best virtual travel experiences

The best virtual tours to explore the world from home

Oct 8, 2020 • 5 min read

The Sistine Chapel is just one wonder offering a virtual museum tour ©Rajesh Gathwala/500px

We live in an age of unprecedented access to digital technology – and with it, brand new ways of exploring the world around us.

While it's not quite the same as seeing, say, the Mona Lisa or Christ the Redeemer in person, some of the world’s most popular and remote destinations have created libraries of online images and video, as well as 360 degree virtual tours that let you virtually explore museums, galleries, world wonders and even national parks.

Here a just a few of the best digital tours that let you wander the world from wherever you may be social distancing.

See the seven wonders of the world

If there’s anything capable of whetting your appetite for world travel, it is the new seven wonders of the world:  the Great Wall of China , the ancient city of Petra , the Taj Mahal , the Colosseum , Machu Picchu , Christ the Redeemer , and Chichen Itza . Thankfully there are impressive virtual tours of each from The New York Times , AirPano , Google , and Panoramas .

With modern technology, you can even see the last standing wonder of the ancient world— The Pyramids of Giza . There are a few other wonders that might not make it into to the top seven but are still worth a digital peek, like the Alhambra , Seville's La Giralda , and even Easter Island.

Best virtual museum tours

In recent years, Google has partnered with over 2,5000 art museums to upload high-resolution versions of millions of pieces of art. Highlights include New York’s MoMA , DC’s National Gallery of Art , Chicago’s Art Institute , the Casa Battl ó, and Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum to name a few.

In addition, The Louvre offers a virtual tour , as do The Vatican Museums , many of the Smithsonian Museums , the Russian Museum , the top-rated British Museum , the Minneapolis  Museum of Russian Art , and the Palace Museum in Beijing.

You may not be able to kiss the Blarney Stone right now, but you can tour the Blarney Castle from afar. You can also visit the Museum of Flight,  the Museum of Science, the Museum of Natural History,  the National Women's History Museum  and Boston's History of Science Museum .

While museums are often an inherently visual experience, there's a lot to be learned from archives of past lectures and tours like the ones preserved online by Nashville's Frist Museum , the Hunter Museum of American Art in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Smithsonian American Art Museum,  the Frick , and others.

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Explore national parks

While travel to National Parks is best avoided for the time being, you don't need to miss out on the scenery. Virtual Yosemite is absolutely stunning and one of the best, replete with audio. Both Yellowstone National Park and Mount Rushmore offer virtual tours as well. 

Google has similar 360 degree audio-visual tours of five select national parks, including Kenai Fjords, Hawai'i Volcanos , Carlsbad Caverns, Bryce Canyon , and Dry Tortugas, as well as 31 more on Google Earth . You can also get an up-close look at almost 4,000 pieces of artwork, artifacts, and other treasures related to the history and culture of the national parks, and view online exhibits .

Digital safaris

Wildlife is a big draw for travelers, whether it's sighting some of the Big Five in Africa, glimpsing whales in North America, or introducing your children to new animals in person on a family safari . But if you're forays into the bush are grounded for now, many zoos and aquariums have created digital access to their habitats.

You can easily watch several live webcams of some of the nation’s greatest zoos and aquariums, including the  San Diego Zoo , Houston Zoo , Zoo Atlanta , the Tennessee Aquarium , and the Georgia Aquarium . Additionally you can see Canadian farm animals doing their thing , or you could watch Stella the Dog jump endlessly into huge piles of Maine leaves.

You may also like:  These nine wildlife web cams offer access to your favorite animals

Virtual hiking

Thanks to panoramic video, you can get a really good idea of what a hike looks like well before you arrive at the trailhead. For example, you can experience all of the following top-rated hikes right now from your computer or tablet:  Bryce Canyon , Grand Canyon , GR20 , Inca Trail , and the death-defying Angel's Landing . For even more great hikes, simply YouTube one of Lonely Planet’s top 10 treks or any other hike that suits your fancy. Bonus points if you follow along during a workout to enhance the realism.

Famous landmarks

You can visit many wonders of nature, including the Amazon Rainforest , Iguazu Falls , the Komodo Islands , or Table Mountain , using virtual tours. Or you can explore the Statue of Liberty , the Sahara Desert , Niagara Falls , or even a guided tour of the Eiffel Tower . For even more virtual tours, search your bucket list of adventures with  AirPano , Google Earth , or YouTube .

Travel to outer space

The moon hasn't made it to Lonely Planet's Best In Travel list (yet!), and even without self-isolation and shelter-in-place measures for COVID-19, many of us may never travel to space. But thanks to technology, now is as good of a time as any to do so virtually. Before blasting off, considering touring some of NASA’s offices first. Then relive the last lunar missions and moon walks in stunning HD. Or take a virtual tour of Mars with the help of Google. 

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This article was originally published March 2020 and was last updated October 2020.

This article was first published Mar 18, 2020 and updated Oct 8, 2020.

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10 of the Best Virtual Reality Travel Experiences

  With the time and expense required to travel being prohibitive to many, there are alternative ways of indulging your wanderlust – including via the burgeoning world of Virtual Reality.

(Photo: Cubicle Ninjas)

There are a huge number of VR companies all vying to create ever more unique experiences for consumers – and one of the biggest growth categories has been travel. And what better time to get a taste of exploration and adventure from the comfort of your living room, equipped only with a VR headset, than now, when travel is a luxury that many just can’t stretch to? We’ve picked out 10 of the best virtual reality travel experiences currently on the market.

So which VR headset should you go for? Our favourite is the Meta Quest 3, which launched onto the market in mid-2023 and is the successor to the Meta Quest 2. For immersive games and travel experiences, we believe the Meta Quest 3 is destined to become the leading VR headset over the coming years. It’s pretty affordable, too, and unlike other headsets, doesn’t require cords or a computer. You can purchase the Meta Quest 3 at Amazon.com.

Guided Meditation VR

Developed by Cubicle Ninjas, Guided Meditation VR is designed to bring peace, joy, and calm back into your daily life by teaching you ancient meditation practices in a cutting-edge way. It features over 40 lush environments to escape the everyday, 30-plus hours of guided meditations on anxiety, depression, maternity, resilience, sleep and zen, and hundreds of hours of calming musical audio tracks to help enhance your meditation experience. Users can also customise their sessions to their own specific preferences and needs, including the option to switch into Motion mode and gently float through beautiful vistas like you would on a lazy river, leaving the worries of your life behind before returning calmer and stronger.

PRICE £10.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

Be anywhere in the world with anyone, instantly, in this captivating game developed by Wooorld Inc. Visit hundreds of cities, architectural landmarks, natural wonders, and vacation spots in incredible 3D detail, and get tips about the best places to visit, the hidden gems, where to get the best food and all the tourist traps to avoid. You can also create your own 3D avatars with face and body tracking and test your worldly knowledge by guessing where you are after being teleported to 5 random locations, with only the landscape, flora, architecture, and road signs for clues. The game can played as collaboratively as you wish, with options to explore the world with friends and meet new people, or hop into a Solo World without any distractions.

PRICE Free HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

(Photo: Wooorld Inc.)

Blueplanet VR Explore

(Photo: Blueplanet VR Explore)

Highlighting sacred and fragile locations of natural beauty and cultural heritage, Blueplanet VR Explore  is a collection of remarkable places across the world. With freedom to move around and explore, the virtual reality experiences are captured in volumetric 3D with great detail and accuracy. The scenes look and feel like these places do in real life, and enable you to freely move around to enjoy and explore these remarkable, fragile, and priceless environments. Concern for the environment often comes from direct experience, and being as close as we can get to experiencing a sense of actually being there, Blueplanet can help encourage people to appreciate and protect these treasures.

PRICE £18.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

BRINK Traveler

Travel to some of the world’s most amazing natural wonders in fully immersive 3D and feel like you’re really there in this awe-inspiring game by Brink XR. Step into a scene akin to a postcard as you visit a total of 28 (with more on their way) of the most breathtaking places on Earth. In-game highlights include room-scale walkable areas in each destination, a virtual guide and assistant to learn about where you’re visiting, and the chance to shoot photos to share with friends. You can either play the game solo or with friends and family in multiplayer mode.

PRICE £11.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

(Photo: BRINK XR)

National Geographic Explore VR

Created in partnership with National Geographic, a world-leading society in the fields of geography, cartography and exploration, this magical VR experience invites you to discover two of the most iconic locations on Planet Earth. Don your explorer hat and head to Antarctica for an exhilarating expedition. Navigate around icebergs in a kayak, climb a vast ice shelf and survive a snowstorm as you hunt for a lost emperor penguin colony. Visit the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru and get immersed in amazing digital reconstructions of the legendary site. Witness mummy worships, raise a cup of sacred chicha and encounter cute and furry alpacas as you match Hiram Bingham’s photographs from when he rediscovered the citadel. Be sure to take a camera as your best snaps may even make it into the prestigious National Geographic magazine.

PRICE £7.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

(Photo: Force Field Entertainment B.V)

The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners

Fans of the hugely popular TV blockbuster The Walking Dead can now join the world of zombies in this new VR adventure. Travel through the ruins of New Orleans as you fight, scavenge, and survive, each day unravelling another mystery lurking within the city’s historic quarters. Encounter desperate factions and lone survivors who could be friend or foe. Whether you help others or take what you want by force, every choice you make has consequences. What kind of survivor will you be for the people of NOLA? Scavenge for anything that you can; weapons, food, tools, and clues. Be wary of the living and the dead, with spatial audio drawing attention to any loud noise. Craft makeshift gear out of scrapped material; blades, guns, medicine, and more. Test your morals and make difficult choices for yourself and others. It’s all here, bringing the small screen to life in a big way.

PRICE £29.99 HEADSETS Meta Quest 3

(Photo: Skydance Interactive)

Narrated by award-winning actress Anna Friel, this trail-blazing VR series opens the door to some of the planet’s wildest environments while redefining the limits of 3D-180 cameras. Meet the humans protecting our most precious wildlife, explore the great savannahs of Kenya, discover the ancient jungles of Borneo and dive into the rich coral reefs of Raja Ampat. Encounter elephants, orangutans, manta rays and some incredible humans, all in stunning cinematic footage filmed from the air and deep into the ocean. The series was produced in partnership with World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF),

(Photo: PHORIA)

The world is your oyster with this interactive, immersive VR experience that’s designed to be played by the whole family. There’s global travel and adventure in which your friends and family can join city tours, hot air balloon rides, back-country road trips, and plenty more. Or you can simply kick back and relax, practice meditation and get back to nature – all in the company of a guide or going solo, if you prefer. Other features include photo sharing, soundtracks, a range of fun games and media customisation.

(Photo: AARP Innovation Labs)

Rome Reborn: The Pantheon

Created by Flyover Zone, an American company specialising in virtual travel applications that present the world’s most important cultural heritage sites and monuments, Rome Reborn is one of five applications that present different areas of ancient Rome. This particular one transports users over the entire ancient city, focussing on the Pantheon, perhaps the best-preserved building from antiquity. In the company of two virtual guides, you’ll get to explore the exterior forecourt and interior sanctuary of the reconstructed complex as you listen and learn about the Pantheon’s design and decoration, as well as the nature of the religious cult once housed within it.

PRICE £3.99 HEADSETS Currently only available on Oculus Rift

(Photo: Flyover Zone Productions)

Monte Fitzroy is Argentina’s most famous mountain landmark and is even used as the logo for outdoor retailer, Patagonia. It is a place that immediately evokes a sense of adventure. At the foot of the mountain is a beautiful and remote glacial lake known as Laguna Sucia. Most people who visit Monte Fitzroy view it from a location that is much easier to access. Laguna Sucia requires a much tougher hard-to-access trail that culminates in one of the most beautiful and remote glacial lakes in existence. You are rewarded with a sense of almost meditative stillness as you approach this untouched natural amphitheatre. This VR experience utilises Pterovision, a 3D technology that integrates computational photography, 360 Video, and gaming and allows you to take off like a bird, fly around the lake, visit the waterfalls along the edge, and fly over glacial formations beneath the mountain peaks. Numerous narrations will tell you about the challenges we faced when filming in this location, as well as educate you about the geology, culture, and history.

PRICE $2.99 HEADSETS Currently only available on Oculus Rift 

(Photo: Specterras Productions)

Gala360 – Travel & Relax

Taking you on awe-inspiring virtual adventures across the globe, Gala360 is the result of the magic touch of an array of exceptionally talented photographers who have captured their globe-trotting trips in all their glory before being rendered into VR form. In professional 6K resolution, more than 300 tours around the world are featured, with some also including narration which allows you to listen to the stories behind the trips. Most of the tours are free, but you can pay a small fee to unlock more.

