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An Immersive Guide to Bordeaux

An Immersive Guide to Bordeaux Enlighten Excursions’ New Small Group Slow Travel Experiences Imagine strolling through a city where the scent of aged wine mingles with the salty breeze from the Garonne River… This is Bordeaux. Bordeaux is synonymous with exceptional wine, but there’s far more to this French gem than its world-renowned vineyards. Nestled in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, Bordeaux is a city that harmoniously combines its rich history with a vibrant contemporary art scene, stunning architecture, a totally cool welcoming culture, and exquisite gastronomy. We decided to write an Immersive Guide to Bordeaux to show that Bordeaux should be more than just a 1 or 2 day stop on a tour of France. This city offers something unique for every traveler and deserves a nice slow stay. So whether you’re a history buff, a wine connoisseur, a culture vulture, a foodie, or an art and architecture enthusiast, Bordeaux is waiting for you. Tokyo Japan, November 2024 – Japanese Tea Ceremony In recent years, the city of Bordeaux has undergone a remarkable transformation, making it one of the most dynamic and attractive destinations in France. As a native Washingtonian, I harbor mixed feelings about gentrification in general. But as a travel advisor it’s hard to deny that, with an increasing number of boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and cultural festivals, Bordeaux has never been more welcoming to travelers. Its pedestrian-friendly zones and the vast Place des Quinconces—the largest public square in France—make exploring the city a delightful experience. Adding to its allure, Bordeaux was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its superior mélange of modern structures with its outstanding collection of 18th-century architecture. The city’s modern infrastructure—including the innovative Chaban-Delmas bridge—blends seamlessly with its historic landmarks, creating a unique atmosphere. Bordeaux is easily accessible via Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD), the region’s major international airport, offering direct flights to numerous European cities anstd select long-haul destinations, making it a convenient gateway for travelers from around the world. And now, thanks to the high-speed TGV train, travelers can now reach Bordeaux from Paris in just two hours, making it an accessible destination for both quick getaways and immersive stays. One could even say the TGV ushered in Bordeaux’s gentrification. Bordeaux’s Local Culture What I have come to look forward to the most when I travel is authentic encounters with locals. The appeal of Bordeaux for me is its reputation for having a cool and laid-back local culture. The people are said to be incredibly friendly with an easygoing, balanced way of life that’s contagious. Apparently, the whole city seems to be a living example of joie de vivre. Here people savor every moment of life. From enjoying long lunches to playing a game of Pétanque at the park after work or school, there’s a real appreciation for quality time. Ahhh…. quality time. Lord knows I need to get me some of that! I can’t wait to pit my meagre Pétanque skills against those of local experts in one of the local Bordeaux parks! English is increasingly spoken in Bordeaux. And, bucking the stereotype that French people are rude, the Bordelais are typically welcoming, kind, and patient, especially with us wannabe French speakers. But proceed with caution my aspiring French speakers, as you’ll need to learn a few local expressions. In Bordeaux, in informal settings they say gavé bien instead of très bien (“very good”). This is slang. In a supermarket, clerks will ask you if you need une poche, or une poche plastique (a plastic bag), but never un sac, as is more common in France. In addition to avoir peur (to being afraid), folks in Bordeaux sometimes avoir les monges. Most importantly for my husband and all those who love pain au chocolat, here it’s called une chocolatine. You will never enjoy this Francophile favorite in Bordeaux if you don’t abide by this name. The daily lives of the Bordelais are filled with, not just work and school, but rugby games, soccer matches, and numerous events, each packed with energy, excitement, and a strong sense of ownership and local pride. All Bordelais will talk passionately about their local food, history and traditions. And of course, Bordeaux’s wine culture is impossible to escape. It’s something that’s woven into everyday life and celebrated at every opportunity, contributing to the city’s unique atmosphere. Le Jour de Foot, Photo by Herve Simone Photo by Gideon, Creative Commons Good to Know Before You Go Knowing a few things before embarking on your exploration of this city will save you from sadness and cursing. First, shops and some restaurants and museums are closed on Sundays. Many shops and museums are also closed either the entire day on Mondays or at least Monday mornings. Additionally, it can be hard to find a place to eat out between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm since many restaurants close for an extended lunch break. So, never assume anything when it comes to opening hours. Always call or ask someone. Bordeaux for History and Art Lovers Beyond its friendly locals and unique expressions, Bordeaux offers a wealth of cultural treasures for history and art enthusiasts. Bordeaux, a city with a rich and storied past, traces its origins back to ancient times when it was a Gallic settlement before becoming the Roman city of Burdigala in the 1st century BCE. Flourishing as a commercial hub, it later gained prominence under the rule of the Dukes of Aquitaine. In the 12th century, Bordeaux’s fortunes soared when Eleanor of Aquitaine’s marriage to King Henry II of England integrated the city into the English crown, establishing a lucrative wine trade with England that shaped its economy for centuries. Following the end of English rule in the 15th century, Bordeaux continued to thrive, particularly during the 18th century, when it became one of France’s most elegant and prosperous cities, thanks to its role in colonial trade and maritime commerce. Today, Bordeaux is celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its architectural beauty, historic landmarks, and its enduring legacy as one of the world’s premier wine

