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 dual South African-English 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 NPO, 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 Branded Copywriter

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Articles (361)

The 15 best Airbnbs in Edinburgh close to Old Town and New Town

The 15 best Airbnbs in Edinburgh close to Old Town and New Town

Edinburgh's the kind of city where a short walk can take you past the old Edinburgh Castle, up the unfinished columns of Calton Hill, or down the narrowest lane left in Old Town. If that sounds like your idea of a good time, we've got plenty more ideas where that came from. It's a city that rewards nosing around, which is why a soulless hotel room just doesn't cut it. These Airbnbs are how you actually get under the skin of the place. There's Old Town flats with wonky floors and castle views, New Town townhouses on streets that make you feel like you've inherited a huge pot of money and cottages tucked behind Grassmarket where you can practically see the Vennel steps from your window. Whatever your trip looks like, here are the best Airbnb’s to stay in on your Edinburgh adventures.  Updated for 2026: We've done some digging and we've found new properties we think you should have on your radar. One is a chic apartment with stunning castle views and the other is a bright and beautiful Old Town flat. RECOMMENDED:Â đŸŽó §ó ąó „ó źó §ó ż Head over to the best Airbnbs in the UKđŸ˜ïž Where to stay in Edinburgh🏮󠁧󠁱󠁳󠁣󠁮󠁿 Stay in the best Airbnbs in Glasgow 🏰 Check out the best hotels in Edinburgh Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb 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. Thes
The 12 best Airbnbs in Liverpool

The 12 best Airbnbs in Liverpool

Whether you are heading to Liverpool to trace the footsteps of The Beatles down to the Cavern Club, catch a match at Anfield, or lose yourself in the nightlife of the Baltic Triangle, finding a place to crash is everything. This used to mean choosing between a basic budget hotel room or an overpriced stay down by the Albert Docks. Thankfully, things have changed. If you want to experience the city like a local, staying in a proper neighbourhood is the way to do it. Think cobbled streets in the Georgian Quarter, creative hubs in the Ropewalks, or a flat right above the city's best independent bars. From massive hen weekends to cultural escapes, here is our guide to the best Liverpool Airbnbs available. The best Airbnb breaks in Liverpool, at a glance đŸ‘šâ€đŸ‘©â€đŸ‘§â€đŸ‘Š Best for a family getaway: The family-friendly townhouse in the Georgian Quarter 🛁 Best for a group with a bit of luxury: The Georgian coach house near Hope Street 🎹 Best for a quirky stay: The warehouse loft in the Baltic Triangle 🎉 Best for a hen or stag do: The stag and hen party haven near Concert Square 💾 Best budget stay: The quirky terraced home in Dingle  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in LiverpoolThe best restaurants in LiverpoolThe best Airbnbs in the Lake District Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, amenities and in-depth research to find you the be
The best Lake District Airbnbs for an English countryside escape

The best Lake District Airbnbs for an English countryside escape

If you are heading to the Lake District, you already know the countryside views are going to be spectacular. The real challenge is finding a place to stay that is just as beautiful. It doesn’t matter whether you’re heading north to bag your first grueling Wainwright peak, to test your knees on Scafell Pike, or to just find a cozy pub corner to hide from the inevitable Cumbrian downpour, the Lake District demands a proper base camp. To save you the headache of endless scrolling, we’ve done the legwork and picked out the best Airbnbs in Cumbria right now. We are talking valley cabins, cosy riverside stables and a fully restored 1950s train carriage. Find everything you need on Airbnb. Find everything you need on Airbnb.  The best Airbnb breaks in the Lake District at a glance  💾 Best for a cheap getaway: The Scandinavian BBQ cabin in Cumbria đŸ„Ÿ Best for hikers: The quaint little cottage on the river in Eskdale đŸ‘šâ€đŸ‘©â€đŸ‘§â€đŸ‘Š Best for a big family getaway: The 17th century cottage in Loweswater ✹ Best for a luxury stay: The luxury cottage near Cockermouth 🚂 Best unique stay: The converted Pullman carriage in Ullock âžĄïž READ MORE: The best hotels in the Lake District 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 best pet-friendly hotels in NYC

The best pet-friendly hotels in NYC

Whether you’re visiting NYC or taking a little staycation, there’s no need to pay a small fortune to have someone watch your furriest friend. Bring them along, they make the best travel companion! Top NYC hotels across all price points are putting the “friendly” in pet-friendly. The best pet-friendly hotels in NYC not only allow dogs, but often pamper them as much as (if not even more than) their humans. A dog is everyone's best friend, right? Unless you're a cat person... Some of these hotels have a resident pooch who oversees the lobby (tip them with snacks), while others greet doggie guests with curated local treats and other extras such as comfy dog beds. What else would you expect from a city that’s obsessed with pets? Tried and true New Yorkers don’t like to leave their canine companions at home—and thanks to these pet-friendly accommodations, out-of-towners don’t have to either. Round out your dog’s big NYC adventure by going all out with a feast at one of the city’s best dog-friendly restaurants. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best hotels in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs with fireplaces in NYC 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 13 best Airbnbs in York for every kind of traveller