PRICE Free HEADSETS Currently only available on Oculus Go (soon available on Quest 2)

(Photo: Gala 360)

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The 12 Best Free Virtual Travel Experiences Worth Checking Out

Don't have the means to travel the world? You can still visit stunning locations via virtual travel. Here are some of our favorites!

Do you want to travel, but circumstances are preventing you from doing so? Thankfully, the internet enables you to visit multiple destinations around the world in real time. No plane tickets, visas, or long flights necessary!

If you have a laptop, a smartphone, or a VR device and a reliable Wi-Fi connection, you are all set to take these virtual tours for free.

1. African Safari

WildEarth relies on safari vehicles, guides on foot, drones, balloons, rovers and remote cams to capture some of Africa's most iconic animals in their own habitats. You can interact with an expert game ranger hosting the safari while you watch.

Related: Outdoor Virtual Tours to Get Back to Nature With Hikes, Dives, and Spelunking

2. The White House

At 55,000 square feet, the White House has 6 floors, 132 rooms (16 are family guest rooms), 35 bathrooms, 28 fireplaces, eight staircases, three elevators, 412 doors and 147 windows.

Thanks to Google Arts and Culture, you can enjoy a walk through the most famous residence in the US without having to worry about the Secret Service.

Related: Virtual Field Trips That Make History Come Alive

3. Discover India

You can visit the Taj Mahal and other iconic Indian sites via the official Indian government's immersive Audio Odigos app.

Once the app is downloaded Audio Odigos does not require Wi-Fi or an Internet connection. You can choose a destination and download all the chapters of the destination you are visiting in one go and enjoy your tour offline.

Download: Audio Odigos for Android | iOS (Free)

4. Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House offers exclusive live streams of their performances, inclusive of original new digital programming direct from Sydney Opera House. It's free when you sign up.

5. Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

The Northern Lights most commonly appear between 5:00 pm and 2:00 am.

A good display may last for no longer than 15-30 minutes at a time, although if you're really lucky, they could last for a few hours. Norway's lights over Lapland project enables you to experience the Northern Lights via VR.

6. The Grand Canyon

The most popular hiking trail into the Grand Canyon is the Bright Angel Trail. Google's Street View Trek enables you to virtually hike it.

7. Paris Catacombs

Beneath the City of Paris is a 200 mile series of macabre tunnels containing the bones of 6 million people. As photographer Felix Nadar put it, the catacombs are one of those places "everyone wants to see and no one wants to see again". You can see the catacombs for yourself with this virtual tour.

Related: The Best Virtual Tours of the Human Body for Interactive Anatomy

8. Christ the Redeemer Statue

Located at the peak of the 700-metre (2,300 ft) Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park, overlooking the city of Rio de Janeiro, the Christ the Redeemer statue is the largest art deco statue in the world. You can skip the 200-step climb to the top via this stunning virtual tour set to soothing jazz by Kenny G.

9. Roman Colosseum

Fans of the Gladiator movie will no doubt recall the legendary fight scenes in the colosseum.

In real life, the colosseum was used as an entertainment venue for 390 years. During that time more than 400,000 people and 1 million animals died inside the Colosseum. You can virtually visit the real colosseum on AirPano.

10. Brooks Falls, Alaska

EXPLORE is the largest live nature cam network on the planet.

If you are a fan of bears, the livestream of Brooks Falls in Alaska's Katmai National Park is the best place in the world to watch brown bears feasting on salmon as they swim upstream to spawn. EXPLORE offers a multicam experience of various virtual tours both on land and under the sea.

11. New York Times Square

Would you like to visit Times Square in New York right this very moment? EarthCam takes you on an aerial and street-level tour of the square, complete with audio.

12. Marine Life Virtual Dive

America's National Marine Sanctuary System is a network of underwater parks encompassing more than 600,000 square miles of marine and Great Lakes waters, and now you can visit these amazing places in the blink of an eye through virtual reality.

If you're on a desktop, click and drag to experience in 360 degrees, or pair your phone with your virtual reality headset. For the best viewing experience, watch the video in high-definition: click the gear symbol in the lower right corner, then select any of the HD options that pop up when you click "Quality."

Related: Google Earth Tour Guide: Virtual Tours You'll Want to Check Out

Hot Tip: Amazon Explore

Amazon Explore enables you to virtually tour the world's cities and experience local culture with the help, or rather the company, of local guides or hosts.

Amazon Explore experiences are not free. However, if you’re an Amazon Prime member, your first experience of up to $50 is free with the promo code FREEFUN for a limited time.

How to get a free Amazon Explore experience:

• Visit Amazon Explore .
• Select and schedule an experience that is $50 or less. Use the code FREEFUN at checkout. This will reduce your cost to zero.
• Meet Your Host: When it’s time for your livestreamed session, show up at your computer and meet up with your host.
• Explore: The session is private and just for you, so ask questions, take pictures, and focus on what interests you the most.

Virtual Travel Is Here to Stay

For travelers who have various physical impairments—mobile, visual, auditory—virtual tours are a great way to visit destinations that were once off limits. Needless to say, those with financial limitations are equally empowered to visit places they otherwise could not afford.

If you are worried about global warming, traveling via internet is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and avoid flight shaming while seeing the world.

And of course there are the time savings. You may not have the time to see the world in your lifetime. With virtual travel, you can visit a new continent every day.

The 12 Best Virtual Vacations You Can Take Without Traveling

While recent events may have kept us off planes and, well, on our couch, travel still remains one of the best ways to demonstrate our global interconnectedness and humanity. So for now, because we are all in this together (and separately from our individual couches), we’ll have to be armchair voyagers as we explore museums, libraries, and historical, religious, and cultural sites. Learning and discovery don’t have to stop. Keep reading to find out about the best virtual vacations from the comfort—and safety—of your own home.

Have a Virtual Adventure at the Grand Canyon

The National Park Service does more than educate sightseers in person when they visit any of the 61 national parks. You can view the Grand Canyon via 360-degree photographs on an archeology virtual tour, go on a virtual hike past layers of earth to the famous Phantom Ranch, or float down the Colorado River on a rafting trip.

Online: View virtual tours, maps, and photographs through the National Park System’s website.

See Llamas at Machu Picchu

Wendy Altschuler

High in the Peruvian Andes mountains sits Machu Picchu , an ancient citadel built in the 15th century. A visit here will reward you with stunning mountain views, llama sightings, and great hikes throughout olden ruins.

Online: Visit the citadel online through a 360-degree virtual tour , provided by You Visit.

Wander Through the Sistine Chapel in Italy

Located in the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel is famous for the Renaissance frescos that brighten up the interior. In person, when open to the public, The Sistine Chapel is crowded, and it can be difficult to view all of the artwork. A virtual tour is not only a great way to appreciate the chapel without the interference of too many people, but you can also see the gardens, Pontifical Villas, and Vatican City museums.

Online: See the Vatican grounds, including the Sistine Chapel , by clicking on arrows to move up, down, left and right throughout each tour. You’ll also be able to zoom in to get a better look at the paintings.

Visit the Land of Creation

Jerusalem is home to three monolithic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is one of the most notable locations in Jerusalem . Located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City in Israel, this religious site is said to be where Jesus was crucified, where his empty tomb is located, and where he is believed to have been resurrected.

Online: Experience 360-degree virtual tours of Jerusalem, including The Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Western Wall, Old City markets, Mount of Olives, and much more via Samsung XL.

Tour the White House

Visiting Washington, D.C. , is inadvisable right now, but you can still go on a virtual tour of the White House . See the Eisenhower Executive Office Building positioned next to the West Wing where White House Staff offices are located. Click through a 360-degree view of the Vice President’s Ceremonial Office, the Secretary of War Suite, the War Library/The Law Library, and The Indian Treaty Room. Learn about how the art and décor of the White House has changed with each Presidential occupancy. You’ll have the opportunity to view the Entrance Hall, Cross Hall, East Room, Green Room, Blue Room, Red Room, State Dining Room, Vermeil Room, China Room, East Garden Room, and more.

Online: Google Arts & Culture offers a wide variety of virtual reality tours.

Visit the Guggenheim Museum in New York City

 Courtesy of The Guggenheim Museum

New York City’s Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is one of the most stunning Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structures in the country. The white spiral ramp in the interior takes you from the bottom to the top in an organized and visually pleasing way.

Online: Google Arts & Culture will lead you through the museum’s multiple floors, highlighting 600 artworks along the way. You’ll be able to zoom in and out and rotate your view 360 degrees.

Understand the Natural World in Washington, D.C.

TripSavvy / Victoria Chamberlain

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History , home to 125 million artifacts, is one of the most-visited natural history institutions on the planet. Visit the exhibits—permanent, current, and past—from your desktop or mobile device on a virtual tour. You’ll be able to click on blue arrows as you navigate through each exhibit, located on the ground, first, or second floors. Be patient as pages load and click on camera icons to get a close-up view of a particular object.

Online: The museum’s website showcases a wide variety of exhibits via virtual tours.

Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in New York City

If you’ve never been to New York City, then the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration on Ellis Island are likely high on your travel wishlist. Both islands, which are part of the same National Park System, are worth exploring. Go on a virtual tour of Ellis Island to see where more than 40 percent of Americans can find family history and climb inside of the Statue of Liberty.

Online: The National Park Service has virtual tours of Ellis Island , created by Heritage Documentation Programs, and the Statue of Liberty National Monument. Scholastic also has an informative Teacher’s Activity Guide that will allow you to see photos, listen to audio, and learn about Ellis Island on an interactive tour.

Smile Back at Mona Lisa in Paris

kwanchai_k photograph / Getty Images

The Louvre in Paris is the largest art museum on the planet, home to more than 35,000 displayed works, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. While this historic museum is usually congested, especially on the weekends, you can visit virtually, from the comfort of your own home, and see the museum’s most impressive works. If nothing else, this online experience can be valuable research for when you travel to Paris in the future.

Online: Immerse yourself in the museum’s galleries and exhibits via virtual reality. See Egyptian antiques, the Louvre’s moat, and, of course, Mona Lisa’s smile. The museum’s website also has a number of videos that you can watch to get a better understanding of the museum’s art. Note: You’ll have to download Flash Player. You Visit also has a great 360-degree virtual reality display of several museum galleries.

Witness the Treasures of England’s British Museum

 TripSavvy / Gautier Houba 

Home to the Rosetta Stone, Greek vases, Egyptian mummies, an Easter Island statue, an Aztec double-headed serpent sculpture, and n umerous other artifacts and artworks , the British Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London. See impressive examples of human history, art, and culture through a virtual tour.

Online: See the British Museum via Google, where you can navigate a timeline to view specific artifacts.

Learn About Amsterdam’s History and Culture at The Rijksmuseum

Merten Snijders /  GettyImages

The Rijksmuseum is one of the most visited museums in Amsterdam, and for good reason. See works from the Dutch Golden Age by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Ruisdael, Steen, and more. The building itself is also a work of art and worth viewing through virtual reality.

Online: Virtual tours, of the interior as well as the exterior, are available through Google Arts & Culture.

Float Along the Great Wall of China

Fortification walls, stretching thousands of miles, were built in northern China to protect the country against invaders and to control trade along the Silk Road. The Great Wall of China is known as one of the most impressive and significant archeological human feats in history.

Online: Wander through sections of the Great Wall of China through a virtual tour, provided by You Visit. Click on the camera icons to see close-up photographs.

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A new wave of virtual trips let you travel the world from your living room

By Jenny Southan

As COVID-19 wreaks havoc on the travel industry – forcing countries to close borders , cancel flights and place populations on lockdown – going on holiday has had to be postponed . However, the need for escapism is more acute than ever, as is our curiosity, which is not satisfied by being housebound. Instead of bingeing endless Netflix shows, the answer could lie in virtual travel. (If people are paying to see a hologram of Whitney Houston perform in concert, then why not?)

In the USA , video games are, apparently, being played at record levels, while sales of home consoles such as Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 are rocketing in South Korea . The same can be expected in the UK while people are quarantined – but instead of playing shoot-’em-ups, how about taking a walk around the Academy Ruins in Anthem or nosing around the White House in Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 ?

At the beginning of 2020, Rough Guides published a guide book to virtual Xbox worlds, proving that gaming tourism – whereby people play to explore, rather than win – is now a legitimate trend. The book provides sightseeing guides to eight Xbox One X Enhanced games such as Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Forza Horizon 4 and Metro Exodus , with sections on getting around, etiquette, shopping and things not to miss, just as it would with a physical city.

