Alex Floyd-Douglass joined Time Out in October 2022, after eight years freelancing as a travel writer, photographer and content creator. Starting out life in England, Alex has travelled to many corners of the world and spent the past decade living and working in Cape Town after rediscovering her South African roots in 2013.

Alex enjoys writing about all things travel and lifestyle, shooting film and watching rugby, especially when it’s South Africa vs England – or with the kids at her non-profit organisation, Mzansi's Rugby Academy.

Contact Alex at hello@theafricanrose.com or follow her journey on African Rose Adventures

Alex Floyd-Douglass

Alex Floyd-Douglass

Freelance Travel Copywriter

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Articles (415)

The 6 coolest walking tours in NYC

The 6 coolest walking tours in NYC

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of trying to see as much of New York as possible in a short time, the solution might be one of Gotham's best walking tours. NYC is one of the easiest cities to navigate on foot, and there's certainly no shortage of interesting sights around every corner, from awesome street art and graffiti to the most haunted places in NYC to beautiful NYC buildings to the most awe-inspiring New York attractions. New York natives and first-time tourists alike will discover parts of the city they’ve never seen before on the best walking tours in NYC. RECOMMENDED: 🗽See our full guide to New York City tours🚨Check out the best crime tours in NYC🏨Stay in the best hotels in NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The best hotels in Miami from Coconut Grove to South Beach

The best hotels in Miami from Coconut Grove to South Beach

Planning a vacay to to everyone's favourite coastal metropolis? Of course you are – why wouldn't you? You’ve had a fantastic day filled with exploring, you've gorged at one of the best restaurants in Miami and you chased that excellent dinner with a couple of hours at a luxe cocktail bar; you partied hard at some of the best clubs in Miami, and you may have even had a chance to squeeze in a trip to one of the Miami beaches. You've tackled all the best things to do in Miami and now you're drained from all the good times and looking to lay your weary head... Never fear, traveler: from South Beach mega resorts to Downtown Miami boutiques that are full of surprises, we collected the best hotels in Miami – and at least one is bound to be perfect for you. Check in, rest up, and get ready to do it all again. RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in Miami The best beachfront Airbnbs in Miami The best spa hotels in Miami 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.
The 8 best naughty hotels in London, for a little bit of spice

The 8 best naughty hotels in London, for a little bit of spice

If there's one thing you only learn as an adult, it's that being naughty is way more fun than being nice (sorry Santa). This is more so when you're in a hotel room. No clue why though. Ahem. So, if you fancy a little slap 'n' tickle in Soho or hanky panky in Hoxton, you've come to the right place. No judgment here.  For some, the idea alone of a hotel room tips the sexy scale. But it's these places with added extras that will take your sex life from run-of-the-mill missionary to a full-on wild workout. Phew. So save the romantic hotels in London for another time and turn up the heat and get steamy with our selection of the best naughty hotels in the capital. Thank us later.  Updated 2025: The Bulgari and Broadwick hotel have made the list – take a cheeky peek below to find out why...  Looking for more options? Check out London’s best Airbnbs, or scroll through the best boutique hotels in London. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel 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 21 best hotels in Las Vegas, for a once-in-a-lifetime trip

The 21 best hotels in Las Vegas, for a once-in-a-lifetime trip

When it comes to Sin City, hotels are much more than a mere collection of rentable rooms or suites. So much more. In fact, the best Las Vegas hotels (which happen to double up as some of the best Las Vegas casinos too, btw) are shopping malls, dining destinations and nightlife meccas all rolled into one. Believe it or not, even the best Las Vegas shows call these hotels their stage. To be perfectly honest, you can book in at one of these Las Vegas hotels and barely leave the foyer and you'll pack more fun in than you could find in most cities around the world. All you need to do is remember you're in Las Vegas! Its whole vibe is to serve up some of the most incredible things to do this planet has to offer, so make sure you check out as much of it as you can. And whether you're yet to discover this fascinating place, or you're a seasoned pro heading back for even more, you're going to have a blast. So you better make sure you book the best hotel, right? Well, we're here to help. Oh, a quick word of advice: sometimes all those incredible indoor activities can prove to be a bit claustrophobic, so we thought our list of the best Las Vegas parks might be helpful for your staycation or vacation. After all, it's nice to get some air sometimes, you know? April 2025 update: We've expanded our write-ups for the top ten of our favorite Vegas hotels - because details matter, right? Looking for more options? Check out our pick of the coolest Las Vegas Airbnbs or our guide to the best che
The 14 best boat tours in Chicago

The 14 best boat tours in Chicago

When visiting a city that has so much to see, especially where architecure is concerned,  cefficiency is key. Instead of a walking trail that takes you down Michigan Avenue, State Street and Edgewater Beach, view the landscape from the comfort of one of the best boat tours in Chicago — where there's no chance of taking a wrong turn. Both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan offer unparalleled vantage points for taking in the city’s world-famous architecture and the breathtaking Chicago skyline. From architecture tours and history lessons to straight-up sightseeing affairs, romantic sunset excursions and pirate-themed family fun, there's a Chicago cruise for every groove. All aboard!  RECOMMENDED: 📍 Find more to explore with the best things to do in Chicago🏨 Plan your trip with the best hotels in Chicago 🍹 See more views from the best rooftop bars in Chicago How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links — these have no influence on our editorial content — we pinky swear. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 10 best bus tours in London from 007 to fine dining

