Come enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness and the earthy colors of fall at Deer River.

Creator Kess Crystal has been a Resident for years, enjoying a multifaceted virtual journey. In fact, Kess believes that “everyone’s experience is different and can also change over the years. Back when I first joined SL I was a DJ in a rock club, my own rock club, so I had started to live in the entrepreneurial worlds of SL even back then.”

Last winter you may have visited Snowdrops, another region Kess created. Encouraged by the experience, Kess tells us, “Autumn/Fall is my favourite season and I started to get the urge to create something for Autumn while binge watching a series called Virgin River on Netflix.” Bodies of water and the grace of their movement play a big role in the atmosphere in Deer River. From the stunning azure blue of the river to the breathtaking waterfall and ponds, there is a palpable sense of wonder from being close to the water here. In fact, Kess says the waterfall was a direct homage to the show, and that “fans of the show will notice a lot of nods to the series… the log cabin, the food truck both feature, as well as of course the river that runs throughout the region.”

Deer River is filled with opportunities for bucolic recreation. Put on your hiking boots and explore the numerous trails, go horseback riding, and stop off at the outdoor cafe for a pumpkin spice latte. 

Kess succinctly describes the inspiration behind this woodland reverie: “My vision was to create a photogenic seasonal {region} where the natural beauty of the colours of the season are the star.”

Kess is also the co-owner of Seraphimsl.com, saying “through that, I get to meet a lot of the incredibly talented creators whose work I use to create my scenes. Second Life has brought me many real life friendships… It’s the bonds with those people that keep us in this wonderful world.”

Drop in for a soothing dose of nature at Deer River today, but be sure to watch out for the wily raccoons that like to hide by the camping tents to steal some snacks!

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

Deer River

Deer River is a Fall themed destination celebrating the rich hues of Autumn. Visit the small fishing town, the campsite, enjoy a warm drink at the waterfall and ride Teegle horses around the region.

Visit in Second Life

This week we are traveling around the globe and through time through the extensive David Rumsey map collection.

David Rumsey, President of Cartography Associates, has been an avid collector of maps since the early 1980s. According to his website, the collection “contains more than 150,000 maps... Items range in date from about 1550 to the present.” The digitization of archival materials has made historical content more accessible, and Rumsey had the keen foresight to create an interactive experience with these maps in Second Life.

Rumsey states, “We built the 4 {regions} in 2008 and have continued to update them since then. One of the things that fascinated me early on was the potential to “walk” on the historic maps and fly around them in SL.” Just getting from map to map feels like an adventure; they vary in size and are not only on display but a central component of the region’s structure. The degree to which atlases inform the design gives the region a dream within a dream feel. Rumsey informs us that “The Yosemite map which forms the floor of the site was built with a full elevation model so that it is accurate and in scale. The map is the first truly accurate map of the Yosemite Valley made by U.S. Army topographers in 1883.” 

The video shows a long map of the Tokaido road: Rumsey says that it was made in 1687 and was drawn by hand! “In real life it is a scroll that unrolls to be over 30 feet long. It shows the route from Tokyo (then called Edo) along the coast to Osaka.”

These maps are a visual history of how countries and territories have changed over time.Rumsey’s website even mentions that “close inspection of the {American} maps often reveals the growth and decline of towns, mining excavations, the unfolding of the railroads, and the "discovery" of the American West by European explorers.”

David Rumsey has donated his entire physical map collection to Stanford University, where it is housed at the David Rumsey Map Center in the Stanford Library and open to the public. Visit the virtual collection today to let out your inner navigator! And don’t forget to pin your hometown on the large world map so others can see that Residents from all over have been here.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

David Rumsey Maps

Discover antique maps in a unique, experiential way and explore a 3D recreation of Yosemite in 1883.

Visit in Second Life

This week we are visiting the stunning metropolis of Cravone City, inspired by the real life urban jungles of New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto.

Creator Bhad Craven has been an active Resident for several years, “making quirky home decor and accessories, detailed building components, and the occasional strange/unique/urban outfit under the Bad Unicorn brand.” 

Bhad joined SL when he was an art student and found that the platform was the perfect canvas for his burgeoning creative output. He tells us, “I eventually met Capone MacMoragh, who became a mentor to me after he discovered I was creating original 3D meshes for Bad Unicorn. He took me under his wing by giving me tips and tricks for learning 3D. I believe after many years of creating a wide range of items for Bad Unicorn, my photoshop and Maya skills have grown tremendously since I first joined SL. I have been lucky enough to work as a 3D artist in the real world as well as being able to fully support myself as a Second Life designer.”

Like Bad Unicorn, Capone’s brand, Scotch, is also informed by a modern, urban style. The two designers both found inspiration in the cultural megacenters of NYC, LA, and Toronto. In fact, Bhad came up with the idea for Cravone City in 2015. Given the enormity of his vision, “master builder Paradox Ivory was commissioned to design the place. Known for her work at The Apartments, Ms. Ivory breathed life into this unique city atmosphere that never skips a beat.”

Just like the real life places that inspired it, Cravone City is bustling with activity. Bhad says “whether users are looking for a new tattoo, a trip to the local bodega, a place to hang out, or just a ride on the subway, Cravone offers them a chance to flourish in this familiar, nostalgic virtual space -- a perfect backdrop for most.” Not to mention the shopping district: with stores like HEVO, Animosity Poses, Rossi, Shybird, and Radix, Cravone City has everything you need for a great adventure that you’ll be talking about for days.

Take a subway ride in Cravone City today and see the gorgeous city skyline for yourself!

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

Cravone City

Inspired by New York, Cravone City is an urban region that is great for photography, roleplaying, and hanging out. Come explore the shops, cafes, and parks. With numerous streets and alleys, Cravone provides plenty of ways to get lost and find yourself again.

Visit in Second Life

This week we are taking a stroll through Craggy Island, a peaceful and picturesque island off the coast of Ireland.

Created by Mishi Masala and Zucker Zabelin, Craggy Island in Second Life is not intended to be an ‘actual’ depiction of the fictional island that featured in the Channel 4 British sitcom Father Ted, but instead it draws more inspiration from the rugged landscape of the west coast of Ireland. 

As creator Zucker Zabelin tells us, "its fields and rocky outcrops (the ‘crags’ that make the island ‘craggy’) are dotted with occasional weather-beaten ruins of stone walls.” Zucker tried to visualize a harsh climate with spartan living conditions which have driven away most of the former inhabitants of Craggy Island. “It is now mostly populated by farm animals and the few hardy souls that still live there,” he says, “braving the elements and eking out a precarious living.”

Mishi Masala and Zucker Zabelin also added a lighthouse, which warns passing ships to steer clear of the dangerous coastline. “The shipwreck off Craggy Island attests to the perils awaiting any vessels that may foolishly venture too close to the coast, “Zucker continues, “but for all of that, Craggy Island is blessed with spectacular photogenic views - and of course the Craic.”

