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 (366)

Where to stay in Cape Town

Where to stay in Cape Town

Where are the best places to stay in Cape Town? Well, that all depends on what you’re hoping to get out of the city. If you’re looking for sundowners overlooking the Atlantic, Camps Bay is the place for you. Prefer a surfer’s paradise? That’s just over the mountains in the sunny suburb of Muizenberg. Getting to know the best (and safest) areas of Cape Town and what they offer will help you get the most out of one of the world’s greatest cities. Although the CBD (Central Business District) is small, the City of Cape Town officially comprises a large urban area set across multiple suburbs and small coastal towns, many of which are worth exploring in their own right. Within that expanse, these are the best places to base yourself – and while it’s important to remain streetwise throughout Cape Town, we’ve focused here on the safest areas to stay. So, let’s take a look at our curated list of the best neighbourhoods in the Mother City. You can thank us after your epic trip. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Cape Town🍝 The best restaurants in Cape Town🏠 The best Airbnbs in Cape Town🏖 The best beaches in Cape Town🛍 The best shops in Cape Town This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
The 40 best classes in NYC for 2026

The 40 best classes in NYC for 2026

You’re a smart cookie so you probably know that education doesn’t have to stop at graduation: New Yorkers can constantly add to their skills in the wide range of fascinating classes in NYC. Gym rats can get their adrenaline fix from the hottest new fitness classes, while creative types might want to visit the best arts and crafts stores to learn how to create their very own craft masterpieces. For the adventurous student (that's you!), we've uncovered the best out-of-the-box classes in NYC, ranging from dance classes for adults to a hands-on neon sign workshop. Whether you've always wanted to try aerial acrobatics or you're an aspiring sommelier, we have the course for you. All you need to do? Check out our hand-picked list of the best classes NYC has to offer, pick your perfect class, and get that grey matter going. Every day's a school day! Happy learning, friends. RECOMMENDED: The best acting classes in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best NYC writing classesRECOMMENDED: The best coding classes in NYCRECOMMENDED: 40 virtual team-building activitiesRECOMMENDED: The best team-building activities in NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
Meet the London chefs perfecting the art of noodles

Meet the London chefs perfecting the art of noodles

Sometimes, there's nothing more comforting than a big bowl of noodles, piled high and loaded with flavour. After a long, hard day, it's the culinary equivalent of a warm hug. Luckily, London is full of brilliant chefs who know that all too well – with Uber Eats on hand to deliver their delicious dishes straight to your door. We had the unique opportunity to speak with eight of London's best noodle connoisseurs and pick their brains for what makes the perfect bowl of noods – and the restaurants they come from.  Want to meet some of those nood’ experts? We caught up with eight of the capital’s best chefs to get their insider takes on what goes into the very best hand-pulled noodles, authentic tonkotsu ramen and moreish hand-filled dumplings. And don’t forget, the creations of these chefs are all available to order on Uber Eats right now. Just be sure to save us some, won’t you?
The 25 best acting classes in NYC in 2026

The 25 best acting classes in NYC in 2026

If you’re the kind of person who has always dreamed of seeing your name in lights, you’re in the right place. It’s time to follow your dreams and enroll in one of the best acting classes in NYC. And look, even if you can’t afford to quit your day job to attend one of New York's acting schools (would be nice though, right?), there are plenty of part-time acting classes with flexible schedules and affordable prices. There are quite a lot of different classes on offer, too. So, if belting out the best Broadway songs of all time is your thing, or you just want to see whether being called a “character” all your life means you have any actual talent, these workshops for beginners are the perfect place to start. And who knows? Maybe one day you’ll land your breakout role in one of the best Broadway shows on the Great White Way. Or how about a starring gig in the hottest new television show? Or maybe even Hollywood? All you need is a bit of ambition ... and maybe an acting class or two. But you know that—that’s why you’re here! Smart. Very smart.  Recommended: Find more classes in NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
It's a Vitality Blast summer and we're here for it

