Dubai has grown from a small fishing village to the trading capitol of the Middle East in less than a century. It has ploughed its wealth back into building the finest destination, which embraces all the finest that modern technology has to offer, whilst maintaining a high quality experience based on old-fashion Arabic hospitality.
I have been fortunate enough to visit Dubai three times and each time I revel in the experience Dubai offers.

There are hotels to suit all; here is a quick run-down on my favourites.

For families the Jumeriah Beach hotel is ideal. As its name suggests it is right on the beach and situated next to the Wild Wadi Water Park, a must for all water babes. Further down towards the Marina development is the Meridien Mina Seyahi and the Habtour Grand Towers. Both are good family options or you might like to try Dubai’s newest hotel the Atlantis on the Jumeriah Palm. Although this is a way out from the city it will amaze you with its design and magnificent aquarium, ideal for a short break.

For those of you who want to stay in the city, again there are many hotels to choose from, but my firm favourite is the Hyatt Regency on the Corniche. Compared to the Grand Hyatt this hotel is small, however it has a lovely ambiance, delightful restaurants and benefits from being the only hotel in Dubai (at the moment) to have a revolving restaurant! On the creek, Sheraton have a well placed hotel and for those who want a 4* hotel with 5* service then the Traders (part of the Shangri-La group) is a firm favourite with my clients.

If you are just breaking your journey in Dubai and only have 1 or 2 nights to spare, the delightful Le Meridien Dubai is a short distance from the airport. This low-rise hotel is set in 38 acres of gardens, with 3 swimming pools and 18 international restaurants to choose from, it is an absolute gem.

For the golfers amongst you there is no better location than the Park Hyatt, adjacent to the Dubai Creek Golf and Yatch club, this waterfront hotel with its shady squares, tinkling fountains, spa and restaurants, it is the most delight retreat after a day’s golf or shopping!

Romantics can be totally indulgent at the ‘One and Only’ Royal Mirage or maybe watch the stars come out at the Bab el Shams Desert Resort, for total opulence the 6* Burj is a unique and breathtaking experience. For the chic and trendy amongst you the Grosvenor House with its Bar 44 (yes on the 44th floor) is the place to sips cocktails at sunset before indulging in a fabulous Indian meal at the Indego restaurant.

Apart from the endless selection of world class hotels there are some unique experiences to try. What do the ‘locals’ do in the summer when the temperatures soar – why going ski-ing of course! Ski Dubai located at the Mall of the Emirates is a must! Not got the gear? Don’t worry you can hire it all there. On the 5 slopes, whatever your level you can ski, practice your snow-boarding stunts, bob-sled or just have a snowball fight, it’s great for kids big and small, and if Mum wants to go shopping the Mall is just next door!

For sporting enthusiasts Dubai has lots to offer - every kind of water sport, and a visit to the famous Godolphin stables for the equestrians amongst you. Golfers have 7 courses to test their skills including a floodlight course, for a cooler round of golf! Why not take a trip out into the desert for some ‘dune bashing’ followed by a Bedouin feast and a chance to ride a camel or try your hand at belly dancing, all great fun.

For the less adventurous and those who want to immerse themselves in local culture, a trip to the Souks to search out a bargain, be it gold, cloth or spices, is a most enjoyable way to while away an afternoon. Take a break at one of the creek-side cafes, and watch the colourful comings and goings of traders transporting everything from rice to fridge-freezers.

You might want to wind up your day with dinner at one of Dubai’s many excellent restaurants or take one of the Dhows that ply up and down the Creek. However you end your day, Dubai will excite your senses.