The term 'virtually' was coined too early and now has lost its initial impact. I think it may even have a slightly negative connotation now. It feels like the second best choice when compared to the real world. My mind, however, can be occupied on an increasing number of things, some of which my be physically far away. Books have always been a way to escape from the current surroundings. Reading, in general, can be classed as a mental task capable of keeping one involved in some other place or even time. Likewise, I'm sure everyone has stumbled out of a movie theatre and had that jarring sensation of coming back to a present reality.
Technology just keeps on making it easier. The variety of diversions continue to multiply. Jay was talking by phone with his sister in Sri Lanka about an 'American Idol' type show on television there. As the PS3 is connected to my router, I can stream Internet sites directly to the television. This morning, we watched the recent finale of Dream Star on the big 42" screen. At such compressed data rates it couldn't be considered even standard definition. Action appeared pixel-ated and all rapid camera panning was unclear. It amazed me anyway. Perhaps it's because I could only watch over-the-air, black-and-white television from stations 100 miles away when I was a kid.
I spent a good hour or so watching segments of the final episode although I don't speak the language. Our choices for using time virtually will undoubtedly increase in the near and long-term future.