Jennifer Banful

The Rockaway Peninsula, a beautiful spot just south of Queens, is a gem for both locals and wanderlust-filled travelers. It's become the go-to place for a quick weekend getaway from NYC, and it's easy to see why – it's a real slice of paradise (and is home to the only two surf beaches in the city).  We get it, after a day lounging under the sun and beachside fun, the last thing you want is a long subway ride home. So, why not turn that day trip into a proper staycation next time you head to the Rockaways to escape the city hustle? And despite the beaches luring in the summer crowds, don't be afraid to visit off season – there's plenty of shops, art and eateries to explore when the weather isn't at its best.  To make your trip planning a breeze, we’ve handpicked a range of awesome Airbnbs in the Rockaways. Whether you're into unique stays like boats or treehouses or need a big space for a group, there’s a little something here for everyone. So, pack your beach gear, grab a page-turner, and get set to relax in these fantastic Airbnbs. RECOMMENDED:☀️ Check out our full guide to Rockaway Beach in NY🏖️ Explore the best beaches in NYC🇺🇸 Discover the best things to do outside in New York 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 guidel

Albania isn’t one of those places that instantly springs to mind when you’re thinking of a European getaway. Luckily times have changed, and this dreamboat of a destination in the Balkans is finally on the map. Better late to the party than never… With beautiful cities like Tirana and Vlorë on its shores, Albania has well and truly earned its bragging rights; there’s the exceptional local hospitality, breath-taking alpine valleys, serene sandy beaches with turquoise waters, and castle ruins that reveal the country’s rich Illyrian past. It’s also right on the money if you’re looking for a cheap beach getaway. But enough of the gush, you’re likely here because you’re looking for somewhere to stay. For that,  we've curated a list of the best Airbnbs we could find across the Riviera. Whether it’s a family holiday, you’re in your digital nomad era, you're planning a group trip with the pals, or you and your beau just desperately just want to lay on the beach, we’ve found the perfect spot. Gezuar to good travels. RECOMMENDED:🇦🇱Check out the lowdown on where to stay in Albania 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.

When the Chicago summer kicks in, the mercury starts to rise and the humidity reaches its sticky heights, there’s one thing on every Chicagoan’s mind: to get in some water and cool down as soon as humanly possible. And sure, Chicago’s finest beaches are always worth a visit, but sometimes nothing quite beats a sumptuous dip in a beautiful private pool. Pass the lotion, will ya? Enter Airbnb: with positively bucketloads of rentals with swimming pools within a few hours of Chicago. From forested backyard oases to indoor spa pools, here are the best pool-equipped Airbnbs perfect for beating the heat. Where's our invite? RECOMMENDED:🚣 Check out these epic lakefront Airbnbs near Chicago🏕 See the best treehouse Airbnbs near Chicago🏨 The best downtown Chicago hotels 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.

A trip to Chicago shouldn't be without a special place to stay if you want a truly unique and tailored experience of the city. From modern masterpieces to homes of eccentric stone collectors, these top Chicago Airbnbs are cool, quirky, and feel a little more homely than the standard (although very fab) hotels you normally see. And what's even better is that most Airbnbs are within commutable distance of the great Chicago sights and attractions.  Whether you’re here for the weekend or planning a lengthier staycation, Chicago is bound to have an Airbnb perfect for your trip. Read on for our lowdown on the city’s finest Airbnbs.  Updated May 2025: Chicago's penthouses are some of the finest you'll ever lay eyes on, and that's why we've added two new ones to the list. And one for all the quirky couples out there.  RECOMMENDED:🚘 Our guide to weekend getaways from Chicago 🏨 Discover the best boutique hotels in Chicago🏯 Here are the best historic Airbnbs near Chicago 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.

