bordeaux travel podcast

Travel to Bordeaux, France – Episode 536

Hear about travel to Bordeaux, France as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jennifer Dombrowski from luxadventuretraveler.com about her new hometown in one of France’s most famous wine regions.

“A lot of people didn’t come to Bordeaux. They knew about Bordeaux because it was such a famous French wine, but it wasn’t a place that people realized was even the name of a city in France. For so long the many wine châteaux around Bordeaux were really closed off to the public. All of the wine was really sold off in wine auctions long before it even goes into the bottles and there wasn’t much wine tourism that was going on here.”

“But now the city has really revitalized itself, especially in the last year, and there are a lot of unique wine tours that are happening here. The wine châteaux are opening up to the public. You can visit these beautiful almost castle-like fairytale-like vineyards and even many of them have shops now where you can purchase wine. It’s a great time to come to Bordeaux.”

Jennifer guides us around the old city with its old towers, cathedral and historic port. The port building used as a graphic for this episode is a UNESCO listed site.

You can’t have wine without enjoying some good food as well after all this is France, so Jennifer guides us to some of her favorite local restaurants in Bordeaux.

She also gets us outside of the city to Europe’s largest sand dune and of course to some of the wine châteaux. For something different she even recommends a tour to the various châteaux clinging to the back of a Harley Davidson.

After discovering Bordeaux on a Viking River Cruise , hear why a location independent travel blogger would choose Bordeaux when she could live anywhere.

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Lux Adventure Traveler Viking River Cruises – Châteaux, Rivers & Wine cruise Bordeaux Bordeaux Tourism Intercontinental Grand Hotel  ( reviews | check prices Booking.com |   Expedia ) Harley Davidson wine tour ( reviews ) Port Cailhau tower visit La Salle a Manger des Chartrons Restaurant ( reviews ) La Cite du Vin Dune de Pilat Hasnaa Chocolat Grand Crus Marche des Capucins The Port of the Moon Le Pressoir d’Argent, Bordeaux Dune of Pilat Bordeaux’s Food and Wine Scene

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Chris : Amateur Traveler, episode 536. Today, the Amateur Traveler talks about vineyards, a wine festival, a wine museum, and then some other stuff. But basically, we’re talking about wine, because we‘re going to Bordeaux in France.

Chris : Welcome to the Amateur Traveler. I’m your host Chris Christensen. Stay tuned after this episode for an update on the two tours that we’re doing next year with Amateur Traveler. But now, let’s talk about Bordeaux.

I’d like to welcome to the show Jennifer Dombrowski from luxeadventuretraveler.com, who’s come back to talk to us about another part of France. Jennifer, welcome back to the show.

Jennifer : Thanks, Chris. It’s nice to be back.

Chris : And you happen to be living in France now.

Jennifer : I am. I am living in Bordeaux.

Chris : It’s a dirty thankless job. But somebody’s got to do it.

Jennifer : That’s absolutely right.

Chris : And you pitched Bourdeaux, not that it was difficult, definitely a region I’d love to talk about. But we haven’t yet on the show. But why should someone come to Bordeaux?

Jennifer : I was here a year ago. And even just a year before I moved to Bordeaux, a lot has changed. And it’s funny, because a lot of people didn’t come to Bordeaux. They knew about Bordeaux, because it’s such a famous French wine.

Chris : We’ve drunk Bordeaux, yeah.

Jennifer : But it wasn’t a place that people realize is even actually the name of a city in France. And for so long, the many wine chateaux around Bordeaux were really closed off to the public. All of the wine was sold in wine auctions long before it even goes into the bottles. And there wasn’t much wine tourism that was going on here. But now the city has really revitalized itself, especially in the last year. And there’s a lot of really unique wine tours that are happening here. The wine chateaux are opening up to the public. You can visit these beautiful, almost castle like fairy tale like vineyards. And you can taste the wines. And even many of them have shops now where you can actually purchase some of the wines right there from the chateaux. So it’s a great time to come to Bordeaux.

Chris : It’s interesting how that didn’t take off in Europe as soon as it took off in California, for instance. And I think a lot of Americans, when they went over, expected that there would be wine tastings everywhere. There’d be tourists. There’d be shops and all of that, just kind of some of these very, very classic wine regions.

Jennifer : That’s really true. I’ve been to Napa Valley. And it’s a very…I hate to say commercialized wine tourism there is. Every chateau has some sort of tasting tour. And a lot of times, you don’t have to even book them in advance. You can kind of show up. And they actually hire people that are solely responsible for doing the tours. But it’s really different here. And especially I think it’s hard for Americans to understand. You think of these just massive wine producers especially here in Bordeaux. And it’s really hard to even fathom that these wine chateaux that are turning out millions of bottles of wine each year have a staff of maybe 10 or 15 people.

Chris : Interesting.

Jennifer : So they don’t have someone that is solely responsible for conducting wine tours. And when they do have wine tours, they really have to stop all of their other wine-related activities to have someone come and do a tour for you. So I think that’s the difference in visiting some place like Napa Valley where wine tourism is an industry and coming here to France where the winemakers themselves are often doing the tours for you. And they want you to come and visit them. But it’s really essential to book appointments in advance. They’re very proud to show off their wine chateau. But they need that advance notice to take the time out to visit with you and show you around and properly have you taste their wine.

Chris : Let’s put Bordeaux on a map for people who may not have a picture of France in their mind. Where are we here?

Jennifer : So we’re in the very southwest corner of France. So if you’re looking at a map of Europe, you’re gonna find Bordeaux just above the border of Spain and slightly in from the Atlantic Ocean.

Chris : In the old historic region of the Aquitaine?

Jennifer : Yes, exactly.

Chris : Excellent. Which was for many, many years English, but not in recent years, going back to the days of Richard the Lionheart at that point. Excellent. So what do you recommend for an itinerary for Bordeaux?

Jennifer : A lot of people come. And the way that most people are visiting Bordeaux right now is on a lot of the river cruises. But I think it’s worth spending time and coming here to the city. So you definitely wanna allot at least a few days to stay right in the city of Bordeaux. We have a new wine museum, which has been treated as the sort of Disneyland of wine museums. And it’s called La Cite du Vin. That’s right here in the heart of the city of Bordeaux. And it really takes a few hours to go through. And it’s a museum that’s not just about Bordeaux wine. It’s about all of the world’s greatest wine regions. And the visit ends with a wine-tasting on the very top floor with a gorgeous panoramic view of Bordeaux. Even if you’re not so into visiting museums, it’s worth it for that wine-tasting at the end alone.

Chris : Now, you mentioned that people are visiting Bordeaux on river cruises. And I had to look up…I honestly couldn’t have told you what river Bordeaux was even on.

Jennifer : It’s actually situated on the Garonne River. And it sort of goes off into a Y of the Dordogne. And then it flows out into the Atlantic Ocean. So people are coming to Bordeaux a lot of times on the river cruises. And it’s a little bit different than the typical river cruises, if you’ve been on one in Europe, because of the way the river is situated on this Y. So you kind of do a little bit of backtracking. I’ve been on the Viking river cruise through Bordeaux here. And you visit places like Cadillac. And also, you can go to Cognac and visit some of the Cognac houses, like Hennessy. And you can even blend your own Cognac from their barrels there. So that’s a really interesting experience. And you get a bottle of Cognac to take home with you.

Chris : And Cognac being a distilled wine, if I remember my les coeurs correctly?

