Rose Johnstone

If you’re after a holiday that is nothing but pure chilled vibes and amazing landscapes, culture, and food, look no further than Stockholm, the mellow capital of Sweden. This Swedish city has some great restaurants, bars and a whole lot of sightseeing (hello, ABBA Museum), plus the city and surrounding areas are home to some incredible natural landscapes – best seen by boat. A trip away, however, needs a peaceful and cool place to stay and rest, and Airbnb has an array of incredible places. From swanky city apartments to quirky eco-friendly spots for groups. We’ve picked a selection of the best to help you with your planning. What is the best area to stay in Stockholm? ‘The best’ is a hard thing to choose: rather, each of Stockholm’s neighbourhoods will give you something quite different. For your first time in the city, we’d probably recommend Gamla Stan at the top, which will give you a good tourist look at the city without being unbearable (think charming cafés, historic buildings and a good amount of old-school vibes). If you’re museum-obsessed, try Djurgården. Cool kids go to Södermalm, particularly Hornstull. Here’s our full neighbourhood guide for more.  📍 Discover our ultimate guide to staying in Stockholm Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, our writers have based our list on expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This artic

The smog and stress of London can really take its toll on your skin. That’s why there’s nothing better than a regular facial (or a one-off treat) to give you that much-needed top-up, leaving you feeling glowing, fresh-faced and dewy.  Just thinking about what we put our skin through is enough to give you frown lines. That’s thanks to the combined efforts of pollution and air-conditioned offices, as well as the added bonuses of harsh weather, booze, sun exposure, dehydration and – our least favourite – the inevitable passing of time. Happily, there are loads of great spas, treatment rooms and estheticians in London who can give your face a break and a much-needed zhuzh. Whether you’re after a relaxing, soothing facial massage, some instant radiance, a total skincare overhaul or something a little more intense such as microneedling or laser treatment, read our pick of facials in London.  RECOMMENDED: The best spas in London. 

Need a place to stay in London? We’re here to make it easy for you. Every year, a wealth of new hotels open in the capital which is a testament to the fact that London remains one of the most desirable places to visit in the world. However, that can make it tricky to decide which hotel to choose. But worry not because we have slept our way across the city and hand-picked our favourites for the ultimate list of London hotels, which covers locations right across the city, and every category from blowout luxury (including having your own butler, might we add) to budget basic and brilliant. In this mega list, we've listed everything from our favourite five-star hotels in Mayfair to more affordable hotels outside of zone 1. Plus you’ll be able to check out one or two of the capital's many Michelin-starred restaurants because yep, loads of them call London hotels their home. But if spending a small fortune on food isn’t your bag? There’s also an ever-increasing number of good-value food options for budgeteers, too. Throw great design and architecture into the mix, plus superb bars, world-class hospitality and the opportunity to have a home-from-home in the best city in the world and, well, you’re laughing.  Which area is best to stay in London? It's not just the range of hotels that's so impressive – you're also spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a neighbourhood to stay in London. The city is made up of a sprawling network of dynamic neighbourhoods, all with their own uniqu

Every year a wealth of new hotels open in the capital which is a testament to the fact that London remains one of the most desirable places to visit in the world. But, the city can be pretty pricey if you're not careful. Whether you live or work in London or just visit, the spending can quickly add up. From the delicious food that stands on almost every corner and lines up the streets to just having a gander around the city looking for things to do, your wallet might start to feel very, very light. We don't even want to talk about how much a night out costs.  But surprisingly, the UK capital has actually got some wallet-friendly options for spending the night. Both big chains and independent hotel joints (yep, even four- and five-star ones) offer some rooms for under £200 a night – you just have to know where to look. Every hotel highlighted here by Time Out’s experts is good value; whether that be because of its location, design, or quite simply, the price. Staying in one of these will give you the kind of buzz only a good deal can deliver. So get booking and then use all the cash you’ve saved on more important stuff. Like, erm, going to the pub.  Which area is best to stay in London for a good price?  London has so many neighbourhoods, you’re spoilt for choice. But, where should you go for the best deals? Honestly, it depends on what you’re looking for. There’s cheap options in Shoreditch, just off the South Bank and even in the heart of the West End. So, whether you want t

Touching wood, hanging up horseshoes and picking four-leaf clovers – they're all things that can supposedly bring you good luck. But did you know that there are sorts of foods that supposedly bring you fortune and prosperity? Well, to coincide with the month of Lucky St Patrick, we’re showcasing a bevvy of lucky foods to order on Uber Eats.  In some eastern countries (such as China, Vietnam and Malaysia), long-pulled noodles represent long life, in Germany and Austria pork represents prosperity and ‘round’ foods symbolise a never-ending loop of good fortune in a few different cultures. Any excuse to order doughnuts, right? Our food and drink editor, Leonie Cooper, has handpicked six fantastic dishes to order this March for when you want to amp up your luck. With just a tap of the app, you can order these (and many, many more) dishes from the capital’s best restaurants. 