The Rough Guide to Xbox states that game graphics are now so immersive and all-consuming that the ‘thrilling feeling of being somewhere new is no longer the exclusive domain of real-world travel’. It adds that the rise in popularity of in-game photography – gamers sharing images of the places they’ve discovered on Instagram – demonstrates that there is still social kudos attached to visiting a digital destination. The only thing you won’t come back with is a tan.

Using a virtual-reality (VR) headset – either a stand-alone unit or one that connects to a gaming PC or console – is a way to be transported to other realms in 3D. The wireless Oculus Quest has partnered with National Geographic to offer disembodied hikes around Machu Picchu and even kayak around Antarctica, while PlayStation 4’s headset can plunge you into the stunningly beautiful and seemingly endless No Man’s Sky (the idea is to travel through galaxies discovering new resources on alien planets).

Although not currently accessible due to temporary coronavirus measures, London’s futuristic Otherworld gaming arcade is a thrilling example of how VR is evolving as a form of entertainment. Here, punters enter sci-fi gaming pods where they can climb Mount Everest in hyper-real immersive 3D, or walk through the beautiful landscapes of Iceland inspired by Björk’s Vulnicura album.

Otherworld says: ‘Free from physical and spatial constraints, it can provide a limitless number of impossible and exhilarating experiences.’ (If you have seen Steven Spielberg’s Ready Player One , you will have a good idea of what it's like.) Sure, VR is never going to replace travel but that’s not the intention. It’s about providing perfect moments – the kind we talk about on our return from a trip – like watching a sunrise from the top of a volcano. And the best thing is, it’s relatively cheap, plus you don’t have to worry about jet lag, getting ill or mosquito bites. This is travel for the mind, not the body.

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By Marti Buckley

By Trish Lorenz

Another example is Google Arts & Culture, which has compiled virtual tours of hundreds of the world’s best museums and galleries – from MoMA in New York and Florence’s Uffizi to the State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg and Tate Britain. It works on desktops but the tablet/smartphone app is best – and for those who have a Google Cardboard headset (phones slot straight in), it will be even more immersive.

As cultural institutions such as these are shuttered during the pandemic to help facilitate social distancing, Google’s endeavour means that not only can people explore their famous halls, but they can also do so without queues and crowds, with the option to zoom in for high-definition examinations of colours and brushstrokes.

It doesn’t end there. With Google Street View, you can poke around backstage at the Paris Opera, stand on top of the Taj Mahal and step inside Hong Kong’s Blue House, a living time capsule. Google Earth VR, meanwhile, lets you fly like a superhero around some of the world's most amazing sites, from the Hoover Dam to the Matterhorn. (An HTC Vive or Oculus Rift headset are needed to experience these.)

At the end of March 2020, the British Library launched a series of virtual historic globes that have been digitised over the course of two years by imaging specialists. Described as ‘one of the most beautiful but fragile subsets in the British Library’s vast maps collection,’ the terrestrial and celestial globes date between 1600 and 1950, and represent centuries of knowledge about our planet and cosmos. Although seeing them in person is not possible as the library is temporarily closed, the public can explore them in detail from afar online .

Of course, being grounded is frustrating, and it’s shocking to see hotels closing and airlines slashing entire networks, but it’s an opportunity to get perspective on everything we’ve taken for granted. As problems such as overtourism are solved overnight, at least in the short term, giving the planet some breathing space, now is a time to embrace overlooked technological possibilities. We can spend evenings having virtual FaceTime-and-wine hangouts with friends, and even stream opera and classical music concerts from global institutions.

For example, during the coronavirus outbreak, the Berlin Philharmonic has opened up its digital concert hall to give access to its performance archives, while New York’s Metropolitan Opera has aired past productions filmed for its Live in HD series for cinemas. Plan the rest of your self-isolation staycations as you would a holiday, and you’ll soon feel part of the world again – watching La Traviata in Teatro Massimo Palermo one night, followed by a morning meandering around Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum. And you don’t even need to pack a suitcase.

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These Virtual Travel Experiences Are Going To Be What Gets You Through Quarantine, I Promise

Staycations have never been so thrilling.

BuzzFeed Staff

Let's face it, traveling is an irreplaceable experience, and while stay at home orders mean we can't go exploring just yet, we can bring the world to our homes in the meantime.

From celebrity chef-led cooking classes on Instagram to live streams of concerts to virtual tours of museums — the world has responded quickly to "social distancing" orders , making it easier than ever to "travel" without leaving your home . So add these virtual experiences to your quarantine bucket list for the ultimate staycation.

From China to Peru, you can experience the world's most epic landmarks without the epic crowds, thanks to livestreams, virtual tours, and 360-degree videos.

Great Wall of China : Mentally climb one of the seven wonders of the world with a virtual tour.

Wonders of the World : While you're at it, why not cross all the new seven wonders off your bucket list (like Machu Picchu, Petra, and the Taj Mahal) with these 360-degree tours.

Sistine Chapel : Marvel at the intricate ceilings of this treasured religious landmark in Vatican City with seven virtual tours.

CN Tower : Peer over Downtown Toronto with a live stream from the top of this 1,815 foot (553 meter) architectural wonder.

Buckingham Palace : You'll have four rooms of the Queen's official residence all to yourself with these virtual tours.

Jerusalem's Old City : Learn about this holy pilgrimage site with a 360-degree tour that packs a full day of exploring into a few minutes.

Museums around the world are offering virtual tours , online collections, and interactive experiences, aka endless entertainment for history buffs and art lovers.

The Louvre : Journey from ancient Egypt to the Victorian era with four virtual tours at this Parisian museum.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art : The Met Gala may be canceled but you can still get your costume fix with the online collection at The Costume Institute . They've got 26 other online exhibits for you to explore too.

The British Museum : Take a virtual tour of the Oceania or Prints and Drawings galleries, or browse their online collection, home to over one million objects.

Grammy Museum : Take a music education lesson or listen to a curated Spotify playlist while browsing the newly released archival content — the Museum at Home program has you covered.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History : Current and permanent exhibitions, research stations, the Smithsonian Castle... You can cover a lot of ground at this museum with their virtual tours.

International Center of Photography : The Visual History of Hip-Hop exhibit at this newly opened museum is a must for hip-hop fans. Thankfully you can sneak a peek via their virtual tour; check out their audio guide and Spotify playlist to complete the experience.

The Dalí Museum : Browse the four online exhibits, or for something more interactive download the Dreams of Dalí virtual reality experience.

The National Palace Museum : Go treasure hunting for Chinese artefacts that date back as far as the Neolithic age through their 720-degree virtual tour, complete with audio and animated stories.

If the view from your window is starting to get old, consider virtually exploring the great outdoors instead — many of our planet's best national parks, hiking trails, and natural wonders can be ~experienced~ online.

Yosemite National Park : From the epic views atop the Diving Board to the jaw-dropping Nevada Fall, the 360-footage of California's Sierra Nevada mountains is breathtaking.

Inca Trail : The long trek to Peru's iconic Machu Picchu can be condensed into one hour with this virtual journey (best part — you won't be sore after!).

Northern lights : Tune into a live stream from Northern Canada and you might just be able to cross this natural phenomenon off your bucket list.

Carlsbad Caverns : Carlsbad Caverns National Park's 119 caves are yours to explore with a park ranger on this virtual tour. Don't miss The Big Room, it's the largest single cave chamber in North America.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park : Escape to Australia's Northern Territory with this virtual tour that includes stories and songs from Anangu, the traditional owners of the land.

If your idea of the ideal evening on vacation is a night out on the town, you're in luck — comedy clubs, Broadway, and even local bars are bringing the entertainment to you.

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BroadwayHD : From Broadway to Shakespeare, this streaming service has upwards of 300 theater productions for you to binge during your free seven-day trial.

Virtual comedy shows : Laugh away your quarantine stress with a live stream of a comedy show in New York City or by following one of these comedians on social media.

Marie's Crisis Café : Belt out your favorite show tunes at a virtual sing-a-long — this historic piano bar in New York City is live-streaming piano sets in their Facebook group every day

Cuddling with furry friends at home not making up for forgone safari or diving plans? Thankfully you can be a fly on the wall at top-notch zoos and aquariums via live stream cameras.

San Diego Zoo : Peek inside the enclosures at this world-famous zoo via one of their 10 live-streaming cameras. Heartwarming pandas and koalas? Yes please.

Houston Zoo : Six live camera streams lets you watch gorillas, giraffes, and even leafcutter ants in their habitats.

Cincinnati Zoo : Check out this zoo's Facebook page for their educational "Home Safari" live stream that highlights one animal each day and includes an activity to do at home (perfect for the kids!). Don't miss the heartwarming video series about Fiona, a prematurely born baby hippopotamus.

Beekman 1802's farm : The super adorable baby goats at this farm are perfect if you just need a quick hit of visual comfort.

Monterey Bay Aquarium : Watch waddling African penguins or get up close and personal with sharks — this world-renowned aquarium has 10 live streams for you to choose from. Don't miss the Moon Jelly Cam — it's exactly the kind of ASMR video we need right now.

Great Barrier Reef : Whether you're an avid or aspirational diver, this virtual tour with David Attenborough will cure any deep-sea wanderlust.

If there's one silver lining to all the music festival cancellations , it's that you can now have that intimate one-on-one concert you've always dreamed of — musicians around the world are offering free live online performances to encourage people to stay home.

Virtual concerts : The number of free online concerts is continuously growing — you could easily fill your day with an at-home festival circuit. We're especially loving the Together at Home Campaign , where big-name artists offer free intimate performances on social media promote social distancing. Fans can make requests and preview new songs, plus there's even been fun cameos, like when Chrissy Teigen and her son joined John Legend on the piano.

The Metropolitan Opera : If you're craving a night at the opera, you'll love that this New York institution is sharing a performance every night for free.

Seattle Symphony : Into classical music? This esteemed symphony is posting free broadcasts on social media.

Tired of staring at your houseplants? Get your nature fix with a virtual visit to some of the country's top greenhouses.

Garfield Park Conservatory : Chicago's stunning indoor green oasis offers digital tours that are as pretty as they are educational.

Volunteer Park Conservatory : This historic Seattle landmark went live every day for a week to support Washington's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order — check out the recordings on their Facebook page for a quick hit of relaxation.

National Cherry Blossom Festival : Catch the cherry blossoms before they're gone with the live bloom cam and a virtual tour of the Tidal Basin.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens : Take a relaxing tour of this European-inspired estate overlooking Miami's Biscayne Bay.

With several food and wine experts dishing out their tips and tricks online (for free!), now's your chance to take that once-in-a-lifetime cooking class you've always dreamed of.

Cooking tutorials with celebrity chefs: Join Michelin-starred chef Massimo Bottura's "Kitchen Quarantine" class on Instagram or Iron Chef Michael Symon on the Food Network Kitchen Facebook page every day. You'll also find Antoni Porowski cooking up pantry staples for his “Quar Eye: Cooking Lessons in Quarantine” series on Instagram .

Borough Market cooking classes : Join a cooking class live streamed on this beloved London market's Instagram . They've also set up the Borough Market Community on Facebook for foodies to share recipes and cooking tips.

Pasta-making with Nonna Neria : This 84-year-old Italian grandma is combating a decline in business by live-streaming her cooking classes direct from Italy.

Virtual winery experiences : Upgrade your virtual happy hour with an online wine tasting and tour of California's Tolosa Winery .

Just because you swapped your spring break wellness retreat for a socially distanced "retreat" home, doesn't mean you can't recreate the R&R vacay vibe.

Virtual yoga : If you had to cancel a yoga retreat, you'll love that Corepower Yoga recently made their online classes free. They're just one of countless fitness studios that are offering free virtual classes .

The Dojo Upstate Sound Bath : Grab that eye mask and find a cozy resting spot for the ultimate sensory escape — a sound bath live streamed from this listening room in New York's Hudson Valley.

Well-being workshops: If you've ever been curious about breath work, now's your chance — wellness guru Maryam Ajayi will be leading several sliding-scale sessions this Spring. Or sign up for one of Holisticism's virtual well-being workshops to dive into topics like chakra healing.

And if our planet just isn't that appealing to you right now, take your social distancing to a whole new level by traveling to outer space .

NASA offices : Before blasting off, you'll want to know what you're getting yourself into. To train like an astronaut, take an online tour of the Johnson Space Center in Houston, and check out the Kennedy Space Center 's educational live streams on Facebook.

The Houston Space Center : Download their special app to journey into space via their Location-Aware Audio Tour (with fun facts along the way). If you have a VR headset, you'll love their virtual reality experience of the Moon.

Access Mars : Round out your space expedition with a 360-degree virtual tour of the red planet with Google.

Don't forget to check out Bring Me! for all of BuzzFeed's best travel tips and hacks, vacation inspiration, and more!

