These days, many people are unable to travel due to the pandemic or other life circumstances. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on experiencing new places and cultures. Here are 14 alternatives that can give you a taste of travel from the comfort of your own home.
Virtual Museum Tours (2/5)
Visiting a museum is one of the most memorable aspects of traveling to a new city. Now, you can enjoy museum tours from the comfort of your own home with virtual tours of some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries. From the Louvre in Paris to the Smithsonian in Washington D.C., there are millions of works of art and historical artifacts to explore. Take in an inside view of the world’s most renowned art collections in a variety of different interactive formats such as 360-degree views and 3D guided tours.
Travel Series (1/5)
Watching a travel series is one of the best ways to learn about different cultures and explore natural wonders from the comfort of your own home. There are a variety of travel shows from popular streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. Treat yourself to a travel show marathon, learning about the destinations you wish to visit and the amazing landscapes around the world.
Online Language Learning (1/5)
Learning a new language is one of the most rewarding parts of traveling to a new place. With apps like Duolingo, you can take virtual language lessons with native speakers and practice your language skills without ever having to leave the house. It’s a great way to start learning a new language and connect with people around the world.
Video Chats (3/5)
If you’d like to immerse yourself in a culture without actually being there, you can always take part in video chats with locals. You can connect with people from all over the world and learn first-hand about the unique customs, beliefs, foods, and music of the cultures they live in.
Online Cooking Classes (3/5)
Cooking classes are a great way to experience another culture from the comfort of home. Look for online classes from professionals and amateur chefs from around the world to learn authentic recipes from a variety of different cultures. These classes will teach you about the flavors and ingredients used in various dishes and can give you insight into the cultural context of the cuisine.
TED Talks (3/5)
TED Talks are a great way to explore a range of topics from science to art and culture. The talks feature experts from a variety of different cultures and countries speaking about their experiences and knowledge of the world. It’s inspiring and educational and can give you a sense of the cultural differences between countries.
Virtual Tours (3/5)
From historical sites to national parks, virtual tours offer a unique perspective on some of the most iconic and beautiful places in the world. For example, Google has created virtual tours of some of the world’s most remarkable attractions, such as the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, and the Taj Mahal. You can get an up-close and personal view of these landmarks without ever having to leave your home.
Online Gatherings (2/5)
Online gatherings and meetup groups are a great way to connect with people from around the world. Platforms like Meetup allow you to join and attend events from the comfort of your own home. So, whether you’re interested in discussing a book club, attending a trivia night, or taking part in a cultural exchange, there are plenty of ways to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
Book Clubs (1/5)
Book clubs are a fantastic way to learn about different cultures and explore the written works of authors from around the world. Reading books from different countries and cultures can give you an in-depth understanding of the customs and experiences of people from foreign lands.
Virtual Art Classes (2/5)
Art classes are an excellent way to get creative and explore different cultures from the comfort of your own home. Look for courses from experienced artists around the globe, who can teach you techniques and insights into their style and culture. You can take part in interactive classes, such as drawing and painting classes, as well as digital art classes and photography classes.
Books (3/5)
Reading is the perfect escape from everyday life, and with the power of books we can explore different cultures, visit new places and gain insight from fascinating stories. Whether you choose thrilling fiction or real-life travel tales, reading allows us to travel the world with just one book.
Movies and Documentaries (4/5)
Why not use this time to embark on a cinematic journey? Films can transport us to distant locations and explore different points of view, giving us the opportunity to learn more about the world and expand our understanding of different cultures. Documentaries can also provide a deeper look into topics and places that interest us, helping us to form our own opinions on a variety of topics.
Home Experiences (5/5)
Why not experience a different culture right in your own home? Try replicating traditional dishes, watch foreign language films, listen to music from around the globe and connect with people on the other side of the world. Putting yourself in the shoes of someone from a different country can truly open your eyes to the world and help you appreciate different cultures.
DIY Projects (2/5)
Make something that commemorates your favorite travel destination or pays homage to a city you’d love to visit. Crafts, sketches and DIY projects can be a great way to recreate the physical aspect of travel and also create unique souvenirs for your own home.
Scale: 1 – Not enjoyable 2 – Somewhat enjoyable 3 – Enjoyable 4 – Very enjoyable 5 – Extremely enjoyable
Consider looking into 7 Innovative Ways to Travel Without Going Anywhere
