DO-BUY

I went to Dubai this past winter and in a nut shell, it is Las Vegas on crack (except no alcohol or illegal drugs). You can get prescription medications (antibiotics, Viagra etc) from the pharmacist for cash. Dubai is a cool place to see but really, its just tall sky scrapers in the middle of a desert. The Emiratis have taken every western monument and made it bigger and better. Want the worlds largest mall? DONE. The worlds tallest building DONE. A 6 star hotel..done and done. The city is 80% expatriates (Americans and Asians) who dont have much regard for the local culture or language. They are there to make $, party and leave. Speaking of partying, sure the clubs are fun and all, however alcohol is only allowed on hotel properties. So all clubs/bars are highly controlled at hotel sites and its tough to buy or consume alcohol even in hotel hallways. Though it may seem like a desert paradise, the Emiratis keep tight control over residents and visitors. Their rules are strictly enforced and its not easy to forget that you are their visitor and must abide by their customs. By all means, stay and shop and enjoy almost all the places you could at home (Starbucks, Versace etc). Spend your money in the lush hotels, boutiques and warm sandy beaches. Get lost in the landscape of the crazy buildings and beautiful architecture but remember Dubai is anything but home.

Must Sees:  Ski Dubai
                   Burj Khalifa (world's tallest building)
                   Burj Al Arab (Six star hotel)
                   Dubai Mall
                   Mall of Emirates
                   Palm Islands
                  Mahiki