Jennifer : Yes, it’s like a brandy. So, of course, it’s still made from grapes. But it’s much stronger. And you would have it as an after-dinner drink. And you can visit a lot of different…the chateaux, do pours, St. Emilion, which is on the left bank. And then you can visit the Medoc, which is where the really famous wine chateaux like Lafite-Rotschild are located, on the left bank. So you can do all of those things on a river cruise. But even though you see a lot, it still feels a bit rushed to me. Whereas, if you come and you spend the time in the city, you can do a lot of these things now all on your own. And they’re easily accessible from right here in Bordeaux.

Chris : So where would you home-base, first of all. You’d home-base in Bordeaux itself?

Jennifer : You can definitely home-base in Bordeaux. There are some really fantastic hotels that are here in the city. And there are vineyards that are quite close that you can reach within 15 minutes from the city even on public transportation, which is great because, of course, France has very, very strict drinking and driving laws. So it’s great when you can get out to the wineries on public transportation and not have to worry about driving out there and indulging a little too much.

Chris : Okay. So you started us at the wine museum. Where should we go next?

Jennifer : There’s a lot of great things to do in Bordeaux. And if you’re not into wine, there’s things to do for the non-drinkers and even for families as well. So in Bordeaux, we have more listed historical buildings than any other city in France outside of Paris, of course. So there’s just a lot of really beautiful architecture here. The city has the nickname “The Sleeping Beauty,” because this was a city that was a port city, had a lot of shipping. And so, of course, with all of the boats coming in and the industry that was here, you had a lot of pollution. And the buildings are made from a beautiful and very porous granite and limestone. And so they absorbed all this black soot from when this was an industrial port. And so for many, many years, the buildings were covered in the sort of black grime just from years and years of pollution.

And over the last couple of years the mayor has offered tax credits to residences and businesses to go ahead and do a cleaning up their buildings. And so now, the city, it’s so gorgeous. It’s this very soft creamy color. And the buildings have been cleaned. And it’s very sunny here. This is one of the sunniest places in France, actually. And when you have that golden hour when the sun’s getting ready to set and it illuminates the buildings on the soft light, it’s my favorite time of day to sort of just stroll around and take in the beautiful buildings of the city.

Chris : Well, and you mentioned the beautiful buildings and the port. And I see that part of the old port is actually a UNESCO world heritage site, the Port of the Moon.

Jennifer : Yes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, of course, if you’re interested in visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world, this is a great place to come and stroll around for that reason as well. And there’s a lot of great rooftop views that you can get of the city. Bordeaux was a fortified city once upon a time. And so we have these old gates that are still left from when the wall surrounded the city. And there are several of them that you can climb up the staircases to the top and get gorgeous views over all of the old Roman parts as well as the newer neoclassical parts. And it’s just so gorgeous to see where those two different times come together and how it’s melded.

Chris : Is there a particular gate you would recommend we climb up?

Jennifer : I have several that I really like. There’s one that’s right along the river. And that’s my…I think my favorite viewpoint, because you cannot only look over the river, but you also have Le Miroir d’eau, which is a water mirror. It’s the largest water mirror reflecting pool in the world, actually. And it’s situated just across from Place de la Bourse, which is where the famous classifications of the Bordeaux wines took place. And it’s just this really, really gorgeous spot. And so you can climb up the gate there, have this view over the water mirror, over the Place de la Bourse. And then you can turn around and sort of look into the heart of the city, and you see the spires of the cathedrals sticking up. And you can see the cobbled streets of the old sort of medieval part of the town winding through and just see people enjoying themselves as they do here in Bordeaux. So that would be my favorite one to go up to. And, of course, that’s just a viewpoint.

But if you’re wanting to take in some wine with a viewpoint, you can go to the very heart of the city, to the Intercontinental Grand Hotel. And they have a rooftop bar there, and you can get a glass of wine and really sort of be in the middle of it all and looking around you and see everything that’s going on while enjoying your wine. So that would be my other favorite.

Chris : Okay. And you mentioned a medieval center, and I see buildings going back to 1096 and 12th century and those sort of things. But you also mentioned some Roman parts of the city.

Jennifer : We have a part of a coliseum that remains. It’s called the Palais Gallien. And there’s sort of different stories about how it came to be or the time that it’s from. But it does date back to Roman times. And there’s just a little bit of ruins left of it that are remaining. And you can sort of stand on a terrace and look out over the ruins that are remaining of the Palais Gallien. And you can picture what it was like to sit in the stands and take in the different events that they would have had there. And that’s actually a free thing to do here in the city. So it’s about 10 minutes strolling in from the river. It’s very easy to access. And it’s a beautiful viewpoint that a lot of tourists don’t actually know about.

Chris : Okay. What else should we do?

Jennifer : Aside from the La Cité du Vin, which is the wine museum, there’s a lot of other great museums that are here in Bordeaux. So you can go to the modern art museum. There’s a history museum. So you can take in the different parts of history that happened here throughout Bordeaux and France.

Aside from museums, there’s a lot of food-related things to do here in Bordeaux. This is a really great foodie city. One of my favorite places to go is the Marches des Capucins. And this is an indoor market that is open daily in the morning time, very early from 5:30 in the morning until about 1:00 in the afternoon. And everyone that lives here in Bordeaux goes there to buy their fresh produce and things. But there’s a lot of people that are selling things like fresh oysters from the bay of Arcachon. And so you can get six oysters and a glass of wine for five euro and enjoy that or a steamed pot of mussels that are cooked in wine and creme fresh. So there’s different food things that you can do at the market even if you’re just visiting. So it’s well worth going to.

Chris : And you mentioned foodie. Do you have other favorite restaurants in town that you would recommend either for fancy occasions or simple dining?

Jennifer : I have favorites for both. The great thing about Bordeaux is that it is being revitalized. And so we have some of the world’s most famous chefs setting up shop here. Gordon Ramsay has two different restaurants here. One is a bistro, which is more affordable. And really anyone can dine there. And then, of course, he has a Michelin starred restaurant. So if you really want to indulge, you can go there. There’s a lot of young chefs that are also coming to Bordeaux who are very innovative. And they’re mixing the Southwestern French cuisine that this region is known for with more modern techniques. And so there’s a lot of great places to come and eat in the city. I think that we could probably spend two or three hours alone discussing just that. But one of my favorites is a little place that is only open for lunch, three days a week. And it has a set menu.

Chris : And when we say a set menu, we don’t always talk about this on Amateur Traveler, so I wanna make sure that if somebody’s listening for the first time, so a fixed menu where there’s an entrée and an appetizer and a little wine with it and a dessert, all for one fixed price.

Jennifer : Right. So you don’t have choices between what you’re going to choose for your appetizer, you’re entree. The menu is set for the day. And it’s typically posted on a chalkboard. So you can definitely take a look at that before you sit down and decide maybe the cuisine of the day isn’t for you.

Chris : And well, and set by the chef with whatever is fresh today too, since we’re in France.

Jennifer : Right. That’s the thing about these set menus is that they change so often, because the chef does prepare everything from fresh ingredients. They go to places like the Marche des Capucins, and they pick out the vegetables that are in season, the fish that has been freshly caught, the meats that are fresh from the farmers in the region. And so they create their menus based on what they can obtain fresh for that day. So it changes. And they don’t often post their menus online for you to look at it in advance, just because it’s really hard to say…

Chris : What they’re gonna find that morning, yeah.

