Lola Christina Alao

Lola Christina Alao

Articles (50)

The best attractions in Atlanta

The best attractions in Atlanta

Atlanta is a treat for all the senses, whether you go for the buzzy nightlife scene boosted by amazing cocktail bars, or the breathtaking culinary offerings that range from  casual wing spots to cutting-edge modern takes on Latin or Italian fare. The best attractions in Atlanta offer a deeper dive into the history and culture of the city, as well as plenty of opportunities for fun, thrills and even a taste of the great outdoors. There’s a reason why Atlanta is called the city in the forest. Here, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to bask in nature. Atlanta also has world-class museums, a renowned aquarium and attractions dedicated to Atlanta-based companies Delta and Coca-Cola. From sports fanatics and nature lovers to foodies and the athletically-inclined, these Atlanta attractions offer something for everyone. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.
The 12 best historic Airbnbs near Chicago

The 12 best historic Airbnbs near Chicago

Modern apartments aren't for everyone. Gray rugs, silver furnishings, matching furniture… It's nice, but not as nice as something with charm and character. Think apartments with antique vibes, vintage light fixtures, real fireplaces and maybe, just maybe, original stained-glass windows. Sound like a dream? Then consider one of these historic homes near Chicago for your next trip. Whether you're looking for a smaller property on a budget or you want to go all out and splurge, this is the list for you. We can't forget that mainline Chicago is stunning and well worth a visit. But sometimes, it's good to have a change—a bit of peace and quiet. So read on for our top recommendations of historic Airbnbs near Chicago. Updated December 2024: We've mixed it up a little with this stunning renovated Victorian property in Wicker Park. It's high-style and cozy all at once.  RECOMMENDED: The best boutique hotels in ChicagoThe best weekend getaways from ChicagoThe best lakeside Airbnbs near Chicago Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 
The 18 best Airbnbs with indoor pools in the U.S.

The 18 best Airbnbs with indoor pools in the U.S.

A vacation isn't really a vacation without a swimming pool, right? The water somehow has the ability to wash away all your worries and bring you peace. But sometimes the weather just doesn't allow it. Fear not, there are indoor pools, you know? We've selected the best Airbnbs around the USA with indoor pools to help give you that water fix you're craving. From Pennsylvania to California, South Carolina to Massachusetts. Whether you're looking for budget options or you're splashing out with your family or friends on something a bit more luxurious, you'll find tons of variety.  RECOMMENDED:🏊‍♀️ The most spectacular places to swim in the world💆 Destination-worthy spas and wellness retreats in the US🏚️ The most impressive Airbnbs treehouses in the US Updated August 2024: Ready for a little extra? Take a sneak peek at our newest entries, a cozy cabin getaway in Wyoming, and a luxe home from home in Davenport. Get your swimsuit ready. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts, and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The best hotels near Times Square

The best hotels near Times Square

There is nothing that's more quintessentially NYC than Times Square. The epitome of New York life and culture, even the most hardened New Yorker has at one time been enamored by the glow of the flashing LED lights, billowing clouds of street food, and bustling pace of Manhattan’s central hub. Steps away from all the Broadway shows and some of the most famous restaurants in NYC, these hotels range from time-honored establishments to international chains and cutting-edge boutiques, ideal for first-timers to the buzzing city and veteran travelers alike. If you want to stay close to the twinkling lights of the city (never leave without a pair of sunglasses), here are the best hotels near Times Square for your next New York City vacation. Updated for December 2024: Because New York's diverse hotel scene knows no bounds, we thought we'd add a few more inclusions to broaden your search a little further. Newbies include a beautiful contemporary hotel and one that really goes in for quirky decor. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best hotels in NYC 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.
14 best Airbnbs in San Diego, California