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 March 2025: 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 beach-size home just outside the capital and a seriously cool converted loft right in the centre of the city. RECOMMENDED:🛍 The best things to do in Lisbon🛏 The best hotels in Lisbon🎺 The best jazz bars in Lisbon 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. 

Honestly, is there anything better than being caught unaware by a joke, then roaring with laughter in a dark room full of strangers? If – like us – you love a bit of live stand-up, then good news, the UK’s packed with comedy venues. Some cater more to up-and-comers, hosting open mic nights and competitions, whereas others boast top-tier comics on their line-ups. We’re here for it all.  Even better, we’ve teamed up with everyone’s favourite chicken restaurant Nando’s to bring you the Extra Hot Comedy Club: a series of gigs in London, Brighton, Birmingham and Newcastle this spring. Because the only thing better than stand-up comedy is stand-up comedy with a side of PERi-PERi.   We’re not messing around with our headliners either. Topping the bill in London is none other than master satirist and self-proclaimed Nando’s stan Munya Chawawa (you might’ve also caught him on Taskmaster and his documentary How to Survive a Dictator). But that’s not all. Just as the perfect Nando’s meal wouldn't be complete without two sides, the Extra Hot Comedy Club will feature a selection of emerging comedians, too. We’re currently hosting a competition to search for eight talented comedians that will see two up-and-comers perform at one of the four gigs. Think you’ve got what it takes? Head here to find out how to enter. And keep scrolling for some exclusive tips from Munya on getting started as a comedian.  Tickets to the Extra Hot Comedy Club will go on sale next month. If you’re craving that fu

Nothing says a getaway quite like a trip to the Scottish Highlands. A place where you're sure to escape the hustle and bustle of the city scene. Hike mountains, dip your toes in the loch, and watch the sunset over the gorgeous landscape. Doesn't that sound perfect? And of course, a place that idyllic needs to be enjoyed with a stay at one of the many unique Airbnbs in the area. Cosy and comfy cottages with wood-burning stoves (you'll need it with the cold weather), glamping pods, and even castles; how could you ever choose? We've picked out the best of the best to help you decide. You're welcome.  Updated January 2025: We've added two new properties, one a tiny home out on the Isle of Lewis and the other a stunning cottage on the Applecross Peninsular.  RECOMMENDED: 🇬🇧 The best Airbnbs in the UK🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Check out the best Airbnbs in Glasgow🏰 Off to Edinburgh? Here's where to stay 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.

Venice is one of the most magical destinations on the planet. It has been said before, and it will be repeated again, but it is never anything less than gorgeously true. The famous city is packed with famous attractions, romantic restaurants and character-filled bars, but deciding where to stay isn’t the easiest thing to do. After all, hotels are ten-a-penny here; how to know you aren’t getting ripped off?Airbnb has changed the way we travel, and this is as true in Venice as anywhere else on the planet. The best Airbnbs in Venice are the stuff of dreams, from starlit apartments overlooking the quaint terracotta rooftops to historic structures on the flowing canals. Simply pick your favourite and let the magic begin. Here are our picks for the best Airbnbs in Venice. We're the experts, after all. Updated April 2024: We've found two new properties that we know you'll love; keep your eyes peeled for the modern family apartment and a secret hideaway with water-level views of the canal.  RECOMMENDED: The best neighbourhoods to stay in VeniceThe best hotels in VeniceThe best attractions in Venice 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.

As the seasons change, we all get that itch to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Thoughts of piers, fairgrounds, cosy country pubs, magnificent seafood, and endless shopping sprees fill our heads. Ahh, blissful. So why not take the plunge and book a UK staycation to Somerset, Devon, or Cornwall? These regions are renowned for their stunning coastline, quaint villages, and picturesque countryside, making them perfect for a coastal escape or a rural retreat.  However, choosing the perfect getaway can be a bit of a head-scratcher. If you're planning a trip to the seaside, finding the right place to stay can take your stay to the next level. Whether it's traditional cottages right on the beach or secluded treehouses (yes treehouses) nestled in the countryside, having a comfortable place to rest your head is essential, especially when you consider the unpredictable British weather. To make things easier, we've done the legwork for you and rounded up the best home-away-from-home options in Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall – the sparkling gems of the Southwest. So, whether you're after a unique coastal retreat or a spacious townhouse for you and seven of your closest pals, Airbnb has got you covered. Updated April 2024: There are endless amounts of beautiful Airbnbs in the north of England, and while we can't include them all, there are some that we feel compelled to add to this list – yes, no matter how long it already is. New additions include a converted barn with a sunken hot tu