Ultimate Guide to Cruising: Virgin Voyages

Ultimate Guide to Cruising: Virgin Voyages Everything You Need to Know Embarking on a journey with Virgin Voyages is unlike any other cruise experience. With its adult-only atmosphere, unique approach to entertainment, and an emphasis on, smaller ships, modern technology, high-quality dining and personalized experiences, this cruise line has revolutionized traditional sailing. Whether you’re a first-time sailor or a seasoned cruiser, our Ultimate Guide to Cruising with Virgin Voyages will provide you with everything you need to know to select and make the most of your Virgin Voyages adventure. Virgin Voyages Sea Terrace Cabin The Amenities: Dining, Wellness & More Top Notch Amenities, Smaller Ships, More time in Destination Virgin Voyages, has redefined the cruising experience with its fleet of adult-only ships. Each vessel combines modern design, luxurious amenities, and diverse itineraries to offer travelers unique and memorable voyages. They distinguish themselves in the cruise industry by offering a more intimate and personalized experience through its smaller ship sizes and favorable passenger-to-crew ratios. Here’s an overview of the amenities you’ll enjoy on all Virgin Voyages sailings. General Amenities Across the Fleet Dining: Each ship offers over 20 dining venues, with fresh made to order meals, menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs, ensuring a diverse culinary experience without additional charges. Wellness: The ‘Vitamin Sea’ program emphasizes relaxation and rejuvenation, featuring spas, fitness centers, yoga classes, and outdoor workout areas. Entertainment: Virgin Voyages ships are known for their unique entertainment offerings, including immersive shows, live performances, and onboard events that encourage guest participation. Accommodations: Cabins are designed with a modern aesthetic and equipped with advanced technology, offering comfort and style. Inclusive Pricing: Voyage fares encompass essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, dining, group fitness classes, and gratuities, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience. Smaller Ships: The fleet consists of mid-sized ships, each with a guest capacity of around 2,700. This design choice fosters a more intimate atmosphere, allowing for enhanced personalized service and easier navigation of onboard amenities. In contrast, mass-market cruise lines often operate larger ships that can accommodate over 7000 passengers. The smaller size of Virgin Voyages’ ships enables access to ports that larger vessels cannot reach, offering guests unique itineraries and destinations. More Time in Destination: Virgin Voyages distinguishes itself from traditional cruise lines by offering extended port stays, allowing travelers to immerse themselves more deeply in each destination. For example, itineraries such as the seven-night voyage on the Scarlet Lady from Barcelona to Rome include an arrival in Ibiza Town at 7 pm with departure at 5 pm the following day, providing ample time to experience the local nightlife and culture. This approach contrasts with many mainstream cruise lines that often have shorter port calls, typically lasting only during daylight hours. Virgin Voyages’ commitment to longer stays offers passengers a more enriching and unhurried exploration of each locale. Hiroshima, Japan November 2025 The Ships: Cruising’s Most Modern Fleet So, you’ve read all about the fantastic amenities on board, and now you might be wondering—what actually sets each Virgin Voyages ship apart? Honestly, this is a tough one because no matter which ship you choose, you’re getting one of the most cutting-edge cruise experiences out there. Virgin Voyages has completely reimagined what cruising looks like in the modern age, combining bold design, top-tier technology, and an experience-first approach that makes every journey unforgettable. Each ship sports Virgin’s signature sleek, black-and-red exterior, while inside, you’ll find a futuristic vibe with bold patterns, vibrant colors, and custom lighting that adds to the energetic atmosphere. And when it comes to staying connected, Virgin Voyages leads the way—they were the first cruise line to roll out satellite-powered internet for seamless connectivity at sea. So, what makes each ship unique? Let’s dive into the details and break it all down for you. Here’s the 411 on the fleet! Scarlet Lady Routes: Scarlet Lady, launched in 2020, primarily sails from Port Miami, offering four- and five-night Caribbean itineraries. Destinations include Cozumel/Playa Del Carmen (Riviera Maya), Costa Maya (Mayan Sol), and Puerto Plata (Dominican Daze). Amenities: The ship boasts over 20 eateries curated by Michelin-starred chefs, a luxurious spa, multiple pools, fitness centers with complimentary classes, and unique entertainment venues. Notably, Scarlet Lady features ‘Squid Ink,’ the first tattoo studio at sea, and offers a variety of immersive shows and events. Valiant Lady Routes: Valiant Lady, launched in 2021, offers seven-night Mediterranean itineraries, departing from Barcelona. Ports of call include Ibiza, Toulon, Ajaccio, Marina di Carrara, and Cagliari. Amenities: Mirroring Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady provides a wide array of dining options, wellness facilities, and entertainment. The ship’s design emphasizes outdoor spaces, allowing guests to connect with the sea and destinations visited. Resilient Lady Routes: Resilient Lady, launch May 2023, sails from Athens, offering seven-night itineraries to the Greek Isles and Adriatic Sea. Destinations include Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, Dubrovnik, and Kotor. Amenities: In addition to the signature Virgin Voyages offerings, Resilient Lady features enhanced wellness programs, expanded entertainment options, and exclusive shore excursions tailored to the Mediterranean region. Brilliant Lady Routes: Brilliant Lady, launching this September, is set to embark on a tour across the USA, starting from the East Coast to the West Coast. From the picturesque shores of New England and Canada to the sun-drenched Caribbean, the breathtaking West Coast, and the majestic landscapes of Alaska, every itinerary promises an unforgettable journey. Amenities: Guests can anticipate the signature Virgin Voyages experience, including diverse dining options, and state-of-the-art wellness facilities. Additionally, Brilliant Lady’s shows, parties, and themed get-togethers promise to take the Virgin entertainment game to new heights. If you still can’t choose just reach out to Enlighten Excursions. We’ll help you get started. Getting Started: Booking and Check-In Virgin Voyages App & Check-In Process As soon as your voyage is confirmed, the first step is to download the Virgin Voyages app. This app is essential, acting as your digital key to all things onboard, including check-in, reservations, and itinerary details. Unlike other cruise lines that open

