Alex Floyd-Douglass is a freelance writer and photographer who joined Time Out in 2022 as an in-house Airbnbs and hotels affiliate content writer, before returning to work as a freelancer. Today, she works with Time Out on a range of features, projects and campaigns as a freelance travel and branded copywriter.

With her mixed British-South African heritage, Alex is based between Cape Town and London, enjoys writing about (and travelling) South Africa and capturing the spirit of the country through her lens, as well as watching the Springboks and working with the kids at her NGO, Mzansi's Rugby Academy.

Contact Alex at hello@theafricanrose.com, or view her portfolio on her website here

Alex Floyd-Douglass

Alex Floyd-Douglass

Freelance Travel Copywriter

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Articles (363)

'Tis the season to be thrifting and gifting with Traid

'Tis the season to be thrifting and gifting with Traid

It's no secret that shopping secondhand is both environmentally and financially friendly – especially among the chaos that is London's Christmas season. And that's where our pals at Traid come in. As a London charity retailer, with 12 stores across the city, on a mission of changing fashion for the better, there couldn't be a greater time of year to support their cause – and find some incredible thrifted gifts along the way. Whether you're looking for a sparkly outfit for the office Christmas party, an iconic one-off gift you'd never find in mass production stores (we see you, Black Friday) or simply want to do your bit for the environment and our future, there's no doubt you'll discover something special at Traid. And with Black Friday sales generating over 400,000 tonnes of carbon emissions in the UK alone this year, there couldn't be a better time to shop secondhand this Christmas. 'Tis the season to be Traid, after all.  The best part? Traid's running a competition for Time Out readers where you could be one of seven lucky winners to receive a gift voucher to spend in store, with the top prize of £100 to be won, along with two £50 vouchers and four £25 vouchers up for grabs.  Photograph: Traid Keen? We thought you might be. Simply fill out the form below* and you'll be in it to win it. That £100 gift voucher could be yours! Vouchers can be used in all 12 of Traid's stores, so if you're feeling thrifty, why not spend the day scouting the best buys across London?  Thrifit
All aboard for Christmas at London Transport Museum

All aboard for Christmas at London Transport Museum

From November 27 2025 to January 4 2026, something rather magical is happening down at London Transport Museum – and you’re invited. This festive season, you and the fam can enjoy a very merry mix of seasonal transport history and an abundance of festive cheer at London Transport Museum – complete with a jam-packed programme. From meet and greets with the big man, Santa, to live musical performances from young musicians and a festive trail through Christmases past, you’re in for a real festive treat here. Whatever kind of family festivities you’re looking for this Christmas, London Transport Museum has something for everyone in their various carriages (read: galleries). Keen to plan your trip? Let’s take a look at what’s on offer* this festive season. LocationLondon Transport MuseumCovent Garden PiazzaLondonWC2E 7BB *Kids go free, and adult tickets offer free return daytime entry for a year. Santa will be at the Museum until 17:00 on 23 December. London Transport Museum will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day and reopen on 27 December. The London Transport Museum shop and cafĂ© will be open until 16:00 on Christmas Eve. Full T&Cs apply.   Photograph: London Transport Museum Meet Santa and his magical elvesDaily from November 27 to December 23 2025 Step into a wonderful winter scene where Santa has set up shop in Covent Garden this Christmas. One for the littlies, hop aboard a Routemaster bus-inspired sleigh with all the bells and whistles you’d expect.
Five reasons why you need to spend Christmas at King's Cross and Coal Drops Yard

Five reasons why you need to spend Christmas at King's Cross and Coal Drops Yard

Nothing makes us feel quite so festive as a day spent finding the perfect gift for everyone on our list, feasting on Christmas treats and admiring twinkling lights. And if you’re looking for a London spot that offers all that - and a whole lot more - take a trip down to King’s Cross. Here, you can do it all - from Christmas shopping to festive dining, all followed by a hot toddy or two. And if it’s holiday vibes you’re after (and we always are), you’ll find yourself surrounded by endless Christmas lights and a giant Christmas tree, too. Whatever your vibe is this festive season, Coal Drops Yard at King’s Cross has got you covered. Read on to find out our top reasons why it's one of our favourite festive spots in London.
The 9 best hotels in Sardinia

