Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai

"How did it strike you on arrival?This recently renovated 42-story hotel features giant Lasvit chandeliers and royal shades of burgundy and gold in the lobby. Nice. What’s the crowd like?It's popular with business travelers, but there’s enough to appeal to vacationers too. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Bedrooms are on floors 20 through 40 and offer views of either the Arabian Sea or Burj Khalifa. Note that not all rooms are updated and work is scheduled to be completed in April. If you request an updated room, you’ll be soothed by shades of grey, white, and lilac, instead of the more stodgy neutral and black furnishings. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Rooms have tea and coffee makers (unfortunately not Nespresso). Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms are huge and clad in marble, but feel a little dated compared to the newly refurbished rooms. Toiletries are L'Occitane. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wifi is free and fast. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The fourth-floor pool area here is made for Instagram: white sunbeds, hot pink towels, and breathtaking views of Burj Khalifa. (It turns clubby after dark, with shisha and a DJ.) Breakfast is included and the buffet features a little of everything—pastries, smoothies, and hot and cold dishes from various cuisines. Bottom line: worth it, and why?The photogenic pool area and variety of food (try the Asian-influenced afternoon tea in the lobby) distinguish the hotel from the glut of others in the area." - Laura Ratliff