Virtual Travels From The Sofa

With IRL (in real life) travel on pause, I have been busily preparing my list of places I want to visit. There is a lot of content out there on the big wide web and, lately, to keep us intrigued virtual tours created by organisations and countries have sprouted up. Here are some of my favourites as I sit on my sofa and enjoy a brew.

The Louvre

The Louvre in Paris has always had an issue with overcrowding. But here you can check out some virtual tours of the Egyptian antiquities collection, remains of the Louvre’s moat and the Galerie d’Apollon without bumping elbows with anyone.

The Great Wall of China

One of the great wonders of the world you can view right from your living room. Whilst this will never do it justice as being there in person, the Great Wall boasts a history of over 2,000 years and stretches more than 3,000 miles across several provinces of northern China, making it one of the most impressive ancient structures on the planet. You will have to get your steps in another way for now!

Northern Lights

One of nature’s amazing light shows. Tune into the live cam set up at the Churchill Northern Studies Center in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada. You will be directly underneath the aurora oval–one of the best places on earth to watch the aurora borealis, the spectacular atmospheric phenomenon better known as the Northern Lights.

South Africa

A place I want to go back time and time again is South Africa. I am totally in love with elephants and, whilst I cannot be there in person, I am getting my fix via the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Center.

Japan

Having to wait another year for the Olympics? Then check out this 360-degree VR movie created by the Japan National Tourism Organization. Takes you on a wide-ranging tour of the country that features everything from sushi making to sumo wrestling.

British Museum

The world’s oldest national public museum has partnered with Google Arts & Culture to showcase a virtual, interactive gallery. You can roam the halls, view the exhibits and view some famous objects like the Parthenon sculptures and Egyptian mummies.

Under a Mongolian Sky

Not a virtual tour per se but a great video created by Beautiful Destinations on Western Mongolia. A place still on my list to visit. Soon… very soon.

Mail Rail in London

Did you know there was a railway beneath London solely to keep the post moving around the country? 22 Hours a day for 75 years. Here is a virtual tour until you get to experience it for yourself.