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

Follow Alex Floyd-Douglass:

Articles (323)

The 17 best Airbnbs in Santa Barbara

The 17 best Airbnbs in Santa Barbara

Looking for the best places to stay in the gorgeous coastal city of Santa Barbara? Well, you're in the right place. Enjoy long, sunny days lazing by a pool in the warmth of the sun's rays, or out exploring the bustling cultural scene this seaside city has to offer. The Mediterranean vibes of the city will have you thinking you're far away in Italy or Spain but without the hours onboard a flight. From unique airstream stays to romantic beachfront getaways and trendy downtown apartments, we've got you covered for every kind of vacation. Have a look at our top picks of the best Airbnbs in Santa Barbara and book a Cali vaycay to remember. Pass us a cocktail. Updated 2026: We're back at it again with more fresh finds like this luxury home in Montecito and this elegant old-timey home in Downtown. Here's more Santa Barbara inspiration:🍔 Eat at the best Restaurants in Santa BarbarađŸ–ïžÂ Book fun things to do in Santa Barbara😮 Discover luxury hotels in Santa Barbara Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 
The 16 best Airbnbs in the Hudson Valley for your next getaway

The 16 best Airbnbs in the Hudson Valley for your next getaway

Ahh, NYC. Street-style mecca. Home of Broadway. All hustle and bustle (hence the coffee). Truth is, there’s never a dull moment here, and that’s why we love it. Even some of the bodegas are in on the nightlife. Travel upstate and it’s a completely different vibe (a bit like NYC’s introverted cousin) – we’re talking no neon lights, only the amber glow of a wood-burning stove. And when it’s time to escape the inner-city chaos, there’s no place quite like Hudson Valley. While New Yorkers can always catch their breath in one of NYC’s many (admittedly excellent) spas, a temporary escape from the traffic doesn’t always cut it. Sometimes what you really need – read: the only remedy – is a long weekend in a cozy cabin to help you fully decompress. Without further ado, we’ve rounded up the best places the stay in Hudson Valley, many of which boast breathtaking views, cracking amenities, and scenic hiking trails – all within a few hours’ drive of Manhattan. Time to embrace the calm. The best Airbnbs in Hudson Valley, at a glance 🏰Best for fairytale charm and unique tiny home stays: the tiny tower in Lee ⛰Best for eco-friendly travel and hiking enthusiasts: the eco cottage in Rosendale 🐟Best for fly-fishing trips and foodies: the smokey A-frame in Livingston Manor đŸ¶Best for pet-friendly family trips and private lake access: the stylish cabin in the Catskills RECOMMENDED:🏔See our list of the best Airbnbs in the Catskills🏹Check out the top hotels and B&Bs in Hudson, NYđŸŒČPay a visi
The 10 best Airbnbs in Palm Springs for a desert escape

The 10 best Airbnbs in Palm Springs for a desert escape

Palm Springs doesn’t really do subtlety, and that’s exactly why we love it. The skies are blindingly blue, there’s an amazing food culture, the mountains look like a movie backdrop, and the design scene is second to none. It’s the easiest place to reset, whether you’re dodging Los Angeles traffic for the weekend or flying in to catch the winter sun. The local rental market is just as vibrant as the scenery, moving far beyond standard pads to offer everything from retro pool houses to secluded, high-design escapes. To save you the scroll, we’ve curated the best shortlist for the Palm Springs Airbnbs worth booking this season. Updated for 2026: We've keep our nose to the ground and discovered a new wellness retreat in Twentynine Palms and a cabin-meets-yurt just outside of Palm Springs. Enjoy! The best Airbnbs in Palm Springs, at a glance:  đŸ’†â€â™€ïžBest for infrared sauna and spa amenities: the wellness retreat in Twentynine Palms 🏊Best for mid-century architecture and group pool days: the modernist home near Downtown Palm Springs ❀Best for couples and retro nostalgia: the iconic Sunny Bungalo in Palm Springs đŸ’«Best for off-grid stargazing: the geodesic dome near Downtown  RECOMMENDED: 🏹Stay in the best Palm Springs hotels🌮Experience the best things to do in Palm Springs🌊 Check out the best Airbnbs in California 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 r
The 12 best Airbnbs in Houston

