Luxury Portfolio Magazine: Global Experiences From Home

By Linsey Stonchus

Global experiences can still be enjoyed even when travel is limited — the world is just a click away. Transport yourself to Italy with a wine tasting or savor the flavors of Japan with a cooking class. Immerse yourself in culture with The Met or learn a new skill from industry experts — the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for self-improvement or to just pass the time, these virtual experiences will help you continue to feel connected and internationally inspired. 

1. Virtual Tuscan Wine Tasting

Celebrating 300 years this year, Tenuta Torciano Winery, based in San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy, is now offering virtual wine tastings led by instructor-sommeliers. The winery has been owned by the Giachi family since 1720. Its legacy is one that consists of successfully cultivated original wines through their ownership of high-quality vineyards and their knowledge and respect for traditional methods while simultaneously embracing modern technologies. The courses themselves are ideal for small and large groups alike and often feature food pairings. There’s even an option to book time with the winery’s owner and winemaker Pierluigi Giachi, who is an innovator in the industry and the 13th generational owner. torcianovirtual.com

2. Lessons From Legendary Experts

With so much of our lives spent at home these days, self-improvement is one way to make great use of this time. With the tagline “Learn from the best,” MasterClass never fails to deliver, offering thousands of courses taught by 85+ experts in digestible, cinematic-quality videos that are partnered with downloadable workbooks. Watchable on TV, smartphones and desktops, MasterClass includes lessons taught by notable names, such as Stephen Curry (basketball), Gordon Ramsay (cooking), Natalie Portman (acting), RuPaul (authenticity), Serena Williams (tennis), Carlos Santana (guitar), Annie Leibovitz (photography), Dr. Jane Goodall (conversation) and so much more. masterclass.com

3. Japanese-Style Cooking Courses

Food has the powerful ability to transport us to different places, times and emotions. BentoYa Cooking, based in Japan, does a marvelous job bringing authentic Japanese cuisine to the comfort of your home with its array of virtual and private plant-based cooking courses. The “bento” in BentoYa translates to “boxed lunch,” an intricate and lovingly prepared meal that is popular in Japanese society. BentoYa Cooking students will have the option to learn how to create these complex creations, as well as other Japanese meals, including udon, tempura and vegan spring rolls. Alternatively, you can opt to learn how to make sweet treats, like matcha cake and “cheeseless” cheesecake. bentoyacooking.com

4. Online Programming From The Metropolitan Museum Of Art

Fun fact, this year The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City is celebrating 150 years! Much of the wonder of The Met can now be explored online, both through a virtual-reality-compatible tour through the museum, as well as special virtual programming. The Met 360° Project is an award-winning, immersive series consisting of six short videos touring the museum’s most iconic spaces with varying perspectives, including empty galleries, time-lapses showcasing the bustle of visitors and even bird’s-eye views in select exhibits. The series is ideal for Google Cardboard and VR headsets; however, it may also be experienced via smartphones and desktops. Those who want to further envelop themselves in culture may also enjoy one of The Met’s numerous virtual events, including art exhibits, performances, workshops, talks and more. metmuseum.org