The florist scene in San Diego is better than ever. Budding new independent retailers are sprouting up (see what we did there?) all over the county, and if you are in a hurry, many florists offer same-day delivery. So if you're searching for gorgeous petals to surprise your loved one with, you're in luck. There is prompt delivery, so you'll never have to wake up on the day and panic-jog to a nearby gas station and pick up some wilted Roses that look sweatier than you. Want to select some blooms that are native to the area? Try California Poppies, Hummingbird Trumpets, Lewisias, Pacific Coast Irises, Coast Indian Paintbrush, Common Thrift, or Yarrows. Chances are they won't have to travel far to reach their recipient, meaning they will stay fresh longer. We’ve picked a bunch of our favorite florists, all of whom deliver throughout the San Diego region. How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favourites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Fresh flowers are such a versatile gift. From graduations to housewarmings to baby showers to a ‘congrats’ on their new job, they’re great for marking every occasion. So why not put a little extra effort in and swap the ones down at your local Co-op for a bespoke floral bouquet delivered straight to their door? That does sound appealing. And it is. Nothing says 'I love you' like surprising them with a gorgeous hand-delivered bunch even if the postman sees them in PJs. Order a bountiful bouquet that makes the most of the season's blooms and has the added bonus of coming from an online florist who will make your life as easy as a few clicks (and some credit card details). These are the best flower delivery services in Manchester. Bloom away! This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

As far as feelgood events go, it doesn’t get much more pure than top-tier stand-up comedy that raises money for those in need. This comedy night at Islington’s beautiful Union Chapel is presented by No Direction Home – a stand-up comedy programme by Counterpoints Arts which mentors comics from refugee and migrant backgrounds. The line-up is still to be announced, but you can expect big laughs, fresh voices and fascinating stories. All proceeds will go to communities in Congo, Ethiopia and Sudan, and you can add a pre-show dinner to your booking at Margins Café, based at the Chapel, which works with people who face homelessness and crisis. 

Like your laughter with a side of PERi-salted chips? You're in luck. We've teamed up with Nando's to create the Extra Hot Comedy Club, which will see top-tier comedians perform at Nando's restaurants around the country. London's headliner is master satirist (and recent Time Out cover star) Munya Chawawa, alongside the excellent Kyrah Gray and Sikisa as emcee. But that's not all! Two awesome up-and-coming comedians will also perform at each gig. They were selected in a hotly contested judging process that involved submitting videos via Instagram and being chosen by a panel which included Time Out editors, Nando's representatives and the great Munya Chawawa himself. You can check out the full list of winners here. Further afield, you've got Larry Dean headlining Birmingham on April 7, Chris Hall in Brighton on April 22, and Grace Campbell in Newcastle on April 28.  Now for possibly the best bit: tickets are just £15 and include a delicious Nando's feast, including two drinks. Winner winner, chicken dinner.  Tickets are currently sold out, but more will be released on Monday March 17. 

Being a nineteenth-century Austrian aristocrat must have been wonderful. How do I know this? Because the interiors of Hotel Sacher Salzburg – the Wes Anderson-style hotel on the banks of the Salzach River – are supposedly inspired by their residences. Crystal chandeliers, antiques and historic photographs vie for your attention in the public areas. Oil paintings, plush rugs and elegant, period-appropriate furniture adorn each of its 110 rooms, which are designed in tastefully controlled colour palettes of green and red. There are light marble bathrooms, fluffy robes and (in some rooms) sweeping views toward the dramatic Hohensalzburg Fortress, sitting atop hills that feel very much alive. And of course, there’s the Austrian aristocrat’s chocolate cake of choice, the Sacher-Torte, available by the slice in the sumptuous breakfast buffet. It’s an almost irresponsibly rich way to start the day, but it’s the hotel’s namesake and the best you’ll find in the world, so you simply must. It’s enough to make anyone feel like royalty (even kids!), and enjoy a reprieve from city life. Take those vibes up a notch by dining in the restaurant, Zirbelzimmer, preserved in its original 1866 state with antlers mounted to the wood-panelled walls. Here, friendly waiters wearing outfits inspired by dirndls serve delicious Weiner schnitzel. But here’s the thing: Hotel Sacher Salzburg isn’t nestled in the Tyrolean mountains, it’s in the heart of the city’s bustling Old Town. It just feels incredibly

Think the past couple of years have been rough? Try surviving a Martian invasion only to be captured by an enormous fighting machine and having your blood harvested, ‘The Matrix’-style, in a stifling capsule. That’s the 1898 envisaged by H.G. Wells in his pioneering sci-fi thriller ‘The War of the Worlds’, which was then adapted by Jeff Wayne in his 1978 prog sci-fi album, which imbues Wells’s Victorian tale with rock-opera camp and steampunk kitsch. It’s this rather Marmite pop culture relic that forms the basis of this immersive theatre experience. It launched back in 2019, but it’s changed a fair bit since then. Presumably, techy immersive theatre company Layered Reality has finessed the VR and AR (augmented reality) tech, because now it’s slick AF. In fact, at times it’s terrifying… in the best possible way.  Take for example the moment that I stood, ensconced in a VR-enhanced Fighting Machine capsule, and felt something actually pinch me. I screamed into what (through my VR goggles) I perceived as a hellish Martian human-blood farm. I heard other screams in the distance – my fellow survivors in the booths beside me.  But it’s not all jump scares. The 24 scenes that make up the experience are incredibly varied; as per Jeff Wayne’s album, we follow the path of The Journalist, starting with his first glimpse through a telescope of noxious green gas emerging from Mars. We duck through tunnels, climb through windows and ride hot air balloons, encountering actors who are, for