Jennifer : …what’s gonna be fresh. We were talking about one of my favorite little places that’s sort of more affordable than, say, Gordon Ramsay Michelin-starred restaurant here in Bordeaux. And this place is great too, because it’s also a little wine shop. And so they have fantastic wine pairings. You can pick up bottles of wine there to purchase as well. It’s called La Salle a Manger des Chartrons. And like I said, it’s open only for lunch, and it’s only a few days of the week, Wednesday through Friday for lunch, and has the set menu. But it’s quite affordable. And you can have the wine pairings. So it’s a really good favorite choice of mine here in Bordeaux for an affordable meal.

Chris : Okay. And for those people who can’t make out when we’re talking about things French, we’ll have links to all these things in the show notes. Excellent. Where to next?

Jennifer : One of the ways that you can tour around Bordeaux…and this is more of a summer activity. It’s down now for the season. But there’s a company that will take you on a Harley Davidson tour of the vineyards. I think that’s a really cool way to…that’s interesting to go out and have a different experience taking in the vineyards as you sort of ride through the rolling hills of nearby St. Emilion.

Chris : Now, am I riding a bike, or am I in a sidecar or hanging on the back for dear life?

Jennifer : Hanging on the back for dear life. They don’t allow you to rent and drive the Harley yourself because of the strict laws here with motorcycles in France. And so the guide has a helmet that has a radio where you can talk to each other. And you can hear what they’re saying as they point out different sites, since you have all that wind that’s whipping over you as you ride on the Harley. So you do ride with the guide. And they have multiple Harleys. So if you’re coming with a friend or a group, you can all go and do this together. So that’s one of the interesting ways that you can tour around.

Chris : And you haven’t lived there quite all year round yet. But what would you recommend is the best time to come to Bourdeaux?

Jennifer : So far, my experience has been that the weather is always fantastic. Right now, we’re into fall. But it’s still very lovely weather. Of course, all of the wine has been harvested now. And so you’ve got the fall colors that are on the vines. I think that when you decide that you want to come really depends on what you want to see. If you want to see the grapes on the vines, I would really recommend coming in July to August. Even though the French take their holidays and a lot of things like smaller businesses like the cheese shops and things close down, they really only affect the local people. And what’s great about coming in August is the city is really, really empty. But this is not the time that the wine chateaux take their vacations.

Chris : Oh, interesting.

Jennifer : This is the time that they’re really, really busy, because they’re starting to gear up for the harvest, which will start to happen in late September and early October. So they’re doing a lot of things like trimming the vines. And they’re really open to welcoming people to the chateaux during that time. So it’s a great time to come if you want to go visit wine chateaux and see the beautiful green vines with the grapes that are starting to ripen.

Coming up soon, the Christmas market is starting to set up. So there’s a big Christmas market here in December. It actually starts the 24th of this month, November, and will run until the day before Christmas time. So you can come in winter time and experience something a little bit different with the very festive holiday season, the little wooden chalets set up for Christmas markets. And you can buy a lot of locally made handicrafts from artists and buy a lot of different food items, of course, have vin chaud, which is mulled hot wine and roasted chestnuts. So that’s another favorite time of mine to visit Europe and France, in particular, during the holiday season.

And, of course, spring is beautiful, because you have all of the flowers in bloom. The vines are just starting to get their leaves again. So it’s a really nice time of the year to come. It’s not too hot yet. And, again, not everyone is here in a crowded summer season.

Chris : Okay, excellent. Where to next?

Jennifer : So you can also do a lot of great day trips from Bordeaux. The great thing about Bordeaux is that it’s not all just about wine and food. You have to do things to work off the wine and food. So Europe’s largest sand dune is actually located just outside of Bordeaux. And you can climb up the sand dune. It’s called the Dune du Pilat. And you can climb up the front side of the sand dune. And if you’re really adventurous, you can do things like paragliding off of the top of the sand dune and landing in the Atlantic Ocean. Or you can climb down the backside of it, which goes right down to the Atlantic Ocean. On the front side, there’s a staircase to make it easy to get to the top and have this gorgeous view over the Bay of Arcachon. But if you decide to climb down the backside of it to go to the beach where you’ll find virtually no one, you do have to trek back up a very large and high sand dune. And I’ve done it. And it will definitely work off everything that you’ve eaten in France in a week in your hour-trek back up that dune.

Chris : Well, it looks like they’re putting the height here as I look it up at about 110 meters. So three hundred feet, so that’s quite a few stories, 20 stories or something like that.

Jennifer : Yes. It’s pretty high. It’s really spectacular to see. Looking out from the top, you see what’s called the Bay of Arcachon. You have all of these sort of sandbars where France’s majority of their oysters come from. So you can visit not only the dune, but you can go and visit some of the oyster farmers and eat the freshest oysters that you will ever have in your entire life. I didn’t used to be an oyster fan until I came here last year. And I had my arm twisted into trying them. And now, I’m a fan. They’re the best oysters in the world.

Chris : Okay. Are there other side trips we should do from Bordeaux?

Jennifer : Spain is actually quite close. And we have Pyrenees as well. So within an hour of Bordeaux in the wintertime, you can go skiing. In the summer, spring, and fall, you can go hiking in the Pyrenees. So there’s a lot of outdoor things to do. We talked about the rivers earlier on. And I mentioned the Dordogne River. And there’s a lot of kayaking that you can do on the Dordogne River. And there are some really, really beautiful villages that sit up on cliffs. And you can kayak from village to village in the Dordogne. And so that’s another great outdoor thing to do here in Bordeaux.

Chris : Well. And for listeners of this show, we did an episode on the Dordogne recently. And so this is actually some place that is fairly close to there. So it’s someplace that’s easy to combine the two potentially in a longer trip.

Jennifer : I think that’s one of my favorite things about Bordeaux is that it combines all of the things that I love together, having that outdoors so readily available, yet having a bustling, really lively, exciting city to be part of outside of my doorstep.

Chris : Excellent. Now, you have been living in Italy for years. I’m getting the impression you’re still learning French?

Jennifer : I am definitely still learning French.

Chris : How hard is it to get by without being a native French speaker in Bordeaux?

Jennifer : I think as far as coming here as a tourist, you’re fine. English is not very widely spoken in Bordeaux like it is when you go to Paris. And so it’s definitely been more challenging living here, because all of the things that come to daily life, like finding an apartment and setting up my utilities, have been dealing with people that don’t speak any English. And I did not speak French before I came here. And so I’m learning. But as someone that’s visiting the city, I don’t think it’s any reason to be concerned about not being able to communicate. The people that work in restaurants and shops and all of the museums and activities that I’ve mentioned, they have those available in English. Most wineries speak English. And when you visit their website, when you’re deciding which wine chateaux that you do want to visit, they will list the languages that are available. So if you’re not a French speaker and they don’t offer a tour in English, that’s probably not the best wine chateau for you to visit. But it’s relatively easy for someone that’s visiting the city to get about without speaking French.

Chris : Before we get to my last questions, were there other things you wanna cover?

Jennifer : I am every day just delving into the city and the surroundings more and more. And so it’s something that I’ve been writing about on my website, Luxe Adventure Traveler. So definitely, come and follow me there, because…

Chris : You’re still discovering.

Jennifer : I’m still discovering. And every day, it’s something new that I discover or a new chocolate shop. Like this new one that’s Chocolats Hasnaa has just recently opened. And now this is the best chocolate shop in Bordeaux. And they’ve just received the award for the best chocolate shop in France. There’s all of these new things that are always happening here to discover. So it’s really hard to say, “Oh yes, you have to do this or that.” So I’m working on writing a guide, because there isn’t a whole lot of information out there on Bordeaux.

Chris : What’s the best day you’ve spent in Bordeaux so far?

