Bored at home? Take yourself on a virtual holiday during self-isolation

Australia’s borders may be closed and flights cancelled at the moment as the world tries to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still explore some of the world’s best and most impressive places.

While you can’t physically leave the country due to tight restrictions ordered by the government, you can take a tour through museums and galleries from the comfort and safety of your own home. The bonus – you don’t have to get dressed up or do your hair, just sit back in pjs or your comfiest sweater and wander through the places you’ve always dreamed of visiting for free!

The Louvre

When you think of France, The Louvre no doubt springs to mind. The Parisian museum is home to some of the most famous artwork ever created, including the Mona Lisa, and generally when you visit the French city, you have to empty your pockets to get inside.

But now, you can explore the artwork on four virtual tours without paying a cent. Here you’ll see current exhibitions, Egyptian antiques and remains of the Louvre’s moat which was the original perimeter of the museum when it was built as a fortress by French king Phillippe Auguste. If you’re a lover of arts then it’s definitely something to add to the to-do list.

Buckingham Palace

Have you ever dreamed of stepping inside the primary residence of Her Majesty the Queen? Well, now’s your chance! While you’re cooped up at home self-isolating you can take a virtual tour of Buckingham Palace.

The palace has been home to the Queen for decades and has also played host to many big royal events and celebrations such as the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony and regular garden parties. On the virtual tour you can explore the grand staircase, the White Drawing Room, the Throne Room and the Blue Drawing Room – all of which are equally beautiful and elegant.

Vatican museums

Right now, Vatican City is completely empty, with residents forced into lockdown all across Italy and tourists returning home. But, you can still visit the Vatican museums virtually, including the Sistine Chapel where you will get a 360º view of Michelangelo’s masterpiece.

Meanwhile, other virtual tours will take you through Pio Clementino Museum, Chiaramonti Museum, New Wing, Raphael’s Rooms, Niccoline Chapel and the Room of the Chiaroscuri. All offer breathtaking views of the beautiful structures and artworks.

Anne Frank House

For history buffs a tour of Anne Frank House is the ultimate dream. With virtual reality tours you can explore the house where Anne Frank and her family lived before they escaped and went into hiding in the Secret Annex, with all rooms furnished like they were all those years ago.

NASA

Ever wanted to visit space? Well, it might be a bit tricky to get you there right now, but you can take a tour of NASA‘s headquarters. There are 10 virtual tours on offer all showing you different parts of the Glenn Research Center’s facilities.

Here you’ll be able to see everything from flight simulations to supersonic wind tunnels. Even if you’re not a mad science fan you’re bound to find it fascinating!