Jennifer Banful joined Time Out as an Affiliate Content Writer in 2023, a column where she essentially recommends all the best places to stay, eat and drink for your next travel endeavours. She's a born and bred Londoner, with over two years' experience in writing e-commerce and lifestyle content, a bit obsessed with steamed dumplings, is always down for a cosy wine bar, and never leaves the house without a book for her commute or lip balm (if you know, you know).  

Jennifer Banful

Jennifer Banful

Affiliate Content Writer

Articles (244)

The 10 best hotels in Ubud for a daydreamy escape to the tropics

The 10 best hotels in Ubud for a daydreamy escape to the tropics

While Canggu is the preferred destination for expats, looking for a beautiful (and cheaper) way of life, more and more travellers are looking for a real sense of community and Ubud has it all. Aside from the blended community of locals and expats, Ubud is a hub of creativity where many movies and TV shows have been shot. As for the local area, vibrant street scenes offer sustainable design, healthy hangout spots and a whole wealth of mindfulness – while surrounding rice fields and the stunning volcano of Mount Batur offer unique outdoor activities to really get the blood flowing. And if you’re looking for a place to stay for a while before you find your forever home, these Ubud hotels are guaranteed to seal the deal. RECOMMENDED:🌴 The best things to do in Bali🏖 The best beaches in Bali🛏 The best Airbnbs in Bali 🏠 The best Airbnbs in Ubud🏨 The best hotels in Seminyak 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 article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 11 best hotels in Virginia Beach

The 11 best hotels in Virginia Beach

With a tempting oceanfront, beautiful national parks and a lively city center to explore, the right hotel can be your stepping stone to seeing the sights of Virginia Beach, whether you’re a beach bum or bar-hopper. And there are plenty of good options…with infinity pools, forest cabins or Frank Sinatra’s former beach-side bolt-hole among them, Virginia Beach certainly isn’t short of amazing accommodation. If you’re a family with kids to keep an eye on the numerous resorts will be welcome – and they don’t all cost the earth. Couples can opt for romantic bed and breakfasts, spa resorts or sky bars – or maybe a little of each for a vacation they’ll never forget. Whatever it is you’re looking for, we’ve rounded up what we think are the best hotels to choose from in Virginia Beach. RECOMMENDED:👙Check out  the best things to do in Virginia Beach💸Head this way for the best budget hotels in Virginia Beach Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 9 best Airbnbs in Seoul: Bukchon, Jongno-gu & More

The 9 best Airbnbs in Seoul: Bukchon, Jongno-gu & More

There’s something pretty unique about Seoul, and we’re here to share a little piece of the magic with you. Despite the South Korean capital being a place of technological development and advanced living, the city also holds onto its deeply traditional values. You’ll be in awe of seemingly endless skyscrapers juxtaposed with ancient temples and traditional Hanoks – keep your eyes peeled for some of the best on our list. Aside from the unique accommodation offerings, Seoul is a city known for its culture – and the many ways in which to explore it. Visit vibey districts, taste delicious street food, and pick up some eclectic fashion – all before heading home to one of the best Airbnbs in Seoul. From contemporary city center apartments to authentic, and often historic, Hanoks, there’s something for everyone here in Seoul. RECOMMENDED: 🇰🇷 The best things to do in Seoul 🏨 The best five-star hotels in Seoul🍷 The ultimate bar guide to Seoul🏨 The best hotels in Seoul 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.
13 best hotels in Màlaga from luxury to budget-friendly

13 best hotels in Màlaga from luxury to budget-friendly

Golden sand beaches, ancient Moorish architecture, hilltop castles, a pretty port and a thriving food scene; there’s a lot to pack in on a holiday to Màlaga, which over the last 20 years has slowly become a top cultural destination in Spain's Costa del Sol thanks to the opening of the much-anticipated Museo Picasso, the Centre Pompidou and the CAC contemporary art gallery. And a packed itinerary deserves an exemplary place to rest your head – a spot you can retreat to at the end of the day to discuss your wanderings and plan your next adventure. From arty boutiques with spectacular rooftop bars to affordable family choices a stone’s throw from the beach, these are the best hotels in Màlaga to take your trip to the next level. RECOMMENDED: 🇪🇸 Check out the best things to do in Màlaga🏨 Where to next? Discover the best hotels in Spain🍷 Here are the most underrated Spanish destinations🏨 The best hotels in Mallorca 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 article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 11 best boutique hotels in Madrid

