Research has also indicated that VR use can cause behavioral changes, balance problems (see 1, 2), cognitive problems, eye problems (soreness, vision changes), headaches and other discomforts, skin issues, as well as other short-term and/or long-term health issues.  In fact, children absorb 2-5 times more harmful radiation than adults while using VR systems.  Numerous studies have determined that exposure to blue light from screens and LED lights is also biologically harmful (see 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11).  Nevertheless, VR, AR (augmented reality), and mixed reality (MR) systems are increasingly being promoted for use by people of all ages for a variety of purposes including tourism.  Bad trip, anyone?

From The Conversation:

Tourism and the metaverse: towards a widespread use of virtual travel?

By Naïma Aïdi, Université Gustave Eiffel

The metaverse can be defined as a set of virtual shared spaces that are indexed in the real world and accessible via 3D interaction. It is a term that has been rapidly gaining ground in the media landscape ever since Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg announced the creation of the Meta Group.

While some people remain cautious or resistant to the idea, others see this technological evolution as an opportunity to develop new offers. Given tourism is a sector that moves forward largely in line with information and communication technologies, it is entirely relevant to look at how it could integrate this virtual universe.