See the world from your sofa!
by Mariam Versyani
In Qatar, summer break is just round around the corner, but many of our international travel plans have hit the pause button for the time being. Here’s how you can make the most of your holiday online instead.
The COVID-19 virus may have controlled our movement for now, but it doesn’t have to control our imaginations. Thanks to modern technology we’re able to visit some of the world’s greatest wonders from the comfort of our sofas.
From the ancient Jordanian city of Petra and a live webcam of a South African safari, to the northern lights — Doha News is here to help you to explore the wonders of the world from your fingertips. Sweatpants optional.
Walk on the wild side
Explore.org give a rare insight into animal habitats, with hundreds of webcams live streaming from unique locations around the world. Our favourites include the watering hole in Laikipia County, Kenya; the ocean view from Cape Fear’s Frying Pan Tower off the coast North Carolina, USA; and the honey bee landing zone broadcast from a hollow log in Buchole, Germany.
For the culture-starved
Google arts and culture lets you view a plethora of famous sites from 360-degree street view level, as well as take in mind-blowing works of art in high definition. In fact, there are more than 2,000 pieces of content to explore for free at the click of a button.
Without leaving your sofa, stroll the galleries of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, take a guided tour of Australia’s favourite sport at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, explore Moscow’s Bolshoi Theatre and finish your day at the Palace of Versailles in France.
The options continue for those missing culture right now thanks to YouVisit.
YouVisit lets you take a guided tour around Machu Picchu and a 360-degree tour around Grand Central Terminal in New York, all in the space of a morning. Still not tired? Saunter through the heart of London then end your day in Barcelona by the beach.
Enjoy la dolce vita in Italy
Although social distancing rules are in place in Italy and travel to the country is limited, there are still many beautiful places to explore virtually. Here comes That Anxious Traveller with a lovingly curated list of highlights.
Virtually land in Rome on an Airbus A330–300, enjoying stunning views out the window. Then take a stroll around the winding streets of Venice, a cooking class with 84-year-old ‘pasta master’ Nonna Nerina, or a virtual guided tour of one of Italy’s world-famous museums and galleries.
Disney delights for kids (and the young at heart)
Disney parks may be out of our reach at the moment, but the magic doesn’t have to end. You can still experience the excitement of Mickey, Cinderella and the gang from your screen. Hop on a 360-degree virtual ride, or virtually explore a choice of Walt Disney World attractions, shows, hotels, monorails, trains, boats, parks and more.
And while you’re in the neighbourhood, why not check out the rest of Orlando — self-dubbed ‘the theme park capital of the world’? Digitally work your way around an assortment of world-famous attractions, entertainment districts and much more.
So whether your plans were cancelled or you’re starting to experience cabin fever, we hope this little escape helped you look forward to your next trip and make plans for those places you want to see in person (and maybe rule out those you don’t)!
