Just back from a week in sunny Bordeaux. What a fantastic city to visit. Having assumed that it would have a ‘big city’ feel, I was pleasantly surprised by how compact and friendly it felt. The city itself has had a lot of work done to it over the last 10-20 years, from a new tram system to redevelopment of the quays, with the highlight being the ‘Miroir d’eau’ a reflective pool at Place de Bourse which has become a favourite of citizens and tourists alike. We saw many toddlers paddling in it ! At night the quays were alive with music, salsa dancing and open air movies.For die hard shoppers, you will be glad to know that the city boasts the longest pedestrianised shopping street in Europe in Rue St. Catherine. As I was there with my sister we spent many happy hours up and down the street breaking for a coffee and croissant in one of the many cafes off its side streets. The tram system is easy to use and cheap too with a ticket costing €1.50 and valid for an hour on all trams and buses. This is very handy for getting in from the airport to the city centre. All tram stops have ticket dispensers. We also went by train (35 minutes) from Gare St Jean to Saint Emilion. The pretty village is awash with wine stores and related souvenirs. We took the ‘petit train’ around the vineyards and to a tour and wine tasting at Chateau Rochebelle.In Bordeaux, the self directed walking tour (maps from the tourist office), Museum of Decorative Arts and ‘Petit train’ audio tour are well worth considering. Don’t miss the Sunday morning flea market at Place St. Michel. La belle Bordeaux !!
deisequeenontour 