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 (342)

The 10 best Airbnbs in Vancouver right now

The 10 best Airbnbs in Vancouver right now

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. The best Airbnbs in Vancouver, at a glance:
The 15 best Airbnbs in Brighton for a short break by the sea

The 15 best Airbnbs in Brighton for a short break by the sea

Brighton has just been named one of the best cities in the world for nightlife in 2026, and if you've ever spent a night there, it's not exactly a shock. It's one of the UK's most loved beachside cities, home to incredible food, quaint independent shops filling up the lanes, and a night out that locals rate among the best in the country. It's the perfect mix of city buzz and seaside charm, all within an hour of London. It's also long been the UK's LGBTQ+ capital and 2026 has only cemented that reputation, with Brighton Pride turning 35 and the city scoring higher than almost anywhere else in the world for community and inclusivity. Good vibes, friendly people, and yes, still that pretty decent pier. A trip to the seaside city shouldn't be without a quirky little place to rest your head. Branch out from the usual pick of hotels, and find something that gives you the Brighton experience like a homely Airbnb, from cosy family homes that welcome pets to cool artsy flats that will make you rethink your corporate career choice. Stay somewhere just as special as the city itself with our guide to Brighton's best Airbnbs. Updated for 2026: To keep this list fresh and showcase Brighton's charm, we regularly update this list so you never miss out on an amazing stay. To reflect this, we've added two new favourites to our list. One is a super luxe abode on the outskirts of the city, and the other is a boho-chic home in the city centre. Enjoy. Recommended: 🎡Experience the best things to d
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 Cidade đŸ‘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 for group trips: 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 a
The best Airbnbs in Vienna for an imperial city break

The best Airbnbs in Vienna for an imperial city break

Vienna is not called the 'City of Dreams' for nothing. It's a vibrant cultural capital where grand palaces meet cutting-edge design. From historic Altbau apartments in the Innere Stadt (1st District) to trendy Neubau lofts (7th District) and quiet Leopoldstadt stays (2nd District), Austria’s capital offers unmatched charm. Whether you want a luxury penthouse near St. Stephen’s Cathedral or a garden flat along the Danube River, staying local elevates your trip. Here are the top Vienna Airbnb rentals for first-timers, couples and group getaways. Best Airbnbs in Vienna at a glance 👹‍👹‍👧‍👧 Best for families: Airbnb with piano in Meidling đŸ„° Best for couples: Retro apartment in Brigittenau đŸ›ïž Best location: Loft with a garden in Leopoldstadt 💚 Most affordable: Historic Altbau flat near the Danube 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, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 10 best Airbnbs in the New Forest for your next dose of fresh air

The 10 best Airbnbs in the New Forest for your next dose of fresh air

Don’t get us wrong, we love the city, but every now and again it’s great to experience nature in all of its untouched glory. Away from the worlds of big city life, laidback towns or sleepy suburbia, a mixture of woodland, heathland and wetland forms the historic New Forest – a place that gives Robin Hood’s gaff a run for its money.  A prime location for rare species of animals and wildlife, it also makes for a stellar place to spend a few nights away from the glow of streetlights. Whether you’re horseback riding through the forest, exploring quaint villages and antique shops or enjoying an ice-cold pint after taking the kids to Peppa Pig World, there's plenty to do, making the New Forest the ultimate destination for a fun-packed day or a bit of R&R – especially in one of these unique Airbnbs. Best New Forest Airbnbs, at a glance 🛖 Best for a tiny-home escape: Armadilla in Brockenhurst đŸ”„ Best for going properly off-grid: The Hut at Lime Cottage in Tisbury 🏊 Best for families: the private lodge at Sandy Balls 🐕 Best for a dog-friendly stay: Red Oak Barn đŸŒČ Best for hot-tub stargazing: Briars Lodge in Bransgore How we choose our stays: Every Airbnb in this guide has been hand-selected by our UK travel editors. We prioritize Superhosts, properties with a 4.85+ star rating, verified guest feedback, direct access to walking trails, and key amenities like wood burners, hot tubs, and dog-friendly gardens. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our
The 9 hottest Airbnbs in Portland right now

The 9 hottest Airbnbs in Portland right now

Known for its environmental efforts and staying on-trend, Portland is a sought-after travel destination and it’s no wonder why. There’s plenty to see and do in Portland across diverse neighborhoods, including exploring numerous parks, visiting local art galleries and mingling in the music scene. Whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure, there’s something for everyone here. The foolproof way to see the city at its best is to stay in a top area in one of these incredible Airbnbs in Portland—hand-picked by yours truly. The best Airbnbs in Portland, at a glance 🏠 Best for a hotel-level Airbnb in the Pearl District: the skyline penthouse 🩙 Best for animal lovers near Portland: the Alpaca Farm cottage đŸŒČ Best for a garden hideaway: the forest cabin at Leach Botanical Garden đŸ•ïž Best for a glamping escape near Forest Park: the Vintage Camper 💕 Best for a couples getaway in Lake Oswego: The Woodland Cottage Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, it’s our mission to help you make your trip as smooth sailing as possible. For this, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you all the best stays whatever your budget. You might come across the odd affiliate link but rest assured, they have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more info, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 8 best Airbnbs in New York City for living like a local

