If your BFFs are scattered across the country like mine, you know how tricky it can be to keep in touch. It’s not that you don’t want to chat; it’s just that between juggling kids, work, and the delightful chaos of life, finding time for a good old-fashioned phone call can feel like an Olympic event.
Sure, texting is an option. But let’s be real: there are times when your hands are tied (literally) or you’re in the middle of something and can’t type out a novel. Plus, there are moments when you crave more than just quick thumbs-up emojis or “LOL” replies.
What you really want is to see your friends’ faces and hear their voices without the hassle of synchronizing schedules for a call or video chat—which, let’s face it, will likely be interrupted by little ones anyway. Enter Marco Polo, the video app that has completely transformed how my friends and I communicate over long distances. Developed by Joya Communications, this app aims to help people feel connected despite miles apart, allowing for meaningful interactions at your convenience.
Marco Polo is often dubbed a “video walkie-talkie,” but I see it as a fun way to send video messages. My friend Sarah, who lives 1,500 miles away, persuaded me to give it a shot, and now it’s our go-to method for chatting 90% of the time. She promised I’d love it, and boy, was she right!
How It Works
The concept is super straightforward. Initially, I was skeptical. To use it, you pick a friend who’s also on Marco Polo, hit “Start,” talk into your camera, and when you’re done, just click “Stop.” Voila! Your video is sent to your pal almost instantly, so it’s like having a real-time conversation—if you both happen to be online at the same moment.
But here’s the magic: you don’t have to be online at the same time. You can send and watch videos whenever you feel like it. Plus, Marco Polo saves your video messages, creating an ongoing record of your chats (unlike Snapchat, which is a one-and-done deal). And the cherry on top? You can have group video chats! I currently have an ongoing convo with five college friends who are now scattered across the country. Coordinating a live group video call would be a logistical nightmare, but with Marco Polo, we can all chime in whenever we want. It’s like we’re hanging out in our college dorm again, minus the ramen noodles.
A Godsend for Phone Call Avoiders
For those of us who cringe at phone calls, Marco Polo is a godsend. It allows us to hear our friends’ voices without that dreaded phone awkwardness. You can send messages while getting ready, waiting in the car, or even while still in bed—no judgment here!
Some might find it a bit odd at first to talk to yourself while watching your own face, but trust me, it becomes second nature pretty quickly. Plus, it’s just between you and your pals, so who really cares?
Why You Should Try It
The best part? The app is free, so there’s no excuse not to give it a shot with a friend or two. You won’t regret it. And while you’re at it, check out this helpful blog post for more insights into your journey, or take a look at Make A Mom for expert advice on home insemination kits. If you’re looking for reliable info on pregnancy, Women’s Health is an excellent resource.
In summary, Marco Polo is a fantastic way to stay connected with your friends, allowing for flexible and fun communication that fits right into your busy life. So grab your phone, download the app, and start sending those video messages!