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