The 12 best Airbnbs in Houston

If there’s one word for Houston, it’s big. Big city, big personality, and a food scene that could easily keep you busy for the entire trip. As the fourth-largest city in the US and one of the country’s most ethnically diverse metropolitan areas, Houston is a brilliant place to eat your way around the world without leaving city limits. There’s plenty to do between meals, too. Houston is packed with museums, galleries, green spaces and shops, from the sprawling Galleria to the leafy trails around Buffalo Bayou. Whether you’re here for the food, the culture, the nightlife or simply a change of scenery, you won’t be short of things to fill your days. And because deciding where to stay can be almost as tricky as deciding where to eat, we’ve rounded up some of the best Airbnbs in Houston, Texas, from cosy hideaways for two to seriously fun houses made for groups. Updated September 2026: We’ve revamped this list, and added lots of new places including a perfectly pink megahouse for the girlies and an artist's library with a private pool.  RECOMMENDED:đŸȘÂ The 20 best things to do in Houston🏠 The best hotels in Houston The best Airbnbs in Houston, at a glance:  🌆 Best for skyline views: The Downtown beauty 💕 Best for couples: The new-build bungalow 🏊 Best for poolside lounging: The pool house đŸ›ïž Best for shopping trips: The Galleria hideout 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 21 best online flower deliveries in London

The 21 best online flower deliveries in London

Looking for the best flower delivery in London? You can't get away with a bunch of petrol station peonies anymore – and luckily, you don't have to. To find the absolute best blooms in the capital, the Time Out team actually ordered, unboxed, and vase-tested arrangements from across the city. We tracked delivery times, scrutinised the eco-credentials of the packaging, and monitored exactly how many days the stems stayed fresh on our own kitchen tables. From luxury east London artisans to ultra-fast same-day saviours, here are the 21 top online flower shops guaranteed to brighten their doorstep. Why not take a look at:💐 The best same-day flower delivery in LondonđŸ·Â The best alcohol delivery services in London 🛏 Need a getaway? Here are the best Airbnbs in London How we test: Our Time Out London editors regularly order from these florists to test delivery speed, packaging sustainability, and—most importantly—how long the flowers actually last in the vase. We factor in price, aesthetic (from classic roses to wild, off-beat stems), and customer service to bring you this definitive guide. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 11 best Airbnbs in Buenos Aires

The 11 best Airbnbs in Buenos Aires

A dream destination for sun-seekers, history lovers and culture vultures alike, the city of Buenos Aires is an exciting blend of European style and South American glamour. Doesn't that sound divine? With beautiful architecture, world-class restaurants, vibrant markets and plenty of amazing things to do, it's easy to get swept away in the cosmopolitan magic. But when scrolling Pinterest isn't enough to satisfy your Argentina-based wanderlust, it's time to turn those pins into reality. Luckily, there's a whole host of Airbnbs all over the capital to help make that holiday happen (and at an affordable rate, too). So pack your bags, people, because you're about to book one of the best Airbnbs in Buenos Aires. Updated June 2025: Seeing as apartments with rooftop Jacuzzis don't come around that often, we've added another – just in case the first one is booked up. You're welcome! RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Buenos AiresThe best restaurants in Buenos Aires This guide was written by Time Out's former global commercial copywriter, Katherine Lovage. 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 links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guide
Meet the chefs serving up fresh feasts to hungry Londoners

Meet the chefs serving up fresh feasts to hungry Londoners

Sometimes, when hunger strikes, nothing will satiate you quite like a big bowl of something fresh, healthy and full of goodness. That’s where these chefs and food experts come in. They’re the great minds behind some of the capital’s coolest restaurants, known for serving up London’s freshest dishes. Of course, that doesn’t mean they’re serving up boring. No, we’re talking authentic Japanese sushi, traditional Vietnamese pho, Russian borscht and salads packed with nutrients (and plenty of flavour) – plus a whole lot in between. The best part? The restaurants fronted by these chefs are all available to order from on Uber Eats. Result.
The 13 most haunted Airbnbs in the U.S.A.

The 13 most haunted Airbnbs in the U.S.A.

