France is historically a Catholic country. A fact hard to miss when visiting here as one walks past the many churches, cathedrals and learns of it's many Catholic royals. Changes occurred after the French Revolution when freedom of religions was allowed. A stark separation between the church and the state was created in 1905, setting a precedence which presides today.
Tenerife is one of the Canary Islands, located off the West Coast of Africa in the Atlantic. Under four hours fight from Bordeaux, it’s a great escape for families and nature lovers!
Visiting Bordeaux is easy on a river cruise, be it Viking, Alma or Uniworld! Here are my suggestions to make the best of your time in Bordeaux on your cruise!
Capbreton has to be the best place to visit in SW France for the true lover of fresh fish. Sure, there are many coastal towns with fishing communities, but I have never enjoyed such fresh fish and seen such wonderful selections offered by fish mongers, as I have in Capbreton.
if you wanted to rent a car and explore the countryside of Gironde and Lot et Garonne (towards Dordogne), check these two stops out. Both Rouge Bordeaux and Chateau Ladausse are owned by couples who excel in hospitality, offer traditional French cooking classes and day trips around the region. You'll enjoy comfortable ensuite lodging in charming locations with hosts excited to share the best of their area!
Some Maison du Vin will offer classes or picnics if booked in advance, like in Podensac. They often have some bottles open for free tastings, or for small fees of around 5-10 EURO. I've been to locations in Sauternes and Entre Deux Mers where they have been able to make tasting reservations at the chateaux for me. They are an incredible resource. Saint Emilion has tasting classes, for example, to help you understand the different aromas in the local wines. There are often many chateaux to purchase in the Maison du Vin, from the larger names to some surprise smaller estates.
Named after the religious order that used to inhabit that area, the now famed covered market 'Marche des Capucins' is a sensory theme park. The noises, the smells, the stands of beautiful fruits and vegetables...maybe a local chef sighting as well?! It is best Wednesday-Sunday and often has seasonal finds that you cannot buy in other locations outside of the city, like wild garlic or cepes. When it first started in the 18th century, it was for the sale of cattle but over the next two centuries it morphed into what we see today. The covered roof was added in 1878 and still covers the 80 plus merchants inside.
Travel tips from a travel planner on the best days to book tours, flights and restaurants. Vineyards in Bordeaux often take the weekends off and many restaurants will have great lunch menus at half the price of dinner. What to do and when to do it!
Finally, the day has come (June 9), when Americans are allowed back into France with proof of vaccination and a negative PCR covid test. Here are some things to know before you book your flight :
One of the most authentic French countryside towns might be Bazas. Its arcaded town square, beautiful Saturday morning markets and unique yearly festivals are only a few of the reasons to visit.
Visting the historic center of Gironde, circa 1400. UNESCO Cathedral, Saturday Markets and Cultural Festivals.
Visit the historical culinary capital of the world, from the city of Paris to the countryside of Bordeaux during one week take in as much find dining and history as possible!
What is tricky about most wines in the Bordeaux region is that they vary in taste from house to house, based on different grape blends, materials used during aging, and the very unique distinction of terroir (environmental factors such as soil and climate). Around Saint Emilion you find lots of gravel, sand, limestone, and a special blue clay which can add different mineral or earthiness to the grapes.
Sweet wines and delicious Southwestern food.
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