We all love to travel, but sometimes circumstances prevent us from embarking on our dream adventures. Whether it’s due to world events or budget constraints, we can still find ways to satisfy our wanderlust without leaving the comfort of our homes. In this article, we’ll explore various options that allow you to travel from home and experience the thrill of exploring new destinations and cultures.
How to Travel from Home
If you’re looking for ways to get excited about an upcoming trip, research a potential destination, or simply entertain yourself and your family with travel-themed activities, we’ve got you covered. Here are some ideas to inspire your armchair adventures:
Guided Virtual Tours
When we travel, taking guided walking tours is an excellent way to explore a destination and learn about its history and attractions. Fortunately, even from home, you can still enjoy the benefits of guided tours. Context Travel, a trusted walking tour company, now offers virtual guided tours. These tours allow you to explore locations in advance or discover new destinations you may not have considered. They even offer virtual field trips for children, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family. If none of their pre-scheduled tours suit your interests, you can request a custom tour. As a bonus, we have an exclusive discount code for Context’s virtual tours and seminars. Use the code “travelcats” at checkout for 15% off your first order.
Books and Audiobooks about Travel
As Anna Quindlen once said, “Books are the plane, the train, and the road. They are the destination and the journey. They are home.” Books have the power to transport us to different worlds and immerse us in new experiences. Whether you want to read about a specific destination or indulge in a travel-themed work of fiction, there’s a book for every travel lover. Here are some recommendations:
Non-fiction travel writing:
- Explore Bill Bryson’s humorous travel anecdotes about the USA, UK, and Australia.
- Discover the adventures of Paul Theroux, an acclaimed travel writer with a wide range of books.
- Immerse yourself in the memoir “A Year in Provence” by Peter Mayle, as a British couple relocates to Provence.
- Learn about the history of the Silk Road and the countries it traverses with “The Silk Roads” by Peter Frankopan.
- Embark on a journey through train history with “Train” by Tom Zoellner.
- Experience Ernest Hemingway’s memoir of 1920’s Paris in “A Moveable Feast”.
- Join Elizabeth Gilbert on her transformative journey through India, Italy, and Indonesia in “Eat Pray Love”.
Fiction travel writing:
- Indulge in the escapism of “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams.
- Follow the journey of a young shepherd in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho.
- Uncover mysterious symbols and ancient clues across Europe in “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown.
Travel inspiration books:
- “You Only Live Once” by Lonely Planet: Explore a massive list of experiences to kindle your excitement for various activities, many of which are travel-related.
- “1,000 Places to See Before You Die”: Get inspired by this comprehensive list of must-visit destinations worldwide.
- “Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 of the World’s Greatest Trips”: Discover some of the most incredible trips and plan your own adventures.
Children’s travel books:
- “The Travel Book: A journey through every country in the world”: An educational book that takes young readers on a journey through 200 countries, sharing fun facts about each one.
Travel Themed Films
Film is another powerful medium that allows us to explore the world from the comfort of our homes. Whether based on true stories or entirely fictional, travel-themed films can inspire future trips, provide entertainment, and give us a visual feast of stunning landscapes. Here are some recommendations:
- “Midnight in Paris”: Experience an American’s adventure in 1920s Paris, meeting his artistic heroes.
- “Eat Pray Love”: Watch Elizabeth Gilbert’s transformational journey through India, Italy, and Indonesia.
- “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy: Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of New Zealand.
- “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”: Follow a man’s search for adventure and self-discovery, featuring breathtaking scenery, including Iceland.
- “The Beach”: Be inspired to travel to Thailand with this film adaptation of Alex Garland’s novel.
- “The Bucket List”: Join two terminally ill patients as they embark on an unforgettable journey to complete a list of things to do before they die.
- “The Way”: Follow a man’s pilgrimage through the iconic Santiago de Compostela after the loss of his son.
- “Out of Africa”: Experience a romantic drama based on a true story, set in Kenya.
- “A Walk in the Woods”: Join Bill Bryson’s humorous attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail.
- “Up”: Enjoy a heartwarming family movie about an adventurer’s fantastical voyage with a young traveler.
- “The Lion King”: Embark on a beautiful journey through the African wilderness with a young lion.
Travel Podcasts
If you prefer audio content, podcasts are a fantastic way to learn about travel while going about your daily activities. There are podcasts covering a wide range of travel topics, from family travel to budget travel and beyond. Here are some popular travel podcasts to get you started:
- Rick Steves Podcasts: Join Rick Steves as he shares useful tips for traveling in Europe, interviews travel experts, and explores various destinations.
- Amateur Traveler: Listen to interviews with expert travelers from around the world, covering a wide range of destinations and travel styles.
- Rough Guides Podcast: Discover travel-themed episodes from the popular Rough Guides series of guidebooks.
- Armchair Explorer: Enjoy gripping and immersive travel stories from some of the world’s greatest adventurers.
