Dubai

Dubai is a modern city in the emirate of Dubai on the Persian Gulf. While the city is primarily known for its wealth and spectacular buildings, Dubai tourism offers travelers a wide variety of cultural and entertainment options. A Dubai vacation is always an exciting affair, but make sure to plan your trip to Dubai for the winter or spring months as summer temperatures in the Emirates can be sweltering.

While many people travel to Dubai to discover its unique culture and architecture, many others take the chance to visit Dubai during a layover at Dubai International Airport, a practice so common that many local companies even offer special layover tours. Once at the airport, the most common form of transportation is a taxi, though there is also a quick and efficient Metro station in Terminal 3.

One of the most popular first stops during a vacation in Dubai is the area surrounding the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. Aside from admiring the tower, you can also visit the observation deck and enjoy the best views of the entire city. The area also has a lush park, lake, and the luxurious Dubai Mall. For many, Dubai holidays mean world-class shopping, and the Dubai Mall is an excellent place to find exclusive designer goods as well as the famous Ski Dubai, a large indoor skiing area.

The marina should be next on your Dubai travel plans. The Dubai Marina is a complex of astonishing skyscrapers, restaurants, and shops along the waterfront near a beautiful public beach, as well as a wonderful place to snap a photo of the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel against the sea. If you're thinking of vacations in Dubai, have a look below at recommendations from real travelers and start planning your trip to this lovely desert destination.