By I’m beyond itching to get back on the road. I know I’m not alone. For die hard globetrotters, wanderlust is a way of life, so sheltering in place is just short of torture. Until we’re free to roam the planet, we will keep adding to our bucket lists and daydreaming. While there’s no substitute for IRL, in the meantime, here’s a little something-something to satisfy your travel fix from home. Unlike business travel, these “excursions” don’t involve dinner with clients or even wearing pants.
Queensland, Australia
David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef: An Interactive Journey lets you explore the Great Barrier Reef and explore this natural wonder. The start of the virtual journey begins on the state-of-the-art research vessel The Alucia and takes you on Attenborough’s path, educating you about the reef’s history, its future, and how you can get involved to ensure its protection.
Algarve, Portugal
Anantara Hotels & Resorts are legendary for over-the-top hospitality. Spend time in their spas and you’ll elevate your senses and your soul.
Recreate the experience with this recipe for Luxurious Vanilla Bath Bombs from the Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort in Portugal. You 8 ounces of baking soda, 4 ounces of citric acid, 4 ounces of cornstarch, 4 ounces of Epson salt, 2 Tbsp of coconut oil, ¾ Tbsp water, 2 Tbsp vanilla extract, purple soap dry (this is any dry soap bar, shavings from the bar of soap should be used. Purple is the color suggested so that the bath bomb has a bright distinctive color. White soap shavings can also be used).
The directions are simple. Mix the baking soda, citric acid, cornstarch, and Epson salt with an eggbeater. In a separate bowl, mix the coconut oil, water, vanilla extract, and purple soap shavings with an eggbeater. When the two mixers are ready, add the second one to the first, mix slowly and always mixing with a spoon. Place the mix in cupcake molds. Chill in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Take a finished mold and add to your bath water for a soothing soak.
Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa
I don’t know about you, but I have the biggest fantasy about traipsing through Africa and meeting up with one of those rare mountain gorillas. For now though, we can all get a peek at them via a gorilla trekking safari live web cam.
Lexington, Kentucky
For a relaxing reprieve, take in the sights and sounds of the Bluegrass can tune into a 360-farm experience to explore the “Horse Capital of the World” through VisitLEX’s interactive experience, allowing viewers to take the reins and travel around the countryside and Lexington’s famous horse farms.
Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina
Zoom, Zoom, Zoom. Did you even know about Zoom a few months ago? Now, our lives are somewhat dependent on it. If you’re home environment isn’t exactly a palace, no worries. You can travel to one of several Montage resort at home with their Zoom backgrounds. How about this one from Montage Palmetto Bluff in South Carolina? And if you need a cocktail recipe for your Zoom Happy Hour, Carlos Armas, beach and pool manager at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya has you covered with his Margarita recipe.
Mount Vernon, Virginia
History fans will take a trip back in time to George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. The virtual tour is a set of beautiful 360-degree panoramic images. You control the view. See every major room within the Mount Vernon Mansion and see the upper garden, kitchen, the Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington, and George Washington’s Gristmill & Distillery. There are also videos from character interpreters, curators, and other Mount Vernon experts.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Exercise is more important than ever. It’s not only about knocking off those additional quarantine pounds but for your sanity too. Make like you’re at the lovely UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya. Show yourself some TLC with their Escencia Wellness workout.
Chicago, Illinois
Everybody’s cooking. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out Chef Jeff Vuckoof Travelle shares his recipe for Melted Leek and Burrata Ravioli with Sugar Snap Peas and Bacon.
San José, Costa Rica
Take a virtual visit of the Jade Museum, located in Costa Rica’s capital city San José, dedicated to preserving the archaeological heritage of the region and featuring the largest collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts in the world. There are over 7,000 items on display, most are dated between 500 B.C. and 300 B.C.
What do you think?