I tend to go for populated areas as well. But, I am flabbergasted at the comment that desserts would all look the same. That's like saying that mountains all look the same. I grew up near the Mojave desert in California. It's got some amazing flora and fauna.I don't really plan to turn up in the likes of Australia looking at some deserts , I have seen a bit of desert in Peru and I think they all look the same . I would probably look for populated areas which look interesting and a bit lively .
If you are ever anywhere in the US near desert, do yourself a favour and find a short tour or get a local to show you. Check out this Google images search:
https://www.google.ca/search?q=US+d...=549#safe=off&tbm=isch&q=US+desert+vegetation