Even when travel plans are cancelled and people opt to stay at home, you can still experience traveling virtually through ASMR travel videos featuring local destinations.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) recently launched the “ASMR Experience the Philippines” Project which aims to bring people to certain destinations through ASMR videos. These videos explore the natural sounds of local destinations and allows viewers to tune into nature and be fully present in the moment.
According to the Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology (QJEP), ASMR, or Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response is a “special perceptual phenomenon in which some people can experience a tingling, static-like sensation in response to some certain auditory or visual stimulations”. It brings a pleasant feeling that one experiences in response to certain sounds, visuals, feelings, or descriptions. The sensation leads to contentment and relaxation.
“This project of the DOT is anchored on the concept that, when people travel, they go ‘sightseeing’, but it is with their ears that they hear and sense things all around them. Through these videos, people get to share with the travel experience,” said Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat.
The initial four ASMR videos that will be launched feature the Mountain Province in the Cordilleras, particularly the remote town of Barlig located at the foothills of Mt. Amuyao and the journey to the summit of the mountain. The first video for the Mountain Province series, featuring a walk in the serene town of Barlig and its amazing terraces,
With Mountain Province currently under Alert Level 4, and the rest of the country under the observation of different alert level restrictions, these videos will allow viewers to experience the grandeur of Mountain Province no matter where they are, through their video devices.
The succeeding video series will explore Ilocos Norte, then destinations in Visayas and Mindanao.
Recorded using Ambisonics, the audio is captured in a 360-degree sphere from the position of the microphone. This immersive experience teleports the viewer/listener to the environment. One can leave this on in the background as unobtrusive, calming noises throughout the day. For best experience, use open back headphones, but any headphones, earphones, or earbuds will also work.
All ASMR videos can be accessed through the DOT official YouTube channel. Subscribe to get updates when new videos are uploaded.