The 10 best bus tours in London from 007 to fine dining

If you want to see a host of London’s attractions in one joyful day, London bus tours are the way to go. Why go on foot when you can embrace the sheer fun of pootling through the city on a double-decker, getting a bird's eye view of historic buildings that just don't look the same from street level? Plus, there's no need to wear out your trainers or elbow your way through crowds.  Once, London bus tours had a faintly cheesy reputation, but these days they take in everything from fine dining to James Bond to ghosts alongside the classic sights. Spoilt for choice? We’ve rounded up the best London bus tours for you to take your pick. Our choice selection includes open-top classics that enable you to tick off your favourite landmarks one by one, spooky tours by twilight, and even a Harry Potter bus tour that takes in all the bespectacled boy wizard’s trips around the capital, from King’s Cross to Number 12 Grimmauld Place.  Want more?🚲Try a London bike tour instead💂‍♀️Check out the best London tours 🛏Stay in the best Airbnbs in London This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
The 26 best cooking classes in NYC

The 26 best cooking classes in NYC

New York City is a culinary wonderland, with some of the best restaurants in the world, amazing bakeries, delicious desserts, fabulous ice cream, and the skilled chefs that make them tick. Even better, takeout and delivery options bring the best of NYC delicacies right to your doorstep. So if it's so easy to get delicious food to your door or plate without the hassle of cooking, why would you want to enroll in a cooking class? Because it's fun! Think of all the money you'll save if you knew how to create a home-cooked meal, it might even impress your boo and make for a great date idea. Invite us to your next dinner party, yeah? These kitchen classrooms offer a range of helpful courses, from basic knife skills to pasta-making 101 to butchering. Brush up on your Italian, learn how to master the delicate art of sushi, and find out how to make buttery, flakey croissants. Mmmm. If these NYC cooking classes pique your interest, check out these couples cooking classes in NYC next time date night rolls around.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to classes in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best baking classes in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best art classes in NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
Paint and sip with these 7 BYOB painting classes in NYC

Paint and sip with these 7 BYOB painting classes in NYC

There’s only one thing better than the number of painting classes and art classes in NYC: BYOB painting classes. Where you can sip and paint simultaneously like most of the great artists do (we think). And who knows? Maybe your tipsy creations will be worth something. Get those creative juices flowing and release your inner artist. Whether you need an activity for an evening with your best gals or you’re looking for cute date ideas, or even a solo date, BYOB painting classes fit the bill. (We also snuck in some options of painting classes that provide the drinks so you don't have to schlep with bags). Aren't we kind? Here are the best BYOB painting classes in NYC.  This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
Best NYC language classes including Spanish, French, Italian and Arabic

Best NYC language classes including Spanish, French, Italian and Arabic

If your knowledge of another language is limited to food, beer and where is the toilet? - you might want to consider taking a class to brush up on your slightly-mediocre skills. Sure, there are apps that can help you learn, but there’s nothing like conversing with a real person to get comfortable with a new language. The best places to take language classes in NYC offer high-quality instruction both in-person and online. Whether you choose French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, or Gaelic, even beginner language classes will give you the confidence to strike up a simple conversation over una cerveza or une bière. Once you’ve developed your new language skills, stay on the path to self-improvement with more classes. New York has a whole range of opportunities for you to work on new skills and hobbies, from cooking classes and pottery classes to dance classes and more. There is no time like the present.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best classes in NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
The 13 best writing classes in NYC

The 13 best writing classes in NYC

Whether you want to write the next murder mystery and hope it gets picked up by Hollywood directors, or you want to ensure that your work emails and reports are concise, grammatically correct and rhetorically sound, these writing classes in NYC will help you put those ideas onto paper. And hopefully into some of the best independent bookstores and NYC libraries (fingers crossed!). The remarkable literary institutions employ authors-cum-teachers to teach courses in everything from personal essays to poetry, so you’re sure to find a discipline that suits you. And if you need inspiration, re-reading the best books about New York should do the trick. Enjoy. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to classes in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best BYOB painting classes in NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 19 best baking classes in NYC

The 19 best baking classes in NYC

Cakes always end up flat and dense? Cookies burnt and gross? Pastry lacking puff? Learn to turn sugar, spice, and everything nice into exquisite desserts in the best baking classes in NYC. Go hand to whisk with super talented instructors who will help teach you the essential skills needed to replicate some of the best cookies and pies in NYC, as well as make delicious French classics from scratch. Home-baked goods? Yes, please! Pair your newly acquired skills with the techniques you’ll pick up in the best cooking classes in NYC and you’ve got all the makings of a gourmet meal. Perfect for solo learning, or a cute date night, or even something to do with your best friends, these baking classes will ensure you some tasty samples and skills, so you can become the resident baker in your household. Grab your apron and dust off your spatula.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to classes in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best couples cooking classes NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
The 19 best hotels in Dublin

The 19 best hotels in Dublin

Both a leisure capital and a European business hub, Dublin is bubbling with hotels for all manner of guests, united only by the warm hospitality that the Irish stereotype gets right. The catch? Dublin has the highest occupancy rate among comparable European cities, so even modest rooms come at eye-wateringly expensive prices, and the better ones are often fully booked weeks in advance. In this regard, it’s a city that rewards the well-organised. As most notable hotels are located within a small radius (and walking distance from the city’s top attractions, bars and restaurants), location isn’t the key factor when picking a place. Instead, it’s the fine touches, impressive offerings or prominence in the city’s lore; here are the hotels that should be your first ports of call. RECOMMENDED: 🍺 The best Airbnbs in Dublin🏨 The best cheap hotels in Dublin Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel 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.

Listings and reviews (2)

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
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

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