Bordeaux


 Our included tour of Bordeaux and the Wine Museum started at 9:15am, so we had time for omelettes in the buffet before heading ashore.

Another beautiful day, but chilly in the morning, about 10C. The first part of the tour was a bus tour of Bordeaux. We had a great guide, originally from England, but living in Bordeaux for a long time. This area was part of England for about 300 years, so it's a very popular place for Brits to come and live in.

Not that long ago Bordeaux was not a popular city. But about 30 years ago the Mayor decided to improve the city. The old warehouses along the river that were empty were knocked down, parks and promenades were built along the river. Tram lines put in to improve transportation, and the beautiful limestone buildings cleaned. Now it's a very dynamic city with many young people and a thriving economy. And a very desirable place to live. Apparently there are a lot of "Bo-bos" which is a combination of Bourgeoise and Bohemian.

It's a lovely city, as almost all the buildings are of limestone, and quite ornate. Many beautiful statues and arches as well. A great city to walk around. Just watch out for the bikes!

Next we went to la Cite du Vin, the wine museum. I could have spent all day there, so many interesting displays and interactive areas. There is an area about the History of Wine, another about wine regions around the world, another about the different aspects of wine- smell, tetcture, color etc, and wine culture.   The building it self is suppose to represent wine swirling in a glass. 

Afterwards the 2 Colleens and I walked over to the Chartron area and went to a small seafood restaurant for lunch. I wasn't too hungry, so ordered a starter of chilled sea bream with cucumber, radish and avacado. Really tasty. And a glass of white bordeaux of course. I then did a walk up the promenade to the bridge built (or at least paid by) Napolean. The tide is coming in and the current is very strong. The ferries are really working to get across. I also checked out the shopping area, and bought a new tam. Then back along the river the other way to see which River Cruise ships were in.

Six of us meet for Dinner tonight in La Terrezza for Italian food. This restaurant is on the 7th floor, so we have a lovely view of Bordeaux as we eat. The Puttanesca pasta and Eggplant Involetini were fantastic!
















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