Going on holiday to Dubai - need advice?

Q: I am hoping to go on holiday to Dubai in early December for about six days - I have been looking on some travel websites and it always seems to say the hotels are, for example, six kilometres from a beach, or five km from some major shopping area. My question is - is there no "downtown" in Dubai where I can get a hotel that is very near both the beach and the shops? Admittedly I've never been to the region so I have no idea how it works in terms of getting around - I don't have a drivers license so I won't be renting a car - will this put me at a disadvantage for getting around? If anyone has any advice (or knows of a website that has this kind of info) it would be much appreciated. Also, how much is it on average to eat out in Dubai? I won't be eating at michelin stared restaurants, but I won't be eating in a dump either - what is middle of the road?

A: There are many hotels right on the beach and only a ten minute drive to some great shopping. Look for ones on Jumeirah beach. Downtown hotels are not near the beach. Trust me, you won't go wrong with one on Jumeirah beach. There are many including, The Westin (just opened last month), the One and Only, Hilton, Ritz Carlton, Sheraton, La Meridian. The Atlantis on the Palm is opening in September and looks fantastic so far. Taxi's are surprisingly cheap. Eating out will run you about $100 for a nice dinner for two. You can go cheaper or higher, but I did an average nice meal with a glass of wine.

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