The 8 best Airbnbs in New York City for living like a local

Of course, New York has no shortage of brilliant hotels, but sometimes the best way to experience the city is to stay somewhere that feels a little more like home. From stylish Manhattan apartments with skyline views to quirky spaces with serious character, these Airbnbs offer a different way to do New York. Whether you're after a budget-friendly base, a romantic retreat or somewhere seriously special, there's an option for every kind of trip. Swap the hotel concierge for a local host, room service for a late-night slice of cheap eats and a generic room for somewhere with a bit of personality. Then, once you've dropped your bags, you're perfectly placed to explore the city's attractions, eat your way through the  best restaurants in the city and experience the NYC like a local. RECOMMENDED:🏙Full guide to the best things to do in New York🏹 See the coolest hotels to book in New York CityđŸ—œDiscover the best hotels with breathtaking views in NYC Please note, NYC’s 'Local Law 18' has applied restrictions on short-term rentals. All short-term rentals and hosts must be registered with the relevant city authorities, and can only rent properties in which they currently reside. They must also be present when a guest is staying, and additional occupancy is limited to two guests. 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 ha
The 10 best Airbnbs in and around Denver, Colorado

The 10 best Airbnbs in and around Denver, Colorado

Exploring the city of Denver? Make sure you book a stay at one of these ultra-cozy Airbnbs in and around Denver, Colorado. Whether you're after an inner-city stay or a mountain retreat, you'll find an Airbnb to suit you. With so many things to do in the city, it's worth a weekend trip. To save you the hard work, we've done the scrolling and quite a bit of staying, too, find the cream of the crop. From romantic and quirky cabins, chic city apartments, and rustic mountain homes, all these Airbnbs give you the complete Denver experience. Enjoy! Updated November 2024: Good tidings we bring with this recently added sunny hightop home in Highlands and this gorgeous Highlands design home.  The best Airbnbs in and around Denver, at a glance: 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 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 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 cafĂ©s, 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 News 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 cafĂ©s 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 aff
Five reasons why Mr Doodle’s Doodle Discovery Art Trail is an artfully good summer day out

Five reasons why Mr Doodle’s Doodle Discovery Art Trail is an artfully good summer day out

The summer holidays are in full swing, and as most parents know, while it’s a great time to make treasured family memories, it can also be a bit of a struggle making sure that little ones stay entertained for the whole six-week stretch. Not every day can be ice-creams and sandcastles, after all
 Fortunately, Art of London – which showcases a creative city brimming with inspiration – is lending a hand this summer. Until August 30, families (including kids small and big) can enjoy an art trail like no other, which leads visitors through some of the capital’s most iconic locations. Mr Doodle’s Doodle Discovery Art Trail from Art of London spans Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square and St James’s Market, where you’ll find weird and wonderful two-metre sculptures – from colourful doodles to monochromatic black-and-white designs – each celebrating a different aspect of the area where it’s found. The theatre-inspired version on Piccadilly Circus might just be a personal fave, though.  There are countless reasons to join the arty fun on the trail this summer – but here are our five favourites

The best Airbnbs in Florence for an idyllic Tuscan getaway

The best Airbnbs in Florence for an idyllic Tuscan getaway

From the iconic Duomo and Ponte Vecchio to the artisan streets of Oltrarno, Florence packs world-famous sights, incredible food and Renaissance history into one gloriously walkable city. Spend your days browsing the Uffizi Gallery, shopping along Via Roma and watching the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo before tucking into fresh pasta and a glass of Chianti. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, family holiday or solo adventure, these are the best Airbnbs in Florence right now. August 2026 update: We've added some new incredible properties to this list, including a modern home near the train station, perfect for exploring the city and the wider region. Enjoy! The best Airbnbs in Florence at a glance 🛕 Best for Duomo views: The best luxury Airbnb in Florence with a private Duomo viewing terrace 🏊 Best with a pool: Tuscan loft with a pool in Scandicci đŸ„‚ Best in Oltrarno: The rooftop terrace apartment in Santo Spirito đŸ‘šâ€đŸ‘©â€đŸ‘§â€đŸ‘Š Best for families: The big yellow home 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 editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. Frequently asked questions about Airbnbs in Florence Which is the best neighbourhood to stay in an Ai
The best Airbnbs in Rome for every budget and neighbourhood

The best Airbnbs in Rome for every budget and neighbourhood

Whether you’re here for the big landmarks – the Colosseum, the Vatican, the Trevi Fountain and the likes – or eat your way through endless bowls of pasta, there’s no place like Rome. Booking an Airbnb gives you extra space, local character, and comforts like private rooftop terraces and kitchens. From luxury lofts near the Spanish Steps to budget-friendly neighbourhood gems, here are the best Airbnbs in Rome curated with our expert local tips. Best Airbnbs in Rome at a glance đŸ›ïžÂ Best for Colosseum views: Airbnb in Monti overlooking the Colosseum with a lift đŸœïžÂ Best in Trastevere: Historic Trastevere apartment on a quiet street đŸ‘šâ€đŸ‘©â€đŸ‘Šâ€đŸ‘ŠÂ Best for families: Airbnb with free parking near the Olympic Stadium and Ponte Milvio 💾 Best on a budget: Apartment with a lift in San Giovanni â›Ș Best in the historic centre: Studio with a private terrace in the centre of Rome 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 have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Listings and reviews (1)

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