14 best Airbnbs in San Diego, California

We can promise you that a trip to San Diego will never be boring. There are plenty of things to do and see in the gorgeous city. From relaxing on sunny beaches to eating delicious food at the best restaurants, or even taking a stroll through San Diego Zoo; you'll need a good few days to ensure you see the best of what the city offers. The laid-back destination is also perfect for escaping to, so you need to make sure you have the accommodation to match the vibes. Luckily for you, we've done the hard work and put together a list of the best San Diego Airbnbs, whether you’re staying with friends or the family, looking to splurge or save some money, there’s something for everyone. Updated November 2024: We've added an home with its own spa facilities and a cute studio that pops with color. RECOMMENDED:🏄 Stuck on where to stay in San Diego? Here you go🏨 Enjoy a stay in the best San Diego hotels🌴 Visit the best San Diego attractions👪 The best family-friendly hotels in San Diego Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 21 best online flower deliveries in London for that festive surprise

The 21 best online flower deliveries in London for that festive surprise

With the festive season around the corner, there's never been a better time to start planning a floral surprise for a special someone. Whether you're staying with your 'rents this Christmas, visiting long-lost family members from afar or hosting a big, old, friendly festivity, there are flowers for every festive occasion – and human. And yes, we know that there are often cheaper options for flower deliveries (especially in London this time of year) but nothing says last-minute like a bouquet of petrol station peonies. Just, don't do it, okay? Brighten up someone's festive season with a handpicked arrangement from one of the million-and-one incredible florists all over London, with one million-and-one ways to get beautiful bouquets delivered the very same day, or the day after if you’re too slow (just blame delivery delays). Because we're amazing, we’ve made it even easier for you, panic-buyer or not – hey, we don't discriminate. We've scoured the city to bring you this list of the best flower deliveries in London – each one hand-picked by Time Out experts. Merry Christmas. Why not take a look at:💐The best same-day flower delivery in London🍷The best alcohol delivery services in London 🛏 Need a getaway? Here are the best Airbnbs in London 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
The 11 best Airbnbs in Porto

The 11 best Airbnbs in Porto

With its beautiful royal blue tiled architecture, sloping cobbled streets and traditional riverside restaurants, you can’t possibly let mediocre accommodation ruin your trip to Portugal’s second-biggest city. But before you splash out on a luxury hotel or boutique B&B, consider one of the best Airbnbs in Porto as your base. After all, if you want to explore this fascinating city's incredible attractions and a raft of great things to do like a true local, it's probably best to stay like one, too. So whether you’re after character, a balcony or even a boat, check out our selection of Porto Airbnbs that won’t cost you the earth.  Updated November 2024: To whet your appetite for Porto even more we've added this sunny central apartment near Bolhão and this cosy, modern central apartment. RECOMMENDED:🕺 The best clubs in Porto🏨 The best hotels in Porto❤️ The best romantic hotels in Porto  Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 19 best Airbnbs in Lisbon: cobbled streets, sun-soaked terraces and all

The 19 best Airbnbs in Lisbon: cobbled streets, sun-soaked terraces and all

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 November 2024: 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 this mezzanine apartment and this bright, contemporary pad right by the cathedral. 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. 
The 13 best Airbnbs near Yellowstone

The 13 best Airbnbs near Yellowstone

Dramatic canyons, bubbling hot springs, lush forests, and all manner of wildlife: you won't find anywhere else on Earth like Yellowstone National Park. As America's first national park, it's no surprise that this world-famous park is a super-popular bucket list destination.  There's an almost overwhelming number of sights to see – we're talking over 300 species of bird, 65 species of mammal, and a whole lot of geological wonders – and equally, you're spoiled for choice regarding where to stay. That's why we've put together a guide to the loveliest Airbnbs in and near the national park, from glam cabins to gorgeous traditional lodges.  RECOMMENDED: The best Airbnbs in New England Updated November 2024: Got room for more? Take a sneak peek at the newest additions to our list, the vvintage guest studio in Livingston and the cozy cabin surrounded by rolling foothills. Disclaimer: Chronic daydreaming is a highly probable side effect. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 11 best Airbnb mansions in Las Vegas

