Saskatoon in virtual reality: online videos show off the Bridge City

People around the world are now able to get a taste of what it would be like to visit Saskatoon, thanks to a new tourism marketing tool.

Tourism Saskatoon has launched two virtual reality tours. While goggles are needed for the full virtual-reality experience, the videos can be viewed in 360 online.

"So basically, this is to transport them to our city so they can actually see what it looks like," Candace Schierling, director of national conventions and event marketing, told CBC Radio's Saskatoon Morning.

Part of Schierling's job is to try and bring big conventions and events to the Bridge City. However, Schierling said not many people know what Saskatoon has to offer.

"They really don't know what to expect."

The virtual reality tours show off Wanuskewin and the South Saskatchewan River.

"So once you get to the river experience, you can hear the sounds — it feels like you're right on the South Saskatchewan River," Aviva Kohen, director of media, said.

Both women agree that virtual reality is the way the tourism industry is going.

Tourism Saskatoon hopes to add a winter video next, to show off some of what Saskatoon offers in other seasons.