PICKS OF THE MONTH: PARIS

Shop: Les Néréides

23 rue du Four, 75006, http://www.lesnereides.com/
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French women head to les Néréides for playful jewelry that brings out their inner little girl. With themes such as unicorns, ballerinas and cats, these pieces are inspired by our most treasured childhood fantasies. Next time the Peter Pan within you hungers to be let loose, feed his appetite with these fairytale jewels.

Café: Ladurée

21 rue Bonaparte, 75006, as well as other locations, http://www.laduree.fr/

Sofia Coppola filled Marie Antoinette's Versailles with mile high towers of brightly colored cakes, pastries and macaroons that would make any sweet tooth melt. For a similar experience, Parisians and tourists gather at Ladurée for some of the most beautiful and delicious dessert the city of lights has to offer. Famous for its to-die-for macaroons, this "salon de thé" is a great place to go to for a snack on Sunday afternoons or on a rainy winters day. Filled with big comfy chairs, fireplaces and a beautifully painted dinning room reminiscent of an Italian orchard, Ladurée provides a first-rate Parisian luxury experience without the extravagant price tag.

Restaurant: Chez l'Ami Jean

27 rue Malar, 75007, a useful website
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It may not look like much from the street, but this petit restaurant is as good as they come. With current chef Stéphane Jégo (left) at the helm, this little hole in the wall is packed day in and out. I will admit that this is not entirely due to Stéphane's flirtatious charm, although I do bid any women who enters this establishment fair warning - his creative dishes are simply divine. What's more, a three course a la carte meal (wine not included) can be had for about 30 euros. Be sure to make a reservation several days in advance because Paris' best kept secret is out.

Culture: Jardin de Luxembourg

Where does one go on a lazy Sunday afternoon in Paris? But of course! To the Jardin de Luxembourg, bien sure! Situated just north of Saint Germain des Pres on Paris' left bank is a breathtaking, not to mention gigantic, French-style park. With fountains, manicured lawns, flowers, tennis courts, pony rides and even a little chateau, a visit to the jardin is a quintessential part of the Parisian lifestyle. Read a book in one of the many chairs scattered around the main fountain and watch the impeccably dressed French children push their wooden boats across the water or take in a musical concert by the bandstand on a Sunday afternoon.