Bali is bustling with hotel options - seriously, it’s kind of overwhelming. From luxurious beachside resorts, perfect for honeymoon escapes, to secluded hilltop retreats with all the necessities for a solo traveller, the options are as diverse as the island itself. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could book multiple Bali hotels and explore different vibes throughout your stay. Sure, it takes a bit of planning, but trust us, it’s worth it.  Basically, what we’re trying to say is that no matter where you land, Bali’s got you covered with stunning rice terraces, wild jungle escapades, and those Instagram-worthy white sandy beaches. The only thing that might outnumber the amazing hotels here is the list of fantastic things to do. To help you plan the perfect adventure, we’ve handpicked our top Bali hotels. Whether you’re eyeing the surfers’ paradise, Canggu, discovering tranquillity in Ubud, or diving into Seminyak’s vibrant scene, we’ve narrowed down the choices to save you valuable time. So, pack your bags, soak up the sun, and get ready to experience the unique blend of natural beauty and culture that Bali offers.  RECOMMENDED: ☀️ Click here to learn the 19 best things to do in Bali🏠 Check out the best Airbnbs in Bali🌴 Discover the best hotels in Ubud🏖️ Explore the best hotels in Seminyak Where to stay in Bali Who 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 arti

  London is more than two thousand years old. It’s a world-class hub for history, art, culture and politics. Frankly, it’s a bit overwhelming. What is the best way to explore a city that has so damn much on offer? Where do you begin in an area that’s 1,572 square kilometres? The answer: on foot.  This is where a guided walking to tour comes into it. Street tours. Museum tours. Food tours. There are literally hundreds to choose from in the capital. So this is where I step in, tour guide-esque, with some suggestions of my own, to help you understand all that history a little better.  A great tour guide will inspire and fascinate you – before you know it, you’ll enthusiastically be sharing the stories you heard with Linda on the checkouts at your local supermarket, or Iqbal at work. The ones included here are the well-worth doing and unsung tours that deserve your attention. Yes there’s your usual Changing of the Guard and Westminster Abbey tours, but there’s also some more offbeat ones which are frankly exceptional.  Why take my word for it? I’m a tour guide myself. I have since led all sorts of walks around London, from cemetery tours, queer history walks to pub outings. I regularly guide in places like The British Museum and National Gallery and after a decade in the industry, here are some of my choices for an unforgettable experience. Need more sightseeing inspiration?🛥️ Here are London’s best boat tours💂‍♂️ Check out our list of 101 things to do in London🛏 Or stay in o

Brighton is one of the UK's most loved beachside cities. A hub for nightlife that never ends, incredible food, and quaint independent shops filling up the lanes. It's the perfect mix of everything you need in a city, and right by the sea. What could be better?  Known as the LGBTQ+ capital of the country, Brighton is buzzing with good vibes, friendly people, and is a place for the usual city slickers of London to come visit for their dose of salty sea air. And don't forget the pretty decent pier, too.  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 May 2025: 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 do in Brighton🐚 Stay at the best Brighton hotels 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 cove

It's no wonder that Chicago developers started flocking to the city's rich industrial infrastructure in the 1980s. The massive, window-lined buildings make beautiful condo conversions that attract hip city-dwellers looking for something different. Neighborhoods like the West Loop, South Loop, and Logan Square offer converted lofts that check all the right boxes with soaring ceilings, open floor plans, massive windows, and exposed brick and timber galore. Whether you're planning a staycation or getting away to Chicago for the weekend, a converted space could be the perfect fit if you love urban and industrial vibes. Check out our picks of the best and most amazing lofts on Airbnb. You're welcome. Updated May 2025: Chicago lofts are the gifts that keep on giving, and luckily, we've got quite an eye for rare gems – like the minimalist Forest Park loft or the urban loft in Wicker Park. RECOMMENDED:🛏 Looking for unique Airbnbs in Chicago?💞 Check out the most romantic hotels in Chicago 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.

