by Elena Kodinova

There are many things that some women like very much but have learned to resist. Like Google-stalking ex-boyfriends, popping blisters and pimples or peeling off manicures. The smartest tend to pursue socially acceptable guilty pleasures like shopping, spending half of their salary on a new hair-do, a massage with chocolate or a pink bra.

To seek out the best of these guilty pleasures in Bulgaria, however, you need a little help.

If you live in Sofia, the spring offers at The Mall will be a pleasant surprise. Bulgarians consider March to be a lady's month – and so do the management of the biggest shopping centre in Sofia. The retailers in The Mall have special offers for the new Spring/ Summer collections that blend cutting edge trends and attractive prices. Got one or more kids? Then don't miss activities like the School for Parents (9 and 23 March) and the National Geographic Kids' Exhibition (19 March-9 April).

Jewellery, not just diamonds, is a woman's best friend, and if you are looking for a particularly good friend try the Silver Passion shop. This company was established in 2008 by experienced dealers in silver products who understand the complicated jewellery market intimately. They owe their success to their undying passion for silver jewellery, their careful selection of materials and their professional attitude to clients. Some of their jewels combine silver with high quality materials like Murano glass, stingray leather and enamel. Others have exquisite motifs inspired by ancient cultures, engraved on both sides and with natural gems and fossils embedded in them.

If you shop mainly for high quality items – and take pleasure in displaying them in front of your friends – More Cashmere is just for you. Soft and delicate, this wool fabric is in a class of its own and has earned a treasured place in the heart and the wardrobe of every stylish lady. The products in More Cashmere are made from the highest quality Mongolian cashmere and the finest of white cashmere to produce vibrant colours.

Can't manage a shopping spree in the fashion capitals of Europe? Then prepare your bank account for a visit to the recently opened Sarah Pacini establishment in Sofia. There you will find Holi, the brand's new collection for Summer 2011. The shapes are simple and pure, the weaves provide maximum comfort and give the collection a vintage air. Steadfast basics are, of course, re-introduced. Sober and subtle blends allow for minimalist details. Central to Sarah Pacini, cool wool fuses with linen and bamboo blends, to allow the possibility of structure or ethno-chic effects. The knitwear remains ultra-feminine and adds richness and fluidity to the silhouette. An air of mystery is achieved with diaphanous knitwear that is endowed with a touch of metal giving the illusion of a shiny print.

Another world-famous brand for hiking boots, outdoor clothing and products for active sports is also available in Sofia – Timberland. In their new collection performance meets beauty. Whether you’re riding your bike or running around town, their shoes are meant for all-day performance with durable organic cotton canvas and comfortable Anti-Fatigue technology. The collection for women is feminine and stylish, and made with Green Rubber ™ outer soles and recycled PET linings for a lighter footprint.