Bordeaux reminded me of an afternoon on the countryside, riding through fields of sunflowers in my hubby’s 1996 convertible. A scarf around my neck, a vivacious red lipstick, hat off to the wind and my cat eye sunglasses. I am painting you a vivid image of what young and free looks like for me. For a split second I had no worries about what the next hours, days, weeks, months or years will bring. I was young and free.

Or that continuum state of freedom. Landscapes after landscapes. Vineyards after vineyards. The greenery is absolutely breathtaking. My aunt always took me through the less traveled neighborhoods, filled with intricate turns and mountainous roads. We went up and down and up and down. I remember closing my eyes to a light breeze traveling through the car, and thinking to myself, THIS IS HOME. THIS IS FREEDOM.

1. oNE OF THE MOST PICTURESQUE DESTINATION.

It has an absolutely breathtaking medieval vibe and perches above some renowned vineyards. Every restaurant setting has a different feel, and speaks to the feeling of wanting to be free. There is a great amount of preserved heritage to see; between its alleys, churches, half-timbered houses, old mills, and castles. It is my dream to have my destination wedding there, that is how beautiful the village is.

2. WINE ANYONE?

Have you really had good wine, if you haven’t tasted Bordeaux’s wine? Bordeaux is one of the leading French producers of wine in the world. Most of the wine produced in Bordeaux is red, with just a small selection of white wine. I strongly recommend a wine tour of the vineyards – see the intricate process of making perfectly dry wine to go with a bloody steak or whatever you like to eat. A tour is great because if you decide to stay in the heart of the city, the wineries and vineyards are on the outskirts.

My family resides on the countryside, just walking distance from the fields. I’ve had the finest wine because fortunately for me, my uncle works in a vineyard. The city is also a great location for a bachelorette party or honeymoon – in addition to visiting Paris. You can find flight tickets as cheap as $100 round trip, from Paris. Bordeaux is a 3 hours train ride from Paris, and the train tickets cost as low as $20 for a one way trip. Of course you have to plan strategically but it can be done for cheap.

3. ARCHITECTURE.

Bordeaux is an ancient city with a rich history. This can be seen in the architecture of over 5,000 buildings. Many of the museums in Bordeaux display artifacts from the World War II. Rue Saint Catherine, located right in the heart of the city, is the biggest shopping center in Europe. If you are a theater lover, the Bordeaux Grand Theater has hosted shows for over 250 years. Basking some more in the historical landscapes of the city, Place de la Bourse is a popular tourist landmark. It was built for the French ruler, Louis XV.

My family and I went for a walk around Saint Emilion, as the sun was setting. It wasn’t too crowded which allowed us to share intimate moments over ice cream and macaroons. Indeed one of my top favorite places in the world, I encourage you to go see it for yourself.

 P.S. The Bordeaux signature pastry is called “Caneles,” and they are a treat! Have one and remember me.
Wander with me today, wander alone tomorrow.  
Xx Kris