We're all ready to jump on a flight and get away to a bustling European city or gorgeous paradise beaches. But hello! Have you seen what the UK has to offer, and only within an hour or two of the big city? We've got a helluva lot to offer right here on our doorsteps and it can be reached so much quicker – and cheaper. Think incredible mixed scenery, gorgeous old villages, and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.  From seaside shacks to cosy cottages in forests, there's no limit to the incredible places on our lovely little island. Whether you want to traipse on terrific beaches, explore lush stretches of the countryside or simply settle in someone else's city, you'll be amazed at what we have on British soil. Seriously, you'd better start booking one of these best Airbnbs near London. Go on, do it.  Updated May 2025: We like to keep our curated lists in tip-top condition by remaining on the lookout to make sure you always have first dibs on the UK's most head-turning holiday rentals, including a newly restored, old dairy store in Sandwich and a super cosy cottage in Deal. RECOMMENDED: 🇬🇧The 12 best places to visit in the UK💷The best cheap hotels in London 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 influe

The seat of the Roman Empire and the Papacy, Rome is one of the world’s most unique cities in the world. Thanks to its thousands of years of history, it boasts iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Pantheon — but it’s not all ancient wonders here. You can also find contemporary art and architecture at museums like the MAXXI or enjoy natural scenery at the Villa Borghese park or the Laghetto in EUR. And that’s without mentioning its fantastic restaurants, fabulous bars and bustling markets. You’d need a lifetime to see everything the Eternal City has to offer, but you can squeeze a lot into a long weekend, or preferably a week. Here are the best attractions in Rome, Italy, that you can't miss. Updated May 2025: Want to see what an emperor's villa looked like 2,000 years ago thorugh the power of VR? We've just added a tour for that.  RECOMMENDED:📍 The best things to do in Rome🏘️ Where to stay in Rome🛏️ The best Airbnbs in Rome🏨 The best hotels in Rome Livia Hengel is a writer based in Rome. 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. This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Tired of Trafalgar Square? Already seen Buckingham Palace? It’s true that London has many wonderful landmarks, sights and attractions – but let’s face it, most of the world knows about them. And most visitors to the capital will be flocking to them. So, why not forego the over-subscribed usual suspects and check out our run-down of the quirky, the weird, the offbeat, cool and countrified? In a nutshell: these are places that are a little below-the-radar, but no less for it. They’ll have you adventuring into pockets of London that you didn’t even know were there. From a Jack the Ripper walking tour to a medieval palace, go forth and start exploring the best alternative attractions in London!   Updated May 2025: Whether you're into rock music or rom coms, there's a walking tour for you. Walk in the footsteps of move stars and musicians while snapping photos of famous locations and hearing all the best stories about the area.  RECOMMENDED: 🏙 Check out these essential sightseeing tours in London🚌 See our editor's pick for the best London bus tours  For the most up-to-date recs, check out what's on in London this week. This guide was recently updated by London-based content executive, Talia Stanton. 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 b

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of trying to see as much of New York as possible in a short time, the solution might be one of Gotham's best walking tours. NYC is one of the easiest cities to navigate on foot, and there's certainly no shortage of interesting sights around every corner, from awesome outdoor art to the most haunted places in NYC to beautiful NYC buildings to the most awe-inspiring New York attractions. New York natives and first-time tourists alike will discover parts of the city they’ve never seen before on the best walking tours in NYC. RECOMMENDED: 🗽See our full guide to New York City tours🚨Check out the best crime tours in NYC🏨Stay in the best hotels in NYC This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

If Rebel Rebel were a personality they would be the extroverted cool kid. Situated on the corner of Westgate Street, this Hackney-based florist is known for their edgy and expressive blooms. I for one love their punky, off-beat approach to hand-tied bouquets, so I was pleased to be invited over to see the flower power in action for myself. When I got to their vibey Mare Street Market unit, I was immediately drawn to the blue tile display that sits bang in the middle of the shop floor, brimming with vibrant flowers from top to bottom. Their speciality? Well, not that they need any street cred from us, but their long-stemmed hand-tied bouquets are doozies. Run by Athena and Mairead, the team here source the majority of their blooms from both Covent Garden Flower Market and their very own flower farm in Norfolk. They’ve got a passion for showcasing the best of British flowers when growing season allows (if it's out of season, they simply don't sell it). That's how you know you'll always get the best quality when you buy here. And if you can't pay the store a visit, you'll find a beautiful selection of bouquets available to order online, including wedding flowers.  What's the price point? Bouquets start from £60. Best for: The tasselled and undone look. Time Out tip: Rebel Rebel occasionally team up with Dusty Knuckle in Dalston to host flower workshops. This is your chance to learn all the tips and tricks of arranging a bouquet from start to finish. 

