The date has been set. France’s Finance Minister has announced that Les Soldes d’hiver– the Winter Sales– will debut on January 9, 2008. Cure the winter blues in the world’s fashion mecca when the chic boutiques and grands magasins slash their prices and the French run around in a maniacal frenzy. Why such madness? Because sales events are allowed by law only twice a year (also in July). The choice of digs in Paris is simple. Book a room at the glamorous Hôtel Plaza Athénée, the landmark palace which celebrates the pleasure of luxury. The quality of service is unrivaled, the dining room is world-renowned (Alain Ducasse is the boss here), and Le Bar is the city’s contemporary and trendy meeting spot.