The 11 best boutique hotels in Madrid

When you want something a bit more special than the every day when you're booking your place to stay in Madrid, a boutique hotel could be the fresh spark you need to light up your lodging experience. These individual, designer accommodations provide incredible attention to detail as well as specialised services. What will you choose? Do you need to be close to the metro or to the museums? Does a garden patio sound good? A gym to keep up your routine? Breathtaking views of some of the city's top landmarks? It might prove to be a difficult undertaking, but once you decide, you'll be thrilled to stay in one of Madrid's best boutique hotels. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 13 best hotels in the Seychelles to wake up in paradise

The 13 best hotels in the Seychelles to wake up in paradise

The word 'paradise' is thrown around a lot when it comes to the islands of the Indian Ocean, but this archipelago a thousand miles east of Kenya is just that. Across the 115 islands, you’ll find some of the world’s most beautiful beaches (the white sand of Beau-Vallon on main island Mahé instantly springs to mind), making them a nature-lovers dream. Here, you’ll find dramatic rock formations, and exotic plants and animals, like Praslin's UNESCO Vallée de Mai where the rare coco de mer grows or Frégate island, where giant tortoises roam. Seychelles is up there with the best of them, thanks to its avoidance of environment-ruining development and royalty-approved eco-aware hotels. Here, we’ve handpicked the best of them; whether they boast astonishing views, gourmet cuisine, nature-focused themes or eco credentials. Have a scroll through our pick of the best hotels in the Seychelles and plan a utopian getaway. Updated December 2024: We have no idea how these two weren't on our radar until now, but better late than never when it comes to Naturalis - Oceanview Residences and JA Enchanted Island Resort. Dreamy. Other places you may like:🇲🇻Discover the best hotels in the Maldives🇲🇺Book into one of the top Mauritius hotels🇮🇳Your ultimate guide to hotels in India 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 article includes affiliate links. These links have no influen
The 12 best hotels in Chelsea

The 12 best hotels in Chelsea

If you want to be beside countless fantastic Manhattan neighborhoods, then you need to stay at one of the best hotels in Chelsea. Like most other New York 'hoods, Chelsea was once industrial and more than a little rough around the edges (aren't we all?). Then came the galleries and the gay scene to the rescue, followed by the elevated High Line. Now the buzzy area is packed with nightlife, tourists, shopping, and art galore. And don’t forget to sample some (or several) of the best Chelsea restaurants while you're exploring. Food is, after all, the way to many of our hearts. Plus it’s within walking distance of the clubby Meatpacking District, charming West Village, bustle of Midtown, and at the heart of all the Chelsea girls. From the height of luxury to unique boutiques and intimate charmers, there's something for everyone amid the best hotels in Chelsea. Luckily for you, we've done our research and come up with the top trumps for you to pick from, you know, to make your life easier.  Updated December 2024: If you like a low-key residential feel, you love swing by The Moore hotel - very urban chic.   RECOMMENDED: 🏨See our full guide to the best hotels in NYC🍾Stay in one of NYC's best luxury hotels🪵Or take your pick of the best Airbnbs in Hudson Valley Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research
The 23 best hotels in Phoenix