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Fun and Free: 20 Best Virtual Travel Experiences

We may be living in extraordinary times, but the travel industry is making huge efforts to help make life more enjoyable for parents and kids with virtual travel experiences — and to teach them something new at the same time. Family-friendly hotels, destinations, attractions and even sports teams are producing virtual travel content that will delight kids and parents alike. And the best part: It’s all free. Here are some fun virtual travel and e-learning experiences that you won’t want to miss.

Become a junior marine biologist with Six Senses. (Photo courtesy of Six Senses)

1/20 Virtual Travel: Become a Marine Biologist

Get ready for a new type of homeschooling, where turtles are teachers and reef fish can be made out of egg cartons and bottle tops. Six Senses has launched a new, online Junior Marine Biology Program . It’s a free, 10-week virtual travel program inviting marine lovers of all ages to become a marine biologist at home. This adorable concept originated on-property at Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives . Now it’s been reinvented as part of the company’s new #AtHomeWithSixSenses initiative. Although the structure is slightly different to what children might enjoy on a vacation in the Maldives, the objective is the same. It aims to help foster an understanding of marine biology and see first-hand the importance of conserving our oceans. The course is open to everyone and there’s content suitable for all ages.

READ MORE: “26 of the Best Hotel Kids Programs”

Naifa and Sharaf show how to make towel animals at the underwater SEA restaurant at Anantara Kihavah Maldives. (Photo courtesy of Anantara)

2/20 Virtual Travel: Make Towel Animals

What kid doesn’t love getting a towel animal on their bed at a hotel? The housekeeping teams from Anantara hotels around the world have created a series of cute instructional virtual travel videos so that junior hoteliers in the making can practice their towel art skills. All you need is a couple of bath towels to bring a touch of the tropics to your bathrooms. First up, Naufa and Sharaf from Anantara Kihavah Maldives take us under the waves at the underwater restaurant SEA to create a manta ray. Twirl up a turtle with the Anantara Eastern Mangroves. Create your own elephant, Thailand’s national animal, at Anantara Siam Bangkok. Make a bunny with Manish from Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island. After you have fun with the little ones, share your creations on social media using the hashtag #AnantaraEscapism.

READ MORE: “You Can Now Sleep with Elephants in These Amazing Jungle Bubbles”

Learn to be a top chef with Club Med. (Photo courtesy of Club Med)

3/20 Virtual Travel: Become a Top Chef

Kids can learn the fundamentals of cooking — with supervision from an adult — by trying their hand at exclusive recipes provided by Club Med, the pioneer of the all-inclusive concept (celebrating its 70th anniversary this year). Through the new Club Med at Home virtual travel platform, a weekly series of activities designed to inspire and engage families at home, kids can access recipes and how-to videos of Club Med culinary favorites, like Club Med’s world-famous White Chocolate Bread , a traditional French brioche (berries included) from Club Med Valmorel or freshly-made guacamole courtesy of Club Med Cancun Yucatan.

READ MORE: “8 Amazing New Skills Your Kids Can Learn on a Club Med Vacation”

Learn about wildlife with Paws Up. (Photo courtesy of Paws Up/Facebook)

4/20 Virtual Travel: Take Part in Wildlife Activities

Paws Up invites kids everywhere to take part in a series of “Live from Big Sky Country” videos being aired from Greenough, Montana. Get up close and personal with the resort’s experts in wildlife, outdoor activities and art. Some of the virtual travel activities that young at-home travelers can experience include a “Painted Horses” workshop, where an equestrian manager will show how to identify traits about horses, including how to tell its age. In “Sheds and Feathers,” kids can take part in an expedition to identify the different animals that make Montana their home. With the “Fuego y Fuego Challenge,” join wilderness experts as they attempt to build fires without using matches and follow that up with gourmet s’mores. Or paint with abstract artist Danielle LaGoy, who will show how to use foliage to create a painting. You can find the series on Paws Up’s Instagram Highlights and Facebook video page .

Learn about Costa Rica. (Photo courtesy of Visit Costa Rica/Facebook)

5/20 Virtual Travel: Check Out Nature in Costa Rica

Experience pura vida with a virtual visit to the lush Central America country of Costa Rica , which is inviting travelers to explore five of the country’s volcanoes through Google Earth. Virtually visit Arenal Volcano (home to 75% of Costa Rica’s bird population and one of the most well-known hot springs), Irazú Volcano (the country’s tallest volcano) and more —without the crowds. You can also travel during meal times by cooking Costa Rican dishes in your own kitchen. Through Tasty-style video tutorials, families can make local favorites like Gallo Pinto (a traditional breakfast dish), Sopa Negra (a delicious soup) and more . Want more travel inspiration? Check out films like Jurassic Park, Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams and Paddington, all of which feature scenes of Costa Rica’s tropical climate, diverse landscape and biodiversity.

READ MORE: “Family Vacation Guide to San Jose, Costa Rica”

Learn about the world with Austin Adventures.

6/20 Virtual Travel: Learn about the World

With recent school closures and restrictions in place due to COVID-19, Austin Adventures launched “Virtual Adventures for Kids” in an effort to help bring some positivity to the world, give children something to enjoy from the comfort of their own homes and give parents a small break. Austin Adventures president Kasey Austin — who has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and has been named the world’s top family guide — hosts the virtual travel adventures. Expect things like a Yellowstone National Park Virtual Adventure featuring videos of Old Faithful and a Q&A session with hundreds of great questions from the audience such as “Can I swim in a hot spring?” and “How many bears are in Yellowstone National Park?” There was no better candidate to host these adventures than Austin. The Virtual Adventures are open to anyone but are recommended for children ages 6-12.

See the penguins at the Oregon Zoo. (Photo courtesy of the Oregon Zoo/Facebook)

7/20 Virtual Travel: Get to Know Our Furry Friends

Caretakers at the Oregon Zoo are giving a behind-the-scenes look at what the animals are up to while the zoo is closed to the public. Kids and adults alike delight in the near-daily animal videos that are posted to the zoo’s YouTube, Facebook and Instagram channels. On March 23, a fluffy new chick joined the Oregon Zoo’s Humboldt penguin colony. The chick will spend the next three months living its life in parallel to much of the human world: nesting in a cozy box, growing and staying healthy and drinking fish smoothies (okay, maybe not that last one). Watch all this — and so many more heartwarming moments.

Under the waves at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. (Photo courtesy of the Aquarium of the Pacific/Facebook)

8/20 Virtual Travel: Visit California

California is paradise for kids, and now pint-sized travelers can get outside, learn and explore without leaving their homes, thanks to virtual travel experiences across the state. For animal lovers, enjoy live cams at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, The Oakland Zoo , as well as the California Coastal Commission . Science and tech buffs will love the “Stuck at Home Science,” a family-friendly space for STEM learning with easy-to-follow activities at The California Science Center. With the virtual field trip to the San Jose Tech Interactive, a family-friendly science and technology center, kids can get a peek into the cutting-edge technology of Silicon Valley. For little aviation buffs, The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum offers 3D virtual tours of Reagan’s Air Force One. Channel Islands National Park is offering ranger-led videos that showcase the remarkable natural resources of the islands and includes curriculum for fourth to sixth graders as well as live hikes and dives. A few other highlights throughout the state include a limited-time, 40-minute virtual tour of the Winchester Mystery House (which has reported paranormal activity); Zoo School at The Living Desert in Palm Springs; and online private music lesson at Palm Springs’s Music School.

Cute koala at the Australian Reptile Park. (Photo courtesy of the Australian Reptile Park/Facebook

9/20 Virtual Travel: Dream About Down Under

Destination New South Wales — home to Sydney, Australia — offers up virtual travel experiences for those at home and dreaming of travel. In addition to the stunning livestream of Sydney Harbour taking place daily, the Australian Reptile Park has started showing talks, educational videos and livestreams with its animals. Videos range from feeding time with koalas and Hugo, the giant tortoise, to lessons on Tasmanian devils and conservation and the lifestyle of a frog. For those in different time zones, the livestreams live on Australian Reptile Park’s Facebook , Instagram and TikTok pages.

South Dakota’s Wind Cave National Park. (Photo courtesy of South Dakota Tourism/Facebook

10/20 Virtual Travel: Experience Hikes and History

South Dakota is loaded with history and adventure that your kids will love. Can’t make it to Mount Rushmore National Memorial in person? Tour this massive sculpture carved into the Black Hills with free virtual travel tours . Or check a more humorous side of Rushmore’s presidential mascots and see how they’re practicing social distancing in a series of funny, family-friendly videos , from Thomas Jefferson biking to A be Lincoln hiking in Rapid City. Badlands National Park , located in the Black Hills region of western South Dakota, offers a live webcam and virtual tours of the otherworldly landscape and fossil trails, while Wind Cave National Park offers live virtual hikes and more. Finally, children can embark on a Custer State Park Virtual Field Trip on Facebook Live with the park’s interpretive program manager to learn about prairie dogs in the great plains. Visit South Dakota’s Kid Activity Pages to engage in coloring books for the whole family, and listen to storytime videos with park ranger Jim Ganser.

Working on STEM skills courtesy of Legoland. (Photo courtesy of Legoland/Facebook

11/20 Virtual Travel: Work on Your STEM Skills

LEGOLAND California Resort is working to inspire STEM learning. Check out the online site, LEGOLAND Building Challenge, which is filled with instructional videos and activities that promote learning, creating and play. Every Wednesday, master model builder PJ Catalano announces a new theme and instructional “how to build” video to teach viewers how to build a variety of creations. There’s also have a section with coloring pages, drawing mazes, ad-libs, word searches, trivia and “brick-tac-toe” that families can download — all of which is updated weekly. And now, just in time for Mother’s Day, Catalano is showing viewers how to create builds that kids can “gift” moms, such as cupcakes and stars, to make her feel special.

The National WWII Museum in New Orleans.

12/20 Virtual Travel: Take a History Lesson

The National WWII Museum in New Orleans features immersive virtual travel exhibits, multimedia experiences and an expansive collection of artifacts and first-person oral histories, taking visitors inside the story of the war that changed the world. While the museum has temporarily closed, the institution makes at-home history lessons possible with free online resources including lesson plans , webinars and electronic field trips that transport students in grades 6 to 12 to historic sites around the world to experience WWII history virtually. One fun activity even instructs kids on how to make bird feeders and hand sanitizers.

Helping baby animals at Sanibel Island’s CROW Clinic. (Photo courtesy of CROW Clinic/Facebook)

13/20 Virtual Travel: Learn About Animal Rehabilitation

Watch live footage of Florida wildlife being rehabilitated at Sanibel Island’s CROW Clinic , one of the nation’s top facilities for native wildlife rehabilitation. Live virtual travel webcams look into their state-of-the-art animal hospital and the animal ambassador enclosure, home to Billy the Armadillo, Talon the Red-Tailed Hawk and more.

Learning about Hawaiian culture with chef Lee Anne Wong and Hawaiian Airlines.

14/20 Virtual Travel: Learn About Hawaiian Culture

From native Hawaiian language classes to hula dance lessons and lei making, Hawaiian Airlines’ newly launched virtual learning series shares cultural activities with keiki (kids) led by employees, recipes prepared by local chefs, and local music and entertainment. Showcasing the culture of the Hawaiian islands with those at home, the “Sharing Aloha Series” started off making Banana Cereal Pancakes with current Top Chef contestant Lee Anne Wong, Hawaiian Airlines’ executive chef, and the month of May will focus on cultural content fully led by Hawaiian employees. Hawaiian will be posting on Facebook, Instagram and the Sharing Aloha Series website.

Learning about pollinating at Billings Farm & Museum.

15/20 Virtual Travel: Learn About Pollinating

While the Billings Farm & Museum in Woodstock, Vermont is currently closed to guests, life on a dairy farm can be experienced through the Billings Farm At Home landing page . For the museum’s Pollinator Week taking place from May 4 through May 8, the Billings Farm & Museum educators have crafted kid-friendly mocktail recipes for children to learn about the importance of pollinators. Each day during “Pollinator Week,” one mocktail recipe (and a cocktail recipe for adults) will be shared on the Billings Farm social channels. On its YouTube , Facebook and Instagram channels, Billings will also be doing virtual farmhouse tours, storytime book readings, cooking demonstrations and interactive art projects.

On the panda cam at the Edinburgh Zoo. (Photo courtesy of the Edinburgh Zoo/Facebook)

16/20 Virtual Travel: Take a Virtual Vacation in Scotland

There’s so much for kids to do in Scotland, and now they can experience it all virtually. From viewing a panda cam at the Edinburgh Zoo to checking out puffins  in the Shetland islands to the daily #WildlifeMoment courtesy of Scottish Natural Heritage, it’s easy to experience Scotland’s abundant nature. Glasgow Science Centre is bringing a bit of science into your home every day with #GCSAtHome on its Facebook , Instagram and Twitter pages. Want to share some culture with your kids? The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh was the first museum in the country available for exploration online via Google Arts & Culture’s Museum View experience, and there’s also a great section of the website filled with stories, games, films and other educational opportunities.

