By The Trip Sisters

During times of isolation, it can be easy to feel cut off from the rest of the world. We may find ourselves longing for a beautiful sunrise or to the feel of the ocean breeze against our skin. But even though our wanderlust may be at a temporary stand-still, it’s important for us travelers to remember that the time will once again come when we can hop in our car or board a plane, ready to explore all the beauty the world has to offer.

Colleen-Kelly-Catie-Kehoe-Coronavirus-Covid19

Until then, the Trip Sisters have been on lookout for ways to satisfy our wayfaring desires. Despite the unfortunate circumstances of the times, many new virtual experiences have surfaced that will allow you to travel the world from the comfort of your own home. Here are some amazing (and free) things you can do.

1. Take a Virtual Museum Tour

Ever wanted to take a stroll up the Guggenheim Museum’s famous spiral staircase? How about taking an up-close look at over 200 Van Gogh paintings at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam? Want to check out Egyption mummies at London’s British Museum? Now, you can visit not only these but 12 of the world’s best museums in one day without setting foot outside your home with a free virtual tour. Check out the full list of museums on Travel+Leisure’s website.

2. Enjoy the Music of the Metropolitan Opera

Have you always wanted to see an opera at the Met? We know we have! New York's Metropolitan Opera is currently offering free digital shows every night at 7:30 pm. Home or not, this is a special treat that you won’t want to miss. Go to their website to start enjoying the opera from your couch!

3. Taste International Cuisine with a Virtual Cooking Class

Even if you’re at home, you still have to eat. So why not travel the world with international cuisine you can make right from your own kitchen? Check out this list of over 13 of the best free online cooking classes. Not only will you eat well, but next time you host a dinner party for your friends, you can show off your newest cooking skills!

4. Take in a Live Concert

With many concerts getting cancelled, artists like John Legend and Keith Urban are two of the many performers who are offering their fans live, virtual concerts. You’ll beat the crowds (and the ticket price) as these concerts are available for anyone who wants to see them. The Grammy Museum in Los Angeles is even reaching into their digital library to share never-before-seen programs for free. You can take a look at the full list of virtual concerts here.

5. Watch Your Favorite Broadway Show

Whether your favorite show is The Phantom of the Opera or, if you’re Colleen, Kinky Boots, you don’t need a ticket and a trip to New York to see them. BroadwayHD is letting theater buffs enjoy their favorite Broadway shows from the comfort of home. The streaming service is free for the first seven days, then only $8.99/month after that. Broadway, here we come!

6. Plan for Your Next (Real) Vacation

Planning for the future is a great way to keep your spirits high. Spend an afternoon with your loved ones researching your next vacation spot. Even if you aren’t able to book flights and hotels, plan an itinerary and budget so when the time comes, all you have to do is lock everything into place. While international travel may be at a standstill, perhaps this summer is the perfect time to take that road trip you’ve been thinking about! It’s never too early to start dreaming of where you want to travel.

No matter where in the world you are, it’s important to remember that we’re all on this planet together. We need to look out for each other as we would ourselves. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and the people around you, wherever you are. And know that even though it may be difficult to see right now, the world is still a beautiful place.