Just a tote-bag swing from London Fields station, Grace & Thorn recently bid adieu to their Hackney Road shop, moving production into this cosy basement workshop tucked away on the corner of Mentmore Terrace. (PSA: it’s more or less opposite the E5 Bakehouse, in case you're looking for a very good sourdough loaf.) Go down the steps and you'll find an airy, light-filled workshop with the chill vibes of a coffee shop, and walls lined with fine art and pickle jar vases filled with seasonal blooms and foliage in pastel shades. It's like an English garden in a basement – it doesn't get much more Hackney than that.  On my first time visiting Grace & Thorn, I loved the delicacy and artistry that goes into the creation of each bouquet. It's really a celebration of the flower itself. There’s a focus on composition and texture, with bouquets that go big on that undone, tasselled look that Grace & Thorn is known for. Seeing florist Silvijas's handiwork in person, I was blown away by the levels of intricacy and artistry. Really impressive stuff.  @ordinaryjen_ Here’s a little something I filmed for a local flower shop in Hackney. They’re called Grace and Thorn and their team are the sweetest. If you’re ever in London Fields, you should totally swing by 😉🌹#localbusiness #londonflowers #londonlife ♬ flower day - jeanie What's the price point? Bouquets start from £65. Pretty decent for a bespoke bunch. Best for: Rustic, asymmetrical, one-of-a-kind floral bouquets. Time Out tip: In yo

When this place opened, back in 2004, it was billed as ‘London’s first boutique hotel’. That means you can probably guess the vibe, but if pushed? I’d describe it as ‘classy vintage’, which means stag heads, luxe red wallpaper, staff kitted out in braces and waistcoats, that kind of thing. I felt like I’d entered the pages of a Victorian mystery. I liked it.  But first things first – this place isn’t easy to find. You might need to Google-map your way through its secluded blue door on St John Square, but it’s totally worth the hunt. That’s not to say it’s not without its faults. Keen for a view, I picked a spot by the window for my (excellent) small-plates dinner, and got to spend the evening gazing out at some scaffolding. Still, that’s hardly their fault, and you can’t have everything, right? And everything else really was pretty fine. My room was big for a boutique hotel, with a canopied queen bed (I loved the sheets and ridiculously soft mattress) and some of the nicest reading lamps, I’ve ever used. It’s all very cosy and homely, and I really liked the hot water bottle and the corded telephone, even if the rotary dial was just a prop (probably best – they always were a pain in the arse).  To be honest, the whole place was well thought-out and elegant, with exceptional service from people that clearly care about what they do. Special mention, though, to the gorgeous bath – I could definitely get used to regular soaks in that – a blissful element of a really rather lovely

Did you think Canary Wharf was all soulless glass office buildings and city suits? Times have changed, and this TRIBE hotel – the first UK location from a group with hotels across the globe – is a good example of the fact that Canary Wharf’s is actually well worth a look these days. It’s a welcoming place a short walk from the station, with a striking redbrick exterior that’s clearly taken its cue from a Brooklyn apartment block. And that’s a good thing. Inside it’s kitted out in inviting hues: pastel pinks, coppery reds and light grey booths, coupled with Art Deco prints, tropical plants and a groovy lamp in – I think? – every corner. I liked it. The rooms are a solid mix of form and function; the bed’s a doozy and the fact you can order room service via a QR code on your flatscreen TV is a nice touch (be gone, phoning down!). But what I actually loved most were the spectacular floor-to-ceiling views overlooking the Thames Waterway. It’s a really lovely look, especially when night falls. Fun fact for fitness freaks: visitors also get an exclusive pass to the (excellent) Third Space gym a five-minute walk from the hotel – and there are plans to bring one in-house at some point, too.  Neighbourhood:You’re in Wood Wharf, a quiet residential neighbourhood (yes, they exist around here) about an eight-minute walk from Jubilee and Elizabeth lines, and the DLR. Those transport links means it works well as a base for exploring London, though you’re pretty well served if you want to s