How you can see the world without a passport

SEE THE WORLD: Windows to the World returns with open days held at embassies and high commissions across October 12-13 and 19-20.

Story sponsored by Windows to the World.

Have you ever wanted to get out and see the world but been constrained by time, money and work commitments?

Have you ever day dreamed about what countries you might like to visit but been unsure what they're really like, making you less likely to actually book the flights?

Have you ever wished you could get a taste of what every major country on the planet has to offer for free, in a weekend and without a passport?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes then it's time for you to book your "Windows to the World" experience next month.

The popular event - which was last held in 2015 - gives visitors a rare opportunity to sneak a peek behind the gates of the capital's stunning embassies and high commissions.

In the process, you will get to experience the food, wine, culture, architecture and entertainment of each nation as their highest foreign diplomats roll out the red carpet just for you.

How you can see the world without a passport

This multicultural extravaganza truly has something for everybody, from a scrumptious Filipino barbecue cook up to a mouth watering Timorese sampling - not to mention the Saudi Arabians who will be serving 27 different types of dates.

There will also be plenty of fun to be had with the crazy Finnish Games, Irish dancing (no prizes for guessing where) and you can even try your hand at Lacrosse and Hockey with the Canadians, to mention but a few.

In all, 27 foreign missions will be holding open days at their embassy or high commission residence across the weekends of October 12 and 13 as well as October 19 and 20.

Joining the 42 diplomatic missions participating in the event are Australia's own Government House and Parliament House.

ACT Minister Arts, Creative Industries and Cultural Events Gordon Ramsay said the popular event is a celebration of Canberra's multiculturalism.

"Windows to the World provides a great insight into the world of international diplomacy," Minister Ramsay said.

"The event generates further awareness of the national capital's role as a global, connected city with strong international relationships," he continued.

"There's a diverse mix on offer and if you miss out on booking a tour, there are a number of embassies open that you can visit without a booking."

At the High Commission of Canada you can meet Pierre the Polar Bear mascot.

Venues that don't require a booking include:

Embassy of Ireland (October 12,10am-4pm)
Government House (October 12, 10am-2pm)
Embassy of Philippines (October 19, 10am-4pm)
Embassy of Turkey (October 19, 11am-4pm)
High Commission of Canada (October 19, 10am-1pm)
High Commission of Malaysia (October 19, 10am-1pm)
High Commission of Pakistan (October 20, 10am-4pm)
Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia (October 20, 8am-5pm)
Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (October 20, 10am-4pm)
Embassy of Finland (October 12, 10am-3pm) (Please note bookings are required for embassy tours).

Additionally, the Windows to the World Expo - a taster event held at Floriade on October 5 - will feature 11 foreign missions, complementing Floriade's World in Bloom theme.

For more information - including program, booking and details of a shuttle bus service to run between the embassies over the two weekends - visit: https://windowstotheworld.com.au/

Story sponsored by Windows to the World.