Florida’s Clearwater Marine Aquarium. (Photo courtesy of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium/Facebook)

17/20 Virtual Travel: Learn About Sealife

Follow Florida’s Clearwater Marine Aquarium team as they go live on their Facebook page every day at 11:30 a.m. EST. The aquarium is home to Winter and Hope, the stars of the 3D major motion pictures Dolphin Tale and Dolphin Tale 2. For grades 1-5, lesson plans are available, created in accordance with Next Generation Science. Free curriculums can be found here .

Exclusive Resorts coloring book.

18/20 Virtual Travel: Color and Cook

Elite luxury vacation club Exclusive Resorts is helping keep the travel dream alive for children through virtual family trips to cafes in Paris, France; the beaches of Los Cabos, Mexico; the ski slopes in Vail, Colorado and more with these downloadable Zoom backgrounds . The Club is also helping comfort children during these uncertain times by encouraging them to daydream about future travel by providing coloring book pages depicting a few of its 70+ destinations around the world. Exclusive Resorts also has family Taco Tuesday covered with this downloadable recipe booklet and virtual cooking tutorials like this one where private chef Sophie Chamberlain in Tuscany teaches viewers to prepare authentic cavatelli with wild garlic pesto.

A digital safari at the Phoenix Zoo. (Photo courtesy of the Phoenix Zoo/Facebook)

19/20 Virtual Travel: Keep Your Kids Entertained (and Well-Rested)

Explore Scottsdale is offering virtual travel and tours that will appeal to everyone in the family, from a digital safari at the Phoenix Zoo to a dive into uncharted waters with OdySea Aquarium ’s virtual classroom – all from the comfort and safety of your home. Architecture buffs will love taking a walk-through of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West (a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Want to make sure the kids sleep better right now? Check out CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa ’s blog with tips for better sleep, mindful eating and a livestream of the breathtaking Scottsdale sunsets.

Learning about horses with Keeneland Racecourse.

20/20 Virtual Travel: Become an Equine Expert

Keeneland Racecourse , an internationally renowned racecourse in Lexington, Kentucky, is offering a series of virtual travel programs from the Keeneland Kids Club, including “horse schooling,” a fun and educational course in all things horse. Families can download their own horse schooling booklet to discover the history of the Thoroughbred (and how they’re different from ponies), how racehorses are trained, what a racehorse eats in a day, and more.

By Laura Begley Bloom

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Take a Glow-in-the-dark Tour of an Australian Forest, Enjoy Teatime in Japan, and More With This New Virtual Travel Company

Beeyonder offers more than 350 virtual travel experiences in nearly 50 countries.

Jessica Poitevien is an international storyteller and regular contributor to Travel + Leisure.

The idea of connecting with people and places online is nothing new, but virtual experiences have undeniably gained a higher level of popularity since the pandemic forced almost everyone around the world to stay home. Familiar companies like Amazon and Airbnb began offering online tours, classes, and other digital travel experiences, but new names also sprung from the hardships over the past year.

Beeyonder is one of them.

Launched in December 2020, Beeyonder brings people on virtual adventures around the world, exploring nearly 50 countries, plus Antarctica. And though the company was established in the midst of the pandemic, its inspiration and purpose stems from its founder's experience as a bilateral amputee.

"While being a bilateral amputee doesn't prevent me from traveling, I do have joint issues that prevent me from walking long distances without a significant amount of pain," Beeyonder founder Brittany Palmer told Travel + Leisure . "I thought how wonderful it would be to be able to see things I may never get to see in person through virtual experiences."

She also thought of her husband, who suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm in 2013 and spent weeks in the hospital and several months at home in recovery.

"Based on [those] experiences, I started looking into how many people in the U.S. have disabilities and other conditions that prevent or inhibit travel, and found that there are [more than] 40 million people in that category — limited mobility, hospital/homebound, those who have degenerative diseases, agoraphobia, a fear of flying, those on parole," Palmer explained. "I wanted to provide the ultimate equal access to travel."

With that, Beeyonder was born. Now, anyone can sign up for the company's 350 virtual experiences, which include glow-in-the-dark tours of an Australian forest to see biofluorescent and bioluminescent wildlife, fungi, and leaves; a dive into the world of the Vikings in Norway; and teatime in Japan. Beeyonder offers both private and group options, each led by a qualified guide. The experiences are also interactive, so guests will be able to speak with their guides and ask questions.

According to Palmer, the response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive.

"We've had families from across the country, a rehabilitation center for adults suffering from brain injuries, a nonprofit working with adults and kids with developmental disabilities, and many more, all of whom have had wonderful experiences," she said.

And although countries are reopening their borders and travel is picking up again, Palmer believes that virtual experiences are here to stay .

"Based on surveys we've conducted, most people plan to continue to do virtual tours, even after the pandemic subsides. There are millions of people in the U.S. alone that have disabilities that prevent or inhibit travel. They will still need virtual tours to see the world."

Jessica Poitevien is a Travel + Leisure contributor currently based in South Florida, but she's always on the lookout for her next adventure. Besides traveling, she loves baking, talking to strangers, and taking long walks on the beach. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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Virtual Travel Experiences: The Best Guided Virtual Tours Around the World

1. See Rome, Italy and Prague, Czech Republic on a European Holiday Adventure

Virtually travel to Rome and Prague with your team! This Europe virtual team building event includes on-location guides and two virtual walking tours.

First, be amazed by Roman architecture, including the Pantheon. Built in 125 CE, the Pantheon is the best-preserved ancient Roman building. An architectural wonder, the Pantheon is a nearly 2,000-year-old testimony to the brilliance of Roman architecture.

Additionally, soak up the excitement of the famous Prague holiday markets with a local guide. The festive hustle and bustle will energize your team.

Your team will also see the Prague astronomical clock, installed at Prague’s Old Town Hall in 1410. As such, it’s the oldest operating astronomical clock in the world! Finally, decide as a team how you will “choose your own adventure” with a Prague guide.

Last but not least, the European Treat Box includes unique holiday goodies. During the tour, your team will love trying gingerbread from the Czech Republic, custom espresso, and raspberry lollipops with the Prague astronomical clock. Plus, enjoy amaretti cookies – and some Dolce & Gabbana pasta to cook later!

Learn more and book your European Holiday experience!

2. Take a Virtual Trip to Napa Valley, California & Try a Virtual Wine Tasting

Napa Valley, California, is home to beautiful, rolling vineyards as well as top-tier wine. Take a virtual vineyard tour with your team, accompanied by a virtual wine tasting!

For example, Bouchaine is one well-known Napa Valley winery offering virtual tastings. Bouchaine is the oldest continuously operating winery in Carneros, a region in the southern part of Napa Valley. This special, high-tier event is sure to impress your team or clients.

Bouchaine offers four different virtual experiences, with wine shipped to your door. Choose from a wine tasting, wine and cheese, or wine and chocolate pairings. A private host will guide your team through the experience, with a panoramic backdrop view of the Bouchaine Vineyards. Cheers!

View Bouchaine Vineyard experiences and book your virtual wine tasting here .

3. See the Best of Atlanta, Georgia

Virtually explore one of the biggest cities of the southern U.S. – Atlanta, Georgia! This virtual tour includes learning about this city’s history, culture, and vibrance. Known as a music capital, home to Civil Rights leaders, and a hub for creatives and companies alike, there is so much to explore!

This unique virtual team building event lasts 60 minutes. Your team will be lead by 2 live in-studio guides and 2 live Atlanta virtual tour guides. You will e xplore beautiful street art, historic neighborhoods, and more!

Live-stream visits go to historic neighborhoods such as Sweet Auburn, Downtown, and Cabbagetown. Plus, get creative as a team to foster team building by making your own iconic Atlanta “tiny door.” Materials can even be sent right to your door!

Check out Atlanta Virtual Tours to enjoy a unique team building experience and a fun day in Atlanta!

Guided Virtual Tours of Museums and Galleries

4. Travel to Amsterdam for the Van Gogh Museum Virtual Tour

Located in Amsterdam, the Van Gogh Museum celebrates the life and artistic endeavors of Vincent Van Gogh. Furthermore, the museum’s virtual experiences include something for everyone – including a 4k virtual tour of the museum.

The museum’s 14-minute video tour is short enough to keep remote workers engaged. And, it allows your team to have plenty of time for deep discussion. After the virtual tour, explore some prompt questions for discussion:

• What is your favorite Van Gogh painting, and why?
• How do you tap into your own creativity – at work, or at home?
• Van Gogh was thought of as a failure during his lifetime. But now, his paintings have sold for as much as 82 million US dollars. In light of this, what can Van Gogh’s life teach us about failure and success?
• What do you think was Van Gogh’s greatest achievement? Moreover, what can we learn from it?

Learn more about the Van Gogh Museum’s virtual offerings .

5. Virtually Visit the National Museum of African American History & Culture

The NMAAHC is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. Located in Washington DC, the museum features virtual curator chats, video archives, and resources on talking about race. Here are a few of our favorite offerings for virtual experiences throughout the museum:

Curator Chat Series: A Deeper Look at Cultural Expressions with Dr. Joanne Hyppolite, Supervisory Curator of the African Diaspora at the museum.

Collection Story: Seeing Black Women in Power  – a collection of photos, text, and videos. This resource explores the art, activism, and voices of Black women in the 1960s and 1970s.

• Search the museum’s collection digitally . View photographs, garments, and other objects in the NMAAHC’s collection. Zoom in to get an up-close look. You can also read about each object’s history and details.

However you choose to explore this museum, you are bound to learn a new piece of history. After the virtual tour, take time for a team discussion on what was learned. By doing so, you’ll foster team bonding and DEI learning!

6. Immerse Yourself in the History of London at The British Museum

The British Museum in London provides many online resources allowing you to explore exhibitions from the comfort of home. Here, you can find legendary works of art and history. For instance, see the Rosetta Stone, the Egyptian bust of Ramesses the Great, Hoa Hakananai’a (The Easter Island Status), and more.

Head to The British Museum’s website to browse virtual galleries, including an extensive Prints and Drawings collection and digital learning resources. For example, you can learn what the Romans ate and drank, then try a recipe for honeyed bread!

To deepen your learning, listen to The British Museum Podcast, a series of recordings during the height of the pandemic. While the episodes are a few years old, the knowledge is timeless. Or, head to The British Museum’s YouTube channel for exhibition tours, curator chats, and more.

Your visit may also spark a dialogue about the ethics surrounding museum collections. Or, the concept of ownership of priceless cultural artifacts and the history of how certain artifacts came to be on display.

Explore more Virtual Museum Tours  across the globe.

Guided Virtual Tours of Historical Landmarks

7. Take a Virtual Tour of the Taj Mahal

Located in Agra, India, the Taj Mahal is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. It was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632. The Taj Mahal was built as a monument to his late wife Mumtaz Mahal as well as a mausoleum for himself.

With Google Arts and Culture, your team can virtually explore the Taj Mahal. Learn about the history and architecture of this unique site. For example, get an up-close look at the white marble structure with inlaid stone, and see the beautiful gardens and pools throughout the grounds of this historic site.

Explore the sights of the Taj Mahal with Google Arts and Culture’s tour, Taj Mahal: A Tour from the Top .

8. Virtually Walk the Great Wall of China

As one of China’s most famous attractions, the Great Wall of China is a bucket-list tour stop. Considered a Wonder of the World, the Great Wall stretches more than 3,000 miles.

Boasting over 2,000 years of history, trek this virtual tour walk that stretches over several provinces of Northern China. Along each step, view the beauty of the lush Chinese landscape and mountain views. In addition, experience stunning views of one of the most impressive ancient structures remaining in our world today.

Explore the Great Wall of China with a self guided tour or a professional live guide. Experience this world wonder and book guided tours by The China Guide .

9. Explore the Lost City of Pompeii

No matter where your team is located, you’ve more than likely heard about the iconic city of Pompeii. Once an ordinary city, it has famously lived on centuries later after being preserved in the ash of Mount Vesuvious. Today, it serves as an archaeological site to ancient Roman life and a popular tourist destination.

As a team, explore the ruins of streets and houses that have survived this ancient thriving and sophisticated city. Once buried under meters of ash and pumice, you can now see life frozen in time.

Take a virtual tour of the city of Pompeii thanks to high definition laser scanning documenting this cultural landmark!

