

• Development of inclusive sports programs that accommodate diverse skill levels.

Answer explanation

• (A), (C), and (D) are all factors that would positively influence female participation in sports. * Increased visibility (A) provides role models and normalizes female athleticism.

  • Educational programs (C) address misconceptions and highlight benefits.

  • Inclusive programs (D) ensure that girls of all abilities feel welcome and supported.

• (B) is the exception. While providing separate facilities might seem positive, if those facilities are under-resourced compared to male facilities, it creates inequality and sends a message that female sports are less valued. This would likely discourage participation.

Which would be the most important human factor to sustainably develop a rural hotspot?

• The availability of low-cost, mass-produced souvenirs reflecting global trends.

• Government investment in infrastructure and the promotion of unique, locally-based leisure activities

• Large-scale, standardized entertainment options similar to those found in urban areas.

• A focus on attracting high-volume, short-stay tourists seeking generic experiences

Answer explanation

• (B) is correct because government investment in infrastructure (roads, transportation, accommodation) is crucial for accessibility and development. Promoting unique, locally-based activities (e.g., cultural festivals, adventure sports tied to the natural environment) differentiates the rural hotspot and attracts tourists seeking authentic experiences.

• (A) is incorrect as low-cost, mass-produced souvenirs often detract from the authenticity and unique appeal of a rural hotspot.

• (C) is incorrect because introducing standardized entertainment options diminishes the unique character of the rural area and fails to leverage its local assets.

• (D) is incorrect because a focus on high-volume, short-stay tourism can lead to environmental degradation and cultural dilution without providing substantial long-term economic benefits to the local community.

Which of the following is NOT typically considered a secondary tourist resource?

• Museums and art galleries.

• Theme parks and entertainment complexes.

• Natural landscapes and scenic viewpoints.

• Restaurants and shopping centers.

Answer explanation

• A), (B), and (D) are all secondary tourist resources. They are created or modified by humans to support tourism.

  • Museums and art galleries (A) are built and curated to display cultural or historical artifacts.

  • Theme parks and entertainment complexes (B) are specifically designed to provide leisure and entertainment experiences.

  • Restaurants and shopping centers (D) cater to the needs of tourists and are often developed in response to tourism demand.

• (C) is the exception. Natural landscapes and scenic viewpoints are primary tourist resources. They are natural features of the environment that attract tourists in their own right, without significant human modification. While infrastructure may be added to enhance access or viewing, the natural feature itself is the primary draw.

Which of the following leisure facilities would typically have the LARGEST sphere of influence, potentially attracting visitors from a wider geographic area?

• A city swimming park with 10m diving board

• A neighborhood park with a playground.

• A small, locally-owned coffee shop with outdoor seating.

• A world-renowned museum with unique exhibits.