DO YOU DIG DUBAI?

Honestly, jet setting to Dubai has not yet been included on my "must-go-to" destination list. To me, my impression thus far has been "excess on a grand scale", a lot of "man-made" and "too much new, not enough old." But, knowing that it is such a popular destination, especially for the "jet set" crowd, I figured I might as well at least read up a little more about Dubai. Dubai is one of the seven different emirates—Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain are the others—that form the United Arab Emirates. WHY GO: Dubai is a good destination if you are interested in beach, new-design architecture, luxury, nightlife and shopping.

WHEN TO GO: You can get year round sunshine in Dubai, but the best time to visit is from November-April, or more specifically, December, January, February and March. If you want to save some money (jet set smart travel), and don't mind the heat, then I suggest jet setting there in May when temperatures are in the 90s, but you can find lots of bargain hotel rates (just hang out a lot indoors in the AC).

WHAT TO SEE: Burj Khalifa- the world's tallest skyscraper which opened just this year. And the Burj Al Arab- the second tallest building in the world that also houses a very luxurious five star hotel and stands on an artificial island. I have to admit that the hotel is absolutely beautiful inside, but with a very beautiful price tag (rates start from $1,9oo a night during off-peak season and around $5,200 a night and up during peak-season)!!!So, jet setters, are you intrigued? Maybe if I was jet setting close to this part of the world I would check it out for a night or two, but as my only destination I don't know if I'm totally sold on it yet. What do you guys think? I'd love your feedback?