Guided Virtual Tours of Natural Wonders

10. See Vietnam’s Natural Wonders at UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Did you know that Vietnam is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites? Sites are designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization and chosen for their “outstanding universal value to humanity.”

Vietnam’s UNESCO sites feature temples, caves, tombs, and more. Through the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, you can take 360-degree tours of each of these sites. For instance, see jaw-dropping panoramic views of Vietnam’s natural beauty at Hạ Long Bay.

Explore Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites with 360 degree virtual tours .

11. Explore the Biodiverse Galapagos Islands

Located off the coast of Ecuador in South America, the Galápagos Islands are a wonderland of flora and fauna. That’s because this iconic volcanic archipelago is home to an incredible range of biodiversity across its 127 islands.

So that everyone can experience this stunning environment, Google offers a virtual tour and online resources. Here, you can see wildlife species that are found nowhere else on the planet. For example, learn about the Galápagos Giant Tortoise, with a lifespan of over 100 years.

The Galápagos Islands are also where Charles Darwin once ventured. Here, he made the observations and connections that led to his groundbreaking work on evolution by natural selection.

Discover the wonders of the Galápagos Islands .

12. Climb Mount Everest on a Virtual Adventure

Have you ever dreamed of climbing Mount Everest? Most of us have probably imagined it at one point or another!

These days, you don’t have to venture to the Himalayas to experience the magic of Everest. Instead, opt for an online excursion with your team to reach the pinnacle of team building.

A range of virtual Everest experiences are available online. For instance, explore 3D maps of Everest and take a self-guided virtual hike. Or, try the Harvard Business Publishing Education program: Leadership and Team Simulation: Everest V3 , available in multiple languages!

Guided Virtual Tours of Educational and Unique Experiences

13. Get “All Shook Up” with a Graceland Virtual Tour

Put on your blue suede shoes and head to the iconic Graceland! Located in Memphis, Tennessee, Graceland is where legendary rock musician Elvis called home. In fact, the beautiful mansion and museum are set on 120 acres dedicated to Elvis’s life and legacy.

Graceland’s live virtual tours are hosted by an Elvis historian. Your team will get an up-close look at the places and artifacts of Elvis’ life – once only available to be seen in person!

Watch a tour preview and book your Graceland tour here . For more virtual music activities, check out our Music Evolution virtual team building experience ! 

14. Explore Hampton, Virginia and Austin, Texas with a Juneteenth Virtual Experience

Virtually travel to the landmark cities of the United States’ national holiday, Juneteenth. This interactive Juneteenth Team Building experience is an approachable and engaging way to learn some of America’s most important history.

During an hour-long session, your team will learn all about the history of this important holiday. Take an unforgettable virtual field trip with two knowledgable, on-location guides. Learn about figures such as Harriet Tubman and John Brown. Plus, hear the history of Juneteenth, why barbecue and red foods are associated with the holiday, and so much more.

As an optional add-on, you can have themed Treat Boxes shipped directly to your employees’ homes with incredible products from 100% Black-owned small businesses.

This virtual Juneteenth event is a unique and educational experience that will engages your entire team!

Learn more on Juneteenth and find ways to Celebrate Black History Month through virtual team building events.

15. See the Wonders of Machu Picchu and Cusco, Peru in South America

Blend history, geography, architecture, and team building with this unique virtual experience! Virtually travel to Peru and discover some of the world’s most famous locations in South America.

This session features two virtual walking tour experiences. Your team will be amazed by one of the Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu. In addition, you’ll see the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cusco, Peru!

Explore the incredible sights of South America with stops in Cusco markets and views of Incan and Spanish colonial architecture. Plus, you can “choose your own adventure” with the Machu Picchu guide through the ancient Incan ruins.

Opt for this Virtual tour of South America to explore wonders along with traditional culture and food as a team!

How to Get the Most Out of Virtual Travel

Ensure that your team makes the most of your experience with the tips and best practices below!

Tips for Choosing the Best Virtual Tours

There are a few key tips to choosing the best virtual places to visit for your group. First, it’s important to choose tours that align with your employees’ interests. As a result, you’ll foster excitement amongst your team for the event.

Additionally, we suggest reading reviews from other participants.By reading feedback from past clients, you can gauge whether or not the tour is a good fit for your group’s needs.

Finally, be sure to select tours with knowledgeable and engaging guides. That way, you know you are getting an informative and worthwhile tour!

Enhancing the Experience Through Technology and Engagement

Technology allows teams of all kinds and locations to engage with each other in fun ways. Enhance your virtual tour by tapping into the best technology has to offer!

First, learn more about the tourism destination of your virtual experience ahead of time with a simple online search. Plus, you can even make this a team effort to grow anticipation for your virtual tour event. Get together on a video call a week or two before your virtual travel session to research your destination together!

Second, engagement amongst employees is vital to a great virtual team building experience. Utilize video cameras, breakout rooms, hand raise features, polls, and chat boxes to engage your team throughout tours. This is a great way to create a real sense of community amongst event participants and enhance your experience!

Benefits of Virtual Travel Experiences and Tours

Virtual travel experiences and tours are a great way to get mobile and explore the world, without the hassle and expense of traditional tourism. Moreover, virtual travel offers a variety of benefits – from interactive learning, to personal safety, to flexibility, to reducing your carbon footprint. Virtual travel is a fun, cost-effective way to get everyone together!

Interactive

The best virtual team building events result in your team getting the opportunity to build relationships and connect. Virtual travel experiences allow participants to interact with tour guides and other participants. Ask questions in real time, hear responses, and make connections.

Virtual tours around the world provide an engaging and immersive experiences to learn about unique destinations. Furthermore, by enjoying sites alongside a knowledgeable guide as a team you will learn more than you might in person!

Cost-Effective

Another bonus, virtual travel experiences and tours are more affordable than traditional travel. That’s because they don’t require expenses such as transportation, lodging, and meals. Such expenses can add up when engaging your entire team.

Plus, virtual tours even provide all needed materials, with many offering shippable kits to further engage your team! No matter the size of your budget, you can find a perfect paid or free virtual tour.

Upgrade your team building while saving money in your budget and enjoying a cost-effective immersive experience!

Flexible and Convenient

Virtual travel experiences are also flexible and convenient! They can be accessed at any time, from anywhere with an internet connection. In fact, you can even access tours from a mobile phone!

Enjoy tours no matter the season or weather. Plus, enjoy the convenience of not paying for parking, commuting, or keeping a large group together!

Virtual tours allow people to explore destinations at their own pace and on their own schedule. As a result, virtual travel experiences are a great option for people with busy schedules or limited mobility. 

In addition, virtual tours around the world are a safe group travel activity. They allow your team to explore destinations without risking personal safety. This is especially important in destinations that may have political unrest, natural disasters, or other safety concerns.

As a safer alternative, people who may not feel comfortable traveling to certain destinations can be involved, whether it be due to health, safety, or other concerns. As a result, your entire team can feel comfortable to engage and enjoy stunning tourism spots!

Sustainable

A final benefit of virtual tours are the event’s environmental sustainability! Virtual tours do not require physical travel, which can contribute to carbon emissions and other environmental impacts associated with traditional travel.

Plus, you can help reach your company’s environmental goals through team building events. Consider switching a regular company travel trip to a virtual option! 

Engaging in virtual travel  offers a sustainable option for teams who want to experience travel without contributing to environmental damage. 

Looking for Team Building Virtual Experiences? Try Unexpected Virtual Tours!

Unexpected Virtual Tours provides unforgettable virtual team building experiences for remote teams like yours. Our live video conferencing sessions are hosted by expert guides who know how to get remote employees out of their shells. Our guides can also answer questions in real time, allowing for deep discussion and learning.

Explore topics like street art, music history, golf, Black history, and much more through interactive sessions and walking tours. Most experiences are 60-75 minutes, and we make the most of every minute! From hands-on craft activities to team trivia and challenges, these experiences are designed for collaboration and connection.

Why Virtual Team Building and DEI training?

Virtual team building, if it's done right, can help build and retain your remote work culture.

Find radically creative virtual team building options here.

Or, read below for free resources and tips to support your team.

We have hosted over 20,000+ thrilled guests on our Unexpected Virtual Tours and Training!

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The 31 Best Airbnb Online Experiences [Ultimate Guide]

Christy Rodriguez

Travel & Finance Content Contributor

88 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 36 U.S. States Visited: 31

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3265 Edited Articles

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Table of Contents

What are airbnb online experiences, how to search for airbnb online experiences, how are airbnb online experiences priced, how to book airbnb online experiences, how do i prepare for airbnb online experiences, how do i change or cancel airbnb online experiences, different types of online experiences by interest, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

While Airbnb has been offering in-person Experiences, it recently expanded these Experiences to make many of them virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For times when travel isn’t an option and we are desperately craving some cultural immersion, Airbnb Online Experiences are a great fit! They include a mix of hosted classes, cooking demonstrations, tours, and more.

We’ve taken a look at all of the offerings and gathered together our favorites to help you sort through the steadily-increasing variety of activities. From learning to cook traditional Spanish paella to getting a personalized tour of Paris with a local, these are some of the best ways you can travel from home with Airbnb Online Experiences.

While Airbnb started as a platform for travelers to find and book rooms and homes around the world, back in 2017, it expanded its offerings to include bookable Experiences across the globe. These Experiences “offer a deep-dive into the local host’s world through their passion.” It notes that the most successful Experiences “offer a unique take on an activity or locale that is special to the host’s city.”

Due to COVID-19, Airbnb moved these Experiences online. The online activities are still local-led, expert-driven experts, but now they take place virtually through Zoom, a third-party cloud platform for video conferencing that you access via your desktop computer, tablet, or mobile device.

Most experiences are group activities, where you’ll be joined by others on Zoom who might be located anywhere around the globe. Or, you can choose to pay a little extra to book a private Experience for just you and some friends and family.

Airbnb Online Experiences are purchased and booked on the same portal where you book accommodations, and a Zoom link to join is provided for the appropriate day and time as soon as your payment is processed.

You can use the Airbnb website or mobile app to book an Online Experience. The individual host sets Experience availability — it is not simply available on demand.

• On the Airbnb home page , click on the “Online Experiences” tab
• Click “Dates” and enter your date (or if you are flexible, you can do this later)
• Click “Guests” and enter the number of guests

The other option is to simply browse through all available Experiences.

Make sure to review all requirements specified by the host. Also, be sure to look closely at the “What’s Included” or “What I’ll Provide” sections of the Experience page to see more details about what to expect for each Experience.

Hot Tip: You don’t need to have a home booked on Airbnb in order to book an Experience.

Hosting a Private Group Activity

If you’d like to virtually gather a group of friends or family, private groups may be a good option. Whether a host offers private groups is at the host’s discretion.

There are 3 ways to search for a group activity:

• When you find an Experience you are interested in, you can message the host to inquire if they can host your group privately
• You can click the “See Dates” button to check if “Book for a private group” is an option for a specific date
• Simply book all available spots for a specific date/time, if available

You will receive a link to the Zoom meeting that you will need to forward along to all attendees.

Airbnb Online Experiences are priced depending on how involved the activity is and who the local or expert is, but are very reasonable with an average cost of $22. Also, Experiences are priced per person by default, so the price to book a group will be more expensive.

For example, you can learn to make homemade Italian pasta for only $7 per person, or watch as you have a pair of shoes custom-made for you for $74 per person (including shipping). Have a private workout session for $70 per session, or even book a cooking class and make Spanish paella with just your friends and family for $300 for the group.

Generally, you should book a spot for each person joining the Experience, but sometimes a host is open to multiple guests joining per device. If this is the case, this will be noted on their Experience page under “What You’ll Do” or “How to Participate.”

Once you find an Online Experience you are interested in booking, click on the date and time of your choosing. Be sure to note any cancellation policies on this screen as well.

The Airbnb website will guide you through your payment options and help you finalize your booking. Payment options vary by country, but generally, the following options are available:

• Most major credit cards and prepaid credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover, JCB) as well as many debit cards that can be processed as credit
• Airbnb gift cards (in the U.S. only)

For more information, see the Airbnb payment page .

Bottom Line: There is no limit to how many Experiences you can book!

You can check the “How to Participate” and “Guest Requirements” sections of the Experience page to find out what you need to prepare before attending. This information can also be found in your booking confirmation email.

Examples of common requirements include an internet connection and a list of materials, food, or other items to purchase or prepare in advance.

Hot Tip: You can always find the necessary details in your reservation information found on your Airbnb “Trips” page.

Communicate Limitations

If you have a food allergy or special dietary restrictions, be sure to disclose them to your hosts beforehand so you can discuss if or how their menu can be altered for you.