It's a Vitality Blast summer and we're here for it

Fan of all things summer, sun and live sport? Well, you're in luck because T20 cricket is back and the Vitality Blast is set to arrive at the Kia Oval this May, June and July
 and you're all invited! Every year, T20s in south London deliver the ultimate festival of sport in the Capital, where the world's very best cricketers go head-to-head for the top prize – and endless bragging rights. Blasting things off on May 22 is a bumper double-header against Lancashire, serving as one of five Surrey double-headers this year, along with an unmissable London Derby clash, Retro Night and the 'Celebrate the Champions' women's fixture
 among so many others.With endless entertainment and immaculate vibes all round, there's plenty to see and do at the Vitality Blast as you soak up that London summer sun
 and that next jug of Pimms, of course.  Surrey County Cricket Club Yep, no party at the Kia Oval is complete without some delicious food and bevs, and naturally, the Vitality Blast is no exception. From ice-cold pints to tasty street food bites, you can enjoy a well-rounded selection of fare up for grabs on one of those much-needed breaks between innings across the day. Howzat for a good time?! Well, it just got even better because if you bag your tickets before May 1, you can take full advantage of the Early Bird prices starting at just £27 for adults and just a quid for under 16s*. Yes, really.So, all that's left to do is fire up the group chat, plan your cricket-chic 'fits (read: fanc
Five reasons to visit Lisbon this summer for Rock In Rio Lisbon

Five reasons to visit Lisbon this summer for Rock In Rio Lisbon

It's no secret that Lisbon is almost always at the top of Brits' summer bucket lists – and for good reason, too. The food is unreal, the weather is unmatched and the vibes are immaculate, not to mention it being easy to get to and great value with plenty to do if you’re staying a while. Of course, we can’t forget the annual Rock in Rio Lisbon music festival, either. With a seriously impressive line-up spanning the brightest global stars, the event has become a must-attend staple for any music fan planning a visit to the Portuguese capital over the summer.So, about ready to get that city break locked in? From endless rooftop wine bars and seafood spots to world-renowned cultural music festivals (Rock in Rio Lisbon, we're looking at you) and unforgettable nights out, consider this our official guide for making the most of a trip to Lisbon.
9 London neighbourhoods you need to put on your radar this year


9 London neighbourhoods you need to put on your radar this year


Looking to buy your first home in London this year? Well, you're in luck because we've got a full list of under-the-radar neighbourhoods well worth considering. And thanks to a brand new series of affordable developments opening up across London, getting on the property ladder couldn't be easier than now.But, where can you find all of this insight under one roof, we hear you ask? We've partnered with the London Home Show 2026 – the ultimate first time buyers and homeowners event – who are ready and waiting to share London's greatest new developments with you. Feeling overwhelmed by choice, location and pricing? Never fear, the London Home Show 2026 has got all your questions answered. The best part? They’re giving you a FREE ticket to the show on Saturday April 18, so you can ask them yourself, before taking the very exciting plunge into your dream home purchase. Simply click here to bag your spot! Keen to take a look at some of the best London neighbourhoods before heading to the main event in April? Read on

23 Best Airbnbs in Florida for 2026 (Beachfront, Disney & More)

23 Best Airbnbs in Florida for 2026 (Beachfront, Disney & More)

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. Whether you're hunting for a luxury beachfront condo in South Beach, an off-grid log cabin in the woods, a massive mansion near Disney World for a family reunion, or a unique houseboat in Miami, we’ve vetted the state’s top-rated stays. 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 ins
Win your dream trip to one of Time Out's Best Cities 2026 with Intrepid Travel

Win your dream trip to one of Time Out's Best Cities 2026 with Intrepid Travel

No matter the kind of traveller you are – from thrillseeker to culture vulture – Intrepid Travel has got just the trip for you. With adventures spanning over 100 destinations, there's never been a better time to travel. Until now. Because we've got possibly the coolest competition we've ever had for you
 To celebrate the release of our annual Best Cities list (and our first-ever travel partnership with Intrepid), one lucky winner will win the trip of a lifetime to one of our top 10 Best Cities for 2026, worth up to £3000. Consider yourself architecturally inclined? Visit the Magic City of Shanghai. Fan of mezcal and tamales? Take a trip to Mexico City. Want to say you've visited Time Out's top city for 2026? Head to Australia's glorious metropolis of Melbourne.  Or, check out our full 2026 list of Best Cities here and decide for yourself: Melbourne, Australia  Shanghai, China Edinburgh, Scotland, UK London, England, UK New York City, United States Cape Town, South Africa Mexico City, Mexico Bangkok, Thailand Seoul, South Korea Tokyo, Japan Renowned for the ‘best small group trips’ around, Intrepid is all about locally led adventures that find the sweet spot between authentic cultural experiences and responsible tourism, all while connecting a community of like-minded travellers. Trips span more than 100 destinations – from trekking the Inca Trail in Peru to street-food discoveries in Japan and desert camping beneath the stars in Morocco. Keen to try one of their tr
The Best Airbnbs in Vienna for an Imperial City Break