The 11 best Airbnb mansions in Las Vegas

Welcome to Sin City. A place of neon lights, casinos, and fabulousness. If you're visiting Las Vegas for the first time, or you frequent the area often, you'll never run out of things to do. You can watch a show at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, or go to the Las Vegas strip for entertainment. Or, if you're feeling lucky, there are endless casinos for a bit of gambling (please gamble responsibly). You can even go on one of Las Vegas' hiking trails if you're in the adventure mood. And, did you know that the city's Stratosphere is the tallest observation tower in the United States? So when you do visit, and your body is screaming out for some relaxation, you're going to want a nice place to rest your head. And what better way to do that than staying in a perfect Airbnb mansion? Live like the rich and treat yourself to a bit of luxury. After all, when in Vegas... Here are the city's best Airbnb mansions for you to check into, but only after you try out some of the best restaurants and bars in the area.  RECOMMENDED:🏨 Check out the best Las Vegas hotels🛏 Or stay in the best Airbnbs in Las Vegas🎰 Here are the best things to do in Las Vegas 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 cont
The 10 best hotels in Galway

The 10 best hotels in Galway

With its large student population and position smack-bang on the monumentally popular Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is a city with plenty of dynamism. Long known as a bohemian, artsy kind of place, this western Irish city has some of the liveliest nightlife in the country, not to mention some of the best places to feast on fresh seafood and plenty of pubs for knocking back a few pints of Guinness.   Visit in September for the International Oyster Festival, come in summer to mess about on the river or drop by in winter for cosy nights in snug pubs. There's also a must-visit weekend market in the city centre which hosts food and craft stalls all year round. Whenever you’re in town, the best thing you can do is book one of the best hotels in Galway; some boast Orient Express train carriages or ancient abbey remains, others rooftop hot tubs and top-class restaurants. But whichever one you choose, you'll find a bar worth staying in for and a location that makes exploring easy.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Galway At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The 13 best hotels on the beach in L.A.

The 13 best hotels on the beach in L.A.

Yearning for an escape to L.A.’s sandy shores? One of the best things about the county is its miles of sunny coastline, stretching from Malibu all the way down past Manhattan Beach and Palos Verdes toward Long Beach. Each beach town boasts a different vibe to suit your fancy: the ’Bu for an A-list-style retreat; Venice for an eclectic, no-frills getaway; a trendy, commercial setting in Santa Monica; Rancho Palos Verdes for a luxury resort feel with a golf course to boot; and a laid-back, surf and beach-volleyball vibe in Manhattan Beach. No matter what kind of vacation you’re seeking—whether with family, friends, or a significant other—you can’t go wrong with the best hotels on the beach in Los Angeles. These little spots of paradise all sprout from the waterfront, where you can enjoy ocean breezes, crashing waves, amazing restaurants and bars, luxurious rooms and suites, and breathtaking views. Be sure to check out the array of hotel features before booking your stay, including swanky rooftop bars, spas, private balconies, fitness centers, in-room fireplaces, kitchenettes and bicycles on loan for hotel guests. Not to mention, nearby attractions like picturesque piers, famous boardwalks, popular dining spots and walking trails (the beach walk from Venice to Santa Monica is a must). From secluded spots along L.A.’s best beaches to swanky suites in Santa Monica, these are the best hotels on the beach in the City of Angels.  Updated August 2024: To keep the good vibes going we'v

Listings and reviews (1)

Dippy Returns: The nation's favourite dinosaur

Dippy Returns: The nation's favourite dinosaur

London’s favourite dinosaur is back in town! The Natural History Museum’s life-sized replica Dippy was the first Diplodocus (which is pronounced DIP-low-DOCK-us by the way) to go on display back in 1905, but the 28-metre-lond skeletal sauropod has been on tour since 2017, delighting and terrifying 2 million museum-goers around the UK. But now, the prodigal dino is returning home, at least for a bit. This new temporary installation will feature visitors’ reflections from when they met the Jurassic giant, exploring how these meetings inspired them to re-connect with nature right on their doorsteps. The museum is remaining coy about Dippy’s plans once it’s over, but after such a successful UK tour, maybe he’ll set his sights even further afield next, so don’t miss this opportunity to call in on him while he’s got some down-time in Kensington.