Along the same lines, if you have any physical limitations that might impact your Experience, communicate this in advance so that accommodations can be made.

If you use a desktop to access Zoom, you can either join from your browser or download the Zoom app . If you’re using a cell phone, you’ll need to download the Zoom app ( iOS , Android ).

Bottom Line: You don’t need to sign up for a Zoom account to attend your Online Experience.

Make sure you have the correct link for your online Experience. This will have been emailed to you when you booked.

Video Credit: Airbnb

If the link isn’t working, close Zoom and try the link again. If it’s still not working, message your host to confirm whether they are having issues with Zoom. In addition, if Zoom is asking you for a password, message your host through Airbnb to ask for the password.

Plans change, but the good news is that Airbnb Online Experiences are pretty flexible!

To change or cancel a reservation, go to “Trips” in your Airbnb account or from your reservation confirmation email. Once you locate your trip, how you change or cancel depends on your method:

• In the Airbnb app, tap “Manage reservation”
• From your confirmation email, select “Change or cancel reservation”
• In your Airbnb account, select “Modify reservation”

Changing Your Experience

You can make a change to your Airbnb Online Experience up to 72 hours before it begins.

To request a request:

• Click the “Contact host” button on the host’s Experience page
• Choose between asking a question or requesting availability for dates and times
• Choose the new date, time, and number of guests
• Review your request
• Click “Send request”

The host can review the reservation details and accept or deny your request. If they confirm, you’ll be prompted to complete the booking through a message in your inbox. You may be prompted to pay any difference in pricing, if applicable.

If your request is denied, you can work with the host to find a different time that works better for their schedule.

Canceling Your Experience

You can cancel up to 7 days before the start time or within 24 hours of booking.

You should receive your full refund within 10 days.

Refunds for Your Experience

In addition, per Airbnb , “guests are eligible for a full refund for your Airbnb Online Experience if there are any technical difficulties, such as audio or video issues, that occur either due to their own device or the host’s device during an online experience.”

For the full refund policy, be sure to check Airbnb’s website .

It’s fun to just scroll through all of the different offerings on the Online Experiences section, but if you want to get a head start on the research, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best — from most-popular to most-unique!

Cooking Online Experiences

Airbnb Cooking Online Experiences are the most-booked on the site and your options are truly endless!

Make Homemade Italian Pasta

What It Is : Learn how to make 5 types of pasta from scratch from a traditional family recipe during this 2-hour Experience. After the pasta is made, you will cook the ravioli as a group and learn the best way to store the rest of the pasta.

If you book a private group (from $392), the menu can also be modified to include southern lasagna, butternut squash tortelloni, or tiramisu. Yum!

Star Rating : 5 out of 5

Price: From $7 per person

Kenyan Cooking and Music

What It Is : Learn how to make Kenyan cuisine from scratch using family recipes in this 90-minute Experience. The menu changes based on the day but your options include traditional favorites such as curry, chapati, ugali, chicken korma, and chicken biryani.

Star Rating : 4.96 out of 5

Price: From $20 per person

Spanish Paella and Culture

What It Is : If you’re missing Barcelona, let this cooking class transport you virtually! You can choose to cook seafood, meat, or vegetarian paella. Learn about the Spanish approach to cooking, Spanish culture, traditions, and a lot more during this 90-minute Experience.

Price: From $21 per person

Taste of India

What It Is : The host, JD is from Delhi and is a self-described lover of food. He has been organizing food tours and cooking classes in Delhi for 5 years and has transitioned his business to be virtual right now.

While the 75-minute chai tea and samosa class is offered every day, be sure to look at the different menu offerings! There are daily menus that include favorites such as butter chicken, rice and mango lassi, or matter paneer, garlic parantha, and raita.

Price: From $18 per person

Chocolate Making

What It Is : Live from a cacao farm in Kingston, Jamaica, learn about the history of chocolate on the island and see the cacao estate up close during this 60-minute class. Don’t worry — you’ll definitely get to make and enjoy your chocolate! Learn how to hand-temper chocolate using items found in your own kitchen.

Star Rating : 4.99 out of 5

Price: From $8 per person

Vegan Baking

What It Is : This vegan cooking class is perfect — whether you’re new to the vegan world or a seasoned pro. While the menu changes each month, some examples of the recipes you might bake during this 2-hour course include apple cider donuts, granola with nuts and chips, pumpkin muffins, and fingerprint cookies with jam.

Star Rating : 4.92 out of 5

Price: From $31 per person

Mexican Street Tacos

What It Is : Learn to cook Mexican street tacos from scratch — including fresh tortillas, salsas, and all the fillings! This 90-minute class will guide you in preparing a traditional red salsa, taco filling, and flour tortillas. The recipes will be shared so you can cook this meal again and again. Vegan options are also available.

Star Rating : 4.98 out of 5

Coffee, Wine, and Cocktail Online Experiences

Whether you want to learn how to make a fantastic cup of coffee or a great cocktail, these are the options for you!

Wine Education in Porto

What It Is : While this class is based in Portugal, it is really more of a wine appreciation for wines made around the world. Bring 1 red and 1 white wine and prepare to enjoy! Learn how different wines are made and how red and white wines differ. Also, get a brief introduction to the main regions around the globe.

Wine pairings and information on what to look for when choosing wine at a store are also covered in this Experience!

Price: From $24 per person

Sangria Cocktails and Drag

What It Is : Not only will you learn how to create a sangria cocktail step-by-step from 7 fabulous drag queens, but you will also be treated to a short burlesque-style show. This 90-minute Experience is a unique journey into the drag scene of Portugal and the most booked online Experience that Airbnb offers !

Price: From $35 per person

Turkish Coffee Fortune Reading

What It Is : Let your guide walk you through brewing your own cup of coffee and prepare to have your fortune read! After you drink your coffee, experience the Turkish tradition of reading your fortune from the remaining coffee grinds — via Zoom!

The details note that it is ideal for team-building experiences, so booking a private group session may be a great option here.

Star Rating : 4.97 out of 5

Price: From $49 per person

Vietnamese Coffee Masterclass

What It Is : Addicted to authentic Vietnamese coffee or just heard the rave reviews? It may sound intimidating, but your guide will walk you through the proper way to make it at home during this 60-minute session.

Learn what makes Vietnamese coffee special while getting the added bonus of experiencing what it’s like to be at a Vietnamese coffee shop in Hanoi.

Price: From $9 per person

Virtual Tours

You can get the chance to explore a place, with just a few modifications. You might experience a live tour or a place or simply be immersed as your live guide walks you through a pre-recorded walk around a city.

Australian Farm

What It Is : If you’re stuck in the city and want an escape to farm life, this might be the right choice for you! Meet mini horses, goats, alpacas, and more and see the unique ways in which they were trained.

Tour around this Australian farm for over 60 minutes where you will meet lots of the farm’s inhabitants and learn fun facts about them. This is great for a team-building event!

Price: From $19 per person

Plague Doctor Explores Prague

What It Is : This interactive movie was shot during earlier times of quarantine and shows the abandoned town as it might have been during the 17th and 18th centuries. You will have a live tour guide that talks you through your tour visiting the famous Charles Bridge, walking around the Old Town Square, and going into the Jewish Quarter.

Note that this Experience can be joined by everyone in your household for the same price!

Star Rating : 4.91 out of 5

Price: From $19 per household

Virtual Tour Around Paris

What It Is : For anyone that had to cancel their trip to the City of Lights , this might be a good temporary substitute. Your Parisian guide will walk you through a typical day using props, photos, and images. For example, get tips on how to order a ‘tradi’ and learn the true meaning of concepts like flâner, joie de vivre, and laissez-faire. After this Experience, you’ll definitely be ready for your next trip!

Price: From $16 per person

Edinburgh Harry Potter Tour

What It Is : Join a virtual tour of Edinburgh that will show you a few of the places where J.K Rowling drew her inspiration, including the shops of Diagon Alley, the school believed to be the inspiration for Hogwarts, and even a graveyard with some recognizable character names.

Interspersed between the tour “stops” there will also be a Harry Potter trivia competition between the houses!

DIY Online Experiences

These Do-It-Yourself (or DIY) Online Experiences can be a great way to get a bit crafty while also learning about other people and cultures.

Design Your Own Espadrilles

What It Is : Watch live as masters in their workshop in Barcelona introduce the tradition of espadrilles. They will then allow each participant to choose the color and size of the base, the ribbons, the threads, and the type of stitching.

Finally, watch your creation be made and then shipped to your home as part of the price. So while the price may seem high, you’re getting a pair of custom espadrilles shipped directly from Spain! Hopefully, you pick up enough of the technique that you can try to make these for your friends as well!

Price: From $74 per person

Natural Cosmetics

What It Is : Learn to make 2 recipes for natural skincare during this 60-minute Experience using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry! Make both a face scrub and a body scrub and talk about other natural skincare from an expert from Milan, Italy.

Price: From $13 per person

Create a Pop-Out Book

What It Is : Make your own unusually shaped little book — perfect for gifting! In this 90-minute class, you’ll learn how to make pages and fold them to create unique shapes, cut out covers for your book, and finally how to glue and assemble the pages together. The reviews for the instructor, Kit, are also spectacular!

Active Online Experiences

If you’re missing your gym, or just want to learn a new skill, these active Online Experiences are a great way to get moving.

Acrobat Workout

What It Is : Join along for this 30-minute full-body workout inspired by ones that Cirque du Soleil cast members regularly complete! This former cast member will guide you through a warm-up and cardio and core routine, and then finish with stretching.

Price: From $7 per person, but you can also organize 1-on-1 training sessions for $70 per session.

K-Pop Dance Lessons

What It Is : In this 60-minute Experience, you’ll watch a K-pop “mini concert” and learn dance routines by famous K-pop bands like BTS and BLACKPINK. Each day features a different dance routine, so you can repeat this multiple times and learn tons of new routines!

Star Rating : 4.93 out of 5

Price : From $24 per person

Meditation With a Japanese Buddhist Monk

What It Is : Take a break and relax during this 60-minute Experience. Start with a chanting mantra for 20 minutes, then complete a 10-minute breathing-out meditation. After, you can ask questions from the Buddhist monk about the practice and his life.

Price: From $15 per person

Train With an Olympian

What It Is : This high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout will be a track and field-inspired strength and conditioning workout — taught by2008 Track and Field Olympian Mechelle Lewis Freeman! Learn proper running mechanics and techniques, with low and high-impact options.

All proceeds from this Experience go to TrackGirlz, the host’s nonprofit organization that empowers girls through sisterhood and track and field, so feel good about being active AND giving back!

Price: From $25 per person

New Orleans Bounce and Twerk

What It Is : Experience the “bounce and twerk” that is a huge part of Louisiana’s dance culture. This 60-minute high-energy dance lesson will be taught by professional dance artists. After dancing and sweating, you will cool down using a Louisiana Creole practice of meditation in the forms of prayer, candle lighting, and deep breathing.

Argentine Tango Lessons

What It Is : This is a great idea for a fun (stay at home) date night! Learn a traditional routine with the popular moves of Argentine tango. This 60-minute tango class is hosted by teachers and dancers from Argentina.

The reviews are spectacular and it notes that no previous experience is required, so there is no need to be intimidated.

Creative Online Experiences

The interactive Online Experiences help get the creative juices flowing — whether you want to learn more about the secrets of magic, improve your calligraphy skills, or make a portrait with a professional illustrator.

Backstage With a Magician

What It Is : This is described as “a magic show that takes place in my home.” You’ll get to see interactive magic tricks up close, hear funny stories, and learn about magic gadgets that the host uses. While you’ll also learn a simple magic trick, this is more of a show — not a magic class. This is priced per household, so this is a great one to enjoy with the whole family!

Creative Drawing

What It Is : Make a portrait with a professional illustrator in this 45-minute Experience. Warm-up your hands and learn his technique to create a face. With this knowledge, feel free to experiment and create something amazing!

All you need is something to create with — paper and colors, crayons, pens, pencils, etc.

Hand Calligraphy and Lettering

What It Is : This is a great introduction to brush lettering and modern calligraphy without having to purchase a ton of expensive tools. You’ll start with an overview of the cursive alphabet and some basic drills to get the strokes down and move onto either creating a unique piece of art or just developing your own personal style.

Star Rating : 4.84 out of 5

Quirky Online Experiences

Well, there’s no other word for it! These are the offbeat and weirdest of the bunch.

Hollywood Sound FX

What It Is : Hosted by an Emmy-nominated artist, this 60-minute Experience will let you venture into the world of Hollywood sound production. You will get to see a huge prop collection and get a chance to hear how they produce the sounds in the actual shows and films.

Breakdown some of the mysteries of Hollywood and see why sounds are key to your viewing experience!