There you have it. Now enjoy a quiet stroll through Craggy Island, and if you snap some images, share them in their Flickr group.

Video Production Credits: Draxtor Despres
 

Craggy Island - A wee bit of Ireland

A peaceful and picturesque island off the coast of Ireland. Come to explore, come to unwind, come for the craic! Céad míle fáilte.

Visit in Second Life

This week we are raising awareness for the COVID-19 information center on Inspiration Island.

Lissena, who also goes by Wisdomseeker, guides us through the colorful and comforting realm of Inspiration Island, which she created with many other volunteers to promote wellness in a fun and accessible way. In this region you can also find Whole Brain Health, which Lissena describes as “the virtual arm of our nonprofit Ageless Mind Project. Our mission is to give people the tools to stay sharp, active, and healthy, based on research coming from neuroscience, gerontology, positive psychology, and creativity.”

The COVID display in the courtyard was built by Lady Brielle, a medical librarian who maintains the text as new data becomes available. Lady Brielle has been a tireless essential worker throughout the pandemic, and her work has not gone unnoticed. Lady Brielle tells us that “our outreach work in Second Life has been recognized by the National Library of Medicine and won an award in Research by the Hospital Libraries Section of the Medical Library Association.” 

Information on COVID-19 is displayed in Spanish, American Sign Language, and  English. The creators of Inspiration Island took a multidisciplinary approach to presenting information so that as many people as possible can be positively impacted by visiting. In addition to medical data there are stories submitted by other Residents about their personal experiences of social distancing to remind us that what we’re feeling is totally natural, and we’re not the only ones who feel that way. There are also many activities to facilitate mental stimulation and help people feel connected.

Lissena wants us to know that even the scary parts of sickness are addressed here: “Once a month Rob, a member of the Collective in Germany, hosts a Death Café -- something he is trained to do professionally outside SL -- conversations that help make death less {of} a forbidden subject. Amazingly, we laugh a lot there.”

This vibrant region is the labor of love of a devoted community. Marly Milena, a volunteer, explains that she provides “programs focused on creative expression on Inspiration Island. I have introduced a way of working with arts-based processes, called Symbolic Modeling (SymMod for short). We use the building tools so people can make art in SL, and then we guide them in exploring meanings, new ideas, feelings, etc.”

Thuja Hynes, the associate director of the project, builds educational exhibits and tours. Two of her current projects are called Simply Impossible and Hero Walk. Francisco Koolhoven, media director, creates unique, invaluable tools for the project. There are also many weekly events. Faust hosts the Positive Change Circle at Whole Brain Health on Sundays, and Arisia Vita plays piano in the gazebo every Monday and Wednesday. Priceless contributions are also provided by community members Catseye Tennen, Ghaelen D'Lareh, and Marylou Goldrosen.

Second Life is proud to host a space that incorporates elements of education, creativity, and community, and Inspiration Island is a living example of the positive it can bring. Lissena feels that the activities found here “give you insight into yourself, encourage your creativity and your sense of purpose and reduce loneliness, which is really important.” It is open to people from all walks of life, so stop by for a visit today.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

COVID-19 Resources @ Health Hacienda

Healthcare PRO Brielle MacXaris curates this comprehensive resource about health issues, respected options, and the latest research. Interactive and engaging materials in English and Spanish. Share your pandemic experience, and take the new Vaccination Survey!

Visit in Second Life

This week we’re jumping to the 25th century to visit Cocoon, an immense cyberpunk region for roleplaying, photography, and exploration.

According to the official website: “...An event referred to as the Transcendence War in the distant past left most of Earth ravaged. Humanity has taken to floating cities and orbital stations to carry on.” An oligopoly of mega corporations has assumed a position of authority, and it is up to you to decide who to align with in the fight to survive.

For roleplaying, you have an extensive array of characters to choose from. The main categories are humans, mutants, cyborgs, synths, and replicants, but each of these have modified subtypes to add specificity. As you become more familiar with Cocoon’s massive geography and its extensive lore, you will come across the various factions that have formed in this society. Be careful, and choose your allies wisely.

There are also publicly available weapons and vehicles, so as not to exclude newcomers. For those who are hooked on the cyber life, check out the private rentals. Admins Cece, Cervantes Rexen, and Kusa are valuable resources in addition to the Cocoon website.

Cocoon is a fantastic place to explore for non-roleplayers as well. The amount of intricate detail in this megalopolis is absolutely stunning, so come check out the future today!

Video Production Credits: Draxtor Despres

Cocoon

It is the year 2488. Enter Cocoon space station, a medium-sized commercial hub that has grown exponentially in the past decade, home to mega-corporations, crime syndicates, and much more. With shady deals taking place in every dark corner, Cocoon is the one stop for commuters or even those who make a home in the station. Come for the neon, stay for the intrigue.

Visit in Second Life

This week we are whisked away to the roleplaying community of the Ancient Order of Centaurs.

For those who may not be familiar, Centaurs are half-human and half-horse, found prominently in Ancient Greek mythology. Centauria was created by Julala Demina, a longtime Resident and aficionado of fantasy roleplay. Her fantasy creature brand Jinx has been active in Second Life for over a decade. Julala states that about two years ago, “I taught myself how to make my own Centaur skeleton rig in Blender and how to animate it,” which sparked the beginning of a region dedicated to this community. The enthusiastic response of Jinx customers inspired Julala to design a space to accommodate Residents “who had chosen to spend their Second Life (at least in part) as Centaurs.”

What makes Centauria such a vibrant place is that the passion Julala brings is equally matched by the Residents who visit. She would like to inform us that in addition to roleplaying, there are “social events, classes, and all sorts of different types of entertainment. It’s not only about Centaurs, we welcome everyone to Centauria and even within the formal roleplay we have a wide variety of allowed species.” 

Residents appear in a variety of forms: some Centaurs look more natural, whereas others have angel wings, ornate horns, brightly colored skin, or even magical sparkles. Here, identity is more than just an aesthetic. You will meet Centaurs who are warriors, farmers, chefs, and sorcerers.

While the overwhelmingly positive feedback of Residents can’t be expressed in one post alone, here are just a few impressions. Marilina Antonioni describes herself as a Mertaur, “a type of Centaur whose top human body is that of a Merfolk with the lower body of a Taur/horse… As a Merfolk I love to swim underwater.” Rayven Firebrand, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis IRL, says that “when for the first time I entered into a trot, then a canter, then a gallop... for the first time in years I actually felt alive.” Pearline Sweetwater, longtime Resident who is retired IRL, feels that “in Centauria I found beauty, friendship, acceptance and almost instantly felt like I belonged.” Many more kind and intriguing folks are waiting inworld!

Julala’s Jinx creations are proof that Second Life is a safe space and blank canvas for anybody who wants to bring their imagination to life. On her background, she says, “I am completely self-taught and learned pretty much everything I know about 3D modelling from Youtube tutorials.” 

For those who can’t wait to explore their inner hybrid, the Jinx Bento Centaur comes in four sizes, as shown below.

