Ann-Marie Cahill

Melbourne is a Playable City; in both name and character. It is one of my favourite cities to visit, with its hidden laneways scattered throughout the bustling CBD.

Our guide on the Kinabatangan River in Borneo in Malaysia has been pointing out wildlife at every turn. Crocodiles sulking near the water's edge. Proboscis monkeys lazing in the top of trees. Hornbills flying overhead. The only thing missing is the elusive pygmy elephant. The elephant’s absence hints at the growing threat to the abundant wildlife in Borneo.

We were the lucky ones: As a family, we were able to hit the road and travel from Sydney to the Tweed Coast (northern New South Wales) without hindrance or hesitation. In any other year, the road trip along the East Coast of Australia can bring a sense of adventure and wonder.

Virtual tours have been a massive hit in 2020, thanks in a large part to the COVID-19 lockdowns. When lockdowns first started in early 2020, many popular venues and institutions were offering virtual tours via social media.

It’s the statement no traveller wants to hear: “Please Don’t Come Here”.