There’s nothing sleepy about buzzing Shepherd’s Bush – and yet, you’ll feel so pleasantly ensconced in the plush retro world of The Hoxton that you’re bound to get a good night’s rest here. It’s the first west London branch of the super-successful boutique chain, and impressively, it has a design sensibility that feels all its own, with flourishes that nod to the neighbourhood’s history and culture.  Take, for example, the lobby; a retro-lover’s dream with an earthy wooden front desk offset by colourful mid-century armchairs and loud custom rugs by west London makers Holmes Bespoke. Everywhere you look there are soft textures and curved lines. The rooms feature dramatic wavy headboards by Bute, and warm rattan lampshades play off copper fixtures. If the rooms feel a touch on the small side, then that might be a sign to spend more times in other parts of the hotel – namely, the restaurant.  Honestly, it’s worth staying here for the restaurant alone. Chet’s is Thai food like you’ve never tried it, by cult Los Angeles chef Kris Yenbamroong. Here, fiery Thai flavours meet Californian flavours and flair. The Hoxton deserves London’s love simply for bringing Chet’s across the pond; and you deserve to order the signature fried pineapple rice, served with crab inside half a pineapple. Oh, and the sticky wings of course. The restaurant is also the most beautiful space in the hotel, too, elevating a ’60s American diner with soft pastels and a Wes Anderson-esque attention to symmetry.  

On any given night at this Collingwood bluestone stalwart, punters of all ages, genders and sexualities can be found sinking pints, smashing pub classics, or standing shoulder-to-shoulder watching gigs on the mezzanine level of the 350-person bandroom.  The Gaso has a simple yet important mission: to create a warm, welcoming environment that would reflect Melbourne’s incredibly diverse music scene, and the people who make up that ecosystem. It’s a philosophy that you feel the moment the doors to this grand old corner pub swing open. Pull up a plush swivel chair at the bar or sink into a couch and put yourself in the hands of the friendly staff. In the warmer months, the bandroom’s huge moon roof pulls back, so that the sun streams in or, by night, party people dance under a canopy of stars. The sky’s the limit for the Gaso – an evolving project that represents a welcome cultural shift in Melbourne’s pubs scene towards a future where everyone is invited to the party, and has a bloody great time. Want more gigs? Here's where to see live music every night of the week in Melbourne.

Let’s not dance around the fact that York is busy. This atmospheric northern city – with its majestic Minster and charming medieval Shambles – makes for a fantastic city break, but it’s also a good idea to base yourself ever-so-slightly away from the heart of the action. No. 1 York by GuestHouse is perfect for exactly that. A peaceful retreat from the crowds, it’s just a ten-minute stroll down a leafy road once you’ve exited the dramatic-looking, eleventh-century Bootham Bar, one of the four main entrances to the old city centre. Its ideal location isn’t the only reason to stay here – far from it! No. 1 York, part of the small and sophisticated GuestHouse group, doesn’t skip any of the comforts you’d hope for, and adds a few surprises, too. Enter this stately-looking Grade II listed Regency townhouse and the first thing you’ll notice is the sweeping black staircase. Black violins hang from the walls. To the right is a lounge room, walls the colour of marmalade, adorned with contemporary geometric paintings. To the left is a darker-hued cocktail bar, with a shiny model train choofing around the room at near-ceiling level. The message is clear: this hotel is cool, but it's also fun.  It really is a delight to see such bold, confident interior design in every room, but it’s far from style over substance. Soft white rooms with elegant panelled walls come with king-sized beds and 300-thread-count Egyptian cotton. Every one of its 39 rooms has a turntable and vinyl records and flat

If cutesy cartoon ghosts and sickly sweet pumpkin-spiced lattes make your toes curl, then perhaps a truly hair-raising Halloween escape room is more your thing. No Escape has launched two new creepy-sounding escape rooms in its Aldgate location – but also raised the stakes on its horror movie-themed rooms across its other sites in Oxford Street, Holloway and Victoria. In Aldgate, you could attempt to release the trapped souls of children in ‘The Orphanage’, or save yourself from the flames in ‘The Witch Hunt’.  From October 24-November 2, there’ll be nine ‘haunted escape rooms’ to choose from – each with live actors in each room (that means jump scares galore). These aren’t for the faint-hearted; No Escape’s rooms are highly regarded amongst escape aficionados for their rich level of detail and mind-bending puzzles, so expect to be fully immersed in themes like ‘The Darkest Hour’ (zombies!) ‘The Demon Barber’ (Sweeney Todd!) and ‘The Haunted Toy Store’ (ghosts!). Over in Victoria, your terrifying trip to ‘The Gates of Hell’ could be followed by cocktails at the Purgatory Bar. Is there a better way to calm the nerves than with a few sips of a Spicy Blood Orange Margarita? We think not. Tickets are on sale now and expecting to disappear fast. 