News (40)

The trans and intersex-inclusive Pride flags will fly on Regent Street again soon

The trans and intersex-inclusive Pride flags will fly on Regent Street again soon

Last July, a brand new Pride flag debuted on the streets of central London. There was an inclusive addition to the rainbow flag we've come to know so well, as Valentino Vecchietti, founder of Intersex Equality Rights UK, added a purple circle on yellow background to incorporate the voices of intersex people. Today, the hundreds of Union Jacks filling the skies on Regent Street will be taken down to make way for the Pride flags to fly again.  While some naysayers on Twitter are being sour about the removal of the Union Jacks, we can't wait to see the iconic flag hanging in all its glory.   If you've forgotten what all the colours and symbols of the Pride flag represent, here's a quick refresher: Intersex is a term meaning people born with sex characteristics that do not fit into the singular binary definition of male or female. These sexual characteristics can be internal, such as sexual organs or chromosomes, or they can be external, like body hair and breast growth.  But Vecchietti’s addition to the Pride flag is only the most recent revamp, as the rainbow has gone through many changes over the years.  The multi-coloured Pride flag wasn’t created until the 1970s. Before then, one of the only symbols to represent the queer community was the pink triangle, which was created by Nazi Germany to identify gay men. Some of the queer community tried to reclaim it, but understandably other members of the community wanted a new symbol, one that was far away from its bleak backstory. 
Tributes are paid to cancer campaigner Dame Deborah James

Tributes are paid to cancer campaigner Dame Deborah James

Tributes have been paid online to Dame Deborah James, after the journalist and podcast host's death at the age of 40. She had been diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2016, and recently been receiving end-of-life care at home. In June, she celebrated a milestone, raising a huge £1 million for charity, through In The Style, her online fashion company. Dame Deborah was described as ‘amazing’ and an ‘inspiration’ by her family, who announced the news on her Instagram page. ‘We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dame Deborah James; the most amazing wife, daughter, sister, mummy,’ it said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Deborah James (@bowelbabe) Dame Deborah James was a former deputy headmistress and also hosted the You, Me & the Big C podcast alongside Steve Bland, Deborah James and Lauren Mahon. Her final episode was released in May, titled ‘Deborah James’ Last Dance’, where she talked about  her decision to spend final days of life at her parents’ home, saying ‘it was where I always wanted to die’. She also said that she wanted her London home to be a place her children could go back to without ‘medical equipment scars everywhere’. George Alagiah, BBC News presenter, who is living with bowel cancer reflected on his conservation with Dame Deborah at the Royal Marsden Hospital.  Knowing that @bowelbabe Dame Deborah James was nearing the end of her journey here does not make her passing any easier to accept. She was a beaco
It turns out London is still actually great for young people and students

It turns out London is still actually great for young people and students

Despite being one of the most expensive cities in the world, a news study by Reebok and MTV has revealed that younger Brits would choose to move to London over any other place on Earth. That’s right, despite extortionate pint prices, rent hikes, and transport strikes just about every other weekend, London is still an extremely well-loved place by young people. It’s not all bad of course, London has culture, good weather on occasion, fun weird museums and interesting people. So, who can really blame them? Adele said it best singing about London in Hometown Glory ‘Ooooh the people I've met, are the wonders of my world / are the wonders of now’. According to the study, the majority of 18-30 year olds decide to make the jump to London and Manchester with 23 percent of Gen Z noting that their hometown was limiting their creativity.  Out of the 46 percent who are still living in their hometowns, 50 per cent are itching to relocate. And almost a third (32 per cent) don’t feel they can reach their full potential by remaining in the city or town they grew up in. A further 26 percent want to move to find their ‘purpose’ in life. Heavy! A spokesperson from Reebok said: ‘Being inspired can evolve from many sources, including your hometown or the city you chose to make a home’. London has also been ranked best city for students. While you probably won’t get that full uni halls experience studying in London, it seems that it’s still a fave with students when choosing where to study. The re
You can pay for your cocktails in selfies instead of money at this London bar