Visit Centauria today to immerse yourself in this breathtaking world!

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres
 

Ancient Order of Centaurs

The Ancient Order of Centaurs is a beautiful, and varied region where centaurs and their friends can feel at home. Visitors are very welcome, whether they are centaurs, creatures, and even hoomans. Come explore, join the community, or just take photos of the lovely scenery.

Visit in Second Life

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of primitives made of all shapes, colors, and sizes. Today we take a deep dive into the colorful art installation, Cells by Moki Yuitza at The Sim Quarterly. 

Moki Yuitza is a master prim manipulator using those basic Second Life building blocks to create complex and colorful immersive art in Second Life since discovering our world in 2008. Art has always been an important part of Moki’s life, but she doesn’t consider herself an artist, rather a good craftsman. Second Life is her infinite blank space, a sandbox as it is, and prims and lights are her brushes and colors. 

Cells is Moki’s latest gift to the Second Life art world, currently housed in The Sim Quarterly, which is owned and curated by Electric Monday.

The mission of The Sim Quarterly is to bring art and immersive installations to Second Life. Every three months a new artist is invited to share their creativity in a region-wide 3D installation that can consist of original art or scenic builds, with one thing in common - they have to be experiential. The visitor will use more than one sense while there, fully immersed inside the art rather than merely looking at it.

Visit Cells today and let your senses do the exploring.

CELLS by Moki Yuitza at The Sim Quarterly

Suppose we can look inside the brain of an Artificial Intelligence, and above all see how it works, how its parts work. What would we see? In a digital world where everything is possible, who knows. Maybe this is what we would be able to see: Cells. This exhibit will be open until April 4th. Find out more details at thesimquarterly.com/CELLS

Visit in Second Life

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres
 

Escape to the inviting environment and soothing sounds of Cann!bal, a tropical paradise that has been in development for over 10 years in Second Life. 

Now on its own estate and spanning four adjacent regions, Cann!bal has been a work of love by Chotaire Seelowe. 

Here’s a description of the inspiration for Cann!bal in Chotaire’s own words:

“I've always loved beaches in real life, so when I came to SL in 2006, I randomly started searching for terms like "Hawaii" or "Bora Bora" and  found "Bora Bora Isles," a Polynesian beach that was actually built by the owner. I realized that it is a rare sight to find an estate where the owner actually created the content and didn't just buy it from random stores. It impressed me. And I had this feeling, if I only tried hard enough, I could even make something more realistic, something even better.

Never in my life have I enjoyed programming, but I realized to create something really unique I would have to learn scripting as well. That's how I became a scripter. I got my own region for Cannibal Island to showcase all of this and become my own landlord. 

Then, when mesh got introduced into SL, I had to accept that one person can't do it all, so I started showcasing other people's builds too. This is how I got in touch with other creators and we started to cooperate. I still work for many of them. Today Cann!bal Island still pretty much looks like it did in 2011, except that due to weekly updates everything is much more polished and always makes use of the latest technology offered by Linden Lab.”

Chotaire clearly loves the challenge of invention that Second Life offers and appreciates being able to create environments that can then be seen by other Residents, and experiences that will stay with them for a long time to come.

Take the teleport to Cann!bal Island and see it for yourself -- you might even lose yourself in its lush environment or perhaps in one of its many dance clubs!

Video Production Credits: Draxtor Despres

Cann!bal

Take unbelievable photos on a total of 4 breathtaking virtual beach regions. Enjoy a multitude of exciting tropical activities, or just watch as their dynamic region windlight day cycles control the region-wide lights. This estate has been under development for more than 10 years and offers countless attractions seen nowhere else on the grid.

Visit in Second Life

Creator Jenaia Morane describes Braided Lives as “a multimedia, multiplatform initiative designed to bring people from around the planet together to create, collaborate, and build community.” It currently features a music installation called Songs for Ukraine.

Jenaia has been a Resident for over 14 years, telling us, “the most important lesson I’ve learned is that people are people wherever and however they choose to appear, and virtual reality has a lot to teach us about what it means to be human.”

As a response to the overwhelming emotions that many of us feel these days as a result of chaotic global events and uncertainty about the future, Jenaia applied those values to Braided Lives. As one of countless people who saw the devastation of the Ukrainian invasion and felt a frustrating sense of powerlessness, Jenaia realized “What I am, however, is a storyteller who has learned that sharing our stories through song is one of the best ways to open hearts and keep hope and courage alive in the world.”

Jenaia goes into great detail on the various goals of the Songs for Ukraine project:

• Entertain, Educate, and Inspire: “Bring people from around the world together to enjoy live music that supports and celebrates Ukraine. The concerts are held in recreations of places in Ukraine - e.g., the subways where people are living to escape the Russian bombs. These spaces are meant to give attendees a sense of what the Ukrainians are experiencing, including the hope and courage they’re displaying through their music. (Each live concert is broadcast in both SL and on the web so that anyone, anywhere with an internet connection can enjoy them. They are also recorded and archived so those unable to attend the live shows can listen later.)”
• Support and Educate: “Though we do not collect money, the “Songs for Ukraine” concerts provide information on more than 14 organizations that are offering aid to Ukraine. We also share poetry by Ukrainian poets and are starting to interview and post the work of Ukrainian artists and musicians.”
• Build Bridges: “To be effective, the work being done in virtual spaces needs to become readily available, easily accessible, and seen as relevant to the rest of the world. This is where music has a vital role to play: it crosses any and all boundaries, opens hearts, and reminds us that what we have in common far outweighs our differences.”

Walking through the region feels like an episodic journey through space and time, as each section has a unique aesthetic and feels insulated in a comforting manner. The air of serenity makes it easy to relax, and art pieces are perfectly balanced with the natural beauty of the outdoors. Eventually Residents happen upon a seating area on an enclosed square of sand, reminiscent of a zen garden. Just past that, a literal approach to the concept of a word tree that provokes visitors to think about familiar concepts in a new light.

Jenaia’s endeavor to foster resilience, hope, and connection features banners with inspiring quotes at the entrance and multiple stages for speaking and/or performing. There is also ample room for quiet contemplation, as one can see at a memorial for Ebbe Altberg, who many Residents remember as the CEO of Linden Lab until his passing last year. The poem “Do Not Stand At My Grave and Weep” encourages the reader to live in the present moment and not be focused on the past or weighed down by grief for those lost.

All are welcome to visit Braided Lives. In a world that teaches us to be constantly moving, allow yourself to rest. You deserve it, maybe more than you know.

Video Production Credits: Draxtor Despres
Musicians in order of appearance: Cylindrian Rutabaga, Frogg Marlowe, and Raspbury Rearwin.

Braided Lives

Braided Lives is a multi-platform initiative designed to bring people from all walks of life together to tell their stories and collaborate on the creation of a more equitable and sustainable future. The concept was born in response to the isolation, stress, anger, and frustration that have resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing racial tensions. For more info, visit braidedlives.com

Visit in Second Life

Step into the surreal otherworldliness of Black Kite, where the serenity of a lily pond meets the comfort of your coolest friend’s living room.