If you’re a fan of all things that go bump in the night, read on. These scarily good Airbnbs put the “boo” in booking. We’ve scoured the eeriest corners of the U.S.A. to track down the most haunted Airbnbs, which includes everything from shadow-draped castles to old, creepy mansions packed with creaking floorboards, and the possibility of an uninvited roommate.  You might not exactly rest in peace, but you will get a front-row seat to the supernatural. A word to the wise, though—these legendary spots book up faster than a ghost vanishing through a wall, so secure your stay ASAP. Updated for 2026: With spooky season on the horizon, we’ve added a few more of the most haunted properties in the U.S. to our list. Enter if you dare. The U.S.A.’s most haunted Airbnbs, at a glance: đŸ©ž Best for paranormal activity: the Civil War field hospital in Gettysburg, PA đŸ‘» Best for shy ghosts and garden strolls: the dead girl’s bedroom in NOLA đŸšïž Best for Salem Witch Trial history: Haunted Henry’s house in Salem đŸ”ïž Best for large groups: the haunted brothel in Victor, CO đŸŒ” Best for off-grid stargazing: the ghost town in Terlingua, TX Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we’ve based our list on top reviews, hosts, and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The best Airbnbs in the UK for every type of getaway

The best Airbnbs in the UK for every type of getaway

From Cornish beaches and Scottish mountains to the vibrant streets of London, the UK offers an escape for every type of traveller. Whether you are planning a group getaway in a Cotswolds manor, a secluded treehouse stay, or a Lake District retreat with a private hot tub, our index highlights the country's finest stays. Updated September 2026: We've added two hot properties in prime locations so you can explore Northern Ireland's dramatic coast and the Peak District's rolling hills. Best Airbnbs in the UK at a glance 💑 Best for couples: Cabin in the Lake District 🏡 Best countryside Airbnb: Cosy home with fireplace in Norfolk đŸ”„Â Best Airbnb with a hot tub: Romantic hut in Hampshire 🚙 Best for families: Cottage with fireplace in Wales 📍 RECOMMENDED: Our ultimate guide to UK getaways This guide was written and edited by travel writers and UK-based destination experts. 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 links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 8 best Airbnbs in Frankfurt

The 8 best Airbnbs in Frankfurt

If you haven’t been to Frankfurt yet, you’re missing out. From historic cobblestone streets in Altstadt to lively apple wine taverns in Sachsenhausen, Germany’s financial heart offers rich culture alongside its famous skyline. To experience the city like a local, finding the right base is essential. We've picked out the best Airbnbs in Frankfurt, prioritising top Superhosts near the Messe, trendy Nordend and peaceful Westend. September 2026 update: We've added three new properties to this listin some of Frankfurt's best neihgbourhoods. Enjoy! Best Airbnbs in Frankfurt at a glance 💞 Best for couples: Duplex with a garden in Ostend đŸ«°Â Best on a budget: Home for two in the Westend 📍 Best location: One-bedroom flat with free parking in the centre RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Frankfurt Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts, and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 12 coolest Airbnbs in Montreal right now

The 12 coolest Airbnbs in Montreal right now

As Canadian cities go, Montreal knows how to have a good time. Spend a few days here and you’ll find yourself bouncing between museums and galleries, excellent coffee shops, LGBTQ+ bars, late-night clubs and a jazz scene that really comes into its own in summer, when free gigs and festivals spill out across the city. There’s plenty to Montreal beyond the nightlife, too. Its French heritage is woven into the city, from its architecture and food to the historic streets of Old Montreal. And then there’s the Underground City, the enormous network of shops, restaurants and passageways beneath downtown, which is particularly handy when the weather decides not to play ball. Before you get carried away planning your itinerary, though, you’ll need somewhere to sleep. We’ve rounded up some of the best Airbnbs in Montreal, from slick city apartments to characterful homes, so all that’s left to do is pick your favorite. Updated in September 2026: We’ve given this page an update, with several brand new stays including a Mile End hangout with a rooftop hot-tub, and a swanky one-bed in Old Port.  The best Airbnbs in Montreal, at a glance:  đŸ„ł Best for large groups: The port-view penthouse in Old Montreal đŸ’» Best for remote working: The digital nomad’s dream in Downtown Montreal ❀ Best for romantic getaways: The characterful studio in Old Montreal đŸ‘šâ€đŸ‘©â€đŸ‘§â€đŸ‘Š Best for multi-family stays: The luxurious home in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review e
The best Airbnbs in Brighton for a short break by the sea

The 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, and it’s all within an hour of London, if you’re from that way.  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. But no trip to the seaside city should be without a quirky little place to rest your head. And that’s where we come in – here are the best Airbnbs in Brighton, selected by our editors.  📍 Discover the best things to do in Brighton âžĄïž Updated for 2026: We’ve just 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! 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 editori

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