The original version of this blog post may be found on our sister page, The Casual Reply.
We are currently going through an unusual and trying time as people. One aspect of this worldwide pandemic is an encouragement to stay home and isolate as much as possible. However, as people we still have the same needs and desires to fulfill.
One of these is the opportunity to leave our homes to explore and experience awe for the outside world, art, and cultures. This is not only beneficial in terms of getting exercise and a change of pace/scenery—it’s also an essential part of understanding different points of view, appreciating life on a larger scale, and practicing empathy.
Photo by Vidar Nordli-Mathisen on Unsplash
Photo by gilber franco on Unsplash
Photo by Alice Triquet on Unsplash
How can we be sure to hold on to these necessary elements of humanity within the limits of the current situation? How can anyone homebound, with or without a world crisis, accomplish this?
Access to the internet and computers or wireless devices provides a resource for many of us in the form of free virtual tours or visits online.
I’ve compiled a list of links to a few of these, ranging from nature cameras to famous cultural spots to collections of art free to view online. All are meant for virtual adventurers of any age.
Please consider this list as a stepping-off point for those times you or a loved one need a new place to visit or a new perspective to step into. There are so many more resources out there: whether they are efforts being made by museums or other establishments via social media for this particular time, or help that is always available. Please share your own discoveries in the comments, to grow the collection and continue the conversation!
Again—even without the orders to stay home, many of us wouldn’t have the opportunity to experience some or all of these things anyway—so keep this in mind even as life goes back to normal down the road.
A Small List of Virtual Tours and Visits
Sites with multiple places to explore/choose from:
Nature live cams: watch live, or scroll to the bottom of any video page to see “highlights”
Short educational videos about different locations
https://www.virtualfieldtrips.org/video-library/videos-by-location/
360° tours:
Famous sites
https://www.google.com/streetview/gallery/#
Museums and architecture
The Museum of Natural History in NYC
http://www.samrohn.com/360-panorama/museum-of-natural-history-new-york-city/
Sistine Chapel
Great Wall of China
https://www.thechinaguide.com/destination/great-wall-of-china
Museum Collections:
Museo Galileo Virtual Exhibitions
https://www.museogalileo.it/en/library-and-research-institute/projects/virtual-exhibitions.html
National Gallery of Art Collections
Paintings: https://www.nga.gov/collection-search-result.html?classification=painting
Sculpture: https://www.nga.gov/collection-search-result.html?classification=sculpture
Want to enrich your experience?
Consider writing in a journal during or after each “visit.” Here is a very simple prompt to help you notice and express, and thus get more benefit out of, your time “away.” Feel free to use this for in-person visits and adventures as well!
Write down in your journal:
-Where you went or what you saw
-Your favorite thing that you saw, heard, etc.
-Anything new that you learned
-Draw a picture—even if you don’t think you can draw! Even something quick, simple, or not very good will still be the best way to help you remember and appreciate your experience later on.
You can also use this as an opportunity to connect with others you’re missing by arranging to go on your “trip” together!