The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, Dubai

A beautifully elegant and understated hotel, the two dusky pink wings of Ritz Carlton Dubai, suggesting an architectural style that falls somewhere between Mediterranean and Colonial, make this hotel a very welcome an attractive addition to Dubai's blossoming Marina district and the opulent Jumeirah Beach Residence. There are seafront restaurants and bars, and a metro station whose line serves many of Dubai's major sites, within walking distance, although the hotel does operate a complimentary shuttle service. The international airport is approximately 30km distant.

This gem of a low-rise hotel overlooks its own private stretch of pristine beach which can be found just beyond the impeccably manicured tropical gardens, within which you'll find no fewer than six swimming pools, including two beautifully shaded ones exclusively for children. The atmosphere throughout the hotel, from the wonderful lobby with live harpists and jazz to the trickling waterfalls beneath delightful palm trees, is understated and discreet; an opulent and soothing, luxury retreat.

As you would expect of Ritz Carlton the guest bedrooms and suites are finished to an exquisitely high standard, and all come with private balconies overlooking the gardens and Arabian Gulf. The hotel's signature featherbeds are supremely comfortable. Technical amenities include state of the art televisions and Bang & Olufsen sound systems, and Nespresso coffee machines. An upgrade to Club Level adds access to an exclusive lounge with daytime drinks, canapes and snacks, and personal concierge service.

The hotel's Splendido restaurant has a well-earned reputation for the excellence of its Italian dishes, whilst contemporary Asian cuisine is served at the stunning Blue Jade. A tented Bedouin village, set right beside the sea, is a particular highlight of the hotel. Here you can enjoy regional specialities, whilst relaxing to the haunting sounds of live music played on traditional Arabic instruments.

Younger guests are both educated and entertained at Ritz Kids, which features vast indoor and outdoor spaces. Guests seeking a quality spa will find a holistic resort experience where mystical Eastern influences blend with European wellness. Further leisure options include a white sand beach, four floodlit tennis courts.