Dreamy Dubai

Dubai is a vibrant city, a modern metropolis sitting on a golden sandy coastline in the Arabian Gulf where warm seas meet acres of tawny sandy deserts. Be drawn in by the high-rise oasis of elegant hotels and chic shopping, linger for the culture, history, souks and an escape to the desert or farther afield to Oman or other areas of the Emirates.

Spend a few days to explore the most interesting city cultural attractions, including: bustling exotic souks overflowing with spices, gold, tantalizing textiles, striking tile-covered mosques, unspoiled beaches, abra rides (water taxi) in the harbor, visits to stables to see fine Arabian horses (horse breeding is a national passion) and don’t miss a jaunt to the camel races!

Reserve a night for an excursion to the desert for camel safaris, memorable dining in Bedouin tents, and luxury 4WD tours in vintage Land Rovers through the rolling sand dunes of the Arabian Desert and don’t forget to request private falconry lessons. Cruise leisurely in your Rover or dash through the dunes for a sunset cocktail and an evening of traditional music and dancing in a desert pavilion. Camel stew and Arabic coffee? After enjoying a camel ride through the dunes under a black sky splashed with glittering stars, I had to say no to the camel stew, despite the tempting aromatic sauce.

Take to the skies in Seawings seaplanes to see the massive innovative architecture and man made islands from a sky perch.

The Burj’s 124th-floor observation deck offers panoramic views of the bustling city below.

Experience Dubai’s burgeoning art and design scene housed in converted traditional and industrial buildings.

Dubai is also a renowned shopping destination, with legendary luxury malls filled with exclusive fashion boutiques, indoor skiing, and the Dubai Aquarium.

Sleep at the fashionable Armani Hotel in the tallest world tower Burj Khalifa.

Or continue down the road to Sheik Zayed Road and bask at the beach at The Palm, one of three man made islands built to expand the coastline. One & Only Palm has a chic outpost on the water with villas on the sand.

Or slip in for an exclusive stay at the beyond glamorous Burj Al Arab Jumeriah Hotel.

The Four Seasons offers an iconic spa, pool butlers and a dynamic view from their sky bar.

As each of us has a different fingerprint, there is a perfect hotel and experience for everyone in Dubai.

Dubai is an ideal stopover en route to many other destinations, including Africa and India – especially since there is now an Emirates flight from SFO.

Despite the comparisons to glitzy Las Vegas or the cosmopolitan Miami, Dubai still retains a solid Middle Eastern atmosphere. Traditional Arabian customs are prevalent and the locals still practice their daily customs amid the wide eyed tourists.

Much to enjoy!