Across five nights and weekend afternoons in September, top-tier comedians will descend on the National Maritime Museum for London’s largest and longest-running comedy festival. Take your pick from stellar line-ups fronted by A-listers including the legendary Harry Hill, the Last Leg’s beloved Josh Widdicombe, ventriloquist queen Nina Conti and more – you really can’t go wrong when choosing which show to book. It’s also your chance to catch comedians off the back of super-successful Edinburgh Fringe runs, including Olga Koch, Celya AB, Kemah Bob, Huge Davies and Amy Gledhill, who just won the coveted Best Comedy Show award.  The setting is pretty spectacular, too – performances take place in an outdoor stage with the Royal Naval College as the backdrop. Get there early to take advantage of the food stalls, bars and breezy end-of-summer vibes.

These days, getting around the UK is easy – at least compared to the eighteenth century. But no matter how comfortable your journey to 1777, there’s every chance that, the moment you step inside one of its snug rooms, you’ll feel the same swell of relief as a weary countryman would have after spending days riding in the rain. The rooms are just that cosy.  The oldest of four coaching inns in the historic market town of Wimborne, the 1777. is now owned by Dorset brewing company Hall & Woodhouse. It is, incidentally, older than its namesake, which actually refers to the year the brewery was founded. Its ten rooms are small, but perfectly formed – each with elegant Georgian-inspired furnishings and properly beautiful antique furniture. Of course there are all the modern amenities you’d want; there’s something pleasantly surreal about flicking digital channels on a smart TV while being watched by Jane Austen and her peers from the paintings on the wall.  If you’re passing through on the way to the Jurassic Coast, snatching a few days to explore the villages and National Trust gems of Dorset or hiking your way through the area, the 1777. will stay with you as a special stop in your journey. While it doesn’t have its own restaurant, it’s just a few minutes’ walk from its sister venue, the Olive Branch – a friendly pub offering everything from full English breakfasts to an excellent housemade granola.  Neighbourhood1777. Is, conveniently, right in the middle of Wimborne, a surprisin

2024 update: The below review was written in 2017, however we've since updated opening hours, imagery and other relevant information. Cherry Bar doesn’t need to be convinced of its status as a legend. This is a venue that refers to itself as “pretty much the best rock’n’roll bar in the world”; a venue that an infatuated Noel Gallagher once offered to buy; that turned away Lady Gaga’s request for an after party because a local band had already been booked. In its 17 years, this rough-and-ready dive bar has shaped Melbourne’s live music culture, pushed for positive change in the music industry and pulled more pints for off-duty rock stars than we could drink in a lifetime. Seven nights a week, the bar’s soft red glow ensnares young revellers and weathered rock dogs making their Cherry pilgrimage. Once inside, all eyes are drawn past the black leather couches and the Stones poster and onto the small stage at the end of the room. It might be getting battered by a rock band, or used as extra dance space while a DJ spins soul, blues or old-school rock. Either way, everyone is having a head-banging good time. Most punters are drinking beer on tap – a respectable selection of Aussie brews like Coopers and Young Henrys – although Jack and Coke seems to come in close second. The bar’s refusal to tolerate unsociable behaviour is part of its legend. Owner James Young enacted a zero tolerance policy for sexual harassment and put his money where his mouth was by working with feminist lobby

If your eyes light up at the opening bars of Loreen's winning song 'Euphoria'; or if you could instantly recall how many times the UK has (or more often than not, hasn't) won 'Eurovision', then you need to get your tickets to this show ASAP. Some Voices – the mega-popular choir which was born in London but has now spread across the country – is bringing us EuroClash. Yep, we're talking 250 voices recreating songs by some of the most epic acts ever to grace the Eurovision stage, from Iceland's Daði Freyr to the Austrian icon Conchita Wurst – and of course, our very own Sam Ryder.  But the concept goes deeper than that. In this fantasy version of the song contest, stars will complete in sing-offs for their countries whether they have or haven't actually competed in Eurovision. You can expect to hear from the likes of Björk, Nena and Kylie. Who will win? You decide! There'll be live voting, iconic routines, next-level costumes, and of course, lush harmonies. 

Our commitment to comedy is no joke. We at Time Out have been covering the best of stand-up comedy for decades – and now, we’re putting on a night of our own, together with Nando’s. Because who doesn’t want a side of PERi-salted chips with their jokes? The Extra Hot Comedy Club is a sizzling series of gigs in Nando’s restaurants across the country this spring, starting with Nando’s Great Portland Street in London on March 31.  Headliners include master satirist (and recent Time Out cover star) Munya Chawawa (London), Larry Dean (Birmingham), Chris Hall (Brighton) and Grace Campbell (Newcastle). But that’s not all: we’ve selected eight up-and-coming comics to perform at the gigs.  The competition was hot; entrants submitted videos via Instagram, and the final eight were chosen by a panel of judges which included Time Out editors, Nando’s representatives and the great Munya Chawawa himself. Two winning comedians will perform at each of the four gigs.  Find out more about our winners below: LondonMonday March 31Vyome SinghSelam Amare BirminghamMonday April 7Kat NipJordan Gill BrightonTuesday April 22Ciara O’ConnorMax McKenzie NewcastleMonday April 28Jen ZhengDonatas Staneika Only a few tickets left to the Extra Hot Comedy Club, so act fast to avoid missing out! If your selected city is sold out, don’t worry, we’re releasing more here on Monday March 17. Tickets are £15 and include drinks and PERi-PERi!