Jennifer : Sundays are oddly my favorite day in Bordeaux. And I say oddly, because it’s a place that’s still very traditional. And Sunday is a day of rest, and not a whole lot is open. But one of my favorite farmers markets happens every Sunday on the quay, which is along the riverside. It’s the Marche des Chartrons. And there you can go and eat all of these wonderful things. And I do my weekly shopping. My dog lives here with me in France. So we go together every Sunday. And we kind of relax and have some wine along the river, some fresh oysters, do our fruit and veggie shopping for the week. And then I usually stop on the way home and have a glass of wine outside a terrace, outside one of the many, many wine bars that are here in Bordeaux. So those days that I can just really enjoy my surroundings and sort of soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful city are my favorite times.

Chris : Okay. Best day of the year to come, festival or event or…

Jennifer : In June every year, there is a festival called the Fete du Vin. And this is a wine festival that sets up along the quayside. And it’s over two kilometers long. You have wineries from every appellation of wine that there is here in the Bordeaux region. And there are 57 different wine appellations within the wine region. So you can get a tasting pass. And you actually taste a wine over the course of the four-day long festival. You can taste one from all 57 appellations. You might need to have a little detox after your trip to Fete du Vin. But you can really enjoy and taste all of the different types of wines that are offered here in the region. And they are quite, quite different. You have everything from sweet wines that are very golden in color to, of course, the traditional Grand Cru Classe Bordeaux wines.

Chris : Excellent, excellent. That’s the Fete du Vin.

Jennifer : Yes, and that happens every year in July.

Chris : Excellent. You mentioned the wine museum. Are there other particular museums or places where you have been able to get in touch with the culture?

Jennifer : I really like the different art museums that are around the city. Just today, before we got on our Skype call here, I was at a little exhibition of arts and gourmands, so art paired with great food. And there’s a lot of great local artists that are here in Bordeaux. And being able to see and talk with them about their artwork is really unique. So there’s a lot of those types of exhibitions that go on. Or there might be a special exhibition at the La Cite du Vin, the wine museum. And sometimes there are longer exhibitions that happen at the modern art museum that’s located here.

Chris : Well, and I appreciate the festival for gourmands, because I am more of a gourmand than a gourmet, someone who loves eating, isn’t necessarily all that picky about it, though. The prettiest spot in Bordeaux, the prettiest spot where you’re standing, what are you looking at?

Jennifer : I don’t even have to hesitate. It’s the Miroir d’eau.

Chris : I wondered if it wouldn’t be, okay.

Jennifer : This is my favorite spot. I go here daily. It goes through this cycle where you have three minutes that the water sort of drains, and it gives the mirror of facts where just across the Place de la Bourse, which sort of curves around in a hugging style, like the arms of the Vatican, it reflects on to the mirror. So it goes through three minutes of that. And then it has three minutes of steam. And then it has 15 minutes where the water fills up.

Chris : Of steam, sorry?

Jennifer : Steam, yes. It creates this cloud of mist that rises up out of it. So at this time of the year where the weather is cooling down and the water from the mirror is so warm, it creates a sort of rolling fog that goes across the big square. And so it’s really interesting to look at. And since I do go there every day, it’s interesting to see how the light changes. The sun sets behind it. So it’s a beautiful place to watch the sunset and just to see how the light has changed over the course of the last few months as the days have gotten shorter and how the position of the sun in the sky changes and creates different light effects on it. It’s really interesting. So it’s definitely my favorite place in Bordeaux.

Chris : One thing that makes you laugh and say, “Only in Bordeaux”?

Jennifer : The French with their dogs. It’s a whole nother part of the French culture. And the Italians weren’t so crazy about dogs.

Chris : Oh, interesting, okay.

Jennifer : For me, now living in France with a dog when I lived previously in Italy with a dog, it really makes me laugh, because they always have to stop and sort of coo over her. And I don’t have a little dog. I have an Aussie shepherd mix. So she’s a larger dog. But she’s an unusual white shepherd to see here in France. It’s not a typical dog. But everyone has to stop and talk about her. And a lot of times, I still don’t understand what they’re saying, because I’m just working on my French. But it does make me laugh. But it’s a definitely “only in Bordeaux” thing.

Chris : Finish this thought, you really know you’re in Bordeaux when what?

Jennifer : When you’re having fantastic wine. I can say that having lived in Italy where there is as really good wine, but the wine when you come to Bordeaux and you have the wine here is life-changing. You will not look at wine again ever in the same way. It’s a whole different level of wine. It’s really good.

Chris : And if you had to summarize Bordeaux in just three words, what three words would you use?

Jennifer : Luxury, wine, and adventure really encompass it all.

Chris : Now, I wasn’t asking you to summarize your blog. Will that be the same three words if we were to summarize what you are writing about?

Jennifer : It would. It really…

Chris : There’s a reason why you ended up in Bordeaux then.

Jennifer : I think it was a really good match. But, no, seriously, luxury, wine, and adventure. The luxury part of it being that it doesn’t necessarily have to be something that’s really expensive like a Michelin-starred meal. But just having the luxury of drinking some of the world’s best wine and having it available all the time here is something that’s definitely a luxury. And then, like I said, there’s a lot of things that you can go and do that are adventure-related that are so close to the city. And, of course, it’s Bordeaux. So it’s synonymous with wine.

Chris : So we’re talking again to Jennifer Dombrowski from luxeadventuretraveler.com. Jennifer, if we had one particular post about Bordeaux that you’ve written recently that you wanna recommend to our audience, what would that be?

Jennifer : I would say to go to my website and check out a very recent post that’s about Bourdeaux’s food and wine scene. And so I share a lot of the specialties of the region and some of my favorite places to eat and some of my favorite desserts to try as well as great wines.

Chris : Excellent. Well, thank you so much for coming on Amateur Traveler and sharing with us your love for your new found home of Bordeaux.

Jennifer : Thank you for having me.

Chris : An update on the Amateur Traveler trips for next year, as you know, there are two trips going on next year, one in June to Japan and one in November to India, links to both of those under the Book Travel tab on amateurtraveler.com. And when I say next year, we’re talking about 2017. I understand you may live in the future, but I live in the past. One piece of news on the Japan trip is that Context Travel has offered us a day trip in one of the cities. So we’re still deciding that. If you sign up for the tour, you can help me make that decision. But, basically, they do some wonderful day trips. And so we’re gonna do one of their day trips either in Tokyo or Kyoto. More information about that in the Amateur Traveler trips group, amateurtraveler.com/trips.

And news of the community, I heard today from Mike who said, “I’ve been listening to the podcast since 2007 and have enjoyed it very much. Just wanted to let you know that we just completed the cruise between Valparaiso and Buenos Aires that you described in a podcast. We loved the cruise and never would have known about it but for your podcast. Thanks for all your insights and tips throughout the years. And please feel free to let Holland America know that your podcast had an impact on their business. Also, we intend to highly recommend the cruise to other travelers we know and meet on the road. Thanks again for all you do with the podcast.”

And, Mike, double thanks, one, thanks for getting back to me and, two, also thanks for giving me that feedback about Holland America . And you bet that the next email I sent was to the person who sent me on that cruise. But it was a fun cruise. I agree with you. And I still think that it’s a great thing that after you’ve done that cruise that you wanna do to Alaska, it’s a similar cruise with glaciers. But then you’re also in South America. So you get interesting things like Buenos Aires and Valparaiso, which are both interesting cities.

