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 (365)

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
The best things to do during National Lottery Open Week this March

The best things to do during National Lottery Open Week this March

From March 7-15 2026, National Lottery Open Week returns with an incredible roster of things to see and do across the UK... and you're invited! To say thank you for the £32 million raised for good causes every week by players – just like you – National Lottery-funded projects are offering a range of discounts, offers and free entry* to many of the week’s events. All you need is a National Lottery ticket or scratchcard to access all of this – and so much more.From preserving some of the UK's most loved heritage sites, funding world-class sports and arts venues to supporting life-changing grassroots projects, your ticket leads to something extraordinary. Every single time. And it's all because of you.So, whether you're in Birmingham, London, Manchester, Scotland or further afield, you hold a ticket  to discovery during National Lottery Open Week. Ready to unlock some freebies, find the best hidden gems in your city and feel good doing it? Let's take a look at this year's highlights.
The coolest Airbnbs in Florida for a totally unique trip

The coolest Airbnbs in Florida for a totally unique trip

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

Five reasons why you need to attend Art of London's Art After Dark this February

Returning to the streets of London is none other than Art After Dark,  From February 3-10, you can get your art and culture fix across the West End at a range of events, including public artworks from headline artist Lakwena Mciver, as well as late nights spent at indie galleries and world-class institutions, exclusive food and beverage offers and epic parties to experience. But you're here to find out which events to prioritise, right?  Without further ado, these are our top five reasons why you need to join the Art After Dark madness this February

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:Â đŸ« 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 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 đŸ‘šâ€đŸ‘©â€đŸ‘Šâ€đŸ‘Š Best for small family or groups: Apartment near the Fori Imperiali 🌿 Best with a terrace: The luxury penthouse in Piazza di Spagna đŸ›ïž Best for Rome views: The cute apartment in Monti overlooking the Colosseum âžĄïž 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: đŸšČSee the best things to do in CopenhagenđŸ·Hit up the best bars in CopenhagenđŸ‡©đŸ‡°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 đŸ€© 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

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