Black Kite is sort of a patchwork of inventive resting places connected by long piers that extend deep out into the water. This adds a fun hint of surprise as you approach each station, as you have no idea what is about to rez. Creator Cloudy tells us, “Second Life is this magical world of creativity and expression; you can do just about anything and be just about anyone. I love how it connects so many people from all over the world and different backgrounds, enriching your life in ways one might never have expected.” 

This region is ripe for exploration, with sights like floating fish and cozy pieces of furniture strewn about the corners. What at first looks like a small shack turns out to be an industrial chic lounging area with water lilies sprouting through the cracks in the floor. Cloudy explains that this imaginative creation is a way of giving back to SL, saying, “I would spend countless hours at places, just enjoying what other creators made… I decided I wanted to give back, like so many others did before me, and create a little spot where people could think, dream, and just have a special little place to call their home if they didn't have one. I wanted to add my own little bit of magic to this magical place.” 

This photogenic region shows the vibrant intersections of fantasy, art, and self-expression that take place in our virtual world everyday. The glistening water gives a sense of timelessness while other elements, like a whirlwind of butterflies around a tree, are perfectly frozen. Black Kite has an aura of self-acceptance that Cloudy also appears to possess, stating, “I take Second Life just like real life, one day at a time… so who knows what the future may bring. Perhaps working with others on projects, maybe creating a new project myself or just continuing to enjoy seeing people come to Black Kite after all these long years.” A dilapidated phone booth, a symbol of travel or transformation in many works of fiction, is adorned with tree branches and golden buttercups. Nature gracefully reclaiming human creations is a predominant theme of this whimsical dreamscape. 

On what may come of other “metaverse” platforms, Cloudy tells us, “I've tried just about every single virtual world that has come out and yet I'm still here in Second Life. All these other worlds come and go.”

There is also a corner where you can buy home and garden items made in the same fantastical style, for those inspired to create their own dreamy getaway. Flowers as tall as an avatar play with size distortion, adding childlike wonder and playfulness. “Second Life means a lot to me, it's more than just a game or hobby, as it allowed me to meet so many people I would never have; I've made wonderful friendships and bonds that make me feel very blessed.”

Join the Flickr group today to share your adventures!

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

Black Kite

Black Kite has been placed with care by Black Cloud. It is blogger, photographer, and explorer friendly with an auto-return set to 60 minutes. Share your pictures in their Flickr group: flickr.com/groups/black-kite

Visit in Second Life

This week we are transported back in time to Bellefleurs, an ornately detailed recreation of a High Renaissance English estate.

Creator India Canning has been active in SL almost from its inception, hence her mastery of world building. It runs in the family, as India tells us that in 2006: “my sister and brother-in-law had been contracted to explore the possibilities of using SL to promote Hawai’ian tourism in a seven {region} project based on West Maui.” 

India loved building inworld so much that she also mentored other Residents. Eventually, she decided to take her creations to the next level: “I decided to combine my background as a professional historian and in architectural design and art into storytelling, and conjured Bellefleurs as an evolving platform, and an open home to the community.” This region encapsulates the many possibilities of creating in the virtual world. Part duchy, part museum, with an educational angle and a romantic fountain. It's whatever you want it to be.

This massive property is a wonderful place to get lost in, with so much potential for storytelling in the walls of art and attention to detail in the countless rooms. There is a level of interactivity for those curious about the region’s narrative. India says “Bellefleurs, rooted in the English history I knew, illustrates the life of a mysterious independent Duchy, yet preserves a lived-in home spanning centuries.  It seeks to provoke thoughts about loss, mortality, as well as love and the essentials of life experience. There is an incomplete, written history, and a huge store of clues and evidence about the background of the elusive Canning and von Baerwald families…” For those who would like to know more, join the official group for more information.

Not to mention the weekly Salon music series, fencing, opera, dancing, and more! Visit Bellefleurs today for an immersive cultural experience.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

Bellefleurs

The spectacular Bellefleurs has been the seat of the Duchesses of Ominum since the 1590s. Built in the High English Renaissance style, it offers an incredible treasure of artwork and a full historic background of this authentic, highly detailed experience, as well as an active Salon Music series, opera, dances, En Garde, and other daily events.

Visit in Second Life

This week we are visiting the Scottish Highlands of Auld Lang Syne.

Creator Elo put enormous effort into this realistic portrayal of the Scottish Isles, where you can get lost on the rolling hills covered in wildflowers and daydream by the stones adorned with moss. Regarding the inspiration behind this region, Elo tells us "I've always adored secluded, rural, hidden places and look at old buildings {and} ruins as a million untold stories of the past, ready to be imagined again with fresh minds. I find a sense of romance in a building once loved, now home to nature and wanted to try and bring that same romance into Second Life."

This region is ripe for storytelling, with ruins that have been reclaimed by nature and time. There are also small cottages and flocks of sheep, connecting the past to the present. Who lives here? Come and find out!

Elo is completely self-taught, making this ornate landscape even more impressive. It is informed by their genuine interest in "great charm in the small details, those wee scenes {and} stories that can often be overlooked or missed by visitors..."

Auld Lang Syne is incredibly detailed and realistic, making visitors feel completely transported. Elo says “I've always been conscious that travel for many is difficult, and now with Covid, for some {it is} impossible. Yet the beauty of SL is that you can visit so many beautiful parts of the world and many not of this realm too. If I can make one explorer smile when they visit, then I feel I have succeeded."

Let this dreamy landscape whisk you away so you can discover the mystery of the past or write your own story. Visit Auld Lang Syne today!

Video Production Credits: Draxtor Despres

Auld Lang Syne - Isles of Scotland

Abandoned dreams, a raven screams. Paths of auld, a history untold. Nature's home in its trailing charm, hidden delights, and creatures free. Visit the Scottish Highlands, take a pause, come see. Fàilte/Welcome to all.

Visit in Second Life

This week Asiza Wolf takes us on a tour of her floating Islands of Love, a seamless amalgam of her varying cultural interests that features steampunk ships, meditation areas, a concert stage, and more.
 

Asiza’s real life alter ego, Toni Harper-Dunlap, is a former professional singer and dancer who has graced the stages of The Apollo, Carnegie Hall, and Toast of the Town (later The Ed Sullivan Show), so you’d be lucky to catch her perform some impromptu jazz standards here.

Asiza says of the virtual world, “Second Life tickles me. It is my kind of thing. I am having a natural ball every day!” At the age of 83 Asiza/Toni is as creative as she has ever been, with Second Life her playground of infinite imagination.

Asiza turns the stereotype of the lonely old technophobe on its head, proclaiming “I am not afraid of technology. A busy mind is a good thing when the body can’t be that busy anymore. I am the happiest person that I have SL. It is a wonderful something to have in one's life. I have a new life here now and I do intend to truly enjoy it for as long as I am able to.” Her independent and robust spirit continues to thrive inworld and out; proving age is not a thing to be pitied but a badge of honor.

