The travel industry was severely impacted by the COVID crisis, but, one of the good things that came out of it was virtual travel. It’s inexpensive and can take you to any part of the world you desire or even your local neighborhood. It’s also an excellent way to plan your next trip.
It is also a way for disabled seniors and others to check a few items off their bucket lists if they can’t travel physically or the cost is prohibitive.
What is virtual travel?
You’ve probably been on a few Zoom meetings during the pandemic if you own a computer. Travel and tour companies, that would normally give in-person tours offered virtual travel as an option for those who couldn’t visit in person. They are still available and are easy, convenient, fun, and informative.
Virtual travel makes it possible for tour companies to share their expertise and adventures with people who aren’t physically able to visit their locations. That’s a boon to those who are disabled, can’t afford expensive trips, or have other issues that prevent them from traveling.
Travel your neighborhood without getting in your car
I live in Los Angeles and even though I’ve been a resident since the mid-70s I haven’t seen everything my city has to offer because it’s huge and sprawling. As much as I love being on location in an area I want to explore, it usually means fighting traffic or driving long distances. I have taken virtual tours of local neighborhoods which have been fascinating. Many organizations and historical societies offer such tours.
Domestic Tours
Visitor bureaus are another source of virtual tours. I wrote about one that featured Tempe Arizona. If you’re planning a road trip, it’s a good idea to see where you are going beforehand.
Take an International Tour
Have you dreamed of going to Europe or another foreign country? International tour companies have joined the virtual tour bandwagon.
It’s a company that provides you with a local tour guide who has deep knowledge of the area they live in. It offers group and one-on-one guided in-person tours as well as some virtual ones. All of their tour guides are English-speaking and travel experts.
Have you experienced virtual travel yet? Where have you “gone?” How was your experience? Please leave a comment below.
Rebecca, you have inspired me! I tweeted this, too!
So glad I got you excited about it Carol. I’m having fun with it.
I love this idea! Will have to try a few, including the Los Angeles walking tour. Sounds fabulous.
Great Laurie, The nice thing about virtual travel is that you can sign up even if you aren’t in the area.
Yes, I love interiors and gardens, so touring the houses would be great. Thanks, Rebecca.
I do too, Beth. With virtual travel they can sometimes go inside the building so you can see it using Google and with images.
I love these! My favourites so far? All the Frank Lloyd Wright houses and the Winchester House. Places I’d probably never get to travel to. Totally fun!
I love the Frank Lloyd Wright nomes also. I’ve been to the Winchester House several times and it’s always very spooky. It’s great, though.
Thanks for telling us about these. Some great ideas, altho’ we should be careful b/c some of them seem very expensive for what you get. Still, I suppose, cheaper than airfare and a hotel!
Most of the ones I’ve done have been about $10. The International ones are more but the take you into places most tour companies do not cover because they are local.
I think I’m going to have to check out the Orlando visitor’s bureau and see what they offer. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thant’s a good idea, Jennifer. I hope you do.
Thanks for the information. I think virtual programs will be a ‘thing’ long after covid, maybe not as many or as often, but a lot of people for various reasons will take advantage.
I believe they will too, Meryl. They are so convenient and fun.