Some destinations just do everything bigger, brighter, and so much better than anywhere else. These destinations do tend to be far-flung, yet so worth the effort!

Dubai is one those places that has to be seen to be believed. Despite dripping in money, the Emirate is quickly becoming more and more accessible to all, and with ways to cut costs even further, a visit to this sometimes crazy, but always fascinating destination, is much closer.

Airport parking is one of those ways to cut costs, and it’s surprisingly cheap and fantastically convenient. I recently discovered this little travel godsend, and am yet to travel without it since. I also stayed in a hotel before my flight – check out Holiday Extras for Gatwick hotels at great prices! The service was second to none. No more expensive airport taxis for me, and no more stressed out train journeys with suitcase in tow! Flying from Heathrow? You can access great rates on Heathrow hotels too!

All that saved money will come in very handy in this luxurious destination, with more shops than you can shake a stick at. I love shopping, it’s one of my favourite pastimes, and in Dubai, The Mall of the Emirates more than meets my needs! Duty Free shopping is always a bonus. For something a little more authentic, a souk has to be visited, with haggling the order of the day, and fantastic and unusual souvenirs on offer.

Aside from hitting the shops, Dubai has golf courses, theme parks and luxurious hotels with sparkling swimming pools, all in that unique shimmering style that only Dubai can do.

Getting around isn’t the easiest, and tends to be more taxi-based, but the obligatory tour bus is a good way to see the main sights, such as the beautiful Grand Mosque. The old part of town, called the Bastakiya District is a must visit, and really shows the real, authentic side of the Emirates.

I’d really recommend getting out of the city for a little while, and dune bashing is a really popular way to do something a little different. This is basically high energy, big jeeps, flying over huge sand dunes – great fun and a real laugh too.

Glittering night-life is to be expected, and you won’t be disappointed. You’ll find some top quality restaurants, with expensive price tags to match, but also many much more budget friendly restaurants too. Whatever your palate, there will be something to suit.

With food out of the way, decide whether you want to chill out with some impressive cocktails, or party like it’s your last at one of the many clubs. Be aware however, clubs close at 3am.

Dubai is loud and brash, but wonderfully so, and quite tasteful at the same time. Reduce costs wherever possible, and reduce stress wherever possible. If you’re flying from the north then compare deals on Manchester Airport hotels with Holiday Extras and enjoy the perfect start to your holiday.