Take a Spring Vacation on Your Couch through Virtual Tourism

My assignment for the latest issue of NEWisco Weekend? Explore the idea of taking a spring vacation through virtual tourism. Our overall topic focused on spring break and using your time off for an actual vacation. Yet, diving in to learn more about this new travel trend, I found it’s making some waves.

Experts call virtual tourism an opportunity to explore the world — iconic destinations like the Louvre in Paris to the ancient ruins of Rome — all from the comfort of your couch. Yugen Earthside Travel’s Hilary Matson is at the forefront of this revolutionary travel experience. She is now helping travelers from around the world learn about virtual tourism.

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Listen to the complete interview as it first aired on the NEWisco Weekend show here:

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Matson explains that virtual tourism started gaining momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic. It allows you to experience global landmarks, museums, and historical sites without leaving your home. The rise of new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) is making it easier than ever to embark on a trip without the hassles of long lines, travel restrictions, or high costs. You can virtually explore the Louvre’s art collection or take a guided tour of the Pantheon in Rome. Virtual tourism offers accessibility and convenience, particularly if you have mobility issues or health concerns.

One of the key benefits of virtual tourism is spontaneity. You are no longer bound by the constraints of time or location, and can visit multiple sites in a single day, often switching between different countries and cultures with just a few clicks. And if you worry about the environmental impact of travel, virtual tourism offers a planet-friendly alternative without the carbon emissions of flying or long drives.

And while virtual tourism opens up a world of possibilities, Matson is careful to point out it still can’t replace the feeling of physical travel.

“There’s a certain type of magic that comes with travel where you’re smelling new things, talking to locals, and experiencing a place in person,” she says. “But if you want to explore more of the world or plan your next vacation more mindfully, virtual tourism can be a powerful tool, providing insights and inspiration for your future travels.”

Matson believes the future of virtual tourism is bright with the potential for further integration of other cutting-edge technologies.

“I can completely envision a world where virtual tourism integrates with VR,” she says. “And in the next five to ten years, travelers may find themselves fully immersed in digital destinations.”

As virtual tourism continues to evolve, it could become an essential part of your travel options, by offering a more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable way to explore the world.

Take a look at a few of Teri’s favorite virtual tours:

Koh Samui, Thailand: Bophut Beach Sunset Walking Tour

Barcelona, Spain: Wandering the City Streets

Chicago, Illinois: Guided City Tour