The 9 best hotels in Sardinia

As the second-largest island in the Med (after Sicily), Sardinia boasts an enormous range of stuff to see, do, eat and drink. From the pristine aquamarine waters and dusty white sands of Costa Smeralda to the buzzing streets of Cagliari, Sardinia appeals to nature lovers, beach bunnies and urban explorers alike. Fittingly, hotels on the island cater to all kinds of visitors. Featuring spas, villas, city centre locations, family-run establishments and swanky five-star resorts – these are the best hotels in Sardinia. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
Five top places to get festive with your besties in Glasgow

Five top places to get festive with your besties in Glasgow

It’s no secret that the festive season is fast approaching, and we couldn’t be more excited. Mulled wine? Check. Big coats? Check. Cosy pubs with fireplaces et al? Check. Yep, it’s just about time to get into the Christmas celebrations and that's exactly why we’ve teamed up with our pals at Pepsi MAX to bring you the top festive spots for you and your besties to celebrate all things Christmas in Glasgow this year. And in the spirit of Pepsi MAX’s festive motto of ‘It can wait’, there’s never been a better time to drop tools, sit back and soak up all the festivities. The rest, honestly, can wait.  No matter whether you fancy a big night out, a sophisticated Blues gig or a decent pint in a snug pub corner, there’s a festive spot for any kind of celebration, and bestie gang. We’ll cheers to that – with a Pepsi Max, of course. Explore more top places on our interactive map!
Celebrate the festive season with your mates in these top five Birmingham spots

Celebrate the festive season with your mates in these top five Birmingham spots

With the festive season slowly creeping in, it’s time to whip out the big coats, gather up the besties and head out for a festive night out with the gang in Brum! Together with our pals at Pepsi MAX, we’ve hand-selected a list of the top places you and your friends can enjoy all things Christmas in Birmingham this festive season. And in Pepsi’s true spirit of ‘It can wait’, leave all your worries behind and get stuck into the festivities. From crazy games nights and sky-high cocktails to live performances and historic pubs, there’s something for everyone in Brummie this Christmas. Throw in an ice-cold bev – a Pepsi MAX, of course – and your night on the town just got decked out to the max. Explore more top places on our interactive map!
The best tiny home Airbnbs to rent near Chicago

The best tiny home Airbnbs to rent near Chicago

Planning a Midwest getaway? Here’s a thought: skip the sprawling rental and go tiny. These pint-sized, cleverly designed hideaways pack serious charm into a few hundred square feet, offering everything you need (and nothing you don’t) for a cosy escape. Whether you’re after a quiet woodland escape, a lakeside hideout, or a beachfront perch, we’ve found the cutest stays the Midwest has to offer. So go ahead, downsize your next adventure. From romantic retreats to solo resets, here are the best tiny Airbnbs it worth checking into.  Updated November 2025: To keep things fresh we've added new properties, including a cabin with a sauna, which you'll need for those snowy winters. You're welcome. Tiny homes in the Midwest at a glance đŸ’„Best for families: The A-frame cabin in Homewood 💞Best for couples: The sweetheart beach cottage in Lake Ann đŸš¶â€â™€ïžBest for solo travellers: The garden getaway in Wisconsin 💾Best on a budget: The sunlit retreat in Charlevoix RECOMMENDED: 🏠Check out the coziest Airbnbs near Chicago💕stay at the most romantic Airbnbs near Chicago🌇 Find the best Airbnb lofts in Chicago Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The coolest Airbnbs in Florida for a totally unique trip