You can pay for your cocktails in selfies instead of money at this London bar

Google ‘whisky drinker’ and you’re bound to see a disproportionate number of white men appear over any other gender or ethnicity. But don’t fear, The Glenlivet – a Speyside single malt scotch whisky – is here to change that perception. They’ll do it by infiltrating search engine algorithms and purposefully planting images to change the visual landscape.  And you can help them on their mission. Partnering with east London neighbourhood bar Coupette, they’re holding a #BreakTheStereotype pop-up event with the aim of doing just that. Though the ‘whisky drinker’ image search isn’t so diverse, they hope that soon we’ll see a more accurate representation of ‘real’ whisky drinkers as part of the campaign. Research conducted by Pernod Ricard shows that a third of people who drink whisky around the world are women. A portion of proceeds from each cocktail purchased beyond the complimentary drink will be donated to Equal Measures, an organisation that strives for greater equity for ethnic minorities and marginalised groups in hospitality. The Glenlivet is also supporting Equal Measures through its Education and Mentorship Scheme by providing up to 30 participants from Black and Minority Ethnic and marginalised communities with access to qualifications, mentorship and opportunities.  The event is taking place this week (until June 19). All they ask is that you head down to Coupette, choose a cocktail from its #BreakTheStereotype menu and upload a picture of yourself holding the drink. A
Pret is giving away free pastel de natas and cheese twists

Pret is giving away free pastel de natas and cheese twists

Pret A Manger, the sandwich shop that’s on just about every London street, has two new bakery items as part of its summer menu launch. The good news is that you can try some of it today for free. Absolutely nothing.  Pret is now back on everyone’s radar (and profits are up again), after commuters could finally swap months on end of working from home and government permitted walks round the neighbourhood for their beloved daily Pret coffees and sandwiches.  The two new items are: a flaky Cheese Twist with an Emmental bechamel filling and Pret’s own version of the Portuguese sweet pastry, Pastel de Nata. It has a creamy free-range egg custard middle with a touch of cinnamon. You know the one. They were made in collaboration with award-winning pastry chef Ravneet Gill. All you need to do is visit one of their Baker Street locations, 120 Baker Street, 20 Baker Street, 211 Baker Street London and Baker Street Tube Station – and use the secret passcode ‘Rav’s Treats’ at checkout. ‘I’m so excited for everyone to get their hands on Pret's new delicious, freshly baked goodies! The cheese twist is so incredibly cheesy and filled to the brim with an Emmental Bechamel, while the delectably creamy Pastel de Natas have a perfect flaky crust. These will no doubt be instant Pret favourites and perfect to enjoy all day long!’ said Gill. ​​Katherine Bagshawe, UK Food & Coffee Director at Pret A Manger said: ‘At Pret we’ve long been known for our freshly made, delicious sandwiches and freshly
A ‘heatwave’ is expected to hit London for nine whole days

A ‘heatwave’ is expected to hit London for nine whole days

Londoners rejoice, because we're finally getting a taste of properly nice weather after a fairly long period of wind, unpredictable showers and underwhelming sunshine. Summer officially started in the UK on Friday, so it’s already quite late to show its face. But there are at long last rumours of a real heatwave coming next week.  There aren't many things Brits love more than sizzling in the sun like chipolatas under a hot grill, and you're going to have ample time to crisp up your skin with high temperatures predicted to last up to nine days. The scorching weather is forecast to start at the weekend. BBC weather reports it will hit 32C on Tuesday July 12, and stay between 29-32C for the rest of the week.  According to the Met Office, temperatures have to reach 28C for three days in a row or more to be classed as a heatwave.  Leon Brown of US-based forecaster The Weather Company said: ‘More heatwaves imported from the continent to the UK are forecast this summer, each reaching at least 28C - and likely higher - and each lasting several days.’ Daniel Rudman is a Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster. He has confirmed that the warm weather is likely to persist ‘throughout the next month’, with London and regions in the south of England set to bask in the lion’s share of the sunshine. Exciting! ‘We anticipate a good deal of warmer and mostly dry weather throughout July, especially across the south – although it may also bring cloud and rain into the northwest at times. We are like
Selfridges has a new ‘sex and sleep’ wellbeing pop up

