When asked where I was staying during my trip to Dubai last week, with great delight, I replied, “Burj Al Arab.” While every response was different, the general sentiment was the same — “Wow!” In a city where every building is more unique and jaw-dropping than the last, and the latest and greatest has a very short window before it is outdone by something new, the iconic Burj Al Arab is still a showstopper. Touted as the world’s first 7-star hotel, I can tell you now from experience those two extra stars are well-deserved. The gated entrance, which I assumed was simply a security measure, also provided my information in advance of my arrival. When my car pulled up, I was greeted by name and shown directly to my room. I was checked in for my stay right there in my room, given a full tour of my two-floor suite and introduced to my butler within minutes of arrival. The floor-to-ceiling windows capture unrivaled views of the coastline of Dubai, the palm tree-shaped Palm Jumeirah island and The World, an archipelago of islands that forms a world map. As a guest of Burj Al Arab, you are treated to the most premium service available. You also have access to all of the benefits of Jumeirah Beach, Wild Wadi Waterpark and Madinat Jumeirah. On my final night, I enjoyed a beachfront dinner at Villa Beach and took in the views of Burj Al Arab at night. There is a sense of pride that exudes from the entire staff of Burj Al Arab I found infectious during my stay. They feel privileged to be a part of providing one of the most luxurious experiences in the world. I, as I am sure all guests, felt unbelievably privileged to stay there. — Danielle Hudena Pitonyak, executive vice president