Break out the marmalade and put on your best duffle coat: Paddington Bear is the guest editor of our one-off half-term guide, which has hit the streets today.  Why, you might ask? On November 8, Paddington in Peru will arrive in cinemas. The third instalment in the Paddington trilogy will see the polite little bear journey back to Peru to find his missing Aunt Lucy.  To celebrate this upcoming release, we’ve teamed up with StudioCanal to create a printed half-term guide for families in London – curated by Paddington himself. Inside the magazine, you’ll find spooky Halloween fun, adventurous kids’ activities, exclusive intel on Paddington in Peru, and the lowdown on more Paddington-themed activities happening in the capital, including a Paddington statue trail which has popped up across the UK. Where to get your copy of our half-term guide  Wednesday, October 23 London Bridge station, 3-6pm Liverpool Street station, 3-6pm Thursday, October 24 Farringdon station, 3-6pm King’s Cross station, 3-6pm Paddington station, 3-6pm Kew Gardens Halloween trail, 5.30-9.30pm Saturday, October 26 London Southbank, 11.30am-3.30pm Sunday, October 27 Science Museum and Natural History Museum, 11.30am-3.30pm You’ll also find copies in major London hotels and corporate offices.  Get excited for November 8 with 5 things we learned from the Paddington in Peru trailer.  Here’s an exclusive first look at one of Paddington in Peru’s best-loved characters. 5 reasons why Paddington’s new directo

You’ve got to give it to us: we dream big in Melbourne. That said, not all our intentions become reality. It’s time to accept that most of us probably won't... 1. Find a way to visit the Flinders Street Station Ballroom – Melbourne’s white whale, if you will. If no one ever sees it, then does it even truly exist? 2. Get up early and go for a run around the Tan, instead of snoozing to the point that you’ve got three minutes to frantically get ready for work. 3. Book in for a full degustation at Attica or Brae (with matching wines, of course). 4. Buy a bike lock that takes more than a pair of nail scissors to cut. 5. Quit your job and finally launch that collaborative tech start-up you’ve been working on. 6. Actually find a spot where your whole crew can sit together at the Queen Victoria Night Market. 7. Host a house party with an epic theme, smoke machines, live bands and performance art, instead of just putting out a bowl of chips. 8. Start making your own coffee so you’re not single-handedly putting your barista through graphic design school. 9. Ride the whole Yarra Trail instead of stopping at the first pub you pass and “resting” until darkness falls. 10. Reject the duopoly of Coles and Woolworths in favour of the mixed fruit and veggie box at CERES. 11. Enrol in that woodworking/silversmithing/pottery class. 12. Attempt to win the Comedy Festival's passport so you can see more shows than seems humanly possible. 13. Have just one (one!) cocktail at the Black Pearl. 14. Set

There’s a surreal quality to Iceland. The craggy lava fields that look more like the surface of the moon than Earth; the herds of shaggy-maned wild horses roaming freely across fields; the first green glimpses of those elusive Northern Lights flickering in the night sky; the elves which are said to have lived here long before humans arrived. It’s that otherworldly quality that makes Iceland such a tourist magnet – and it’s a feeling that only grows stronger the longer you stay at Hvammsvík Hot Springs, Iceland’s newest natural geothermal spa.  Located 45 minutes from the capital of Reykjavik, this private 1,200-acre estate is perched right on the edge of the Hvalfjörður fjord. As our group approaches the entrance by the shore, that surreal feeling hits when I take in the colour palette: the jet black of the beach, the grey waters of the Atlantic ocean, the white caps of the mountains in the distance. Later, what’ll be even more uncanny (in the best possible way) is the sensation of breathing in fresh, frosty air while sitting in 40-degree water.  Photograph: Hvammsvík Hot Springs Hvammsvík is old. Really old. The estate has been used for many things in history: first a Viking settlement, and nearly 900 years later, barracks for the allied forces in the Second World War. Its current owner, Skúli Mogensen, traced its history right back to its foundations in the twelfth century through the Icelandic records and sagas. Mogensen – ex-CEO and founder of now-defunct airline Wow Ai