With that, we’re gonna end this episode of the Amateur Traveler. If you have any questions, send an email to host at amateurtraveler.com or, better yet, leave a comment on this episode at amateurtraveler.com. You can follow me on Twitter, Pinterest, or Instagram as chris2x. And as always, thanks so much for listening.

Transcription sponsored by  JayWay Travel , specialists in Central & Eastern Europe custom tours.

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by Chris Christensen

+Chris Christensen | @chris2x | facebook

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About the Join Us in France Travel Podcast

Join Us in France is the home of a weekly podcast about France launched in Feb 2014. Welcome to the show! Look around, we have a show for almost every place in France. Let's make your next visit to France the best one yet!

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Hiking Around Bordeaux, Episode 144

Mar 22, 2017

Join Us in France Travel Podcast

Who hasn't day-dreamed about hiking or biking through the French countryside? Stephanie, Dawn, Krista and Barb made it come true and in late September 2016 flew to France to do some hiking around Bordeaux . They   used a tour company that sold them maps and arranged for accommodations, breakfast and dinner, as well a arranged for their luggage to be transported to their next stop every day. They would rather not name the company, so we'll keep that vague on purpose. All they had to do is walk. And get lost. But they had a fun time all the same and they explain all about their adventure in today's episode.

This episode is for anyone who wants to have an active vacation in France, and if you like this episode, you should also listen to Episode 52, Cycling in France with Marion Clignet  and Episode 40 on Saint-Émilion , Episode 44 on Bordeaux . For more information on the specifics of what Stephanie and Dawn did, please take a look at their travel blog .

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About the Podcast

Planning a trip to France? Join Us in France is the podcast for you! On this podcast we have conversations about our trips to France, chat with tour guides, share tips on French culture, the basics of French history, explain how to be savvy traveler in France and share our love of French food, wine and destinations in France. You won’t want to miss out on all these great conversations about one of the most beautiful countries on earth! Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode. And if you're planning your own trip soon - start listening now so you're ready to connect to France on a deeper level. Bon voyage!

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This French Wine Country Region Has Idyllic Vineyards, Stunning Speakeasies, and Luxury Hotels

Here's where to stay, eat, and explore in Bordeaux, France's wine capital.

Over the past decade, Bordeaux has been steadily drawing more Parisians, who are infusing the formerly soot-stained shipping center on the Garonne River with a new jolt of art, culture, and culinary excellence. The new life being breathed into the city is intoxicating — and we promise, it’s not just the wine talking (although you’ll drink plenty of it, whether at luxury hotels set into historic vineyards, a new crop of natural wine bars downtown, or at the famous Cité du Vin museum). 

Rabi Merizak/Getty Images

Made more easily accessible in 2017 by the extension of Paris’s high-speed train network, the TGV, it lies just a two-hour ride from the City of Light — technically quick enough for a day trip , although we’d suggest allowing a weekend at the very least, as there’s plenty to sustain your interest (and appetite) in France’s wine capital.

From vineyard tours to seductive speakeasies and psychedelic art exhibitions set in former submarines, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Bordeaux.  

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Best Time to Visit Bordeaux

Bordeaux is at its best from May through October, when the weather warms and the days are long and sunny. In August and December, many businesses close for their annual vacations, so there will be markedly less to see in the city itself — which, on the bright side, means fewer tourists. If you do find yourself here on a winter visit , be sure to pack waterproof layers, as the weather tends to be rainy and gray. 

Oenophiles and budding wine lovers alike are in for the trip of a lifetime if they come around harvest season, which generally runs from late August or early September through October. You can get a peek at the winemaking process and stroll through the vineyards before tasting the fruits of the labor you’ve just witnessed. 

How to Get Around Bordeaux

Getty Images

In terms of getting to Bordeaux, the simplest way is to hop on the TGV from Paris’s Montparnasse station and take it directly to Gare de Bordeaux-Saint-Jean, which takes around two hours. While you can technically fly into Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport, it’s more cost- and time-efficient to take the train (not to mention, more sustainable). You can also drive here, but be warned that it can be slightly tricky to find parking downtown — you’ll want to check with your hotel to see if they have on-site spot. 

Once you’ve arrived, it’s easy to rely on the public transit system (the TBM, or Transports Bordeaux Métropole), which includes bicycles and motorized scooters, an extensive bus network, river shuttles, and a tram system, all of which are navigable with the Bordeaux CityPass . The contactless card, which also includes access to 15 museums (including the pricier Cité du Vin) and a guided city tour of your choice, is a great option if you’re staying for a few days or more; it allows unlimited travel on the trams, buses, and river shuttles over 24, 48, or 72 hours (for 34 euros, 44 euros, or 50 euros, respectively). You can order it online or pick one up from the tourist office upon arrival. 

While public transit is convenient, the tourist center of Bordeaux is pedestrian-friendly and you’ll spend plenty of time on foot appreciating the beauty of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region's capital.

In terms of private transportation, taxis, Uber, and other ride-share options (like Bolt, which you can download for Apple and Android) are all readily accessible.

Best Places to Stay in Bordeaux

Les sources de caudalie.

If you’re familiar with the cult-favorite French skin care brand Caudalie, you may have heard of their idyllic vineyard retreat , a hotel just 30 minutes away by car from downtown Bordeaux. This is a self-care destination not to be missed: Nestled in the Château Smith Haut Lafitte vineyard, the 40 rooms and 21 suites are bright and airy, appointed with natural materials, antique fixtures, and jacuzzi-sized bathtubs. After a day spent wine tasting, indulge at the on-site two-Michelin star restaurant, La Grand’Vigne, or pamper yourself at the Vinotherapie Spa, home to a hammam and natural hot spring. 

Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa

Courtesy of Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa

Once ensconced in this luxury hotel , it’s easy to imagine you’ve been whisked into the French countryside — and yet, it’s located right in the heart of downtown Bordeaux. This is one of those rare city hotels that strikes the perfect balance of old-school charm and modern convenience, with an oasis-like backyard pool, an inventive rooftop cocktail bar, and jewel-sized rooms that boast period furniture plus private terraces with jacuzzis. 

Le Boutique Hôtel & Spa

Set in an 18th-century mansion, this sophisticated 25-room boutique hotel offers an ideal location in the city center, just a stone’s throw from the Triangle d’Or. With vintage parquet floors and design-focused pieces from Philippe Starck, no two rooms are the same — but most offer spectacular city views. There’s a cozy outdoor terrace centered around a large tree trunk, which is a perfect place to sip your morning coffee or kick back over an early-evening apéro . During your stay, be sure to take advantage of the Nuxe spa. 

With just 12 rooms, the intimate Yndo Hôtel in the city center takes a streamlined, modern approach to its decor. Set in a timeless 19th-century mansion, the interplay of old and new world is enough to make your jaw drop. Sleek furniture pops against antique fixtures like molded fireplaces and parquet floors. Frankly, the property is worth a visit just to check out owner Agnès Guiot’s eclectic selection of chairs, which includes whale-shaped seats, sequined floral couches, and more.

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Bordeaux

Black list café.

For an artisanal caffeine fix or a memorable slice of creamy Basque cheesecake, pop into Black List Café . Tasty brunches are on the menu at this trendy indoor-outdoor spot, where you can tuck into goat cheese risotto or savory French toast with sweet potatoes while looking out over the Hôtel de Ville (town hall). 

Madame Pang

Dim sum may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you’re planning a trip to French wine country, but Madame Pang is a worthwhile stop on nights when you’re looking for something different. This elevated Cantonese spot serves inventive dishes like octopus croquettes with yuzu mayo and curry pork dumplings alongside vibrant cocktails. The best part? The kitchen is open until 1 a.m. 

