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 (364)

The 18 best flower delivery services in NYC this  season

The 18 best flower delivery services in NYC this season

Sometimes the best gift of all is flowers. Whether you're staying with the fam, visiting old school friends or celebrating with your other half, a beautiful bouquet of flowers sometimes just says 'I appreciate you' so much better. From glorious poinsettias to a curated bunch of delights, we've got you covered with the best flower delivery services in NYC.  Luckily, we live in NYC in the 21st century where you can get flowers delivered straight to your door for the very next day – or in some cases, that exact same day. And it’s not just bouquets you can send to your loved one. You can get potted plants (perfect for plant fanatics), good quality chocolates, candles, and even more sent straight to their door. We’re on hand to help you make the best decision by rounding up all of the very best flower delivery services in NYC, ready for you to choose your fave. And if you're not afraid of a little long-term commitment, many of the shops included in our round-up offer a subscription model so you can keep 'em coming all year round... RECOMMENDED: 🍫 Check out the best chocolate deliveries in the USAOr how about the best alcohol delivery in NYC? How do we know it's the best of the best? Our lists are expertly curated by our local experts far and wide to offer you the lowdown on the best delivery services in NYC. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
The 10 best tours in Milan

The 10 best tours in Milan

Stunning cathedrals, snazzy boutiques, must-see attractions, and canalside restaurants: there’s a tremendous breadth of things to do, see and sample in Milan. But if you’re struggling to work out where to start with this jewel of northern Italy (and, honestly, we wouldn’t blame you for feeling a little over-faced), we’d suggest joining one of the best Milan tours, as curated by in-the-know locals. Whether you’re looking to dive deep into the crypt of the city’s cathedral, jet across the waters of beautiful lakes or get up to speed in the home kitchen of a genuine Italian cook, there are plenty of ways that the best tours in Milan can give you a fascinating insight into this remarkable city. Here are the best ways to get an insider’s take on marvellous Milan. RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Milan🛍 The best places for shopping in Milan🍴 The best restaurants in Milan🚃 The best day trips from Milan This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 8 best Airbnbs in Naples

The 8 best Airbnbs in Naples

Naples is the dark horse of Italy, known for having a rough history, but it’s steadily emerging from its past to flourish as a place of great beauty. If you know where to look, the city is bursting with culture. Though it’s known for its pizza, Naples' cuisine certainly doesn’t stop there. Think seafood, and pasta with thick meaty sauces made from recipes passed down from generation to generation. Plus secret churches to explore, a spread of beaches along the coastline and much more besides. So you’ve done Rome, you’ve done Florence. Why not venture into the labyrinth, and indulge in all the history and nightlife the city has to offer? But make sure that if you go, you book the right place to stay. Luckily for you, we’ve gathered together the best Airbnbs in Naples right now.  RECOMMENDED: The 20 best things to do in NaplesThe best Naples hotelsWho makes the cut? 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 information, see our affiliate guidelines. 
The 22 best Airbnbs in Lisbon: cobbled streets, sun-soaked terraces and all

The 22 best Airbnbs in Lisbon: cobbled streets, sun-soaked terraces and all

Lisbon has risen in popularity in recent years, and it's not surprising really. The Portuguese capital is cool, timeless, and beautiful, plus it's packed with plenty of stuff to see and do. From castles and churches to art galleries and beaches, it's no wonder people flock from all over to get a taste of the city's culture. And of course, the characterful bars and scrummy restaurants make the trip special, too.  To keep up with the city's vibrant vibes, it makes sense to stay at one of the many Airbnbs in the city to complete the experience. From gorgeous apartment lofts with skyline terraces to designer flats, there's a huge choice of Airbnbs for all sorts of personalities, budgets, and needs. We've picked our favourite Lisbon Airbnbs for you to take a peek at. Updated January 2026: When in Lisbon, you're really spoilt for choice when it comes to finding affordable and authentic rentals. We've decided to spoil you a little more with a recently renovated traditional apartment so you can live like a local in the heart of Alfama. What's the best neighbourhood to stay in Lisbon? Príncipe Real was ranked number eight on our world's coolest neighbourhoods in 2024 for its ongoing influx of new restaurants and bars without the area losing its Lisbon feel. Locals love having relaxed drinks around the square of Praça das Flores if you fancy joining them. If you're after more classic partying, base yourself near Bairro Alto for bar-hopping and Fado music, or the lively Cais do Sodré d
The best Airbnbs to stay in Rome for 2026 – with local tips