A few years ago, we asked Melburnians to send in their best make-out stories and they really, really delivered. As much as we're committed to keeping it classy, we're also suckers for the less romantic side of dating. A cheeky pash in a less-than-charming locale can sometimes be more memorable than one between dishes at a degustation. Below are the best answers that you sent us. 1. Rod Laver Arena car park... with a tennis player from Ecuador. GameSetMatch 2. Between two dumpsters in the alleyway behind Boney (Pony at the time, and RIP Boney). It smelled distinctly of rotting lettuce, which is not the kind of smell you want to associate with memories of your new crush. Phoebe 3. In the corner of Mad Mex in QV. The staff kept turning up the volume of the music in our corner but we ignored it. Donald Tramp 4. The abandoned/never used platform 15 at Flinders Street Station.* Katrina *not just pashing. 5. In the back of an ambulance while working a NYE with my now husband! Nurse Hoolihan 6. My boyfriend and I shared our first kiss in a Seven Eleven. Our friends were buying something and we just couldn't wait until we got into the nightclub next door. Miranda 7. I made out with someone for the first time on the light-up dancefloor in the Melbourne Now exhibition at the NGV during White Night one year. It was 4am and the place felt like a club. Ton Silhocky 8. The alleyway behind 170 Russell because the stench of old cigarettes and urine was just so romantic. Angela 9. Hooking up a

In a list of things that are quintessentially Melbourne, trams sit up there with laneways, coffee, footy, volatile weather and Franco Cozzo. From Port Melbourne to Box Hill, St Kilda Beach to East Brunswick, Melbourne’s electric tram network is the transport of choice for many of us – a way of life, if you will.  But it must be said that not all trams were created equal. If you’re a regular tram rider, no doubt you’ve chugged along on the ancient W-Class tram, rattled through Kew on a C-Class or zoomed through the city on a new-fangled E-Class. And if, like many of us, you’ve found yourself arguing with a friend over which tram is your favourite, then you’ll be relieved to know that we’ve come up with the definitive ranking of Melbourne’s tram network.  1. The best tram in Melbourne: E-Class  Introduced: 2013 Routes: 11, 86 and 96 Detailed automatic passenger announcements. Comfortable chairs. Ample butt-rests. Ergonomic stop request buttons. The most powerful air-conditioning system yet. Yarra Trams have triumphed with their latest model, which, with its sleek and minimalist interior, means that the most stylish of Melburnians need not compromise on design principles when getting from A to B. The shrill peel of older trams has given way to a pleasant low beep when doors open. Extra points go to the low-floored E-Class for complying with the Disability Discrimination Act.  Fun fact: This is the first Melbourne-built tram since the B-Class in the ’90s. 2. Z-Class  Introduced

It’s lockdown three and you miss going out a lot. You miss sticky pub floors, rubbing sweaty shoulders, talking shit while you shiver in the smoking area, taking control of the aux cord, furiously applauding, awkwardly flirting. All is not lost however. You and your mates can organise a Zoom party and attempt to recreate some iconic facets of the ‘eclectic’ and ‘vibrant’ nightlife that we used to bang on about all the time via, er, cushions, your central heating, mini sausage rolls and the power of your imagination, woooo. Forget quizzes: it’s time to get nostalgic. Your city demands it. The ‘hen do at ‘Magic Mike Live!’’ theme Channing Tatum’s woke, female-gazey spectacular ‘Magic Mike Live!’ was the holy grail of hen do activities. Basically a prosecco-fuelled, sex positive strip show, ‘MML!’ wholeheartedly embraced singing, screaming and in-seat dancing. You were even allowed, encouraged, to touch the men. That would certainly be frowned upon IRL now, but there are ways to recreate the experience at home. Obviously, watch the film. Nay, watch the 2015 sequel, ‘Magic Mike XXL’. It involves even more stripping. Before you press play, don your tightest dresses and neck a bottle of prosecco each (ideally, through a penis straw). Then, decide who’s maid of honour. Think carefully before you assign the role. She must be prepared to a) throw pink dollar bills into the sky; b) yell ‘you are enough, just as you are!’ at the hens and c) decide when the time is right to blast Ginuwin

On a scale of one to 'I laid out my old ticket stubs to create a sad little shrine,' how much do you miss theatre? If you’re caning 'Hamilton' on repeat on Disney+ and the mere memory of tiny West End ice cream tubs brings a tear to your eye, then we’ve got another way for you to fuel that theatre nostalgia while you wait for lockdown to ease. 'Stage Door' is a photography project by London-based photographer Harvey Aspell. Started in 2018, the series at the time was a way for Aspell to capture their mystique. 'I’ve always been attracted to the theatre’s stage doors. They’re like the unsung heroes, each with their own characteristics,' says Aspell. 'They are often inconspicuous and understated, however behind them lies a bustling atmosphere of excitement, nerves, and hard work.' But now, as curtains remain closed and spotlights dimmed, the photographs have taken on new significance. 'The photos have taken on a different meaning in these strange times, evoking nice memories for many,' explains Aspell. 'To me, the doors are like symbols of hope now, a reminder that the community will thrive again.' Unsurprisingly, there’s been a resurgence of interest in the series in the past few months. We've pulled together some of our favourite shots, and asked Aspell about some of the stories behind them. Like what you see? Aspell has created a limited number of prints available to buy – DM him on Instagram to find out more. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stage D