Asiza also refutes the misconception that people who are passionate about virtual realms don’t have a fulfilling experience of the real world: “I have a beautiful family, I love them to pieces. I’m busy doing my thing and they are busy doing their thing… They’re breathing their own air, I’m breathing mine.”

As Asiza/Toni is a practicing Buddhist, she has placed a replica of her home altar on the islands for anyone in search of quiet contemplation under the soft cosmic glow. This region is a visual representation of her dreams, character, and hobbies. There are a few hidden gems here too, like Asiza’s favorite room, which is a serene lounge with a purple (her favorite color) piano surrounded by flowers, as well as a salsa club located inside an active volcano.

To get the full schedule of regular performers, join Asiza’s group: SL’s top jazz and soul singers such as Scorpio Aeon and Tony Slade do regular shows here and weekly DJ events happen down in the fiery depths of the VolcanSiza Club. Asiza’s Islands of Love truly welcomes everyone, so visit today to see the spectrum of vibes.

The three songs Drax and Asiza/Toni recorded in Palm Springs in 2019 & the two tunes Scorpio Aeon performed in the video are available for download here.

Asiza’s Islands of Love

Asiza’s Islands of Love is longtime SL Resident Asiza Wolf’s latest project: a series of floating islands, connected by bridges, featuring flyable dragons and steampunk ships, areas for quiet contemplation and meditation, a concert stage, and possibly the hottest Salsa Club in SL located inside an active volcano!

Visit in Second Life

Video Production Credits:

Draxtor Despres

Take a look at Ashemi Remarkable, an artfully constructed futuristic city inspired by Asian culture.

Creators Ime Poplin and Jay met about eight years ago. They are both artistically inclined, with Ime painting in her spare time and Jay playing the guitar. Given their mutual interests, they decided to build together in SL. When picking a theme, their longtime shared tastes included “An interest in Asian items {and} culture, and also futuristic vibes. We thought.. well, let's do a kind of futuristic-styled {region} to begin with.”

Building came naturally to Ime, as she tells us, “Growing up in Denmark, the country where Lego was invented, I {am} used to tearing down and building new and just playing around. Building blocks, all the items we buy in SL… the many, many cool and talented creators, tons of items {are essentially} building blocks, in both Jay’s and my inventory.”

Ashemi Remarkable is a stellar example of what takes exceptional design to the next level; every part of this region has a story, and that makes it come alive. In the middle of the city, one finds a spooky cemetery with a mysterious volcanic eruption. What happened here? Check out the sky high restaurant with glass walls so you can enjoy a romantic dinner with a panoramic view. What types of people come here?

One of the most visually striking design elements of Ashemi Remarkable is the artwork on the street. Paintings abound in varying styles, hanging above storefronts and in businesses. These paintings bring a human touch to the concrete and bright lights, reminding us who created all of this. This speaks to Ime’s process: “The fact that we have a nice balance with nature and urban scenery is very important to us. We like balance, darks and colors and contrasts.”

This sprawling urban playground blends traditional and modern decor to pay homage to the past and give a playful glimpse of what the future might hold. Ime thinks of this place as “A world for us to experiment. Always evolving, always changing. That is very important to us. And then of course, the fact that we love being together as much as we can. That is what makes us happy. Jay is my muse, and I'm pretty sure I am his as well.”

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

Ashemi Remarkable

Ashemi returns with a highly detailed urban landscape. Mixing the past with the present and offering something of interest to those who love to explore. Get lost in the streets and alleyways or hop onto a train to admire the neon reflections that dance upon the sea. Visit the cave that sits underneath the city or simply let your mind wander as you meditate in some of the many beauty spots in and around the region. Parts of the old city can still be seen but also boasts a more modern sleek look with its club and high-class restaurant. Tucked away are many strange and bizarre surprises to make your visit an entertaining one. Welcome to Ashemi and enjoy your stay!

Visit in Second Life

This week we are taking a look at several anime themed regions that are bursting with fun and colorful odes to Japanese culture.

Anime, a Japanese style of animation, has become popular throughout the world. It can be found in graphic novels, film, television, and of course, Second Life! There has been a massive following of anime devotees inworld for years, and there is now an anime category in the Destination Guide.

Taikou, created by Hiro Hamada, is a small Japanese town with a market and arcade. Hiro tells us, “I'm deeply inspired by Japanese architecture and culture, so I enjoy creating builds, backdrops, decor, and even food. Whenever I'm back in Japan I take a bunch of photos of the scenery so I have references of what to make in SL. I want everyone to be able to feel the joy of Japan. I've made a lot of great friends in SL that I never would have been able to meet anywhere else.” Hiro’s travels add a great degree of authenticity to this region, which shows the unlimited possibilities when elements of the physical world and imagination collide in the virtual realm.

For those who would like an anime style avatar, Waifu Factory cannot be missed. Here you can find many brands: UTILIZATOR, ABC apparel, Wretch, Ayashi, MelonBunny, Pirocius, and more. From bodies to eyes and even animations, the detail that many Residents put into their avatars is breathtaking.

SU-SHI City is great for photos, with rows of cherry blossoms that are characteristic of Japan. Owner Marcus BlueSky says, “We began with just an ancient town, but then wanted to add more details and now we can finally present an ancient village, a town, and a modern city. Visitors use the place for their blogs, product pictures, and even want to live and run shops here.”

Other visually stunning anime regions include Tonarino, which includes Nekomachi Street. This urban cat city feels like a whimsical daydream and is sure to make anyone smile. Additionally, Hikari and UMIMOTO Marina offer relaxing spaces with impressive attention to detail.

These regions are open to everyone and feel like a museum, cartoon, and vacation all in one. Teleport over today and discover your inner anime character.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

This week’s video sheds light on Angels Rest, a uniquely timeless memorial garden for Residents to visit loved ones who are no longer with us.

Creators Fae and Mr. N greet visitors warmly with their group’s message: “Angels Rest is a memorial garden offering space for you to create a focal point for remembrance. The aim is to offer a chance for quiet contemplation and reflection away from daily distractions.” The environment invites one to be vulnerable among the serenity of nature, with an occasional wild animal hopping about to remind you that you’re not alone.

Assembling a sacred virtual space that is accessible 24/7, rain or shine, was an enormously thoughtful endeavor. It is hard enough losing a loved one, and during the added strain of coronavirus tumult, many survivors were not able to honor traditional funeral practices for safety reasons. Fae says, “I have lost people in my life who I wanted a way of memorialising. It seemed to me that there was such a huge need for this, especially this year with the COVID pandemic. I met a couple who had a similar kind of garden but they were not able to maintain it, and it had to close, so I decided I wanted to fill the gap that had been left behind.”

Fae, elaborating further on her vision for Angels Rest, says, “I have seen and felt firsthand the effects that social isolation has had on both myself and my nearest and dearest… We wanted to create a place that people can spend time and have peace and reflection in the virtual ways that we are able to right now. It was very important to us that we be able to provide this free of charge as so many are struggling right now, and so we came up with the idea of the refunded rental.”