The 13 best Airbnbs in York for every kind of traveller

York is famous for its massive York Minster cathedral, longlasting Roman walls (more than any other in the UK) and for having more pubs than days of the year. Add the many marvellous museums, shops, restaurants and natural landscapes, and you've got yourself the perfect holiday for summer, or for any season, in fact.  A place with this much quirk deserves to be paired with a stay that's just as characterful, and these York residentials have personalities in all shapes, sizes and budgets. From a shepherd's hut alongside the River Ouse to a 600-year-old Tudor joint overlooking the cathedral, all you have to do is pick your favourite. Updated July 2026: This year, we've added a sexy-cool loft near the city centre, and a whimsical treehouse fit for adventurous solo travellers, perfect for breezy summer stays.  The best Airbnbs in York, at a glance đŸ‘šđŸœâ€đŸ‘©đŸœâ€đŸ‘§đŸœâ€đŸ‘ŠđŸœÂ Best for families: The modern terraced home near The Shambles💗 Best for couples: The cocoa pod by the river🌿 Best for countryside stays: The luxe cottage in Brandsby✹ Most unique: The tiny Poetree House in northeast York🌇 Best for citylife vibes: The stylish duplex in Preachers Yard🎉 Best for big groups: The bespoke villa on Fulford Road It’s our mission to help you make your trip as smooth sailing as possible. For this, we've based our list on visits by our expert travel writers, along with top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you all the best stays whatever your budget. You might come across the odd affilia
The 12 best Airbnbs in Porto right now, from riverside stays and parkside cottages

The 12 best Airbnbs in Porto right now, from riverside stays and parkside cottages

As soon as you hear about blue-tiled walls, sloping cobbled streets and endless traditional tavernas, you know it could only be Porto. The second largest city in Portugal is home to some of the most unique building designs and architecture, and if you choose wisely, you might even be able to stay within them.  The city's hotels are fine and dandy, but for a more local affair, it's worth looking at Airbnbs first. Lucky for you, we've got a dozen of them - each with its own personality across all the lively neighbourhoods in town. After all, if you want to explore this city like a local, with all its great attractions and things to do, it's probably best to live like one, too. Here are the best Airbnbs in Porto to book in 2026.  Updated July 2026: This year, we've expanded our options across Porto with a fab studio stay for solo travellers or couples, along with a leafy-green cottage in an underrated side of town.  The best Airbnbs in Porto, at a glance 🌿 Best for nature lovers: The Green Cottage by the Parque da CidadeđŸ‘šđŸœâ€đŸ‘©đŸœâ€đŸ‘§đŸœâ€đŸ‘ŠđŸœÂ Best for families: The poolside escape in central Porto💗 Most romantic: The gorgeous old-world flat on Rua do Almada⛰ Best views: The Lada River House by the UNESCO World Heritage Site😎 Best solo stay: The downtown studio with the garden view It’s our mission to help you make your trip as smooth sailing as possible. For this, we've based our list on visits by our expert travel writers, along with top reviews, hosts and amenities to find
The best Airbnbs in Nice for a sun-soaked stay

The best Airbnbs in Nice for a sun-soaked stay

There are several reasons to visit Nice, but let's start with just three: sun, sandy beaches, and socca. The capital of the French Riviera, this glamorous southern city has a vista to rival any postcard, thanks to glittering waters, classic architecture, and lively streets full of bars, restaurants, and bustling shops.  And if you're looking for accommodation, staying at an Airbnb offers an authentic taste of life on the coast that you just can't get at even the top hotels. Got your passport ready? Here's our pick of the best Airbnbs in Nice, so you can visit in style. Bon voyage! Updated June 2026: Nice just keeps getting nicer. We've added a little romantic flat with big romantic views, and the eclectic home of a local travel writer, who's collected tons of unique souvenirs from her adverturous lifestyle. 📍 Discover more wonderful places to visit in France  The best Airbnbs in Nice, at a glance  💗 Best for romance: The tiny Old Town two-bed with an epic viewđŸ‘šđŸœâ€đŸ‘©đŸœâ€đŸ‘§đŸœâ€đŸ‘ŠđŸœÂ Best for families: The fairytale villa in Le Rouret🌊 Best seaside views: The tiny lodge overlooking the sea in EĆșe🎉 Best for groups: The modern flat with a top-floor terrace Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb 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
The 13 best flower delivery services in Melbourne