The coolest Airbnbs in Florida for a totally unique trip

Sunshine, palm trees and year-round vacation vibes – Florida was made for getaways. While hotels have their charm, the real magic lies in the state’s Airbnb’s: beachfront bungalows, luxury condos, and off-grid treehouses where you can get up close with nature. From sugar-white beaches to Orlando’s theme parks, the surf breaks of Cocoa Beach and the nightlife of Miami, Florida is packed with unforgettable getaways. You’ll also find hidden gems inland – peaceful lakeside cabins, riverside retreats, and off-the-map escapes that show a quieter side of the Sunshine State. Whatever kind of trip you’re dreaming of our these are the best Airbnbs in Florida to make your trip unforgettable. Best Airbnbs in Florida at a glance 🏡Best for families: The log cabin in Live Oak 💕Best for couples: The oceanfront condo in Panama City Beach đŸȘœBest on a budget: The nature intense cabin in Fort White 🌊Best luxury stay: The luxe condo in South Beach 🎳Best for big groups: The adult playground with a bowling alley RECOMMENDED:🏠 The best Airbnbs in Miami🏹 The best hotels in Tampa🏠 The best Airbnbs in Orlando This guide was recently updated by writer Shayne Benowitz. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate link
19 amazing UK treehouses you can actually stay in

19 amazing UK treehouses you can actually stay in

Think treehouses are just for children? Well think again. You can fulfil your inner child’s dream with one of these unique elevated stays across the UK. Don’t worry, these getaways aren’t your typical treehouse with damp and woodlice. Think panoramic forest views, hot tubs under the stars, and interiors worthy of a design mag. Whether you’re after a five-star hideout suspended in the treetops or a rustic perch for some proper peace and quiet, these stays prove that nature and luxury can coexist beautifully. When is the best time of year to stay in a treehouse? Naturally, the warmer months are ideal for simpler, less-insulated treehouses – and for making the most of the great outdoors. That said, it really depends on the spot. If your chosen perch comes with heating (and you don’t mind a little nip in the air), you can head up there any time of year. In fact, winter stays have their own kind of magic: think frosty morning walks, crackling fires, and the bonus of off-peak prices, not to mention fewer bugs for the squeamish among us. Best treehouse getaways at a glance  🧾Best for families: Toad Hall treehouse, Norfolk 💘Best for couples: Tree Tent, Somerset đŸ’«Most luxurious: Cherrybrae Cottage, Saint Fillans 💰Best on a budget:  Little Tree House, Gwynedd RECOMMENDED:💕 The best romantic weekend getaways in the UKđŸžïž The most beautiful national parks in the UK🏊 The UK's best Airbnbs with poolsđŸ‘« The best UK Airbnbs for big groups Who makes the cut? While we might not stay
The 13 best Airbnbs with pools in the UK for the ultimate staycation

The 13 best Airbnbs with pools in the UK for the ultimate staycation

It's always a pleasant surprise, isn't it? Pools tucked away in UK Airbnb listings. Who would've guessed? But, despite our unpredictable weather, there are actually Airbnbs that offer a poolside escape right here on home soil. If you're looking for a UK staycation, these Airbnbs make a fantastic alternative to the usual run-of-the-mill hotels popping up everywhere. And if you're lucky enough to snag some sunny days, they can give you that tropical getaway feel without the hefty plane fare. Sounds like a pretty sweet deal, right? To help those planning a British vacation, we've curated the top UK Airbnbs with private pools. From a party house in Cornwall with an Ibiza-themed back yard to charming barns surrounded by enchanting wildlife, these spots are ready and waiting to amaze. Let's just hope the weather plays nice
 RECOMMENDED: 🚗 The best road trips in the UKđŸ–ïžÂ The most stunning hidden beaches in the UK 🌳 Amazing treehouses in the UK you can actually stay in🇬🇧 The best Airbnbs near London for a weekend away This guide was written by Time Out travel writer Ellie Walker-Arnott. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more
51 unmissable attractions in Paris: including free attractions