The 23 best hotels in Phoenix

Phoenix is the ultimate family destination for its huge sports arenas, restaurants and attractions. It’s also the place to stay when you’re checking out the Grand Canyon and the Sedona - and that’s when you’re going to want to have the right place to stay. Luckily, Phoenix is home to some rather brilliant hotels, from the cute and boutique to huge luxury resorts. So if you’re with the whole family, traveling in a couple, or here for business, you’re in luck. We’ve made it easy for you, and rounded up the 20 best hotels in the whole of Phoenix (and Scottsdale, which is just 15 minutes away in the car).  Updated December 2024: Phoenix is a goldmine of brilliant stays that we're constantly tapping for more goodies. This time we bring you two stylish abodes: Cambria Downtown Phoenix and Sonder at Hance Park.   RECOMMENDED: 💰Check out the best cheap hotels in Phoenix🌵The best things to do in Phoenix🌯Tuck in at the best restaurants in Phoenix🛏 Stay at the best Airbnbs in Phoenix Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 13 best hotels in Tampa

The 13 best hotels in Tampa

Year-round sunshine means the outdoors are rarely off-limits on the Gulf Coast. An annual pirate parade brings Tampa’s buccaneer past back to life every January. And with developers funneling billions of dollars into redevelopment projects, business here is booming. If you haven’t stopped by Tampa to eat a classic Cuban sandwich, jog down Bayshore Boulevard, or watch manatees laze around, well, you’re missing out—restaurants, attractions, and things to do in Tampa are some of the best around. To meet the needs of its varied visitors, Tampa has a wide range of accommodations, from historic to luxurious and alternative, taking in rooms in old judges’ chambers, food-focused hotels, Dutch-inspired hostels, and a glass-covered palace. Here’s our list of the 11 best. Updated December 2024: If like us you're dreaming of chilling poolside all summer long then you need to grab a reservation and a cocktail at Roost and The CURRENT Hotel. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 22 best hotels in Barcelona, Spain

The 22 best hotels in Barcelona, Spain

Ahh, Barcelona. The city of dreams. Of sipping sangria on a rooftop, marvelling at medieval sights, attractions and architecture, and tucking into never-ending tiny plates of world-class tapas in a city replete with some of the best restaurants in the world. But for whatever reason you’re headed to this wonderfully vibrant city, make sure you choose the right place to stay. The good news? Hotels in Barcelona have it all, from jaw-dropping views and Michelin-starred dining to spa retreats and poolside luxury. One thing is for sure: there certainly is plenty of choice, whatever your budget and wherever you want to stay in Barca. But if it feels daunting, we get it – deciding the best out of a great bunch is hard work. So, put your feet up and grab a cuppa, because we’ve done the work for you. Read on for the best hotels in Barcelona to book right here right now. And let us know if we've missed any! Updated December 2024: Speaking of ones that almost slipped off our radar, we've added two new hotels into the mix: Seventy Barcelona and H10 Cubik Hotel. Enjoy! RECOMMENDED:🏝Check out Barcelona's best Airbnbs🍷 Discover the coolest things to do in Barcelona 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 article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The best boutique hotels in Philadelphia for a chic Philly stay

The best boutique hotels in Philadelphia for a chic Philly stay

Tourists and out-of-town visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation options in Philadelphia. But not all Philly hotels were created equal—and some, like the ones on this list—are more than a little bit special. From designer interiors that will inspire your next home renovation to curated perks and locally produced amenities, these are the best boutique hotels in Philadelphia to level up the luxe rating of your stay away from home. So whether you’re in town to see the city for just one night or need a treat-yo’self staycation, you sure won’t regret making a room reservation at any of these. RECOMMENDED: 🏨 See our full guide to the best hotels in Philadelphia🥪 Check out the best things to do while you're in Philly🛏 How about a stay in one of Philly's coolest Airbnbs? 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 article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 
13 unmissable attractions in Rome

13 unmissable attractions in Rome

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 most essential attractions you can’t miss. 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

Listings and reviews (4)

Rebel Rebel Flowers, Hackney

Rebel Rebel Flowers, Hackney

4 out of 5 stars
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. 
Grace & Thorn

Grace & Thorn

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
The Zetter Clerkenwell

The Zetter Clerkenwell

4 out of 5 stars
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
TRIBE Canary Wharf

TRIBE Canary Wharf

4 out of 5 stars
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