- The Travel Diaries: Delve into the travel experiences of special guests as they share their stories and insights.
- Y Travel Podcast: Join Australian couple Caz and Craig as they discuss family travel and share valuable travel tips.
Live Webcams, 360 Views, & Virtual Visits
If you want to explore a destination at your own pace, virtual tours and live webcams provide an excellent opportunity. You can access a wide range of virtual tours, 360-degree interactive views, and live webcams from destinations around the globe. Here are some options to consider:
- Explore a virtual tour of the Pyramids of Giza with Google.
- Wander through Machu Picchu in Peru with audio commentary on a tour by YouVisit.
- Experience a virtual rendition of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
- Take a virtual walk inside the Colosseum in Rome with Google.
- Visit museums worldwide with virtual tours, such as the Louvre, Vatican Museum, British Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- Watch live webcams of wild animals in Africa or farm animals in the UK.
Decorate Your House with a Travel Theme
If you love travel, why not bring the travel vibe into your home? Transform your living space into a travel-themed sanctuary with various decor items. From travel-themed bedding and wall art to custom photo frames and globes, the possibilities are endless. Let your imagination roam as you curate a cozy and inspiring environment. For more ideas, check out our comprehensive guide to travel-inspired home decor.
Through Cooking
Food plays an essential role in our travel experiences, allowing us to connect with a destination’s culture through our taste buds. While you may not be able to physically travel to a country right now, you can still enjoy its cuisine. Learn how to cook dishes from around the world and recreate the memorable flavors of your favorite travel destinations. There are numerous cookbooks, YouTube channels, and food blogs dedicated to different cuisines and cooking styles. From Italian pasta to Indian curries, the possibilities are endless. Whip up a delicious meal and savor the taste of travel.
Plan a Future Trip
Just because you’re not currently traveling doesn’t mean you won’t travel again in the future. Take this time to plan your next adventure. Whether it’s a real trip you’re planning or a fantasy trip, the process can be exciting and fun. Research destinations, create itineraries, and brainstorm possible activities and sights to see. By involving your family or travel companions in the planning process, you can ensure everyone’s interests are considered. Use online tools like Google Drive and Google Maps to collaborate with others and organize your trip. Dreaming of your next adventure will keep your spirits high and anticipation building.
Travel in Video Games
Video games offer another avenue for virtual travel and exploration. From realistic representations of real-world locations to epic fantasy lands, video games allow you to experience different realities and embark on exciting adventures. Here are some video game suggestions:
- The Civilization series: Build your own empire, from ancient times to the modern era.
- Assassin’s Creed series: Explore beautifully rendered historical locations and undertake thrilling missions.
- No Man’s Sky: Embark on a space exploration adventure, visiting countless planets in a vast galaxy.
- Watch_Dogs 2: Experience a fictionalized version of the San Francisco Bay Area as an elite hacker.
- Lost Ember: Explore post-human landscapes as different animals and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.
- World of Warcraft: Immerse yourself in a massive multiplayer online role-playing game set in a fantasy world.
- Minecraft: Build your own world, tour virtual recreations of real-world structures, and embark on block-filled adventures.
- Planet Coaster: Create and manage your very own theme park, from ride construction to staff management.
These games offer a variety of immersive experiences, allowing you to embark on virtual journeys and explore stunning landscapes.
Revisit Old Travel Photos, Videos, & Memories
Relive your past travel adventures by revisiting your collection of photos, videos, and travel memorabilia. Allow yourself to be transported back to those cherished moments and let the memories of your travels wash over you. If you traveled with friends or family, gather them together and reminisce about the experiences you shared. Consider turning your digital memories into physical mementos, such as prints or custom photo albums, to create a tangible connection to your travel adventures.
Virtual Reality
For a more immersive travel experience, consider exploring virtual reality (VR) content. Whether you have a dedicated VR headset or a smartphone-based solution, VR can transport you to different destinations and provide a truly immersive visual experience. With VR, you can explore Google Earth in a whole new way or dive into virtual reality games and experiences. While a dedicated VR system offers the best experience, smartphone-based solutions can still provide a taste of virtual worlds.
Backyard/Home Camping
Camping is a popular way to immerse ourselves in nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you have a yard or outdoor space, you can recreate the camping experience at home. Pitch a tent, have a BBQ, and enjoy outdoor activities right in your own backyard. If you don’t have outdoor space, you can still create a campsite indoors. Set up a tent using sheets and blankets, create a cozy atmosphere, and enjoy indoor camping activities. While it may not be the same as a remote wilderness adventure, home camping can still be a fun and memorable experience, especially for children.
Travel TV Shows
Television shows offer a wealth of travel-inspired content that can transport you to different corners of the world. From wildlife documentaries to travel dramas, there’s something for every travel lover. Here are some TV show recommendations:
- Planet Earth: Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of nature narrated by Sir David Attenborough.
