What is the best thing about traveling? Meeting new people and the experience of a new place. This trip was unplanned. Due to the snowy mess in Paris, I found myself stuck in Iceland--in Reykjavik to be exact. The one day layover gave me the chance to experience this beautiful city. I can't take credit for this photo. It's by my new friend Alexia Betancourt. Thanks Alexia!

Christopher DelMonaco's inspiring designs are pretty, whimsical, and delicate. I thought it is the perfect way to send my Christmas love to everyone. Have a wonderful Holiday and Happy New Year! 

After a long journey to New York, I finally made it home to spend time with my family and friends for the holidays. 

It took me three days to get home because of the snowy weather in Paris. I spent 2 days in CDG airport and a day in Iceland. 

I was able to see the lunar eclipse and spend the morning in Reykjavik. Iceland is a beautiful place--the food, landscape, design, and people. 

It ended up being a special experience that I will never forget. 

I went with a couple of friends on a day trip to the Loire region. It was nice to get out of the city for the afternoon and enjoy the fresh air.

The Cityrama tour brought us to visit Chateau Cheverny, Chateau Chambord, and Chateau de Chenonceau.

The grounds, architecture, and interiors were absolutely breathtaking. They were also decorated for the holidays, which was a real treat. 

The tour was amazing. It was well-organized, the guide was interesting and informative, and I never felt rushed. We also had a lovely lunch that was included in the price of the tour.

I suggest this day trip to anyone who wants to see another part of France, but doesn't want to commit to a whole weekend away from Paris.

The snow that blanketed Paris for a day or two was beautiful. I was told this is a rare event. The snow washed away very quickly, but it was pretty while it lasted. I have a feeling it will visit again. For now, here is a photo of Paris in the snow.

Is modern design more your style? Take an afternoon to visit Edifice, Alessi, and Voltex where you can find the best in modern decor. Even better--they are all conveniently located on Boulevard Raspail. Metro: Sevres-Babylone.

NEED TO KNOW....
The shops are all located on Blvd. Raspail. It's in close proximity to Le Bon Marche department store.

But, if you walk the other way towards Blvd. Saint-Germain, it will feel like modern design row.

If you have time, Sentou is another super contemporary home store with futuristic decorative objects, furniture, bedding, and rugs. The store is located at 58, Blvd. Raspail. If you are in the market for rugs, make a stop into TouleMonde-Bochart at 29, Blvd. Raspail.

Metro: Sevres-Babylone or Rue du Bac.

It's all about kids at Le Petit Bazar--an incredibly chic children's clothing, home, and toy store in the 15th Arrondissement. 

French children are known for being so well-dressed. One visit to Paris and you will see firsthand how on trend these kids are--thanks to their parents of course.

So, it's no surprise that Paris is home to many fashionable boutiques specializing in little ones.

Le Petit Bazar is a find. The boutique has a sweet selection of clothing and accessories for boys and girls, as well as unique handmade toys and baby furniture. 

The eco-conscious parent will be pleased to know that the shop only carries organic clothing, shoes, and accessories. 

Stuffed animals, dolls, handmade cars, old-fashioned games, and scooters are mixed with cribs, pillows, bath products and whimsical decorative objects. 

Le Petit Bazar has a warm, communal atmosphere with its cafe in the back of the store. Customers are invited to sit down and enjoy organic (known as bio in France) snacks and drinks.

Parties are often planned in the cafe or in the lower level. Mothers are also welcome to use the nursery in the back room of the store. 

If you're not a fan of the typical souvenir shop and on the hunt for a hip Paris t-shirt or trinket, visit I Was In Paris at the Carousel du Louvre. 

This shop reinvents the boring souvenir with elegant Eiffel Tower figurines, paper goods, baby items, bags, accessories, and clothing.

Most of my souvenir tees are usually reserved for bedtime. So, it was nice to find that I Was In Paris carries Paris-themed clothing and accessories that are trendy enough to wear in public.

I loved their selection of stylish fitted sweatshirts, tees, hats, baby bibs, onesies, and kid's t-shirts. 

The prices are a little higher than the other shops that you will find across the street from the Louvre. But, the inventory is fun, fresh, and well worth it. 

Prices start at $20 for t-shirts, $40 for sweatshirts, start at $15 for a cosmetic bag. Smaller items (keychains, stickers, postcards) start at $5.