Selfridges has a new ‘sex and sleep’ wellbeing pop up

Imagine one space for all your sex and sleep needs. That space now exists. Say hello to Selfridges’ new sex and sleep wellbeing pop-up. The site offers acupuncture sessions by Pricc (helping cure any pesky aches and pains,) and more than 150 wellbeing related products, ranging from gut health to hormones and sleep hacking. Hangover cures too, perfect for after a big night out, are available too. Afterwards, you’re also able to go for a sleep session at The Cinema at Selfridges which is inviting customers to take power naps in ‘serene surroundings’.  If you’d like to dabble in some hypnotherapy, that’s also available too, from House of Wellbeing and the exclusive launch of Maude, a modern sexual wellness start up. Brands like LBDO and The Oh Collective will have products to buy, which look to change conversations around pleasure (that thing we all want and crave even if we don’t like to admit it) and discover the latest sleep-tech.  In September, Selfridges will also launch By Dr Vali Wellness Centre, a medical wellness destination offering personalised ways to boost wellbeing, including bio-hacking, IV drips and hyperbaric oxygen therapies.  ‘The pandemic has placed wellbeing in the spotlight and accelerated the evolution of the wellbeing ecosystem,’ Selfridges executive buying and merchandising director, Sebastian Manes said. ‘People are reevaluating what feeling good actually means and embracing new ideas. We want to help our customers to live brighter by offering experienc
There’s an appeal for more Londoners to give blood

There’s an appeal for more Londoners to give blood

NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT), and TfL have come together to encourage more Londoners to donate blood and become LonDONERS. Blood is used to treat patients with cancer, blood disorders and those suffering medical trauma or undergoing surgery, and, worryingly, blood stock levels have dropped.  42,000 new blood donors in London are needed this year to keep supplying blood for lifesaving treatments. That means over 400 new donors per day are required. This is a lot, but doable if enough people get on board. To put that into perspective, if just six percent of Central Line commuters registered and donated blood just once, the 42,000 donor target would be reached and 126,000 lives could be saved or improved.   Three major donor centres are located only a short walk from three busy Central line underground stations, near Oxford Circus, Westfield Shepherd’s Bush and Westfield Stratford. David Rose, Director of Donor Experience at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: ‘We need more donors across London to register and donate right now, so we can keep hospitals supplied with lifesaving blood.  ‘Many Londoners may not be aware where their nearest blood donor centre is but thanks to London’s transport links, it’s easy - the Central Line on the underground actually serves three of our donor centres which are all only a few hundred metres away from an underground station. Thanks to support from TfL we hope more people will realise how close their nearest donor centre is to home or along thei
The famous Cafe Van Gogh in Stockwell is crowdfunding

The famous Cafe Van Gogh in Stockwell is crowdfunding

With its roof painted to look like The Starry Night, Cafe Van Gogh is inspired by (you guessed it) artist Vincent Van Gogh who lived round the corner on Hackford Road for a few months in 1873. Other than serving up great vegan dishes like their Beetroot Borani and their Van Gogh Burger, the cafe’s mission is to train people with disabilities, learning difficulties, mental health issues – giving them the support and confidence to find paid employment. At the moment, they focus on front of house training, teaching barista and waitering skills. But they don’t want to stop there. Cafe Van Gogh want to grow this success in the kitchen.  Separating the kitchen into sections means they’re able to focus their training on specific skills like cheffing and portering. A ‘prepping’ section would mean someone working alongside a chef or job coach at all times to learn the correct technique.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by JANA SKYE (@janaskye_) ‘We passionately believe that by expanding the work we do we can change the narrative of what it means to be a person with a learning difficulty. We endeavor to grow our participants confidence and skills and ultimately find them paid employment either with ourselves or other employers,’ the cafe said.  So how can you donate? Just type ‘Recipe for Success, Crowdfunder, Cafe Van Gogh’ into your search engine or visit the link directly here.  Hungry for more content? Sign up to our new daily newsletter here. Time Ou
The Match Girls' Strike of 1888 has been commemorated with a blue plaque

