Avani Deira Dubai Hotel

Dubai hotels are known for their grand interiors and ritzy fittings. While this former Moevenpick property falls short of the wow factor, it's still smart, and the less-haughty atmosphere can be a pro for some. The lobby's shiny cream and black marble are accented by sophisticated scarlets, tan, and olive-green chairs and chandeliers. The casual all-day restaurant has an attractive teal-and-brown color scheme, while the upscale Asian eatery is more upscale and moody. The sports bar serves alcohol, which isn't always guaranteed in Dubai, and it hosts live DJs. The rooftop pool is a great sun trap, but it's small and below a flight path, so expect plane noise. With an entire floor dedicated to meeting rooms, the hotel draws many corporate travelers, plus layover guests on account of its airport proximity. It equally welcomes leisure guests -- both couples and families, though it's less-suited to the latter.

On the eastern side of Dubai's Creek, Deira is a culturally rich neighborhood, but it's far from the city's beating heart. It is nevertheless home to authentic souk markets, though traffic can be hard to navigate. Spice aromas are enticing here, and smaller streets are more historic. Abu Baker Al Siddique metro is a five-minute walk, although taxis are the preferred way to get around and generally inexpensive. The Gold and Spice Souks are a 15-minute drive, as is Heritage Village for an insight into Bedouin life. The nearest Al Mamzer Beach is the same distance, while Jumeirah Beach is a 30-minute drive. Free shuttles run to Deira City Centre and Dubai Outlet Malls, taking a maximum of 35 minutes. Allow 25 minutes by car to reach the World Trade Centre and world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa. Most sights can also be reached by metro. Dubai International Airport is a 15-minute drive.

Smart rooms start at a spacious 377 square feet (35 square meters), and have an elegant, modern design in a neutral palette with pops of olive green or blue. Textured-wood headboards match wall panels and doors, and patterned-carpet floors are tidy. Beds have adjacent charging points and phones, and additional phones at desks with electrical outlets are handy for business travelers. Sitting areas come standard, while suites have separate living rooms with dining tables. Amenities include large flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, minibars, and kettles for tea- and coffee-making, plus safes, AC, bathrobes, and slippers. Free Wi-Fi is also provided, though the signal is often slow and spotty. Sleek marble bathrooms have bowl sinks, deep shower/tub combos with rainfall showerheads, hairdryers, magnifying mirrors, bidets, and quality toiletries. Some of the suites add big whirlpool tubs. Executive-Room guests get Club Lounge access, plus free Oceana Beach passes at Jumeirah Palm.

Loungers surround the outdoor rooftop pool and adjacent hot tub, although its small size and airplane noise are notable downsides. The spacious fitness center's modern Technogym machines come alongside free weights, plus there's a sauna. Unfortunately, there's no full spa. Seven meeting rooms are well-equipped, and the hotel has a business center. Jigsaw serves international buffet and a la carte meals, including a buffet breakfast (at a fee). Wok In's glossed reds and hanging lanterns are elegant, and its live wok stations are fun. The Spectators Bar serves draught beers and cocktails, and has sports matches on the TVs during the day and live DJs at night. The Club Lounge offers Executive-Room guests free breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening appetizers and drinks. These guests also get beach club passes for the Oceana Residence, The Palm Jumeirah. Free hotel shuttles are available for area malls and the beach. All at a fee, the concierge arranges laundry, babysitting and airport transfers. On-site valet parking is free.