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There are more home entertainment options than ever before, thanks to the digital movement! Nowadays, you can have fun online in numerous ways, no matter where your interests lie.
A recent survey revealed that 85% of American adults use the internet for leisure activities, showing that online options have truly revolutionized the entertainment industry.
At this point, everyone knows how to stream movies and TV shows through services like Netflix, Hulu, and others. But there are so many other ways to use the internet for relaxation and amusement. Here are a few options that you may not have considered.
Live dealer games
Did you know you can play casino games live and in real time, from the comfort of home? Live casino games are played online and are very similar to the way you’d play in person at a casino, with a dealer and other players present.
You’ll actually see a live dealer on your screen, dealing actual cards or physically spinning the roulette wheel — but you’ll place your bets virtually. This gives you much the same energy and social element you’d get at an actual casino.
Mobile Video Games
Video game downloads for portable devices have become increasingly popular in recent years. They let you stream your favorite games right on your laptop — eliminating the need for expensive gaming consoles.
You can even can play games on the go, with a tablet or smart phone. Check the Apple App Store and Google Play Store for mobile games to download. Many are free, but some require in-app purchases to unlock additional features.
Cloud Gaming Services
Cloud gaming services are a relatively new concept, but they are quickly gaining popularity. These services allow you to stream games from remote servers, eliminating the need for expensive hardware.
With cloud gaming, you don’t have to buy an Xbox or game cartridges. Instead, you pay a monthly subscription fee that gives you access to a wide library of games.
Virtual Tours
Virtual museum tours give you an immersive experience, allowing you to explore museums, zoos, botanical gardens, and galleries in far flung places that you might never get to visit in person.
Through virtual tours, you can browse exhibits and collections from the comfort of your own home. Many are free. Some popular virtual museum tours include the Louvre in Paris, the British Museum in London, and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C.
Virtual Reality Experiences
Virtual reality experiences offer a completely immersive experience, plunging you into a whole different world. Experiences are not just limited to games. For example, you can have a guided meditation through the virtual reality app Tripp. Other sites or apps allow you to have a dance lesson or workout led by a pro. The possibilities are endless.
Through virtual reality, you can even have a sensory experience designed to help you overcome your fear of heights, by letting you safely “walk” across a plank 80 stories high! The sky’s the limit, once you acquire your own virtual reality headset.
Augmented Reality Apps
Augmented reality apps work by overlaying digital information on top of the physical world. There are various augmented reality apps available online, ranging from gaming to shopping experiences.
Want to redecorate your living room? Augmented reality can let you visually try out different arrangements of furniture to see how it looks, before you make a purchase. Want to snap holiday photos of your kids or pets? Augmented reality allows you to place Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, or other characters in your shot. It’s the perfect blend of the real and the imaginary.
Online Courses
If you’re looking to expand your knowledge and skills, online courses are a great option. With a plethora of options available, you can choose from a variety of subjects ranging from coding to cooking. Online courses offer the flexibility of learning at your own pace and on your own schedule. Many courses also offer a certificate of completion, which can be a valuable addition to a resume.
Free Video Streaming
You probably already have a paid subscription or four to online streaming services. But did you know there are many FREE streaming services that let you watch popular movies and TV shows?
We’re talking about completely legal sites, with no bootleg content or copyright violations. Yes, they come with a catch — you may need a library card, or be willing to sit through commercials. But they are viable options for a tight budget.