51 unmissable attractions in Paris: including free attractions

Paris: the food, the fashion, the fromage, the fantasy. No matter how many times we visit the French capital, its charms never ever grow old. And we’re not alone in thinking that. Paris is a major tourist destination that attracts thousands upon thousands of enthusiastic travellers with heads filled with images of Breton jumpers, tiny dogs, and decadent pastries - the kind you can dip in your hot chocolate. But how do you enjoy this gorgeous city without just succumbing to the age-old clichĂ©s (as much as we do love all of them)? We’ve compiled a list of the 51 best attractions in Paris, from the big-name ‘must-see’ paris attractions to something a little bit more bespoke and treasured locally. So whether you’re looking for lesser-known museums, late-night live music, or the best places for shopping, we’ve got plenty of ideas - and they’re all as tasty as a LadurĂ©e macaron. Time Out tip: If you want avoid taxing, RATP App and Citymapper will be essential for getting around Paris like a local.  RECOMMENDED: đŸ‡«đŸ‡·See our full guide to the best things to do in ParisđŸ„–Check out the best food tours in Paris📍Here's where to head for the best tours in Paris🛏 Stay in the best airbnbs in Paris🚍The best Paris bus tours This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
The top five places to celebrate the festive season with your friends in London

The top five places to celebrate the festive season with your friends in London

The festive season is around the corner, and we are so ready to get our big coats on and spend some winter nights out with our besties. And that’s where our pals at Pepsi MAX come in. Together, we’ve handpicked some of the top places you and your mates can celebrate all things Christmas in London this festive season. Hopping on the bandwagon of their festive motto, ‘It can wait’, our OOO is officially ON and the rest? It can wait. It’s Christmas and it’s time to celebrate it, right?! So, whether you're looking for a wild night out at Winter Wonderland's beer tent, dancing the night away in full 90s nostalgia, or simply snuggling up in a cosy pub corner with a hot toddy, there's something for every kind of group chat in London this Christmas. Explore more top places on our interactive map!

Listings and reviews (2)

Lime Tree Hotel

Lime Tree Hotel

5 out of 5 stars
The Lime Tree Hotel serves an eclectic slice of the English countryside to the heart of London. Nestled just off the ‘prettiest street in London’ – otherwise known as Elizabeth Street – the 26-room Georgian boutique hotel offers a diverse mix of old-school accents, abstract art and wallpapers seeking a whole lot of attention. Inside the Generous Double, you’ll find tapestry curtains and dial-up radios juxtaposed with modern amenities such as a SmartTV, mood lighting and crisp white sheets on the well-sized double bed. Upon first glance, it’s easy to forget this is an ensuite until you discover the doorknob hidden among the floor-to-ceiling bookshelf wallpaper – yep, it’s pretty bold. While the bathroom is petite in size, the design is clean, modern and ideal for a quick refresh in the morning before devouring one of the on-site eatery’s divine breakfasts: go for the salmon and scrambled eggs with a side of avo – it's spectacular. The Buttery is fast becoming the go-to brunch spot in Belgravia and its not-so-secret-but-equally-magical garden is everything you could want from a sunny spot for clinking mimosas at noon. The Limetree is your very own low-cost London oasis – take full advantage. Neighbourhood: Situated in sloaney Belgravia, it’s pretty surprising to learn that this cosy bolthole is a five-minute walk from the wilderness that is Victoria Station on a Monday morning. Grab a coffee at TomTom and watch the array of locals – from families and pushchairs to suits on Bori
Treehouse Hotel