The rental options include candles and plots that can be decorated with pictures, messages, flowers, or other meaningful mementos. Many people commemorate their pets as well, as is visible from the glass display case showing a four-legged friend in a perfect slumber. The space makes its inclusive atmosphere clear with its centerpiece, the Ecunemical Chapel bearing objects that represent all major world relations.

For visitors who are struggling with grief, a notecard offers important information such as phone numbers and email addresses of both Bereavement and Mental Health Services. We hope that all those who visit Angels Rest are provided with joyful reminders of loved ones and the strength to carry on.

Note: The poem featured in the video is “Death is Nothing at All” by Henry Scott-Holland.

Video Production Credits:

Draxtor Despres

Angels Rest

Angels Rest is a memorial garden in SL offering space for you to create a focal point for remembrance. Their aim is to offer a chance for quiet contemplation and reflection away from daily distractions.

Visit in Second Life

This week we are transported to the surreal landscape of Alpha Tribe Tomorrow.

Creator Alpha Auer made Tomorrow a very large and immersive exhibit with a premise that is open to interpretation. If you think the attention to detail looks like that of an experienced professional, you are correct! Alpha is known as Elif Ayiter IRL and works as a designer and educator in Turkey.

She has co-authored the LPDT2/3 series of {region} wide installations based on Roy Ascott's concept of distributed authorship and La Plissure du Texte. These works were featured in international art exhibitions such as ISEA2011 and the 2010 multimedia festival at Incheon, Korea’s Tomorrow City.

The Tomorrow installation at Alpha Tribe has a surreal environment, with a unifying theme that Alpha describes as “an entropic world in which nothing is expected to ever change.” This appears to defy time, which is also a prominent element here: Alpha tells us “The landing point is 'Yesterday,' where all sorts of people are frolicking in an old garden. As for the narrow valley ahead of you, that is 'Today,' where the two hapless boys have just found a mysterious smartphone…”

Tomorrow is a mesmerizing blend of grey dystopia and childlike whimsy. The static characters include literal fat cats, humanoid sculptures, pigs, and even what Alpha describes as “The trickster god Kokopelli and his merry tribesmen... embodying the essence of 'Tomorrow’: blind belief. 

The notion of surveillance society is implied by watchtowers and drones, with Alpha saying “The {region} is an allegory. I am actually telling a pretty serious story, but I wanted to tell it in a humorous way, not get all miserable and dark about it.” The cartoonish tone is on purpose. Alpha says there is “a retro element to the figures, which is quite intentional since I love that mid-20th century period in design.”

For those curious about Alpha’s technique, she says “I made the mesh in Zbrush Core, and then took it to Blender for the final output. I spent most of my time with the textures which I made in Photoshop and then applied in Zbrush.”

There are too many details in this creation to mention, so we suggest just hopping over to Alpha Tribe Tomorrow to see for yourself. After your visit, don’t forget to check out Alpha’s store. It’s like a trip to the gift shop after a day at the museum.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

Alpha Tribe Tomorrow

An allegorical world and its inhabitants: A tribe of fat cats, robotic administrators, poker-playing cats, philosopher cats, teddy bears having a picnic, flute players, and many others which are placed as the protagonists of a progression that starts from the region entrance and unfolds as you move into the ground level that is an archipelago of many islands upon which these characters are placed.

Visit in Second Life

After The Fall is a mysterious urban wreckage great for group roleplay or a solo adventure.

Creator Tigerlily Hyun opened this region in 2013, so considerable evolution has taken place. For example, Tigerlily says that “while I started the sim with roleplay in mind, that has really fallen by the wayside, and it's more for exploring and hanging out now.”

The derelict storefronts and broken roads tell the narrative of a strange and catastrophic event. The amount of detail provided by the environment provides the opportunity for Residents to have a common starting point and then create their own story with the space. What happened here, and is there anyone left?

Tigerlily tells us “I decided to add solo quests to ATF, so even if you didn't have a group or were just exploring SL, you could come here and have a bit of gaming fun yourself.” The versatility of After The Fall makes it a great spot to check out any time of the day.

Tigerlily, having been inspired by the story potential of After The Fall, has actually created a digital graphic novel available on YouTube. Additionally, Tigerlily is developing a sci-fi novel series: “The story follows the perspectives of six characters from various walks of life as they struggle to overcome fear, separation, and loss during the aftermath of a meteor storm and subsequent alien invasion.”

Fun Fact: The green bug eyed monster avatar depicted in the video was custom made by request of Sci-Fi writer legend Joe Haldeman as seen on the Second Life Book Club. The avatar is available from The Silas Merlin Gallery on Marketplace.

Visit After The Fall today or plan a group outing. Don't forget to bring a flashlight!

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres

After The Fall

On the verge of economic collapse, with the world in a very vulnerable place, astronomers predicted frequent and disastrous meteor showers. But they couldn’t predict what came next... Dark and gibbering creatures emerged from the impact craters, decimating everything in their sight. As a human, how will you survive? As an alien, what’s your next move? After the Fall has an elaborate interactive grungy urban city, with apocalyptic-themed role play.

Visit in Second Life

This week we are visiting a region inspired by the sumptuous beaches of Bali and the tranquility of Japanese zen gardens.

Creator Rosie Helendale has been a Second Life Resident for 13 years and says that for her, SL has been both a vital social network as well as a creative outlet “to turn my imagination into some form of virtual visualization.” Rosie tells us that she has met some of her closest friends in SL, and is an active participant in art and recreation. “From photography, creating content, choreographing my own dance routines, performing in dance shows, creating regions with friends, to memorializing it all on my own personal YouTube channel.”

After some experiences helping her friends build regions in SL, a few months ago Rosie was finally able to accomplish her dream of creating her own. While Rosie has a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, she says that her friend Guy Bagshawe “has in-depth firsthand experience and knowledge of everything Bali, and his enthusiasm for the place got me totally hooked on it.  From those two things sprang my inspiration to create an interpretation and representation of Bali and Japan.”

The Bali portion is drenched in the rosy glow of a beachside sunset. Enjoy a meal or a cocktail in the open air restaurant a few paces from the shore. A bit of exploration will lead you to a chicken coop and an open courtyard with baboons grooming each other all around you.

In case that wasn’t relaxing enough, the Japanese side of the region has tai chi poseballs in the zen garden, and make sure to look for the adorable baby panda.

Rosie tells us “one of my favorite content creators is Skye for landscaping: their content is high quality with attention to detail.” However, some of the items found here were crafted by Rosie herself. “The items in the souvenir kiosks at the tai chi garden and monkey forest I made myself using full perm items from the marketplace. You can even click the postcard rack and send a postcard to friends inworld just like you would if you were on a visit in real life!”

