Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Arabs are ‘by nature continent’ according to Lawrence of Arabia, but when it comes to Dubai, austerity is a little known word. Apart from the modesty that comes with being counted among the seven United Arab Emirates, this particular emirate deserves inclusion among world’s seven wonders for its grasp on the art of creating luxury.

Barely known to the Western world no less than one decade ago, Dubai has succeeded in transforming itself from barren desert to urban chic in no time at all. Today, not only is it mentioned in the same breath as its other ‘IT’ counterparts Milan, Paris, New York, and Los Angeles, the emirate is also a popular tourist hub preferred by the A list likes of David Beckham, Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Catherine Zeta Jones, and Michael Douglas. It also played host to the UK’s most recent version of X Factor where many a singing hopeful performed in front of none other than the Minogue sisters themselves.

As with many countries in the Middle East, Dubai used to be conservative and to a certain degree remains so even today, particularly among its local population. However, this conservatism is cast mainly into the country’s shadows while its surface glitters with opulence, wild nightlife, a growing repertoire of world class restaurants, and some of the best shopping known to this planet. Juxtaposed by the offerings of a Vegas style city life, breathtaking beach resorts, exotic desert excursions, and indoor ski villages, Dubai is an experience not to be missed.

And while it is largely about ‘flash’, authenticity and culture can be found within the traditional architecture of its old town, and the buzz of its gold souks. All this is set against the backdrop of year round sunshine and old, Arabian hospitality.

So if you’re feeling sufficiently inspired to head in that direction, the best time to visit falls between end of September through mid-December, and March through end of May.