Introducing Learning Escapes

Introducing Learning Escapes Enlighten Excursions’ New Small Group Slow Travel Experiences Tokyo Japan, November 2024 – Japanese Tea Ceremony At Enlighten Excursions, we believe that travel is more than just sightseeing—it’s about deep cultural immersion, meaningful connections, and transformative experiences. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Learning Escapes, our new series of small-group slow travel adventures. These journeys are designed for intellectually curious travelers who value discovery, cultural authenticity, and the joy of learning while exploring the world at a relaxed and enriching pace. What Are Learning Escapes? Learning Escapes are meticulously curated small-group travel experiences offered at least four times per year, providing an opportunity to deeply engage with a destination’s history, culture, and people. Unlike fast-paced, checklist-driven tours, these journeys focus on immersion and personal connection, allowing you to truly absorb the essence of a place. With a maximum group size of around 12 travelers, these escapes provide the camaraderie of a group while maintaining an intimate and personalized feel. The Benefits of Attending a Learning Escape Deep Cultural Immersion Learning Escapes go beyond surface-level tourism. Through hands-on activities, expert-led discussions, and intimate local encounters, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the customs, traditions, and histories that shape each destination. Whether it’s a private cooking class in a Tuscan farmhouse, an archaeology-led tour of an ancient ruin, or a conversation with a local artisan in Morocco, each experience is designed to foster meaningful connections. Hassle-Free, Expert-Guided Travel Planning a culturally immersive trip can be overwhelming. Learning Escapes eliminate the stress by providing expertly curated itineraries, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics. Our experienced travel guides and local experts ensure that every detail is thoughtfully planned so that you can focus on enjoying the experience. Enriching, Educational Experiences Designed for lifelong learners, Learning Escapes incorporate storytelling, expert insights, and interactive experiences that make history, art, and culture come alive. Whether exploring the origins of classical music in Vienna or uncovering the geological wonders of Iceland, every journey offers the opportunity to expand your knowledge in a dynamic and engaging way. Small Group Camaraderie One of the greatest joys of travel is sharing experiences with like-minded individuals. Our small group format fosters a sense of community, encouraging stimulating conversations and friendships that often last long after the trip ends. Travelers who may not want to journey solo but also prefer a more intimate experience than large tours will find the perfect balance with Learning Escapes. Slow Travel for a More Meaningful Experience Learning Escapes embody the principles of slow travel—an approach that prioritizes quality over quantity. Instead of rushing from one attraction to the next, we encourage travelers to savor each moment, engage with locals, and develop a true appreciation for the places they visit. Hiroshima, Japan November 2025 The Benefits of Slow Travel Deeper Connection with Destinations Slow travel allows for a richer, more meaningful engagement with a place. Rather than skimming the surface, you have the time to immerse yourself in local traditions, cuisine, and daily life. Pictured above residents of Yokahoma, Province Japan kindly gave us a lesson in the art of making origami cranes. Reduced Travel Fatigue Rushing from one city to another can be exhausting. Slow travel promotes a more relaxed pace, allowing you to absorb the atmosphere and fully enjoy each experience without feeling overwhelmed. More Authentic Experiences When you take the time to explore a destination at a slower pace, you’re more likely to discover hidden gems, forge genuine connections, and experience a place as the locals do rather than as a hurried tourist. Sustainability and Responsible Tourism Slow travel encourages more responsible tourism practices by reducing the environmental impact of frequent transportation and supporting local businesses. Staying longer in fewer places allows for more meaningful engagement with local communities. Join Us on a Learning Escape Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first immersive journey, Learning Escapes offer the perfect blend of exploration, intellectual enrichment, and cultural connection. Our upcoming Learning Escapes will take you to some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, where history, art, and tradition come to life. Are you ready to experience travel in a whole new way? Join us on an upcoming Learning Escape and rediscover the joy of meaningful exploration. Upcoming Escapes