Dubai

Blessed with year round sunshine and endless stretches of white sandy beach lapped by Southern Gulf seas, this vibrant city offers a startling blend of age old tradition and 21st century innovation. A young country, formed only in 1971, it has now grown to become a stunning destination, where imposing skyscrapers sit comfortably next to the souks of gold, silks and spices of old Arabia. 

Dubai really has something for everyone - outstanding golf courses, watersports and camel racing, while cosmopolitan duty free malls are a shoppers' delight. Take a dhow cruise along the famous Creek or go on safari across the timeless desert - what a unique short break! Dubai is ideal for sampling all kinds of Middle Eastern cuisine, including Lebanese, Iranian and Moroccan, as well as a wide range of very high quality Western food. A visit to the new 'souk' at the Madinat Jumeirah hotel is a real 'must' or try afternoon tea at the Ritz-Carlton hotel. To finish off your day with something really spectacular and different try the Al Muntaha restaurant at the amazing Burj al Arab hotel suspended 300 metres above the sea! Alcohol is only served in hotel restaurants and bars - the selection is wide but the prices are higher than in the UK.