I know the apt-get to install xubuntu, but I only have dial-up at the moment so it would take too long to download, I do have a copy of xubuntu on cd though. Is it possible to install the packages from the cd to ubuntu through synaptic or do I need specific terminal commands 1f40 ?

I think so, at least if they are the same release (e.g. both are gutsy or whatever).

First off, clean the apt-get archive.
This should make sure, I think, that you don't have any old sources when you later try to apt-get install something. Then add the xubuntu cd to your sources list using the command
Terminal will prompt you to pop in a CD. Do it, press enter and it should scan the CD. After that I think you should be able to install anything from the xubuntu CD by using the regular apt-get command. That should include the xfce desktop.

Hope it helps
/mojoman

It is. As DE comes and goes, it's my favorite. Apt is also awesome 1f40 . It never ceases to surprise my how good it is.