Factual
Discovery expands content offering on Google Earth
MUMBAI: US media firm Discovery Communications has expanded its expansion of its collection of world-class content on Google Earth.
It has added over 150 video segments for destinations around the globe. A pilot partner for Google Earth’s new showcase of multimedia overlays, the Discovery Networks World Tour; can be accessed through the Featured Content checkbox in the Google Earth sidebar. This expansion follows the April announcement of Discovery being the first provider to bring video content to Google Earth.
Google Earth is a satellite imagery-based mapping product that combines 3D buildings and terrain with mapping capability and Google search. Over the past year, there have been more than 10 million unique Google Earth downloads from around the world.
Discovery senior executive VP for strategy and development Don Baer, says, “As promised, Discovery has continued to populate the world with engaging video to help Google Earth users explore the wonders of our planet. Discovery is dedicated to growing its showcase on Google Earth, giving virtual globetrekkers a journey of infinite proportions.”
The initial collection included companion video for 10 of America’s most popular national parks,including Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore and Dinosaur National Park. Drawing from its rich stable of programming and to enhance viewers’ experience with its TV brands, Discovery has expanded the offering to include 48 world landmarks, national parks, American and European cities, and African location.
Google Earth users will find videos on everything from the design process used to create the face of George Washington on Mount Rushmore and how to make authentic Belgian chocolate, to the history of China’s Terra Cotta soldiers and why fire is one of the most important natural forces in Yellowstone Park’s ecosystem.
Users can access the video elements by clicking on Discovery’s globe icon, shown at destination sites where Discovery video content is available. An interactive broadband player hosted by Discovery launches into a selection of rich and compelling two- to four-minute videos. Destinations include the following:
• National Parks and Landmarks — Representing the natural diversity of the United States,videos are available for Glacier National Park, Yellowstone, the Everglades, Point Reyes National Seashore, Niagara Falls, Mt. Rushmore, Alaska National Parks, Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Santa Monica Mountains National Park, Carlsbad Caverns and Dinosaur National Park.
• US Cities — From the Lincoln Memorial to the Golden Gate Bridge, users can explore the history, architecture and food of some of America’s favorite cities; Atlanta, Boston,Chicago, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco and Seattle.
• European Cities — Users can discover cathedrals, museums and neighborhoods while learning about the history, people and cultures of Europe’s greatest cities and regions: Amalfi Coast, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Bavaria, Berlin, Brussels, Dublin, Edinburgh,Florence, Interlaken, Lisbon, London, Madrid, Naples, Paris, Rome and Zurich.
• Africa — Unlocking the majesty of the world’s most diverse continent, users can learn about Ghana on a virtual tour with its president, uncover the ruins of a once great empire in Zimbabwe or get a glimpse inside King Tut’s famous crypt.
• World Landmarks — Spanning thousands of years and hundreds of cultures, the human race has created astounding feats of architecture, engineering and beauty. Users can marvel at the majesty of some of the world’s greatest wonders, including the Taj Mahal in India, the Great Wall and Terra Cotta Army in China, El Tajin in Mexico, the Great Pyramids in Egypt and the Shrine of Itsukushima in Japan.
• Coming Soon — Special features based on the upcoming global series Discovery Atlas. This is an HD project, offering video for 35 different locations in China, Brazil, Italy and Australia, the first of 30 countries in the multiyear programming franchise.
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
