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31 January, 2023

New tech experience aims to make your next trip an (augmented) reality

Have you been feeling a bit uninspired recently? It turns out you’re not the only one.

According to new research, the first three months of 2023 were the most uninspiring for Aussies, with a staggering 68% feeling the start of year blues and over 62% longing to go and travel.

Of those who say they long for travel, almost all (86%) are spending on average one to three hours a day while at work daydreaming about their next travel adventure.

To help take that daydreaming one step closer to reality, Contiki, Trafalgar, Costsaver, Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold have collaborated to create an Augmented Reality (AR) ‘Windows to the World’ experience to transport Aussies to some of the world’s most sought-after touring locations.

The experience offers Aussies 360-degree walk-through views of extraordinary sights and experiences, including breath-taking views of the Canadian Rockies, ancient temples of Cambodia, and the rolling landscapes of Italy.

The report also revealed Italy as the location Australians want to tour most in the world, with 35% saying it’s the destination of choice for 2023.

Of those who long for travel, 85% admit to thinking about travel for up to three hours a day.

Getaway presenter, Jason Dundas was involved in the testing of the AR experience.

“It’s no surprise to me that most of us have a case of the start of the year blues and are looking to head abroad ASAP,” Dundas said.

“While Aussies might be facing a lot of procrastination until their next trip, the Windows to the World portal is really a great way to curb your wanderlust and explore some of the destinations you might want to visit this year, before you go.”

The launch of Windows to the World comes at a time when Aussies say they have a deep longing for travel with purpose, with 40% looking for more authentic, emotive experiences.

Aussies also appear keen to take to touring when they next travel overseas.

Toni Ambler, who is managing director of the the brands behind the AR experience says the advantage of touring is seeing more of a country while you’re on the ground.

“With touring there’s an option for everyone, whether that’s for those on a budget, like Costsaver, or those looking for more of a luxury and personalised experience, like Luxury Gold.

“While our research shows a lot of Aussies are trying to power through a somewhat uninspiring start to the year, it doesn’t mean they have to leave their travel plans at the door.”

The Windows to the World experience can be found at thewindowstotheworld.com.

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