Dubai does not do things by halves, and what better example of its limit-defying ambition than Atlantis The Palm. This is luxury on a lavish scale, a landmark hotel that occupies a man-made island, has its own subway stop and even its own waterpark.

The facilities

Where to start; the list is near-endless. There's a choice of seventeen restaurants, from Michelin-starred outposts like Nobu and Ossiano to more laid-back burger shacks and mezze eateries. The neighbouring waterpark is free for all guests, the hotel boasts its own white-sand beaches, a huge spa and a range of shopping boutiques.

The star of the show is the Lost Chambers, an extensive aquarium complex built into the foundations of the hotel. Entry is free for guests, and there are even suites available whose walls look out into its oceanic depths.

The rooms

Each of Atlantis The Palm's 1539 guestrooms is classic in style, with subtle Arabian influences. All are meticulously appointed, with flat screen televisions, private balconies, nightly turndown and king sized beds as standard (queens in twin rooms).