Welcome to the Choose Paris Region Talent Stories series, where we highlight the journeys of international professionals who have chosen to build their lives and careers in the Paris Region.

Today, we are pleased to introduce Natali Goginashvili, an attorney specializing in intellectual property law, originally from Georgia. From her first impressions of Paris to her career in a leading European law firm, Natali shares what drew her to the region, the vibrant lifestyle she has found here, and her best advice for newcomers looking to make the most of Europe’s foremost hub for culture, innovation, and opportunity.

Tell us about your arrival in Paris Region

I moved to France from Tbilisi, Georgia, to study law at the University of Strasbourg. I spent my first few years in France living in Strasbourg before eventually moving to Paris. I had already visited Paris before, and I remember vividly how comfortable and at home I felt at first sight. With its wide, symmetrical boulevards, grand royal squares, and long bridges of Seine, Paris felt good. It is a city with a distinctive identity and charm, both elegant and a little rebellious. Beyond beauty, Paris offers exceptional career opportunities in almost every field, hosting many European and international companies, law firms, and university programs. It was therefore a natural next step for me. As soon as I completed my bachelor’s degree, I moved to Paris to begin internships in law firms and pursue a Master’s in Industrial Property Law at Paris II Panthéon-Assas University.

Where did you choose to live and why?

My first neighbourhood in Paris was the 15th arrondissement, near Convention, which is a cozy residential area. Parc Georges-Brassens where one of the city’s biggest book market is held on weekends, is certainly the highlight of the neighbourhood. The area is also relatively affordable, which makes it an excellent option for students and young professionals.

I now live in the “banlieue parisienne”, as the small towns surrounding Paris are affectionately called. While it is less vibrant than the city center, it offers great opportunities for young people looking to invest in real estate, while remaining well connected to central Paris. It’s also ideal for those who value a bit more space and who often host friends and family.

Tell us about your current job & what do you enjoy the most about working in Paris Region?

I am an attorney at Hoyng Rokh Monegier, a leading European law firm dedicated to intellectual property litigation. The firm has offices across Europe, including in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain, in addition to its Paris office. My practice focuses primarily on patent litigation, often in matters with a strong international dimension and spanning diverse industries, from pharmaceuticals to cutting-edge technology. This work offers a stimulating combination of legal precision, scientific complexity, and strategic depth, which is quite rewarding.
The firm is located in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris, that is rich with great lunch spots, bars and fitness studios, so that one can fit a lunchbreak Pilates session, followed by a nice Greek salad and afterwork drinks in the same day. The same can be said of many other neighbourhoods in Paris, which allows an active, fun lifestyle along with professional fulfilment.

What, according to you, are the perks of living in Paris Region?

If I try to capture it in one thought, it’s that you can never really get bored in Paris. There’s always a new exhibition opening, a little bistro everyone’s talking about, the artist you’ve had on repeat giving a concert in an intimate venue. One week it’s fashion week, the next it’s the Olympics, or suddenly your favourite writer is signing their new book. And because so many people pass through Paris, there’s always a friend or acquaintance in town, which can turn into a spontaneous coffee or a catch-up drink. And when you need a change of scenery, because Paris can be intense, it’s easy to hop on a train and be by the ocean or in Alpes within a couple of hours or take a flight for a long weekend in another European city.
From a professional perspective, the Paris Region hosts a wide range of French and international companies, firms and associations, along with regular conferences, colloquiums, and networking events. It’s the kind of environment where you naturally meet people from your field or which allows you to build bridges toward the career you want to shape.

Your favourite spot?

This is a tough one, but I’d probably choose the Château de Chantilly or Fontainebleau. Both are stunning to visit and perfect for a picnic or a hike.
Within Paris intra-muros, I love the Marais, especially the area around Arts et Métiers. It’s young, lively, and international, full of great fashion boutiques, independent bookstores, art galleries, and cozy coffee spots. You can wander around aimlessly there and still end up having a wonderful time.

What advice you would give to a newcomer to make the most of Paris Region?

I’d say just get out there and explore. Go to as many events as you can: cultural, professional, or just for fun. Keep an eye out for what’s coming up, because Parisians love to plan ahead and you have to be very lucky to find last minute spots. Be adventurous with food too, cause once you get a taste for French cuisine, there’s no turning back. And of course, make sure there’s an umbrella in your bag and a Pass Navigo in your pocket.

What was a “good surprise” when you got here?

Paris offers a much better work-life balance than some would say. Sure, people are always rushing - but half the time, they’re running to the cinema or to meet friends at a bar, not just to another meeting. Lunch is practically sacred here; eating at your desk is considered a last-resort emergency measure. I had expected Paris to feel much larger, but I was pleasantly surprised by how compact and well-connected the city is, and how easy it is to navigate not just the city itself but also the wider Paris Region. This makes it easy to enjoy cultural or social activities throughout the week, rather than reserving them for weekends only.

Now that you have been living in Paris Region, what stereotype do you believe to be wrong about the French?

That French can’t speak English. The truth is that most people are simple shy.

Inspired by Natali’s journey in the Paris Region? Thinking about advancing your career or starting a new chapter in one of Europe’s most dynamic economic hubs?

The Paris Region offers a unique blend of professional opportunities, cultural richness, innovation, and exceptional quality of life. Whether you're planning to relocate, explore job prospects, or learn more about living and working in the Paris Region, our team is here to support you.

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