Le Chien de Pavlov

A standout among the wave of neo-bistros sweeping the French city, Le Chien de Pavlov offers superb dishes in a cozy atmosphere (think: fish carpaccio with wasabi and green apple, or lamb cooked two ways and set atop a green pea and mint purée with delicate roasted artichoke and a bright burst of confit lemon). A five-course dinner tasting menu will only set you back 49 euros, an absolute steal once you’ve admired the artful plating. Run by a young French couple, the space itself is warm and welcoming, serving high-quality cuisine without any of the traditional fine-dining stuffiness. 

Recommended by the Michelin Guide, Symbiose is more than what meets the eye as you step into the riverside cafe (which has its own garden from which it plucks much of its produce). Beyond the handful of tables lining the wall of the blonde-wood room, there’s an antique clock that reveals a not-so-secret speakeasy. There, you’ll find a candlelit, cave-like bar where locals and in-the-know travelers sip local wine or edgy cocktails and flirt with the handsome French bartenders. 

With a focus on natural and low-intervention wines, this ultra-cozy wine bar and bistro calls to you from the street, where tables are set up in warmer weather and you can glimpse an intriguing collection of bottles perched invitingly in the window. Inside, a bar and a few tables are typically bustling with a young, local crowd enjoying well-priced by-the-glass wines and slabs of paté topped with caramelized onions. 

Best Things to Do in Bordeaux

Vineyard tours and wine tastings .

If you’re visiting Bordeaux, chances are you’re looking to drink some wine. Known as the wine capital of France, there are 57 appellations (known as AOCs) and some 6,000-plus vineyards producing primarily red wines made from merlot and cabernet sauvignon, although the region also produces whites. That can make choosing a wine-tasting destination a little daunting, but luckily the Bordeaux Tourism & Conventions website simplifies it. Choose between half- or full-day tours of vineyards and chateaux in Saint-Émilion or Margaux, a bit east or north of the city center. 

Place de la Bourse

One of the city’s most famous landmarks, Place de la Bourse is a jaw-dropping 18th-century square built during the reign of King Louis XV. Located near the charming Chartrons neighborhood, it’s a must-visit in order to glimpse the impressive Miroir d’Eau, a 37,000-square-foot reflecting pool (which happens to be the largest in the world).

Cathédrale Saint-André

You haven’t really been to a French city if you haven’t gaped in awe at its most famous cathedral, and in this case, it’s Cathédrale Saint-André , known locally as Bordeaux Cathedral. Worth a visit for its magnificent architecture alone, this Gothic-style Roman Catholic church features two impressive spires and is also home to the Marcadé Collection, which comprises a treasure trove of famous medieval paintings.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux

Following an extensive renovation, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux reopened in 2019, boasting a large collection of paintings, sculptures, and more from famed European artists (including the likes of Picasso and Renoir) and local painters, with works spanning the 15th to the 20th century. In addition to their permanent collections, there’s typically a few temporary exhibitions of local art on display. 

Marché des Capucins 

A food tour through the fragrant delight of the Marché des Capucins is a must during your trip to Bordeaux. Wandering through the hectic mix of locals buying their weekly groceries and vendors selling fresh fruit, local cheese, and cream-filled pastries is a feast for the senses. Make a point of seeking out Chez Jean-Mi , an oyster bar with a mouthwatering selection of freshly shucked oysters from nearby Arcachon, one of France’s primary oyster farming centers. 

Sunset River Cruise

Take in the UNESCO banks of the city from the water as you float down the Garonne River at sunset. While river cruises often have a touristy tang to them, this one from Les Bateaux Bordelais makes up for it by whisking you beneath the illuminated bridges of the city — including the Pierre, Jacques Chaban-Delmas, and Aquitaine bridges — while exploring their history and treating you to a gourmet dinner of locally inspired fare, prepared freshly on board. 

La Cité du Vin

One of the addresses that’s redefined the city’s physical and cultural landscape in recent years is the interactive La Cité du Vin , a sort of mecca for oenophiles. But you don’t have to be a wine aficionado to appreciate the strikingly modern architecture of the decanter-shaped building, or the palate-expanding wine tastings held on the property. Exhibitions include flyovers of vineyards from all around the world, plus an introduction to terroirs, grape varietals, the winemaking process, and more. 

Bassins des Lumières 

Discover the works of Dalí and Gaudí like you’ve never seen before at this former submarine base, reconstructed into a cultural center that puts on trippy, immersive projections throughout the year. The Bassins des Lumières building underwent an extreme overhaul, having been bombed during the war and submerged in water. Now, it’s one of the city’s most exciting art destinations. Lose yourself in Dalí’s melting clocks and imagine you’re entering into some of Gaudí’s most famous architectural works, lit up in technicolor on the walls around, above and below you. 

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The 7 Best Podcasts About France To Listen To In 2024

Looking to indulge in all things french with some travel podcasts about france that will whet your appetite.

Well, look no further. Not only do I have my own podcast about France, but I know a few other people who do too.

Table of Contents

You can learn so much from listening to a podcast, especially if the host is a good storyteller. They draw you into their world, and before you know it, you’ve booked your flight, and your suitcase is packed.

The Best Travel Podcast

Not all podcasts are created equal, and there are different types. Some podcasts, like mine, are solo podcasts focusing on just one destination or country, which in my case is France.

Others are co-hosted or feature a variety of destinations like Amateur Traveler Podcast . I was a guest on this show last year and, had a great time chatting about the Charente with the host Chris.

Others are interview style, so only feature guests and aren’t solo ramblings.

The seven podcasts I’m talking about today will give you a good mix, so there should be something for all listening tastes.

7  Podcasts About France

No. 1 life in rural france podcast.

Naturally, as it’s my blog, I’m going to talk about my podcast first. It’s a solo podcast with the occasional guest brought in to tell their story of living in France.

Granted, I am a little biased, as I’m the host, but if you love history, culture, chateaux, food and wine , you’ll love my podcast.

I’m a storyteller at heart, and nothing pleases me more than to spend hours researching stories from French history.

It’s so easy to go down a rabbit hole as I dive ever deeper into the unbelievable history of France. But the things I find out and the legends I unravel make it worth all the hours spent.

And then, of course, there are my French neighbours and friends, who also feature frequently in my episodes. Plus, my wonderful line-dancing group, my French lessons with Sharon and the time I spend travelling around France.

It’s the perfect pick-me-up if you’re missing France or longing to live the French life vicariously through someone else.

Listen on Apple | Spotify | Amazon | Google Podcasts

No. 2 The Earful Tower

I love this podcast and aspire to be as popular as it absolutely is. Hosted by Oliver Gee, an American living in Paris , it’s a delightful blend of humour, insights, and a genuine love for all things French.

Oliver’s adventures started when he moved to Paris as a journalist in 2015, only to ditch the written word for the spoken word. Since then, he has dedicated himself to uncovering the country’s secrets, stories, and charms.

He has a real conversational and engaging style, which, combined with his knack for storytelling, makes listeners feel as though they’re strolling alongside him through the streets of Paris or the countryside of Provence.

He is joined by his wife Lina, a Swedish fashion designer and illustrator, and together, they cover a broad spectrum of topics, from hidden gems in Paris to the best wine tours in the countryside. 

Listen on Apple | Google | Spotify | Earful Tower Website

No. 3 Join Us In France Travel Podcast

“Join Us in France” is the podcast that promises to transport you from your daily grind into the heart of French culture, history , and off-the-beaten-path adventures. 