The Best Airbnbs in Vienna for an Imperial City Break

Elegant, artistic, and effortlessly liveable, Vienna is not called the 'City of Dreams' for nothing. It's a vibrant cultural capital where grand palaces meet cutting-edge design, and where classical music shares space with contemporary art and coffeehouse culture. From Mozart’s legacy and the masterpieces inside the city’s world-class museums to the buzz of Vienna’s boozy nightlife and the charm of its Christmas markets, this is a city that satisfies every kind of traveller. Whether it’s your first time in Vienna, or a returning visit, you’ll want to be able to live like a local to truly soak up the Austrian vibes. We’ve rounded up the best Airbnbs in the city, from studios with roof terraces to stunning flats next to the Danube River that will let you experience the best of the capital.  Time Out tip: If you're driving while in Vienna, you'll need to add the HANDYPARKEN app to your itinerary – it will come in handy.  Updated October 2025: We’ve added a gorgeous studio with a balcony overlooking Vienna so you can really see what this magnificent city is all about. Best Airbnbs in Vienna at a glance 👹‍👹‍👧‍👧Best for families: The loft with a balcony in WĂ€hring đŸ„°Best for couples: The historic apartment near the Danube đŸ›ïžBest location: The retro apartment in Alliiertenviertel RECOMMENDED: 🇩đŸ‡čFancy staying in one of the best hotels in Vienna?🏛Check our list of the best things to do in Vienna Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured
Meet the chefs brightening up London's plates this winter

Meet the chefs brightening up London's plates this winter

Ahhh Febu-worry. It's not the best month, is it? The weather's grey, the days are short, and we're only just getting over the copious amounts of chocolate and cheese consumed over the festive period and into January. So, there couldn't really be a better time to spotlight the teams behind the London restaurants preparing light, fresh and delicious dishes to get us back on track.Join us as we go behind the scenes to find out exactly what makes these eight chefs tick – and how they brought their dishes (and businesses) to the table. Hungry? We thought you might be. Lucky for you, the menus of all of these restaurants are available to order straight to your door, courtesy of Uber Eats. Bon appetit!
Planning a trip to Seoul? Add this Louis Vuitton exhibition to your South Korean bucket list

Planning a trip to Seoul? Add this Louis Vuitton exhibition to your South Korean bucket list

In a city where cultural heritage, futuristic technology and fashion-forward districts co-exist, it's no surprise that the Louis Vuitton Visionary Journeys Seoul exhibition has arrived. Hailed as an 'immersive journey tracing Louis Vuitton's evolution from visionary trunk maker to global cultural house', this exhibition celebrates travel, craftsmanship and innovation – and is truly in its own league. So, whether you've got an upcoming trip to South Korea's capital planned or you're a seasoned local, you're invited to experience the most visionary of journeys. Louis VuittonLouis Vuitton Visionary Journeys Seoul A presentation of Louis Vuitton’s creative heritage and travel philosophies, the exhibition, hosted at LV The Place Seoul, Shinsegae The Reserve, will guide you through a single journey spanning the past 170 years. The House's heritage of travel, craftsmanship and innovation sets the ideal backdrop for the exhibition's immersive narrative, with a series of themed rooms demonstrating Louis Vuitton's visionary progression since 1854 revealing the brand’s global expansion across fashion, art and culture. Photography: Louis Vuitton At the entrance, the ‘Trunkscape’ room pays tribute to the brand’s origins in trunk-making, offering a vivid introduction to the beginning of Louis Vuitton’s remarkable journey. The exhibition then continues on the fifth floor in the ‘Origins’ room, where visitors can explore the birth of the House’s iconic Monogram canvas through Historical

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