We all dream of visiting exotic and exciting locations, experiencing the globetrotting lifestyle, but financial constraints and simple practicalities often make that difficult for most people. Sometimes known as virtual travel or digital travel, the concept involves using modern technology to explore distant locations, without actually visiting them in person.
One place that has captured our imaginations with this tech is Australia, as we explore some of the virtual spaces this country has brought to our attention.
Entertainment and Escapism
Virtual travel can serve as a form of entertainment, offering an escape from everyday life and a means to unwind, and the best example is gaming. Players can experience thrilling adventures in fascinating virtual realms, whether based on the real world or entirely flights of fantasy, all from the comfort of their homes or mobile devices.
Within the broad and varied niche of video gaming, we can find the best online casinos for Australian players , providing them with all the fun and experience without visiting physical gambling venues. Also, popular games like pokies are themed around all manner of ideas, including travel and popular culture, fantasy worlds or even movies and music.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that immerses users in a computer-generated environment, making them feel as if they are physically present in a different place. VR headsets and devices like the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, or PlayStation VR, allow users to experience virtual travel by providing a 360-degree view of simulated destinations.
While VR transports users to entirely virtual worlds, Augmented Reality (AR) blends the digital and physical worlds. AR apps and devices overlay computer-generated information on the real world, offering unique travel experiences. For example, you can use AR apps to learn about landmarks, history, and culture as you walk around a city.
360-Degree Videos and Photos
In addition to dedicated VR and AR experiences, 360-degree videos and photos can be viewed on regular devices. These immersive media formats allow users to look around and explore a location as if they were actually there. They are often available on platforms like YouTube and various travel websites.
One great example is the Australian Museum located in Sydney, which offers visitors to the website the chance to virtually explore their exhibitions . While there is an Oculus VR headset version, the core idea is based around 360-degree photography, which can just as easily be accessed on the website itself, and via the normal browser of any desktop or mobile device.
Live Streams and Webcams
Many locations around the world now provide live webcam feeds, allowing virtual travellers to see what’s happening at the very instant they open the application. These live streams are typically active 24/7 and throughout the year, granting access to the everyday life at distant locations. They’re great for an idea of the weather or traffic, and perhaps just to get a taste of the culture or lifestyle.
Perhaps one of the most famous coastal venues in the world, there’s a live stream view of Bondi Beach in Sydney, allowing virtual visitors from Australia and around the world to see this iconic surfing location. Time it just right, visitors could watch the sun rise or set each day, see people surfing when the waves are good, maybe just people watch as they stroll by on our screens.
Disclaimer: The above is a contributor post, the views expressed are those of the contributor and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial
