Geraldine Dobey may hail from Ireland, but she comes off like a Paris native. Having lived in France’s capital for 20 years, she has fallen for the City of Light.
“The French way of life, l’art de vivre, culture, food, wine, architecture,” she says, listing the reasons she loves the city. “Paris has the best of everything that life can offer.”
Dobey served as the area vice president of operations and general manager based at Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, Paris but recently was promoted to group director of quality, overseeing service excellence throughout Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s properties worldwide.
To help guide your next Paris trip, she offers insider recommendations on everything from the best activity that tourists don’t know about to where to get the flakiest croissants.
What’s the best season to visit the city?
I love Paris in spring; the parks are beautiful, filled with blossoms and flowers. And with the onset of longer evenings, the terrasses fill up with a wonderful blend of Parisians and tourists enjoying the first signs of warm weather.
Aside from the Eiffel Tower, what are Paris’ must-visit attractions?
I love the Covered Passages of Paris. These sheltered lanes are so Parisian and less known to tourists. You have so many restaurants, wine bars, authentic shops and cool art galleries to discover. And surrounded by beautiful architecture guarantees a very special insight into a bygone time.
What are Paris’ best under-the-radar attractions?
The Gainsbourg House, situated in the heart of St Germain. This was the home of one of the most important figures in French pop, Serge Gainsbourg. When you visit, you have the impression that he is still there.
If you are visiting Paris as of spring 2025, I suggest going just outside of the city center to Meudon to visit the House of Rodin. The gardens are beautiful, and the villa and sculpture studio provide a comprehensive introduction to Rodin’s life and art.
What culinary experiences do you recommend in Paris?
Go and eat something in the Marché des Enfants Rouges, a beautiful covered market. A less famous option would be the Marché Poncelet, where you can find pastry shops of renowned chefs such as Alain Ducasse and Cyril Lignac.
What’s one dish everyone should try in Paris?
Crepes. So very French, accessible and everyone loves them. The restaurant Brutus is a great place to go for this Parisian experience.
What are Paris’ can’t-miss restaurants?
I have three restaurants that I really love in Paris: Capitaine, Pavyllon and Table.
What are your favorite Paris bars?
Bar Nouveau. The name is short for Art Nouveau, which has inspired this small bar that features vintage vermouths, liqueurs and more.
Where can you find the best croissant in the city?
In the Camélia restaurant at Mandarin Oriental, Paris, Julien Dugourd offers the best croissants ever. And it’s impossible to resist the other delicious breakfast pastries on display.
Where do you go to relax in Paris?
Parc Monceau, it’s a great place for jogging or to have a picnic with the family.
What’s an unusual activity that tourists may not know about?
A hot air balloon ride to get a bird’s-eye view of Paris. It takes off from inside the Parc André Citroën in the 15th Arrondissement.
What adventures do you recommend in Paris?
Try cycling your way around the city. There are so many cycle routes now and with Vélib [a sharing service for bikes and e-bikes], everyone has access to a bicycle.
What’s the best way to experience Paris’ rich culture?
Take a walking tour with a guide. Learn some of the history of the city as you are guided through Parisian streets and visiting some must-see monuments along the way.
What’s a must-visit Paris museum?
If you’re visiting during the festive season, the Musée des Arts Forains is truly magical for children. The Montmartre museum and the surrounding Renoir Gardens are also a must.
Where’s the best place to enjoy Paris’ art scene?
There is a wonderful free urban art exhibition “We Are Here” at Le Petit Palais. It’s been extended until January 19. Street art, paintings, sculptures and traditional objets d’art offer an eclectic ambiance, with a mix of generations and cultures for all art lovers to enjoy.
What’s a trendy neighborhood worth exploring?
The 9th Arrondissement, rue des Martyrs, Pigalle and Montmartre. So very Parisian.
Where can you find the hottest nightlife in Paris?
L’Arc is really one of the best night clubs in Paris, and the location, around the Arc de Triomphe, is exceptional.
What is your favorite green space in the city?
The Bois de Boulogne. For running, cycling, boating, picnics, so many Parisians come together there every weekend
What are the best souvenirs to bring home from Paris?
This is maybe more oriented toward the ladies, but I recommend perfume. And I love the Serge Lutens store in the Palais Royal Garden.
Where’s the best place to go shopping in Paris?
Rue Saint-Honoré, between the Place Vendôme and Place de la Madeleine, a quintessential Parisian street where you can find all the best and trendiest luxury brands. And Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche. Just visiting this department store is an experience in itself.
Where can you find the best views of the city?
From the top of the Arc de Triomphe.
Share an insider tip about your city.
Parisians love to walk the city. Avoid taxis whenever possible.
What’s your favorite room service order?
Omelet and fries.
What’s your favorite hotel amenity?
Sleep tea. When I am on the road, I often find it hard to switch from go-go-go to rest and relax, and a sleep tea helps me ground and relax from the day and lulls me right to sleep.
What’s been your proudest accomplishment?
Being able to enjoy working in this amazing profession and maintain a family-life balance with my husband and two daughters.