Hosted by Annie Sargent, a passionate native Frenchwoman who has lived abroad and travelled extensively, it’s another great one to add to your feed.

Her episodes are rich with details, history, and practical advice, making France accessible to everyone, from the first-time visitor to the seasoned Francophile.

Annie’s podcast is a treasure trove of information, from detailed guides on navigating the Louvre to discovering the culinary secrets of Lyon, and even tips on enjoying the French countryside.

She has a flair for finding fascinating guests, from local experts to fellow Francophiles, and the podcast has stood the test of time having been around for about ten years.

Listen on Apple | Google | Spotify | Join Us In France Website

No. 4 Loulabelles FrancoFiles

Another podcast I always listen to is Loulabelle’s FrancoFiles offering listeners an intimate glimpse into France’s culture, people, and the myriad experiences that define the French lifestyle. Loulabelle is a great host and so much fun to listen to with a boundless enthusiasm and genuine love for all things French, which is definitely catching.

Her approach is personal and reflective, making you feel as though you’re sharing a cup of coffee with a friend who’s recounting her latest French adventures. 

For those planning a trip to France, Loulabelle’s insights and tips are invaluable. She not only inspires wanderlust but also provides practical advice for making the most of your French adventure.

Listen on Apple | Spotify | Google | Loulabelles FrancoFiles Website

No. 5 Jeff and Julie Move To France

Embarking on a journey to a new country is always an adventure filled with challenges, discoveries, and the sheer excitement of the unknown. “Jeff and Julie Move To France” captures all of this and more.

They share their personal experiences of moving from Canada to embrace a new life in France. Their story is one of inspiration, learning, and lots of laughter as they navigate the nuances of French bureaucracy, language barriers, and the joys of integrating into a local community.

Jeff and Julie’s candid sharing of their experiences offers a personal look into the realities of relocating to France . 

Listen on Apple | Spotify | Google

No 6. The Good Life France

I love listening to Janine and Olivier on the Good Life France Podcast. They are just such a fun duo. I’ve listened since the beginning when they first launched in 2022.

The podcast is an extension of Janine’s popular blog and magazine of the same name and her podcast partner, Olivier Jauffrit of Radio Paris Chanson.

It’s a treasure trove for anyone infatuated with or curious about French culture, lifestyle , and everything in between.

Janine’s love for France is palpable in each episode, making “The Good Life France” feel like a heart-to-heart conversation with a friend who shares your passion for French culture. They even have a whole episode about cheese !

Listen on Apple | Google | Spotify | The Good Life France Website

No 7. Talking France

Talking France is a podcast produced by The Local, a website dedicated to all things France. It covers everything from the impact of recent elections, social movements, and economic policies to discussions on French cuisine , art, and literature.

The podcast delves into the heart of French societal debates, cultural trends, and political landscapes.

The podcast features a range of guests, from scholars and journalists to politicians and cultural icons, providing in-depth commentary on France’s pressing issues as well as its charms. 

Listen on Apple | Google | Spotify | Talking France Website The Local

A Bonus French Podcast About Cocktails

I’ve only just started listening to this podcast, Paris Cocktail Talks. I discovered it when I was researching an article about the best travel apps to use when you go to Paris , and this one came up.

It’s hosted by cocktail aficionado Forest Collins, and uncovers the artistry and stories behind Paris’s top cocktail bars, sharing insider knowledge and a glimpse into the city’s drinking culture.

Forest has made a name for herself as one of the foremost experts on Paris’s cocktail scene, and her engaging storytelling and passion make each episode feel like a night out with a friend who knows the best spots in town.

I love the behind-the-scenes stories and interviews with top mixologists and bar owners.

If you’re visiting Paris and want to experience the city’s best cocktail offerings, it’s an invaluable resource, highlighting must-visit spots and providing tips to enhance your bar-hopping adventures.

Listen on Apple | Google | The 52 Martinis Website

Final Thoughts: France Travel Podcast

So, hopefully, I’ve now inspired you to subscribe and follow this great collection of podcasts about France.

And if you have any ideas for future episodes for me or questions you want answered, let me know, as I’m always looking for more ideas and would love to hear from you.

TRAVELLING TO FRANCE?

Here are my favourite resources I use each time I travel!

🧳 I always protected my trips with  this travel insurance company when I lived in the US  AND  this one now I live in Europe ​

🚘 I found a car rental for $500 less than traditional sites with  this car rental agency ​

🚌 🍷  My favourite platform  to find Day Trips and Wine Tours in France at the best price and with great reviews 

🚂 The cheapest train tickets are  always on this App ​

🏨 I got a 20% discount on a chateau hotel with  this hotel booking tool ​

I personally use these sites myself and if you use them, they will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps reduce the ever-increasing cost of maintaining my blog and writing about France. Thank you!

Kylie Lang is the founder of Life in Rural France. She moved to France in 2016 and lives in the beautiful Charente region in the Nouvelle Aquitaine. Through the blog, she showcases the best places to visit in France, especially in the South West. From chateaux and winery tours to hotels and restaurants, she has first-hand experience of life in France.

AI-Powered Travel Updates Will Make Translation Easier

Rashaad Jorden , Skift

May 14th, 2024 at 3:22 AM EDT

Today's podcast looks at AI-powered travel tools, airlines suing to protect junk fees, and Booking's European challenge.

Rashaad Jorden

Skift Daily Briefing Podcast

Listen to the day’s top travel stories in under four minutes every weekday.

Good morning from Skift. It’s Tuesday, May 14. Here’s what you need to know about the business of travel today.

🎧 Subscribe

Apple Podcasts  |  Spotify  |  Overcast  |  Google Podcasts  |  Amazon Podcasts

Episode Notes

Travelers could have easy access to a robotic voice translator thanks to updates to ChatGPT. An OpenAI presentation explained how ChatGPT could serve as a human speech translator, the most significant travel-related feature in several updates unveiled on Monday, writes Travel Technology Reporter Justin Dawes. 

Dawes reports the upgraded translation capabilities are part of the new flagship GPT-4o model for ChatGPT. OpenAI said the new model is better at interacting with voice, photo and video than the previous model. The company said that a user, for example, could take a photo of a menu and ask ChatGPT to translate it. 

Next, several major airlines are suing the Biden administration over its new rule requiring carriers to disclose all fees associated with buying a ticket, writes Airlines Reporter Meghna Maharishi. 

Several carriers, including American, Delta, and United joined the suit along with Airlines for America, the trade group representing prominent U.S. airlines. The group said the new rule would create more confusion for consumers. Airlines for America added that it believed carriers already disclosed all fees to customers before ticket purchases. 

The Department of Transportation unveiled a rule in April requiring airlines disclose the prices of checked baggage, carry-ons and changing a reservation. 

Finally, European authorities have designated Booking.com’s parent company, Booking Holdings, as a “gatekeeper.” That means Booking.com  will be subject to tighter regulation on the continent, reports Senior Hospitality Editor Sean O’Neill 

O’Neill notes the European Commission’s move will impose stricter rules on Booking.com regarding content moderation and make it easier for consumers to switch to other providers. Booking Holdings now has six months to submit a report outlining how it will comply with certain obligations. 

Non-compliance could result in fines of up to 10% of Booking Holdings’ total worldwide revenue.

