RESIDENTS and team members at Sunrise of Winchester are now over four weeks into visiting new countries from the comfort of their care home.

They have 'visited' France, Spain, Italy and Greece, celebrating each country by organising various activities and events.

There have been language lessons, virtual tours of famous landmarks, enjoyed local music, and experienced each country’s culinary delights as prepared by the care home’s dining team.

Speaking of their journey so far, Jim Retter, a resident said: “It has been really nice to try lots of different cuisines from all of the countries we have visited. I particularly enjoyed the French food we had.”

In their first week, residents headed to France which proved a popular destination, with many having either lived in the country or spent memorable holidays there.

The home also used a Motiview exercise bike to virtually cycle through Paris where they enjoyed spectacular sights and shared memories of their own visits to the French capital.

One of the residents, who speaks fluent French, also sang along to French songs while lunch was served.

The team then re-embarked on their journey, arriving in Spain. As a favourite holiday destination for many residents and even the home of one resident for three years, this leg of the trip was enjoyed by all.

A friend of the home, Jonathan Prag, also visited to play Spanish guitar music for residents and team members during the week.

Continuing on their travels, Sunrise of Winchester touched down in Italy. Here, soprano singer Claire Rutter, supported by one of her students, delivered a mesmerising opera performance which was spoken about fondly for days after by residents.

Frances Bussell, another resident at the home, said: “The opera singer who came to perform for us when we had the Italian week was wonderful. I do hope she will come again.”

For the remaining eight weeks, the themes will include South Africa, Mexico, China and India.