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Creative Concierge: My top 10 Paris tips

Every week we'll introduce you to a talented concierge from one of our hotel partners to give you their top 10 insider tips.

Every week we’ll introduce you to a talented concierge from one of our hotel partners to give you their top 10 insider tips.

This week we meet Monsieur Tony Le Goff, Head Concierge of the Shangri-La Hotel in Paris.

Born and raised in France and with a penchant for languages and history, Tony considers his position an opportunity to be an ambassador not only for Shangri-La group and its values, but also for Parisian culture, helping hotel guests discover museums, landmarks and hot spots while they stay in the capital.

1. One of my favourite things about the hotel is:

The Napoleonic references and the general history of the property, such as the rich collections assembled throughout the years by its founder (HIH Prince Roland Bonaparte) and the majestic decor that remains from the 19th century.

2. One of the things I love most about my job is:

Due to the smaller size of the hotel (101 rooms and suites) I can really get to know every single guest by name, which allows time enough to properly care for them.

3. One of my favourite memories as a concierge is:

My involvement in the choice and creation of two beautiful and unique “haute couture” wedding dresses for a guest with the help of one of the world’s most famous fashion designers.

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4. The question I’m most regularly asked is:

Q: Would you be able to give us some tips for visiting Versailles? Thankfully it’s hard to say how many times I have been there! As it is one of my preferred weekend destinations, I know it by heart so I always love to share my tips.

5. The item most people leave at the hotel is:

Their mobile charger

6. The strangest questions I’ve ever been asked is:

Can you provide us with entrance tickets to “La Bastille”? Sadly the Bastille fortress was been destroyed on Bastille Day (July 14) back in 1789.

7. I encourage all our guests to experience:

Let me take you to the “Bel étage” of the hotel (Noble Floor or 1st floor of the property), there are so many delightful stories to tell up there.

8. Don’t leave without trying:

The French chocolate crepes at “Carette”, Place du Trocadéro, just a five minutes walk from the hotel. They are to die for!

9. On my days off you will find me at:

The Paris flea market looking for bargains.

10. I recommend that keen shoppers visit:

Rive Gauche (Left Bank): my favourite itinerary is to leave the “Bon Marché” department store, and head towards “Place Saint-Germain des Près”, passing by Hermes, Berlutti, Shang Xia for some window shopping.

What are your top tips for things to do in Paris?