Don’t think you’re trapped in the house during the pandemic. There are so many places to travel. Let’s go! We’ll start with a big shout-out to technology for allowing us to stay in your pajamas and see the world without purchasing a plane ticket. Rather than watch reruns, open your imagination and enrich your mind by visually and virtually experiencing those places on your bucket list from the comfort of your home. It’s time to explore!
All you will need to use is Google. Yes, it can be that easy. Google may be known for its search engine, but that is just the tip of the iceberg for its capabilities. In recent years, Google has updated the Google Earth platform to provide virtual tours. In addition to Google Earth, many historical websites also offer virtual tours directly on their websites. We’ll first visit the Taj Mahal in India and later take a trip to The Great Wall in China. As you visit both of these magnificent places, you will certainly want to know more about the history and culture.
The Taj Mahal
This incredible display of architecture is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. This masterpiece was built in 1632 and is constructed entirely of white marble. Although the exterior is neutral, the walls inside are intricate and filled with colorful, precious stones. In some parts of the monument, even the floor is littered with stars. The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife, Queen Mumtaz Mahal. The building is a Mausoleum to both the Emperor and his wife. It took twenty years and 32 million rupees ($916 USD in today’s terms) to construct the Taj Mahal. No wonder the meaning of Taj Mahal is “crown palace.”
Travel to The Taj Mahal here.
The Great Wall of China
If you have ever wanted to travel to China, now is the chance. The Great Wall has had countless visitors in the past and thanks to Google Earth, there will be many more. Although it can’t be seen from the moon, you have the advantage of a visit from your couch. The Great Wall was constructed by the joining of numerous walls that were built at different stages. They span from the northern geographical region and snake its way through the country, along hills and mountains and many natural barriers. Some sections of the wall are in ruins but other areas remain and have stood the test of time. To this day, The Great Wall is another one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Travel to The Great Wall of China here.
Since you’ve come this far you can’t leave China with a tour of The Forbidden City. Among the places to see are The Gate of Supreme Harmony, Tianhedian Square and the Hall of Harmony.
Travel to The Forbidden City here.
The Louvre
The Louvre is on many art goer’s bucket lists. The largest art museum in the world, this French monument is known to house the Mona Lisa and lots of other famous paintings. The Louvre website offers virtual tours of their latest exhibits. There are currently seven tours available now. The topics range from politics to history, to the art of movement.
Travel to The Louvre here.
The United States Parks
If you have ever wanted to ride cross country to look at the United States’ beautiful parks, then you are in luck. Google Earth offers tours of over thirty parks, including the Everglades National Park in Florida, which is famous for its wildlife. The 1.5 million-acre park is great for water sports such as canoeing and snorkeling. The internationally famous Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is another park that is great to check out. Known for its beautiful pink hued rocks and gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, it is another park that you should check out.
Travel to 30+ U.S. Parks here.
The Palace of Versailles
Google maps puts you right in the center of Versailles. Whether you want to peruse the outside or look at the countless rooms that make up the palace, technology has you covered. Versailles is lined with manicured gardens, ponds, and statues. The gardens are lined with white, yellow, purple, and pink flowers. Once inside, there are countless historical paintings and artifacts to marvel. Every bit of Versailles speaks of luxury, and it is an unforgettable experience that you can now have more than once.
Travel to The Palace of Versailles here.
There are many other places to see with the power of technology. Look forward to part two, where you will be transported to other parts of the world.
Related: From Jerusalem To Nazareth, Why Vegan Travel In Israel Should Be Your Next Big Trip
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Photo: Julian Yu via Unsplash (Taj Mahal); Hanson Lu via Unsplash (Great Wall of China); Gloria Villa via Unsplash (Louvre); Peaceful Dumpling (Versailles)