Treehouse Hotel

5 out of 5 stars
The Treehouse Hotel is everything you could want from a sustainable yet high-end (two words not often used together) hotel in London’s busiest district. Just steps away from Regent Street and the chaos that is Oxford Circus, this 95-room treehouse-come-hotel is covered head-to-toe in recycled wood, hanging plants and plastic-free interiors throughout. From the quirky room additions – think magic 8 balls, cuckoo clocks and Paddington Bears – to the earthy perks like birdie bed throws and tree branches in the otherwise uber-modern ensuite, the Treehouse knows how to bring a vibe. And if you’re looking to dine and drink with minimal effort, there are three fantastic choices on-site. For dinner, head to Pizzeria Mozza on the ground floor for authentic Italian fare with a flair: try the cauliflower fritti from the antipasti menu. It’s next level. Wind down with a nightcap at the rooftop bar, The Nest – complete with 360-degree city views and the kind of lighting to make your Christmas tree weep. Rise and shine from your super comfy bed the next morning, and enjoy a full English with a Mexican twist at Madera; the all-day restaurant serving anything from macchiatos to mezcals. Thoughtful comforts throughout the hotel include filtered water stations on each floor, personalised messages on your in-room SmartTV, complimentary sweet treats delivered room-service style and a distinct aroma flowing through the halls reminiscent of Abercrombie&Fitch back in 2010 – in a good way. It’s wort

News (2)

Airbnb has added some cool new filters to really whip up that winter wanderlust

Airbnb has added some cool new filters to really whip up that winter wanderlust

You might have seen that back in June, Airbnb added a few interesting filters to their search function, meaning users can now find a rental based on categories rather than just the location. It’s pretty neat, and it means that if the only place you’re really willing to stay in is a beachfront treehouse with a grand piano and a chef’s kitchen, you can totally search for exactly that.  And now they’ve just added a few more options for you to explore. You can now hunt down homes that are 10,000 feet above sea level, brand-new listings, ‘hanoks’ (traditional Korean homes made with natural materials), homes adapted for people with disabilities, and ‘play’ properties with things like basketball courts, games rooms and even water slides. As we say, pretty neat. But the search we’re finding especially interesting right now is ‘trending’ homes. These are the most viewed listings on Airbnb and we have to say it proves there actually is wisdom in the masses, on occasion. Don’t believe us? Check out these awesome pads.    The Baldy Mountain chalet overlooking Ten Mile Range, Colorado Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb The oceanfront beach house in Summerland, California Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb Big Blue Trace in Breckenridge, Colorado Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb Mountainview Barn House, Woodstock, New York State Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb The lakefront mansion in Indio, California   Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb The log cabin near Dollywood, Tennessee Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb
Airbnb just added some cool new categories – check out these high-altitude homes

Airbnb just added some cool new categories – check out these high-altitude homes

You might have seen that back in June, Airbnb added a selection of new filters to their search function, meaning users can now find a rental based on some pretty niche categories rather than just location and date range. So if the only place you’re willing to stay in is a beachfront treehouse with a grand piano and a chef’s kitchen, you can now search for exactly that. Pretty cool, eh? Well, they’ve just added even more options for you to explore. You can now hunt down the latest ‘trending’ homes and brand-new listings, as well as ‘hanoks’ (traditional Korean homes made with natural materials), homes adapted for people with disabilities, and properties with a ‘play’ element, like basketball courts, games rooms and even water slides.  But the new category we’re loving most? The ‘top of the world’ filter, which shows homes that are at least 10,000 feet above sea level. To give you a flavour of what’s on offer, we’ve picked some of our favourite sky-high rentals. See you halfway up the Himalayas? This architectural masterpiece in Breckenridge, Colorado Photograph: courtesy Airbnb A geocentric dome in the mountains between Cusco and Machu Picchu Photograph: courtesy Airbnb This lush home on the highest coastal mountain range in the world Photograph: courtesy Airbnb A nature lodge in Nepal, with views of the Everest Region Photograph: courtesy Airbnb This spectacular villa above the clouds in Quito, Ecuador Photograph: courtesy Airbnb Pretty spectacular, right? Next thi