For those who are short on money and time but still suffer from wanderlust, “virtual tourism” might just be the perfect solution, offering a 3D alternative to making those travel dreams into a “virtual reality”. Although this imaginative new way to travel has yet to catch on in the mainstream, many young, hip and cyberspace savvy Chinese are opting for these digital vacations.

Using advanced WEB 3D technology, “virtual tourism” allows users to “visit” the scenic spot of their choice on the web, interact with other “virtual tourists,” even reach out and “touch” a stone displayed in the rendered landscape. This new technology also allows tourists to personalize their experience by editing the environment’s appearance. In this way, users can see ideal scenes of natural beauty without getting on a plane, train or even leaving the room.

“Any travel destination can be made into a virtual scene, giving users a ‘real’ sensory experience. Somewhat similar to a 3D video game, the differences being that in this virtual space, you can actually sit down on the stool in front of you, make yourself a cup of tea or buy whatever product is being displayed,” Martin Tong of Suzhou Snail Electronic Co explains.

While visiting a destination, virtual tourists can also exchange travel information, stories or simply give each other directions. “An appealing feature of 3D tourism is the virtual tourist can check out a destination before visiting in the real world, encouraging real tourism once the user’s interests are piqued,” Martin added.