The best Airbnbs to stay in Rome for 2026 – with local tips

Whether you’re here for the big landmarks – the Colosseum, the Vatican, the Trevi Fountain and the likes – to eat your way through endless bowls of pasta and pizza, or even to run the marathon (yes, we’re judging), there’s no place like Rome. And finding a base that suits your trip? That’s priceless – opting for an Airbnb means extra space, local character, and comforts like kitchens, washing machines, terraces and more. From elegant apartments with Colosseum views to digs in tucked-away Trastevere we’ve rounded up the best Airbnbs in Rome to suit every traveller – and included our best local tips too.  💎 January 2026: We’ve just added a great new find for families and groups, especially suited to your first time in the city – minutes from the Colosseum but on a quiet street, with your own sunny balcony. Skip to it here.  Best Airbnbs in Rome at a glance 💞 Best near the Colosseum: Stylish flat near the Colosseum 💸 Best cheap stay: Two-floor apartment in San Giovanni 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Best for small family or groups: Apartment near the Fori Imperiali 🌿 Best with a terrace: The luxury penthouse in Piazza di Spagna 🏛️ Best for Rome views: The cute apartment in Monti overlooking the Colosseum ➡️ READ MORE: Discover our ultimate guide to Rome Livia Hengel is Time Out’s Rome expert. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local experts across Europe. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide includes affiliate links, which hav
The 13 best Airbnbs in Copenhagen close to the centre

The 13 best Airbnbs in Copenhagen close to the centre

Copenhagen has risen in popularity recently as one of the best destinations for a weekend city break. Whether you're a tourist travelling from afar or a fellow Dane looking for a change of scenery, renting an Airbnb for a few days is a great way to see the city and experience it like a true local.  The capital of Denmark, one of the world's happiest cities, is a gorgeous place with brightly coloured buildings, amazing food, lots of culture, rich history and architectural design, making it a place worth exploring with lots to do and see. And few cities offer such a resplendent selection of Airbnbs as the Danish capital. No matter your trip, whether you’re hunting for a table at Copenhagen’s fabulous restaurants, spending your days in its captivating museums or boogieing it out thanks to its exhilarating nightlife, there’s usually a phenomenal Airbnb to fit the bill. Here are our favourite Airbnbs right here in Copenhagen.  Time Out tip: The easiest – and quickest – way to get around Copenhagen is on two wheels, but if you prefer to hop on public transport, the DOT ticket app is your best friend.  Updated in January 2026: We think this list is pretty cracking already, but it's even better now that we've added this houseboat in the heart of the city for a truly authentic experience (and one you might recognise from a certain TV show).  Recommended: 🚲See the best things to do in Copenhagen🍷Hit up the best bars in Copenhagen🇩🇰Here's how to spend a weekend in Copenhagen Who m
The 10 best hotels in Charlotte for 2026

The 10 best hotels in Charlotte for 2026

Sure, Charlotte has historically basked in the shadow of its bigger, louder counterparts when it comes to U.S. cities, but here’s why it’s worthy of your attention. There’s a shedload of teams to come out and support (though you can also visit NASCAR Hall of Fame for a taste), the Levine Center for the Arts is primed for—you guessed it—art-lovers, and for those looking to amp up the activity, think walking trails, whitewater rafting and lakeside bliss. Whatever you’re feeling, Charlotte has you covered, and we’ve compiled all the city’s top places to rest your head.  Which area is best to stay in Charlotte? To be smack dab in the middle of the sporting, dining and creative center of Charlotte, stay in Uptown on your first visit. However, for an area with a little bit more edge (and plenty of breweries) go for NoDa. Alternatively, Ballantyne has plenty of family friendly options, including the gleaming eponymous hotel in spot number one on our list.  Charlotte’s best hotels at a glance: 💎 Most luxurious: The Ritz-Carlton 👛 Best budget: Dunhill Hotel 🌃 Best view: JW Marriott Charlotte 👙 Best pool: The Ballantyne Hotel & Spa 🤩 Most iconic: The Ivey’s Hotel 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Charlotte  How we curate our hotel lists Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world—new openings, old classics and everything in between—to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. We have reviewed many of the hotels
The best ski resorts near NYC for 2026

