TRAVEL
Five Ways to Enjoy Virtual Travel Right Now
Source: Attenboroughs Reef
With travel pretty much put on hold for most people around the world, many are coming up with creative ways to be a tourist from the comfort of their own home via virtual travel.
From national parks to renowned international museums and landmarks, it’s easy to alleviate some of the boredom of staying at home through virtual travel – and best of all you don’t need to worry about a passport, or packing a suitcase!
Central Park, New York
Yearning to take a bite out of the Big Apple? Now you can take a stroll through New York City’s most famous park from the couch! Best of all you get to experience Central Park with an online guide who will detail specific events in the park’s storied history. Simply visit www.youvisit.com/tour/centralpark to start your urban park adventure.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Don’t let a fear of heights prevent you from witnessing the gorgeous views atop the summit of Grand Teton. From the comfort – and safety – of your own home, intrepid would-be mountaineers can ascend the 13,770 feet to the top of Grand Teton via a virtual e-climb. Along the way you will learn about the geology and history of Grand Teton. Visit www.nps.gov/grte to start your climb.
Livestream the Northern Lights
Right now Polar Bears International and www.explore.com are offering homebound wannabe tourists the chance to view the famous Northern Lights via their camera located at the Churchill Northern Studies Center in Manitoba, Canada. Since the Northern Lights are notably at their best during later winter and early spring, now is an excellent time to log on and livestream the Arctic skylight treat. Best hours for viewing are between 10 p.m and 4 a.m Eastern Daylight Time.
Peruse a Famous European Museum
Feeling like you want to add a little culture to your life while you ride out the coronavirus pandemic at home? Some of the world’s best art museums are offering interactive “walk around” tours, which allow most participants the chance to get closer to the art than they would in real life.
Here are a few we recommend:
British Museum, London – www.britishmuseum.org
National Gallery, London – www.nationalgallery.org.uk
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam – www.rijksmuseum.nl
J Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles – www.getty.edu
The Louvre, Paris – www.louvre.fr
The National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C. – www.nga.gov
Journey Across Australia’s Great Barrier Reef
Hop aboard the MV Alucia to interactively explore Australia’s Great Barrier Reef with narrator Sir David Attenborough. A map plots your journey as you explore five key locations on the reef through informative videos showcasing the reef in all its fragile glory. Visit www.attenboroughsreef.com to start your journey – no passport needed!