The Match Girls' Strike of 1888 has been commemorated with a blue plaque

Way back in July 1888, around 1,400 of the Bryant and May match factory’s predominantly female workforce walked out in protest because of poor working conditions and the unfair dismissal of some of their co-workers.  The conditions at this time were far from ideal, as you can imagine. For the women who worked at the factory in Bow, east London, they faced inhumanely low pay for the 14-hour days they worked. And their pay would be cut if they were caught talking to their co-workers or going to the toilet. Plus, 'phossy jaw' – a horrible bone cancer caused by the cheap type of phosphorus in the matches – was common.  Photograph: Hulton Archive Now, there is a new English Heritage blue plaque that has been installed at the site in honour of the event, which is now widely recognised as a trigger to the New Unionism movement, which saw moves to develop the trade union agenda.  Speaking about the new plaque, English Heritage blue plaques panel member Alex Graham said: ‘At a time when workers are once more striking in defence of pay and conditions, it feels timely to be standing today outside this iconic East London factory commemorating the Match Girls: 1,400 young, working class women, many of them immigrants or daughters of immigrants, who refused to put up with low wages and dangerous working conditions. ‘They won and, in doing so, they changed the course of British labour history. We are therefore glad to honour them collectively with a blue plaque on the building where they
Good news: the Northern line Night Tube is back this weekend

Good news: the Northern line Night Tube is back this weekend

It’s been a long wait, much of it wondering if public transport would ever get better for London’s night owls. But it’s finally good news for south Londoners, north Londoners and any other Northern line users. No more being forced to pay extortionate Uber prices or brave the night bus after an evening out. The Northern line Night Tube is finally back this week. TfL said that services on the line would resume from Saturday as part of the plan to boost the capital’s night-time economy. There has also been a doubling of the frequency of trains on the Northern line extension between Kennington and Battersea Power Station. The frequency has been increased from six to 12 trains per hour during peak times, and five to ten trains per hour at off-peak times (a welcome change for those of you who hate waiting more than five minutes for the tube, ie all of you).  Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: ‘This is another landmark moment in the capital’s recovery from the pandemic – and fantastic news for Londoners and visitors who want to enjoy the capital’s incredible nightlife, safe in the knowledge that they will be able to get the Northern line home.  ‘Night Tube services have now returned on the Central, Victoria and Jubilee lines, delivering not only a huge economic boost for our world-renowned night-time economy but making a huge difference to people who want to travel around our city at night.’ But unfortunately, it might not all be smooth sailing from here on in. Strike action is set to
Ottolenghi is doing a home houmous kit for £45

Ottolenghi is doing a home houmous kit for £45

Just when you thought you’d exhausted the ways you can get your houmous fix, Middle Eastern restaurant Ottolenghi brings you its Hummus at Home kit. Struggling to make the perfect creamy houmous? Ottolenghi is here to save the day.  The kit includes the newly launched Ottolenghi tahini, dried chickpeas (which a lot of traditional houmous recipes use) plus jarred chickpeas (for those of you busy Londoners short of time). It also includes Aleppo chilli flakes you can add to your hummus if you’re feeling spicy and Palestinian spice mix za’atar. They’ve also thrown in some za’atar pita chips from the Ottolenghi bakery. And you’ll find an accompanying recipe card with various topping suggestions and instructions in your kit too. If you’re looking for a present for a houmous-obsessed friend, there’s also an option to add an Ottolenghi branded gift box to your order.  But before you get too excited, this DIY dip doesn’t come cheap. Though it does contain some tasty accompaniments, the kit will set you back £45, about 45 times what it would cost you to get stuck in and make your own pot of houmous by the way – and considerably more than it would cost you to get down your local supermarket and just buy a pot of the stuff.  Still, you can’t beat the satisfaction of making something yourself from scratch. And if you intend to spend the summer rocking face glitter and a Rains jacket in statement colour, you know that only one houmous brand hits the spot. Wilderness attendees, all togethe