- Long Way Round: Join Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman on their epic motorcycle journey from London to New York.
- Parts Unknown: Embark on culinary and cultural adventures with the late Anthony Bourdain.
- Rick Steves’ Europe: Explore Europe’s diverse destinations with travel expert Rick Steves.
- Outlander: Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Scotland in this time-traveling historical drama.
- The Amazing Race: Follow the exciting race around the world as couples compete in challenges across different destinations.
- Places to Love: Join Samantha Brown as she explores the emotional heart of travel and showcases the people and places she visits.
- Dora the Explorer: Introduce younger kids to travel adventures with Dora as she explores imaginary worlds. (Live-action movie available for older audiences)
These shows provide travel inspiration, cultural insights, and plenty of entertainment for the whole family.
Learn a New Skill for Travel
Enhance your future travels by learning a new skill that you can apply on your trips. Language learning is a popular choice, allowing you to communicate with locals and immerse yourself in the culture. Platforms like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone offer convenient language learning options. You can also improve your photography skills to capture the beauty of your adventures. Online photography courses, YouTube tutorials, and blogs provide a wealth of resources to help you master this art form. Additionally, other skills such as cooking or dancing can enrich your travel experiences and deepen your cultural understanding.
Set up a Relaxation Zone
Create a tranquil space in your home where you can unwind and recharge, evoking the relaxation you would experience at a spa. Designate a specific room, bathroom, or outdoor area as your relaxation zone. Fill it with calming elements such as scented candles, soft lighting, cozy seating, and relaxing sounds. Make it a device-free environment and focus on activities like meditation, reading, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. By setting up a relaxation zone, you can bring the rejuvenating benefits of a spa into your home.
Participate in Travel Forums, Facebook Groups, and Chats
Connect with fellow travel enthusiasts by joining online travel forums, Facebook groups, or group chats dedicated to travel. These platforms provide a space for like-minded individuals to share stories, discuss travel tips, and engage in conversation. Popular travel forums include Thorntree by Lonely Planet and the Rick Steves Travel Forum. You can also join our travel Facebook group for discussions on all things travel-related. Engage in conversations, ask questions, and get inspired by others’ travel experiences. These online communities allow you to stay connected with the travel world even when you’re not physically on the road.
Set up Online Video Chats with Travel Loving Friends and Family
Reconnect with friends and family who share your love of travel through online video chats. Catch up, share travel stories, and discuss upcoming trips. Whether using platforms like Skype, Facetime, Facebook Messenger, or Whatsapp, video chats allow you to engage in lively conversations with loved ones. Consider appointing a host or creating an agenda to make the most of your video calls, especially if multiple participants are involved. These video chats provide an opportunity to reminisce, plan future adventures, and stay connected with your travel-loving community.
Travel Themed Subscription Services
If you want a regular dose of travel-themed inspiration, consider subscribing to a travel-themed service. From books and souvenirs to spices and handicrafts, these subscription services offer a wide range of travel-inspired products that can fuel your wanderlust. Here are some examples:
- The Wordy Traveler: A quarterly book club that includes travel-themed books, premium tea, and a limited-edition fine art print.
- Little Passports: A subscription box service for kids that delivers monthly packages filled with toys and activities, including USA and World Travel-themed boxes.
- Paddington’s Postcards: A Unicef service that sends personalized monthly postcards from Paddington Bear, educating children about the lives of children in different countries.
- Nomadik: A subscription box service for outdoor enthusiasts that provides monthly boxes filled with outdoor gear.
Always check where these services ship and be aware of potential customs fees. Try to find local alternatives to minimize shipping costs and delays.
An International Penpal
Connect with people from around the world by finding an international penpal. Services like Penpal International, Penpal World, and International Pen Friends help you find penpals who share common interests and are eager to exchange letters or emails. Penpals provide an opportunity to learn about different cultures, share personal experiences, and develop meaningful connections. If you choose to involve your children, ensure they understand internet safety guidelines and use dedicated platforms like Students of the World for their penpal exchange.
Music and Dancing
Music has a unique ability to transport us to different times and places. Listen to music from destinations you’ve visited or plan to visit to evoke vivid memories and immerse yourself in the culture. Explore different genres and styles to broaden your musical horizons. Dance is another way to connect with cultures and embrace their traditions. Learn a dance style specific to a destination and enjoy the rhythmic movements. Online dance classes and video tutorials offer convenient ways to learn and practice at home.
Conclusion
Although we may not be able to embark on physical journeys at the moment, the world is still at our fingertips. By exploring these travel-from-home options, you can satisfy your wanderlust, broaden your horizons, and continue to fuel your love for travel. So go ahead, dive into virtual tours, immerse yourself in travel-themed books and movies, learn new skills, and connect with fellow travel enthusiasts. The world is waiting to be discovered, even from the comfort of your own home.
This article was brought to you by DHPL Travels, your go-to resource for travel inspiration and planning.