Rosie would like us to know that “the best way to see all the attractions is to hop on the balloon tour. It takes you to every part of the island and gives out real life information about each area in local chat.” See the deep blue waters for yourself by visiting A Taste of Bali and Japan today.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres
 

A Taste Of Bali & Japan

Take a relaxing vacation in a region that blends the atmospheres of Bali and Japan. Rent a luxury Bali style hut ideal for romance and a honeymoon. Enjoy many activities including tai chi, onsen spa, surfing, fishing, Bali restaurant, and more! Open to all.

Visit in Second Life

It’s hard to pick where to start with all the winter fun in SL, but here's a curated selection with some behind the scenes info on what inspired these creators!

Crisp Kringle is a wholesome Swedish hamlet on the Frogmore region. Creator Tolla tells us, “I wanted to create a small village deeply covered in snow with a feeling of Swedish lapland, small vintage shops, merchantiles, bakeries, coffee, mulled wine, and of course toys.” Crisp Kringle is open to all Residents, and rumor has it that you can feed carrots to Santa’s reindeer. Get cozy and treat yourself to a Fika today.

Next up is Peaceful Dreams, where the rolling hills are covered in powdery snow and a soft blue glow provides an ethereal sense of wonder. Creator Vega was inspired by “That feeling of the first snowfall, when the snowflakes hit your face and it feels magical. That peaceful walk down a snowy path, with nothing but the sound of your feet crunching in the snow, and finally, that kiss you share with your loved one in a sleigh ride through the snow.” Peaceful Dreams is the perfect place for a romantic winter adventure or a quiet solo moment to appreciate beauty and creativity.

Where Our Journey Begins is a photogenic wonderland offering many interactive winter activities. Experience the snow fall around you, coating the trees in soft white, and don’t miss out on the view of the glowing sky from a ski lift. Exquisitely carved gazebos and fountains give this region a rustic flair. Creator Vivian feels that “During the pandemic it is especially important to have places where one feels happy and content and {can} share these places with others, because these hard times are affecting all of us. Our place is here for people to meet and experience the holidays together.”

Snowdrift has a playfully surreal tone, with a chandelier at the entrance and reindeer with ornate antlers covered in lights and ornaments. Creator Whimsy has a very special relationship with Second Life: “After a near fatal car accident resulting in traumatic brain injury ended an 18 year career, SL gave me an outlet to stay connected and meet new people while I was homebound recovering.” Whimsy is now a mixed media artist who describes SL as “a lifeline to keep my creative spirit alive,” as one can see by visiting this enchanting region that melds natural beauty with a fairy tale aesthetic.

Inspire Space Park, co-owned by Delain Canucci, Jamilah "JaMee" Rossini, and Bonny Greenwood, is sort of a cultural institution. This region has been around for almost as long as SL itself, and the winter makeover will take your breath away. Cute forest critters, Ice skating, and the characteristic floating meteors are just a few of the things that make this place so special. Delain tells us, “What we did at Inspire with winter is to show people that even though we are in space, we still love to see beautiful environments. We will never change the main look of the park, but with special seasons we will decorate and try to make landscapes that leave people in awe.” This blend of science museum and winter wonderland is truly something that could only be found in SL. Jamilah has been visiting Inpsire Space Park for over 15 years, saying, “I will never forget that first time stepping into space. I was in awe at the sight I was seeing and how incredible it felt being in space, even though it was virtual… These three individuals (the original creators Earth, Raphael and Grafx, who recently passed away) came together and built a place to chill, meet others from all over the world and enjoy the music. I found home here.”

Now that you have a diverse set of options to choose from, we hope to see you inworld today! Ice skating, snowboarding, skiing and more are just a click away.

Video Production Credits:
Draxtor Despres
 

This week’s destination is an intriguing and timely recreation of a news studio buzzing with current forecasts in real time as well as a voting booth with instructions for each U.S. state.

The creator is a longtime Second Lifer named Duncan who also works in the political field. (His voice in the video is dubbed by voice actor Reverend Quar for privacy reasons.) Built with data pulled from FiveThirtyEight.com, this region runs a simulation of the 2020 U.S. Presidential election based on the latest state-level forecasts once every ten minutes or so.

A male avatar in a formal suit named Guy Simpleton serves as the host, announcing each state as its corresponding color is filled on the large map behind him, in the manner of the calling of states on election night. Duncan elaborates on the design of the board by saying, “Rather than do a geographic map, I made 1x1x1 cubes for each electoral vote in a state to give voters a better sense of the relative scale of the states as they're called. So Wyoming may be big on the map, but it's tiny in terms of the electoral vote total. The Eastern Seaboard gets really crowded because so many people live there.”

There are also some lighthearted elements to bring a humorous contrast to the table of pundits, such as a nerdy statistician based on Nate Silver (founder of FiveThirtyEight), and a talk show set with some celebrity guests.

This region is a well-rounded snapshot of the current U.S. political climate: protests on both sides taking place, a courthouse, as well as a voting booth outside of a post office scripted to outline local U.S. voting procedures.

Duncan has recently experienced some health issues that have prevented him from being as physically involved with this election as he would prefer, so he created the election simulator in an effort to present the facts in an impartial way so that people can make the decision they feel is right for them. “I see voting as a matter of thinking locally,” Duncan says, “building community and institutions that can be trusted."

Whether you’re there for a couple hours or 10 minutes, alone or with politically engaged folks from the U.S. and beyond, you will definitely leave with something to talk about. Visit the Election Simulator today!

2020 Election Simulator

Do you need to prepare yourself - mentally, spiritually, physically - for the tension of Election Night 2020? These randomized election simulations between Trump and Biden are based on the best available forecasts and set in a mock TV news studio.

Visit in Second Life

Video Production Credits:

Draxtor Despres

Bundle up and explore the many winter destinations filled with snowy surprises this holiday season in Second Life! 

We’ve featured a handful of beautiful winter destinations in this video, but you’ll also find close to 100 more in the Winter Attractions category on the Second Life Destination. 

Here is more information about the destinations featured from the creators themselves: 

Forever Winter
The creator of Forever Winter, Hailey Ayashi, shares the reason for her creation: 
“Designing and decorating has always been a passion of mine which sparked the idea to start creating themed sims. Around November I thought of creating Forever Winter as my first project. I wanted to have plenty of picture spots along with activities that can be enjoyed with friends. This whole experience has given me such great appreciation for all those who take time to create wonderful spaces for everyone to enjoy.”

Forever Winter

SHI Entertainment presents Forever Winter, where you can find beautiful winter scenery with lots of picture spots. Enjoy a sleigh ride, an ice rink, a ski slope, Santa's workshop, dancing, games, and more!

Visit in Second Life

Winter Wonderland at Lam
Winter Wonderland at Lam was created as a safe place by Clair Wolf Takeda: 
“In Real Life I care for my daughter and autistic son. He has his own world. In Second Life I found mine. What a place to refill the energy that I need for my family and spend time with friends without needing to leave home. This year my dream to create a magical spot where other people can find a safe and positive place came true. Me and my friend Eddie Takeda rented a space and until the 16th of January 2023. We are here to share the Christmas spirit.”

