Thanks to Google Earth's New Voyager Feature, You May Never Have to Go Outside Again

Imagine if BBC's Planet Earth was not a filmed tour of the globe guided by Sir David Attenborough but instead an interactive computer game complete with factoids and 3D imagery so crisp, you could almost imagine you took the photos yourself. Welcome to the latest version of Google's globe-trotting tool, Google Earth. The internet giant recently added some awesome new features, including updated satellite imagery, which is then used to create astounding visual clarity and definition across the virtual globe. While you can still explore the earth like before — by selecting a location and viewing it from above — you can now venture much deeper into your virtual round-the-world adventures.

In addition to the new 3D imagery, the most exciting feature has to be Voyager, a curated selection of "trips" that are broken down into categories — Editor's Picks, Travel, Nature, Culture and History — that you can take through Google Earth. Options range from exploring the cliffs and ravines of the Grand Canyon; an immersive adventure that details a journey through the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area; a trek through 41 of the most interesting spots in the Galapagos Islands, including some that are underwater; deep dives so you can swim with different species of sharks; and a great trip for the boozy writer in all of us called Hemingway's Hangouts that takes you inside bars around the world where the famed author was known to sip his dry martinis.

The similarities between Google Earth's new interactive and educational product and BBC's Planet Earth are no accident — the two media giants have paired up to create some of Google Earth's new experiences. Google Earth is also working with the World Wildlife Fund, the NASA Earth Observatory and the Ocean Agency, among others, to create a well-rounded and enlightening experience for any curious traveler.

While you could spend hours just exploring this site and taking in all the information, it may also be helpful to use as a resource for planning your next adventure. Check out hotspots around the globe or use the "I'm feeling lucky" tool to get Google to drop you somewhere completely surprising.

Overall, the new Voyager tool is a solid addition to Google Earth and you'll be able to "visit" obscure regions, learn about endangered species and maybe even be inspired to book that vacation of a lifetime.

H/T: Time