Virtual reality (VR) tourism is about using VR technology to let people “visit” places without physically traveling there. In a new research paper authored by Dr Ian Yeoman and Dr. Naji Gharibi and colleagues, the results show that these virtual journeys can spark a strong feeling called “awe”, the sense of wonder we often feel when we encounter something vast, beautiful, or extraordinary, like a mountain range or a famous cultural site. Because VR surrounds users with vivid images and sounds, it can make them feel as if they are really there, even though they are at home.
The research explains that awe in VR comes from a few key features: the feeling of scale (seeing something much bigger than yourself), novelty (experiencing something new or unexpected), and immersion (being fully absorbed in the scene). When people feel awe, they often experience positive effects such as uplifted mood, reduced stress, and a sense of connection to the wider world. Many participants reported feeling inspired, curious, and emotionally moved after VR tourism experiences, similar to how people feel after real-life travel.
For everyday people, this matters because VR tourism makes inspiring experiences more. Not everyone has the money, time, or physical ability to travel far, but VR can open the door to places that might otherwise be out of reach. The study suggests that VR tourism can enrich daily life, support well-being, and even encourage learning and empathy, while also serving as a useful complement or sometimes an alternative to traditional travel.
The research paper was published in the journal Annals of Tourism Research: Empirical Insights and can be downloaded here: Virtual Journeys