Advise on Building Database drive website

[redslush]

I am wanting to develop a site similiar to www.citysearch.com but focusing more on certain areas. My initial thought is that I need to model a mysql database and then use php for the pages. Problem is I know nothing about constructing a DB from the ground up.

Does it make sense to try and learn to model a database or pay someone to do it? Ideas on how much I would be looking to spend?
Would using a existing CMS be better suited for this situation?
Any websites/docs for modeling databases for web sites?

any thoughts or experiences would be appreciated.

**Meant Advice**

[goodroi]

Citysearch is a huge project. If you want to build a similar sized site, then you should be very good with dealing with DBs or hire people that are good with it. If this is a long-term project then you should probably learn how to deal with DBs (mysql is a popular way but not the only way to tackle the problem).

If you want to use a CMS for your project make sure it can accomodate your needs for today AND tomorrow.

cheers

[redslush]

Any thoughts about using Rubby on Rails for something like this?

[goodroi]

Ruby on Rails [rubyonrails.org...]

It is a good tool and several people use it so there is alot of resources for it. It depends on what exactly you are trying to do if it is the best fit or if something else is. You should talk with someone who is good with DBs about what specifically you want to do and future plans to get the right tool.

[LifeinAsia]

I would suggest paying someone to do it instead of trying to build it yourself. Small problems in DB design can quickly spiral out of control as the site grows. Fixing them later can be a huge mess.

[redslush]

Anyone have any DBA that they have used in the past that they can recommend?