The 13 best flower delivery services in Melbourne

Let's face it: we've all forgotten about that special day at least once. Suddenly V-Day, an anniversary or a birthday crept up on us and we were almost caught out – but, luckily, that's why same-day flower delivery services exist. Same-day flower deliveries have rescued many a last-minute panic and quite frankly, almost any special occasion. Order from these florists and plant nurseries by around midday and they'll be delivered later that evening, and no one has to know that it was last minute. For more gift ideas, see our guides to the best florists in Melbourne, the best chocolate shops in Melbourne, and the best plant nurseries. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
4 of the best south London pubs for watching Wimbledon this summer

4 of the best south London pubs for watching Wimbledon this summer

It's game, set and match as the annual Wimbledon Championships return to south London from June 29-July 12, bringing with them a host of world-famous players and a lot of nail-biting from the crowds (usually a who's-who of A-list celebrities and high-society, no less). Tickets sell like gold dust and are priced accordingly, naturally – especially if you want a prime position in Centre Court for the finals – but we've got a better idea: catching all the action of the best matches from brilliant pubs in south London. Sure, you don't get to see the sweat on the brows of Carlos Alcaraz, Jack Draper and Aryna Sabalenka up close, but you'll be served much-needed refreshments a hell of a lot quicker, while watching everything on the screen unfold much closer than you would perched atop Henman Hill. Luckily, Greene King offers some of the best watering holes near Wimbledon for catching the matches as close as possible. Could there be a more quintessentially British way of kicking things off?
The 9 best Airbnbs in Vancouver, BC

The 9 best Airbnbs in Vancouver, BC

The best trips to Vancouver rarely stick to the tourist checklist. They’re built around coffee in Mount Pleasant, sunset walks along the Seawall, afternoons at the beach and dinners you’ll still be thinking about weeks later. Whether you’re escaping for a long weekend or returning to a favourite city, these Airbnbs put you in the heart of the neighbourhoods that make Vancouver worth coming back to. RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to the best things to do in VancouverBest beaches in Vancouver right nowBest attractions in Vancouver
The 12 Best Airbnbs in Seattle for Every Type of Traveler

The 12 Best Airbnbs in Seattle for Every Type of Traveler

Seattle’s distinct neighborhoods offer vastly different vibes—from the bustling, coffee-fueled streets of downtown and Capitol Hill to the laid-back, misty shores of Alki Beach. While Seattle's boutique hotels are excellent, booking one of the best Airbnbs in Seattle unlocks a true Pacific Northwest experience. Whether you want a modern loft steps from Pike Place Market, a houseboat on Lake Union, or a cozy A-frame cabin tucked into the evergreen trees, we've curated the ultimate list of Seattle vacation rentals for 2026. Choose between stylish and modern loft apartments or the sweetest of tiny homes in friendly residential neighborhoods, and then get planning your itinerary of the best attractions, shops and restaurants to look around. We can guarantee it’s going to be one helluva trip—and it all starts in one of the best Airbnbs in Seattle. RECOMMENDED: đŸšŁâ€â™€ïžThe best houseboat and waterfront Airbnbs in Seattle Top Picks at a GlanceBest for couples: The sky cabin in EastlakeBest for large groups: The A-frame on Bonney LakeBest for walkable nightlife: The historic loft in Pioneer SquareBest luxury stay: The lakefront cabin in Lake Tapps How we chose the best Airbnbs in Seattle: Every property on this list was meticulously vetted by Time Out’s travel editors. We prioritized Superhosts, properties with a 4.8+ star rating, unique architectural charm, and proximity to major transit or local neighborhood hubs. From deep-diving into guest reviews to evaluating modern amenities, t
The best hotels in Milan, reviewed by local experts

The best hotels in Milan, reviewed by local experts

Long dismissed as merely a business hub or a stopover en route to Italy’s more obvious postcard destinations, in recent years Milan has firmly stepped into its own spotlight. Yes, it remains the country’s capital of fashion, design and shopping, but there’s far more to it than glossy boutiques and Fashion Week crowds. Beneath the shiny surface lies a place rich in history, culture and neighbourhood life, its treasures often quieter and more understated than those of Rome or Florence, but no less rewarding once discovered. The city has transformed dramatically over the past decade, with new hotels, restaurants, galleries and cultural spaces reshaping entire neighbourhoods. And while the buzz surrounding the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics may have helped accelerate that momentum, Milan’s appeal now extends far beyond major events. Whether you’re here for aperitivo-fuelled weekends, serious shopping, contemporary art or simply to experience modern Italian city life at its most stylish, there’s a hotel to suit every kind of traveller – and every budget. June 2026 update: We've added three grand hotels that are sure to pique your interest: the Portrait Milano, The Carlton and Hotel Principe di Savoia.  âžĄïž READ MORE: Our full guide to the best neighbourhoods in Milan The best hotels in Milan, at a glance đŸ›ïžÂ Best for architecture lovers: Portrait MilanođŸ’¶Â Most affordable: Nhow Hotel📍 Best location: Park Hyatt Milano✹ Most unique design: STRAF Hotel🩉 Best for night owls: 21 House

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