Technology is a pretty awesome thing sometimes. Even if you’re one of the members of the newer generations that have grown up with technology touching almost every facet of your life, some things about its feats and possibilities will always be breath-taking. For this author, Google street view and global maps are a few of such things. The ability to travel to almost any place on Earth without leaving one’s seat is such an amazing opportunity to have at one’s finger tips. And the beauty lies in the swirl of both simplicity and complexity, blending in to one; one can use Google street view to get visual directions to the farmer’s market, or go backpacking across Europe in an afternoon. The possibilities are endless and amazing each time.

Google street view is adding on to their amazing list of places to visit from your computer screen, with the most amazing addition being the seat of France’s National Assembly, the Palais Bourbon, which is now available for anyone to look at and pay a virtual visit to. The building is full of precious artwork, architecture, and decor that is now free for the world’s public to peruse and explore.

Curious minds and eager visitors can also make their virtual rounds to the European Union’s 42 parliaments, where architecture, information, decor, and artwork are all compiled in to one place. Visitors can also explore the Google Cultural Institute, where still more goodies and knowledge await the eager minds of the masses.

Technology truly is a beautiful thing, especially when applied to such pursuits as opening doors to knowledge and experiences that have never before been so accessible. In the most sincere way, this author is amazed and what a time it is to be alive. Be sure to go check out these awesome opportunities; just be prepared to spend about two hours on the process.