The best ski resorts near NYC for 2026

If you are a skier (or snowboarder) there is no better way to tackle the winter time blues than getting out to the slopes. Terrain across the northeast has been blessed with early season snowfall—with many resorts ranging from Bellerye to Killington opening up trails even before December.   With a handful of the resorts within hours of the city, you can already enjoy powdery conditions comparable with what you’d get out west for now. But don’t fret, you still embrace the icy conditions the east coast (or colloquially referred to as ice coast) that resorts across the eastern seaboard are known for.  If you’re looking to get out for the day or the weekend, here are our expert recommendations:  RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs near NYC with snowy viewsThe best Airbnbs for ski getaways from NYC The coziest Airbnbs near NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
Meet the chefs serving Londoners bowls of comfort this winter

Meet the chefs serving Londoners bowls of comfort this winter

As winter greets us with its cooler-than-cool energy and the Christmas festivities commence, there's one thing that we’re all indulging in: food, glorious food. So with UberEats deliveries arriving on our doorsteps throughout the season – full of steaming bowls of comforting grub or colourful salads for some much-needed nourishment – we thought it was high time we turned our attention to the people that make our foodie dreams a reality. Meet the chefs behind some of the capital’s most delicious dishes. From traditional Eastern cuisine to fusion flavours, these kitchen masters know a thing or two about great food. So, jump on board the flavour train with us as we go behind the scenes to find out what makes seven of London’s buzziest chefs tick. Oh, and if reading this starts to make your stomach rumble – our apologies in advance – these restaurants are all available to order, straight to your front door, on UberEats.
What's on at Westfield London this Christmas?

What's on at Westfield London this Christmas?

If you're looking for a one-stop shop for all things festive, look no further: Westfield London is the place to be this Christmas. With a list of things to do longer than Santa’s naughty or nice count throughout December, this West London hotspot has become the ultimate Christmas destination. Not sure where to start? That's where we come in. We've handpicked five of the best things to do, see and explore while you're here. So read on – and have yourself a very merry trip to Westfield London.
The best accommodation in the Blue Mountains

The best accommodation in the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains region – the stunning, World Heritage-listed national park on the western edge of Sydney – is a go-to weekender destination for Sydneysiders looking for a nature reset, an indulgent spa escape, or an adrenaline-fuelled adventure. And for good reason. The magnificent prehistoric valleys are home to some of the best hiking trails in the state, as well as magical swimming spots and spectacular waterfalls. In the charming towns that punctuate the region, you’ll find cute cafés, perfect pubs, stacked vintage stores, and a good selection of day spas and bathhouses to help ease your mountain-weary muscles. If you’re looking for somewhere to rest your head after all that exploring, we’re here to help. From a gorgeous rustic cottage to an ultra-luxurious boutique hotel, the Time Out Sydney team (including Editor-in-Chief Alice Ellis, who has a house in the region) have tried and tested the best Airbnbs and hotels in the area. Time Out Sydney's Travel and Hotels Editor (and self-confessed Blue Mountains enthusiast) Winnie Stubbs has overseen the list to make sure it's up to scratch – read on for our definitive guide to the best places to stay in the Blue Mountains. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants and cafés in the Blue Mountains.  Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our a
We've found the West End's most festive afternoon tea

We've found the West End's most festive afternoon tea

If you're looking for the place to go for a festive afternoon tea in Central London's theatreland, we've got you covered. Introducing Strand Palace: where afternoon tea may be timeless, but they're bringing a whole new vibe – served up with a delightfully exciting ABBA-inspired twist.  Located just three minutes walking distance from Covent Garden, The Palace's Tea Parlour offers guests a theatrical spin on the classic British pastime – complete with Christmas-themed sweet treats, festive cocktails (and mocktails) and naturally, a glistening flair of ABBA sparkle. And that's not even the best part: Just a three-minute walk from the Novello Theatre (home to the global smash hit MAMMA MIA!), The Palace Tea Parlour is the ideal pre-theatre stopover – with its festive edition available from now until December 31 2025. Photograph: Strand Palace With a star-studded menu hitting all the right notes from the I Do, I Do, I Do dolmades and the oh-so-fragrant Honey Honey loaf to the Knowing Mousse, Knowing You white chocolate mousse and Rosie's Take a Chance on Brie tartlet, your palette is guaranteed to be just as entertained as your ears and eyes are.  So, whether you're looking for pre or post theatre activity, a catch-up with pals or a unique Christmas gift for an ABBA-mad loved one, the MAMMA MIA! Festive Afternoon Tea is the ultimate festive experience in London this year. The MAMMA MIA! Festive Afternoon Tea is served daily across two seatings: 12.30pm and 3pm. Prices start fro

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