1. Revel in live dating disasters Rule #1 of being single on Valentine’s Day: don’t go on a first date. Apparently, six brave folk around the country DGAF about that because they have agreed to go on an interactive virtual dating show for the world to watch over Zoom. ‘Quarandating’ was created in 2020 and is hosted by comedians Joe Davies, Robin Clyfan and event director Claire Fitzgerald. For this special Valentine’s edition, held on Friday February 12, six singles will undergo bizarre challenges and date scenarios that will have you feasting on schadenfreude.Fri Feb 12, 8pm. Tickets £5. Photo by Pamela Raith 2. Rip rom coms to shreds Soppy romantic comedies can get in the bin on V-Day weekend; unless they’re being mercilessly mocked by an improv comedy troupe. Mischief Theatre (you know, the London company behind ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’) are doing a special romantic comedy edition of their Mischief Movie Night In series, where the audience tunes in virtually, submits a suggested title, genre and location of a film, and then watches as comedians improvise the film, live. Sun Feb 14, 7.30pm. Tickets £10 per device. 3. Rave the weekend away In the old days, you could just gather your single mates, go hard on the dancefloor and sleep through your Sunday none the wiser that Valentine’s Day had even passed. Re-create that vibe by hitting up an ‘illegal rave’ (which is actually, entirely virtual and totally legal). BBL CLB is a new online offering that’s part interactive the

Maybe you’re one of those people who scorns Valentine’s Day. ‘I don’t buy into overpriced set menus in stuffy Park Lane restaurants, and I wouldn’t go near those Paperchase cards with stupid animal puns on them!’ you once scoffed to your colleague after he innocently enquired what you had planned. ‘You can keep your Bloom & Wild letterbox flowers, your sickly sweet Cutter & Squidge ‘biskies’ and your Oliver Bonas mugs with ‘LOVE’ on them, man.’ But this year, something’s changed. Special occasions like this one are basically all we have to look forward to right now. That, and the vaccine. You already went all in on Burns Night and now you’ve found yourself Googling ‘most romantic walks in London’ and picturing you and your partner looking into each other’s eyes as the sun sets over Parliament Hill. So the question remains: what the hell can you actually do to make this February 14 different to any other day in this blighted wintry lockdown?    1 The digital death spiral  If you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day over Zoom, then it’s for one of two reasons: you’re doing long distance, or you’ve only been dating for a few weeks and you don’t feel ready to meet up. Either way, you’re in the danger zone. Fail to prepare and you’ll find yourself sitting in bed wearing the same grey jumper with the brown, cheesy stains from last night’s Patty & Bun. To make up for your dishevelled appearance, you’ll monologue about how you’ve recently gotten into playing online chess with strangers aft

Valentine’s Day is one of those things that creeps up on you. There’s the wintry torpor of January – especially this year – and then boom, old Saint V is right on your doorstep. Thankfully, there’s still enough time before Sunday February 14 to sort a seriously special gift for your loved one. There’s no need to overthink it; flowers are always a great choice. And you know what else is a great choice? Supporting a local florist. Times are tough for independent businesses right now, so every bouquet of blooms you buy will help keep your local going strong. Many of them offer online delivery, too, which means you’ve got no excuse. Here’s five indie florists we love. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here. The Fresh Flower Company  This East Dulwich florist sources nothing but the finest seasonal flowers from the New Covent Garden Flower Market and other local growers. Bright, contemporary bouquets are what these guys are best known for – and their V-Day special, the Valentine’s Rose Posy, is no exception. It’s a beautiful bunch of ruby red and vintage lilac roses with some scented blossom and eucalyptus.  From £25. Order by 11am for same-day delivery to local SE postcodes, Tue-Sat. All other London postcodes must place orders by midday on the day before delivery. No delivery on weekends. www.freshflower.co.uk.   Appleyard Nothing says romance like a bunch of red roses as big as your head.

Fact: singing makes you feel better. A lot better. I won’t hear anything against that – it’s just true. And if you can come together with others to sing in perfect harmony to one of your favourite songs? Well, that’s basically the Gail’s cinnamon bun of happiness. It doesn’t get much sweeter. Unfortunately, IRL choirs are out of the question right now. And that’s where Some Virtual Voices comes in. This month, Some Voices – the huge London choir that you’ve probably heard a mate (or us) raving about in the last couple of years – is launching a series of online classes to help recreate the in-person experience. Here’s how it works: the 90-minute rehearsals run weekly on Wednesdays from 7pm over Zoom. The choir leader, Marion Wyllie, will take you through a series of warmups, then you’ll learn an original Some Voices version of a popular song. No sight-reading is required; it’s all about repeating what the teacher sings, then putting all the harmonies together. You’ll be on mute the entire time, but at the end, you’ll get to sing along with a video of all the parts put together, so you’ll get the full choir sound. The series kicked off last night with David Bowie’s ‘Heroes’; check out the video of pro singers performing it here.  The best bit? Because you’re alone, you can really belt out those high notes – and maybe even unleash some dance moves. And if this sparks a love for live performance, then keep following Some Voices to find out when in-person rehearsals and shows begi