SECTION A : READING SKILLS

 Read the following text. 10 m 

(1)

In recent years, there has been a surge in both group and solo travel among young adults in India. A 

survey conducted among young adults aged 18-25 aimed to explore the reasons behind their travel 

preferences and recorded the percentage variation for 10 common points that influence travel 

choices.

(2)

Among those who prefer solo travel, the most common reason cited was the desire for independence 

and freedom (58%), followed closely by the opportunity for introspection and self-discovery (52%). 

Additionally, solo travellers appreciated the ability to customize their itinerary to their preferences 

(44%) and the chance to meet new people on their own terms (36%).

(3)

On the other hand, those who prefer group travel often cited the desire for socializing and making 

new friends (61%) as their primary reason. Group travel also provided a sense of security and safety 

in unfamiliar places (52%) and allowed for shared experiences and memories with others (48%). 

Additionally, group travellers enjoyed the convenience of having pre-planned itineraries and 

organized transportation (38%).

(4)

Interestingly, both groups had similar levels of interest in exploring new cultures and trying new 

experiences (40% for solo travellers, 36% for group travellers). Similarly, both groups valued the 

opportunity to relax and escape from the stresses of everyday life (36% for solo travellers, 32% for 

group travellers).

(5) However, there were also some notable differences between the two groups. For example, solo 

travellers placed a higher priority on budget-friendly travel options (38%) compared to group 

travellers (24%). Conversely, group travellers were more likely to prioritize luxury and comfort during 

their travels (28%) compared to solo travellers (12%).

(6) Overall, the survey results suggest that both group and solo travel have their own unique advantages 

and appeal to different individuals, based on their preferences and priorities. 

Created for academic usage / 290 words

Answer the following questions, based on given passage.

i Infer two possible ways that the survey , mentioned in paragraph (1) could be beneficial. 

Answer in about 40 words. 

2

ii Which travel choice point of the survey would influence tour operators to incorporate group 

dinners, social events, and shared accommodations in their itinerary?

A. Freedom to customise itinerary

B. Luxury and comfort

C. Security and safety

D. Desire for making new friends

1

iii What do the top choices in the survey, for traveling solo and in a group suggest about young 

adults?

1

iv Identify the solo traveller from the following three travellers:

(a) Reshma- I don’t want to keep hunting for rickshaws or taxis. A pre-booked vehicle is 

perfect.

(b) Nawaz-I’m happy sharing a room in a hostel. I don’t need hotel accommodation.

(c) Deepak-I’m not worried about my well-being , even while exploring remote areas.

1

v Which of the following is an example of an opportunity for self-discovery, as mentioned in 

paragraph 2?

1

Page 4 of 11

A. Trying new cuisine

B. Hiring a tour guide

C. Purchasing local artifacts

D. Advance booking travel tickets

vi How might the differences in budget priorities between solo and group travellers impact the 

types of accommodations and activities offered by the travel industry in India?

2

vii Complete the sentence appropriately.

The similarities in the percentage of both solo and group travellers who are interested in 

exploring new cultures and trying new experiences may be due to ________.

1

viii State TRUE or FALSE.

The title, "Wanderlust: The Solo Travel Trend Among Young Adults in India", is appropriate 

for this passage.