Private Astrology Chart

What It Is : In this Experience, your host will use astrology, in the form of your natal chart, to “help you connect with the best version of yourself.” You will work directly with a private astrologer who will create and send you a digital file of your natal chart. She will be sure to explain the predominant elements of your chart and show you how it relates to your personality and life.

Price: From $80 per person

Guided Meditation With Sheep in Stirling

What It Is : This 60-minute Experience is all about relaxation. You will join the host on her farm where you will meet her sheep and watch as they are fed in their barn. Once they are done, you will be able to virtually cuddle with the sheep and learn some therapeutic breathing exercises to relax. Lastly, you will be lead through a 10 to 15 minute mindful meditation.

Tarot Reading and Mate Experience

What It Is : Learn how to prepare Argentina’s most famous drink — mate! After this, settle in for a lesson on tarot cards, including its history, different tarot decks, and details about the cards. Lastly, you will receive a short interactive card reading. If you’re interested in receiving a personalized tarot card reading, you can also book a private Experience!

Price: From $19 per person, or from $55 for a personalized reading

Airbnb Online Experiences offer the opportunity to not only learn new skills but also connect with hosts and participants around the world. With the average Experience coming in around $22, they offer a good value, even though some classes (like cooking or art classes) will require additional costs for materials or ingredients.

This is also a great way to support hosts whose “regular” jobs in the tourism industry might have taken a hit during the pandemic. While these Airbnb Online Experiences started as a result of COVID-19, we hope we’ll see these continue long after travel returns to normal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are airbnb online experiences.

Airbnb offers local experiences around the globe as a way to connect with local culture — whether that is a tour by a local guide, a cooking class, or any number of unique offerings. Due to COVID-19, Airbnb moved these experiences online. The online activities are still local-led, expert-driven experiences, but now they take place virtually through Zoom.

How do I reserve a private group for Airbnb Online Experience?

When you are searching for an experience, it is first important to confirm that the host allows group experiences. To do this, you can:

• Message the host directly
• Look for dates, confirming if the option to “book a private group” is available
• Book all available spots on your desired date/time, if they are available

Once you receive your confirmation, forward on to all attendees so they can join virtually.

Can Airbnb gift cards be used for Online Experiences?

Per Airbnb’s website , “Currently, gift cards can only be purchased and redeemed by individuals in the United States with a payment method that was issued in the United States.”

If you are located within the U.S., then a Airbnb gift card can be used for any Experience or Airbnb stay.

How do I host an Airbnb Online Experience?

If you are interested in hosting your own Airbnb Online Experience, start on the main host page .

From there, you will need to create a new Experience and submit it for review following the process noted on the site. The site has many resources and guides to help your submission be successfully approved and ready for booking!

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10 Best Virtual Travel Experiences to Enjoy from Home

Last Updated on March 2, 2023

The global pandemic has undoubtedly changed the way we travel. With travel restrictions and safety concerns, many of us have had to put our travel plans on hold. However, that doesn’t mean we have to stop exploring and experiencing the world. Thanks to technology, we can now enjoy virtual travel experiences from the comfort of our own homes.

Virtual travel experiences offer a unique opportunity to explore different parts of the world and immerse ourselves in different cultures, without having to leave our homes. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, admiring stunning natural landscapes, or indulging in delicious cuisine, there’s a virtual travel experience out there for you.

From virtual museum tours to immersive 360-degree videos, the possibilities for virtual travel are endless. In this article, we will be exploring the 10 best virtual travel experiences to enjoy from home. From the iconic Great Wall of China to the stunning Northern Lights, we’ll take you on a journey around the world without leaving your living room.

So sit back, relax, and get ready to explore the world through the power of technology. These virtual travel experiences are not only a great way to satisfy your wanderlust but can also inspire you for future travel plans once the world is ready to welcome us back.

Table of Contents

Here are the 10 best virtual travel experiences to enjoy from home

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Musée du Louvre (@museelouvre)

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is an iconic landmark that stretches over 13,000 miles across China’s northern borders. Through virtual experiences, visitors can explore different sections of the Great Wall, including the popular Badaling and Mutianyu sections. With panoramic views, visitors can admire the stunning scenery and learn about the history and construction of the Great Wall through informative videos and narrations. Virtual tours of the Great Wall offer a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s greatest engineering feats from the comfort of your own home, without the need for a long journey to China.

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is a breathtaking ancient city located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. With virtual experiences, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history and culture of the Inca civilization that once inhabited the area. Through 360-degree videos and high-quality images, visitors can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and zoom in on intricate architectural details. Virtual tours of Machu Picchu offer a unique opportunity to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site from the comfort of your own home, without the need for a long trek to the Andes Mountains.

The Grand Canyon

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Santa Ana Public Library (@santaanalibrary)

The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with particles in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a stunning display of colorful lights in the night sky. With virtual experiences, visitors can witness this breathtaking display from the comfort of their own homes. Through time-lapse videos and high-quality images, visitors can see the shimmering lights dancing across the sky, and learn about the science and cultural significance behind this natural wonder. Virtual tours of the Northern Lights offer a unique opportunity to experience one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural wonders without the need for travel to northern regions like Norway or Iceland.

The Vatican

The Vatican is a city-state and the spiritual center of the Catholic Church, housing many important works of art and architecture. With virtual experiences, visitors can explore the Vatican’s many galleries, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Through high-resolution images and 360-degree videos, visitors can zoom in on the intricate details of iconic works of art like Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes and Bernini’s sculptures. Virtual tours of the Vatican offer a unique opportunity to explore this important historical and religious site from the comfort of your own home, without the need for a trip to Rome.

The British Museum

The British Museum is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive museums, housing an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world. With virtual experiences, visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries and exhibitions, including iconic works of art like the Rosetta Stone and the Parthenon sculptures. Through high-resolution images and 360-degree videos, visitors can examine the details of each piece and learn about the history and context behind them. Virtual tours of the British Museum offer a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s greatest museums from the comfort of your own home, without the need for a trip to London.

The Taj Mahal

For those looking to experience the Indian culture beyond just the virtual tours, the Bollywood online casino at Jeetwin offers a unique opportunity. Jeetwin is a popular online casino that offers a range of games featuring Indian themes and symbols, from Bollywood-themed slot games to Indian card games like Andar Bahar and Teen Patti. Signing up for Jeetwin is easy and can be done from the comfort of your own home, offering a fun and exciting way to experience Indian culture through online gambling. With virtual tours of the Taj Mahal and the chance to play at Jeetwin’s Bollywood online casino, you can have an immersive and memorable virtual travel experience to India.

The Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, are a unique and biodiverse ecosystem known for their diverse plant and animal life. With virtual experiences, visitors can explore the islands’ many natural wonders, including the giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and unique bird species like the blue-footed booby. Through high-quality images and 360-degree videos, visitors can experience the islands’ stunning landscapes and learn about the importance of conservation efforts in preserving this unique environment. Virtual tours of the Galapagos Islands offer a unique opportunity to experience this remote and beautiful destination from the comfort of your own home, without the need for travel to Ecuador.

The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, an iconic symbol of Paris and a popular tourist destination. With virtual experiences, visitors can explore the tower’s many levels and enjoy stunning views of the city from different vantage points. Through high-resolution images and 360-degree videos, visitors can examine the intricate details of the tower’s architecture and learn about its history and significance. Virtual tours of the Eiffel Tower offer a unique opportunity to experience this iconic destination from the comfort of your own home, without the need for travel to Paris.

Virtual travel experiences offer a unique way to explore the world from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins or witnessing natural wonders, there’s a virtual tour out there for you. So grab your laptop and start exploring the world today!

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Top 10 Virtual Travel Experiences with the HP Reverb G2 VR

Introduction.

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness…Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime.”

1. Virtually visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites

• The remotely located island abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel and one of Normandy, France’s most iconic landmarks.
• The Pompeii ruins of a city preserved in ash, resulting from the tragic eruption of Mount Vesuvius on August 24, 79 BCE.
• The site of the first hominid fossil and an important place for understanding human evolution at the Sangiran Early Man Site in Java, Indonesia.
• Petra, Jordan , the city of stone built more than 2,000 years ago by the Nabataeans.
• The Slovakia-based Domica Cave , shaped by limestone from the Middle Triassic era and an underground river (actually) named Styx.
• The limestone statue of the half-lion, half-human mythical creature known as the Great Sphinx of Giza, Egypt .
• The Genbaku Dome, otherwise known as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and the only structure left standing after the August 6, 1945 explosion of the first atomic bomb during WWII -- preserved in the same state as it was immediately following the explosion.

2. Take in online exhibits

• Peruse rooms and galleries of the rightfully world-famous Louvre in Paris, the world’s largest art museum, and even visit with the Mona Lisa from home in the Louvre’s first virtual reality project applying the latest scientific research on Leonardo da Vinci’s creative processes and painting techniques.
• Virtually visit the iconic spaces of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art such as the Cloisters, the Temple of Dendur, the gilded sculpture of Diana in the Charles Engelhard Court, and more – all without the pressing crowds.
• Explore Saint Petersburg, Russia’s State Hermitage Museum – second only to the Louvre in size -- through this truly comprehensive VR experience that includes many of the museum’s renowned works of art from Catherine the Great’s expansive collections as well as special exhibitions.
• Experience the world’s first entirely virtual art museum (including the building itself), the Virtual Online Museum of Art (VOMA) , launched in September 2020, featuring galleries of works by dozens of artists such as Matisse, Manet, Li Wei, Bosch, and many more including newer and lesser-known artists from the around the world.

3. Partake in cross-cultural virtual experiences steeped in literary and art history

• Virtually run with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain at the annual Festival of San Fermin and be like Hemingway, who immortalized this event in his acclaimed novel The Sun Also Rises .
• Take an interactive, virtual tour of the J ane Austen House in Chawton, Hampshire, UK, to explore some of the rooms where she wrote her renowned novels.
• Immerse yourself in the Immersive van Gogh Experience , which places you inside several of his paintings such as “The Starry Night.”
• Join in on Dublin-based Bloomsday activities with other super-fans of James Joyce’s Ulysses , which celebrates the central character of Leopold Bloom on June 16, 1904, the specific day depicted in the novel.
• Step into the Anne Frank House and rooms of the secret annex, where the brave 13-year-old diarist, her family, and friends hid for more than two years from the Nazis during WWII.

4. Join in virtual castle tours in the UK

• Edinburgh Castle , one of Scotland’s most impressive landmarks built in 1103 on top of 350-million-year-old volcanic rock. It’s an ancient stronghold with a long and rich history as a fortress, prison, and military garrison, as well as the royal residence of several kings and queens.
• Blair Castle , a 750-plus-year old Scottish castle in Perthshire in the central Scottish Highlands, ancestral home of the Clan Murray and historic seat of the Duke of Atholl.
• Malahide Castle , one of Ireland’s oldest and most historic castles dating from 1185, in the picturesque seaside town of Malahide about 20 miles north of Dublin.

5. Take virtual tours of national parks

• Yellowstone Park , established in 1872 and America’s first national park, spans approximately 3,500 miles of breathtaking views across Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. It has numerous hiking trails, hot springs, and geysers like Old Faithful, which shoots water 100 feet into the air.
• The Grand Canyon National Park , a true wonder of the world and one of this planet’s geological spectacles, was carved out by the Colorado River. It’s nearly one mile deep, and covers over 1.2 million acres.
• National Mall and Memorial Parks Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC features almost 3,800 cherry trees, 3,020 of which were gifted by Japan in 1910, and represent 12 different varieties.
• Redwood National Park is home to the world’s tallest trees, some of which are taller than the Statue of Liberty. With specimens up to 2,000 years old, this spectacular biosphere located in northern California contains almost half of the world’s old-growth redwoods.

6. Visit theme parks

• Dollywood VR roller coaster rides , some of the best and fastest roller coasters in the world, located in Dolly Parton’s eponymous Dollywood theme park in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
• Universal Orlando in Florida, walk through and experience some of the rides of this theme park completely on your own in this truly immersive virtual experience, including Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

7. Take a virtual cooking class

8. share in a virtual wine tasting, 9. swim with the sharks on a deep-sea dive.

10. Visit out-of-this-world places with NASA

Bonus: experience the travel experience itself, experience virtual travel with the hp reverb g2 vr headset.

• Industry-leading, Valve-designed lenses, which can be adjusted for each user’s unique eye distances and face shape
• Four cameras and internal sensors for detecting position to track more of your arm movement and jump right into VR without additional peripherals
• Ultra-sharp visuals with 2160 x 2160 LCD panels per eye
• An ergonomic design with controllers that are comfortable to hold onto

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