Our month of Holiday Cheer in NYC continues with fun, iconic stops!

If you enjoyed the beloved "Downton Abbey" series you will love this beautifully curated exhibition. You will be immersed in post Edwardian-English culture where the characters come to life. The Kitchen is recreated exactly like in the series and the fashion and styling is wonderful to see in person. There are elevators that help anyone with limited mobility to access each floor of the museum. When Ordering tickets please let them know if you have any special needs or requests. Plan your visit online or call 866-811-4111. I selected the V.I.P. tour and was able to enter the exhibit at any time. downton.wpengine.com located at 218 West 57th Street between Broadway and 7th Avenue.

Rolf’s German Restaurant is another required stop. With its over-the-top holiday decor, this iconic German restaurant and bar situated next to Gramercy Park is a feast for the eyes at Christmas time. Rolfsnyc.com has an old world vibe and is known for its spectacular and elaborate holiday decorations hanging from the ceiling. Their Christmas Martini is my favorite! My Christmas season is not complete without popping into Rolf's for a fabulous cocktail, great conversation, and of course admiring the holiday decor. Rolf's is located at 281 Third Avenue and 22nd Street. I cannot comment on the food since we only go for cocktails. I highly recommend visiting during the week around noon to get a good spot at the bar. Its fast-paced fun will guarantee another coveted Instagram shot!

After happy hour at Rolf’s, hail a cab and head up to El Parador Mexican Restaurant at 325 East 34th Street. elparadorcafe.com opened their quaint restaurant in 1959 and has delighted its patrons from all around. Want less bling and more authentic Mexican Cuisine? El Parador is the perfect place for you! We stumbled across the delightful restaurant a number of years ago and have been regulars ever since. They know us by name and welcome us with smiles every visit. I book my reservations on Open Table as they can get very busy at dinner time. Enjoy the yummy margaritas, mole dishes, and FABULOUSwarm salsa and chips. Another favorite of mine is their Lobster Ceviche. For dessert, try the Mexican ice cream with spiked coffee. Brighten your home with some fresh cut flowers from the bodega across the street. Another one to try is rosamexicano.com. They gift wrap the flowers and while your at it, why not add some chocolates found up by the counter to make your gift even more special.

Shop This Story

The Paramour Suede edgy Maryjane pump takes me from day to night, looking stylish and festive. If you plan to do a lot of walking or if high heels are not for you, wear ballet flats or a simple sparkly flat shoe. Shop for these at jcrew.com and tamaramellon.com.

A festive faux fur coat, like the ones from coosy.es is even prettier in person and at an affordable price. They are based in Madrid, Spain and trust me, you will want everything from their online shop!