Winter Wonderland at Lam

Experience a Winter Wonderland on the Lam region, created by Czech and Slovak Residents where you can enjoy the wonderful feeling of Christmas. All are welcome to skate, explore, have some cocoa, and more! The destination is open until January 16th, 2023.

Visit in Second Life

8th Annual Christkindl Market & Advent Calendar
This is the 8th year that Dina and Didi LaVega have created a nostalgic space: 
“We are from Germany and started our Second Life in 2013. We had always missed a traditional German Christmas market in-world: The unique flair of the decoration, the lights, and the special food, so we started to build our own items and share them. This is now the 8th annual Christkindl Market. Our Advent Calendar features a brand new build every day and you have to collect all 24 parts to complete.”

8th Annual Christkindl Market & Advent Calendar

What would the holidays be without a visit to a traditional German Christmas market? You are invited to a merry stroll through the festively illuminated Christkindl Market. Come and enjoy roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate, traditional handmade Christmas decoration from the Erzgebirge, or a ride on the Christkindl Express, more than 65000 m² to warm your heart with the spirit of Christmas.

Visit in Second Life

Snowy Monverdun
Yoyo Collas created a peaceful place for all Residents this holiday season: 
“Winter is one of the most beautiful times of the year. I like to build, so I decided to build my own version of winter. I have built this winter landscape so that people can enjoy it during the Christmas season as a peaceful place where they can forget the problems of Real Life, even if just  for a brief moment.”

Snowy Monverdun

Monverdun is a small city that is dressed in winter outfits. The Christmas market has opened its doors and spread the smell of fresh pastries and hot mulled wine. Visit and explore this beautiful winter wonderland.

Visit in Second Life

Winter Love Valley
Evely Heartsong brings her artistic talents to her Second Life building adventures: 
“Winter Love Valley all began with my own venue as an SL musician and performer. I had built The Blues Rock Cafe back in 2017, and every winter season I added a special seasonal setting. Then in 2020 I went bigger, focusing on the winter theme, and noticed that when I was finishing the sim, more people than usual were at the sim. It felt like opening up a theme park. I am an artist in Real Life as well, I draw, paint and do photography, so I love to share the feeling you get from walking in the snow with the colors and the lights and in SL have added some extra magical feelings to it with special effects.”

Winter Love Valley

If you are looking for that magical romantic winter feeling full of joy and lights, then you need to visit Winter Love Valley. Come hang out with a friendly community, or bring your friends or lover. Come skate on the ice, snowboard off the hill, horse ride in a romantic setting full of cuddle places, or just come for some winter fun and joy at Winter Love Valley.

Visit in Second Life

Snowy Peaks
Red sends an invitation to all for some winter activities at Snowy Peaks: 
“I like Second Life as a getaway from my own. I can live out what I can't IRL. There's a lot of people I have met on SL, and we talk and hang out, and for this season I welcome them to Snowy Peaks, a winter-themed Christmas experience. You can ride with Santa on his sleigh to our dining and dancing location, or make a stop at his house. You can mingle with his elves, or maybe take a spin on the ice skating rink. You will probably find me by the cozy fire, chatting with my friends. Come join us.”

Snowy Peaks

Welcome to Snowy Peaks, a winter-themed Christmas experience. Ride with Santa on his sleigh to the dining and dancing, or make a stop at Santa's house. Mingle with his busy elves, or maybe take a spin on the ice skating rink. Finally, come sit by the fire.

Visit in Second Life

Grab a sweater, and perhaps some mittens, and head on over for some snowy fun!

Video Production by Draxtor Despres

Discover a hauntingly beautiful region of lost dreams and surreal landscapes at What’s Lost Spirits in Second Life.

Long time Second Life resident, Stabitha aka Sam, has created a nightmarish place, a place of surreal art to explore, and a space where one can maybe confront one’s own anxieties?

Sam explains: 

“What's Lost Spirits is a mix of RL experiences, such as the entry point and the mansion, and the recurring nightmares that followed those experiences. I have and have had, very lucid and vivid dreams all my life. I visit the same variety of places over and over again in those dreams, the feel of the places never changes but the buildings do over time, as well as the people. It is because of them that I decided to build What's Lost Spirits. 

I have a whole world in my head and Second Life gives me the perfect canvas to get that out. Eventually I will have stories that will go with the areas and characters and I plan on hopefully making them into a graphic novel of some sort. That will take years though. So for right now it's an ongoing work in progress.”

Sam has indeed already written two short stories, although she is not sure they are quite finished yet: “The first one is called ’Sam's Story’. The main character has the same name as me. Coincidence? Maybe. It is about how the nightmares started, it is a real life experience. The second is called ‘Terror’. It is a short story that has to do with one of the nightmare characters.”

If you like Sam’s style of visualizing her dark thoughts in the virtual world, we recommend a visit to her store which features some hand-picked (and hand-crafted) imaginative items, perfect for the season. Happy Halloween!

Video Production by Draxtor Despres

What's Lost Spirits

Explore a region of lost dreams, an ongoing project based on a series of vivid nightmares.

Visit in Second Life

Learn how you can make a difference at What the Buzz, an interactive bee and pollinator reserve in Second Life, and the catalyst for The Nature Collective by Emmalee Evergarden.

Emmalee shares her inspiration behind What the Buzz and The Nature Collective:

“I've always been a nature lover. I'm usually the one stopping to look at a plant or flower, insects, birds, or trees while everyone else is hurrying along, and saving the bees has always been a passion of mine. 

When I joined SL a couple of years ago, I felt it was the perfect way to create a way for people to become immersed in nature and learn about what they can do to help save the bees and other pollinators. I hope they visit What the Buzz and walk away with some ideas on small changes they can implement in their day-to-day lives to help make a difference. 

I got sick a couple of years ago and it affected my ability to do a lot of the things I was once physically able to do. Creating What the Buzz has helped me heal and given me a way to get out into nature, even if in the virtual world. In a way the bees saved me, so it only seems right that I do what I can to help save them right back.

What the Buzz has also been the catalyst for my other project, The Nature Collective which has grown in leaps and bounds over the past year. I founded the group with the idea of  creating a community of like minded nature loving people.  

TNC now has over 130 member locations and over 1100 group members. We have organized events with the Mainland Community Alliance. We have group SLRR rides, horseback rides, and group sails. We also have our own book club where we read and meet up to discuss nature-themed and related books.

All of this is because of the bees and because Second Life has given me the platform to build and create. 

It truly is a magical place!”

Video Production by Draxtor Despres

What the Buzz Bee & Pollinator Reserve

What the Buzz is an interactive bee and pollinator reserve where you can embark on a quest to find lost scientific journal pages and learn about different ways you can help save the bees. Stop by the farmers market and gift shop, and visit the Field Research Station where you can learn more about bees and what is causing their decline. There are even beehives you can help tend to!

Visit in Second Life