Producer/Presenter: Jose Marmolejos

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Ryanair flights: UK to France flights affected as airline leaves Bordeaux Airport after 14 years over rising costs

UK to France flights will be impacted as Ryanair will close its base at Bordeaux Airport after 14 years due to rising costs

Ryanair has announced it will be withdrawing its base from Bordeaux Airport in France. The airline currently operates around 40 routes to and from the French airport with three aircraft based there and 90 staff.

It has had a base there for 14 years - but the airline will be withdrawing it in November. It comes after Ryanair failed to reach an agreement over fees. Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary said in March that Bordeaux airport was seeking to double its fees and warned he would shut the base rather than pay that amount.

Commercial director Jason McGuinness said: “We are disappointed that Bordeaux airport has not agreed to the extension of our low-cost base from November 2024. Due to rising costs, we have no financial alternative but to close our Bordeaux base in November and relocate those aircraft and jobs to cheaper bases elsewhere in the Ryanair Group’s extensive network of airports across Europe.”

An airport spokesperson told the AFP news agency it had “put limits on the financial demands” of Ryanair and would look to diversify the airlines using Bordeaux. They added: “We don’t wish to see a company which has been installed in Bordeaux for 14 years leave. If it would like to work again in Bordeaux, it will be welcome.”  

Bordeaux-Merignac in 2023 was the eighth busiest French airport with 6.6 million passengers. However, this figure is just 85.5 percent of pre-Covid 2019 levels whereas the average for French airports was 92.7 percent.

Who is Alexandre Sarr? What to know about potential No. 1 pick in 2024 NBA Draft

The owner of the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft is still to be determined by Sunday's NBA draft lottery . But the player taken with the top pick seems to be a near-lock.

French center Alexandre Sarr has been at the tops of NBA analysts' mock drafts for months. USA TODAY predicted he would be the first name off of the board as early as fourth months ago and stood by that prediction even after certain college players established themselves in this year's March Madness tournament.

Sarr, 19, played in Australia's National Basketball League this year and has stood out as one of the top prospects available in this year's draft class. With his tall frame, long wingspan and versatility on both sides of the court, he's made a strong case to be the first player taken in the 2024 NBA Draft.

Here's everything to know about the French standout hoping to become the second straight No. 1 pick out of his home country.

NBA DRAFT EVENTS How to watch the 2024 NBA draft combine and lottery

Where is Alexandre Sarr from?

Sarr was born in Bordeaux, France and grew up there and in Toulouse.

What team does Alexandre Sarr play for?

The French center joined Spanish team Real Madrid Baloncesto in 2019 and played two years for their youth team before joining the Overtime Elite league in Atlanta in 2021.

Last May, Sarr signed with the Perth Wildcats of Australia's National Basketball League (NBL) and played in Australia for the 2023-24 season.

NBA MOCK DRAFT: Donovan Clingan, Zach Edey climb board after March Madness

Alexandre Sarr height, weight

Sarr is 7 feet 1 inch tall and weighs 216 pounds, according to his NBL player page .

Alexandre Sarr wingspan

Sarr boasts a 7-foot-4.5-inch wingspan to pair with his 7-foot-1 height.

Alexandre Sarr family

Sarr's father played professional basketball in France. He has a brother, Olivier, who signed a two-way contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2022.

Olivier Sarr made 15 appearances with the Thunder this NBA season.

Alexandre Sarr stats

This season, Sarr played 27 games and averaged 9.4 points, 0.9 assists, 4.3 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game. He also averaged 17.3 minutes per game in the NBL, which plays 40-minute games (Four 10-minute quarters).

When is the 2024 NBA draft lottery?

The NBA draft lottery is Sunday, May 12 at 8:30 p.m. ET.

How to watch the 2024 NBA Draft Lottery

• Cable TV: ESPN
• Streaming: ESPN+; YouTube TV; fuboTV

HOW TO WATCH: Catch the NBA draft lottery with a subscription to ESPN+

When is the 2024 NBA Draft?

• Where: Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York
• When: June 26-27, 2024
• Cable TV: ESPN; ABC
• Streaming : ESPN+ ; fuboTV

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Brazil estimates aid measures taken by authorities after deadly floods in its southernmost state will cost at least 13.4 billion reais ($2.6 billion) from its budget, according to finance ministry data compiled by Reuters.

Join Us in France Travel Podcast

Episode Transcripts

Not all episodes have been transcripted yet, this is a work in progress!

• Transcript for Episode 494
• Transcript for Episode 493: Family, Fun and France
• Transcript for Episode 492: Two Faces of Provence: Art and Pizza!
• Transcript for Episode 491: Decoding Maurice Ravel, the Man Behind Bolero
• Transcript for Episode 490: Seaside Serenity: Exploring the Charentes-Maritimes
• Transcript for Episode 489: A 21-Day Solo Adventure Through France
• Transcript for Episode 488: Hidden Treasures of the Ariège Department
• Transcript for Episode 487: Burgundy Self-Guided Bike Tour
• Transcript for Episode 486: Exploring the Life and Art of Elisabeth Vigée Le Brun
• Transcript for Episode 485: Spending a Month in Southwestern France
• Transcript for Episode 484: Exploring the Treasures of the Lot Department
• Transcript for Episode 483: Paris Olympics 2024: Navigating the City of Light
• February 2024
• Transcript for Episode 482: 5 Days Solo in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 481: How Simone Veil Changed France
• Transcript for Episode 480: Hiking the Sentier Cathare
• Transcript for Episode 479: 10 Years and 1000 Destinations
• January 2024
• Transcript for Episode 478: Flâneur and Photographer
• Transcript for Episode 477: Favorite Villages in the Lubéron
• Transcript for Episode 476: Eating Vegan in the Land of Baguettes and Brie
• Transcript for Episode 475: Hidden Gems of the Gers
• December 2023
• Transcript for Episode 474: Pedal Through France a Self-Guided Cycling Adventure
• Transcript for Episode 473: Père Noël and the Wooden Shoes
• Transcript for Episode 472: Planning the Perfect Multi-Family French Vacation
• Transcript for Episode 471: The Road Less Traveled in France
• Transcript for Episode 470: Toulouse to Nice on the Train
• November 2023
• Transcript for Episode 469: Contemporary French Novels: A Literary Journey
• Transcript for Episode 468: Beach Hopping on the French Riviera
• Transcript for Episode 467: The Enchanted World of the Musée des Arts Forains
• Transcript for Episode 466: Relaxing Honeymoon on the French Riviera
• October 2023
• Transcript for Episode 465: Preparing a Visit to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
• Transcript for Episode 464: In Love with the French Alps
• Transcript for Episode 463: D'Artagnan: the Man and the Legend
• Transcript for Episode 462: Medieval France with Teens
• Transcript for Episode 461: Bibliothèque Nationale de France
• September 2023
• Transcript for Episode 460: Grand Prix de Monaco Trip Report
• Transcript for Episode 459: Jean Moulin, Standing Up to Tyranny
• Transcript for Episode 458: Adventures at the 24 Hours of Le Mans
• Transcript for Episode 457: Jews in France: Trials, Triumphs, and Transformations
• August 2023
• Transcript for Episode 456: Surviving Paris for Newbies
• Transcript for Episode 455: France for Bookworms
• Transcript for Episode 454: Adventures of a Solo Woman in Marseille
• Transcript for Episode 453: Why Life in France Is Awful
• Transcript for Episode 452: Canadian WW2 Normandy Sites
• Transcript for Episode 451: Why Life in France Is Wonderful
• Transcript for Episode 450: From Bordeaux to Marseille via Andorra
• Transcript for Episode 449: Exploring the Aude Department
• Transcript for Episode 448: In Search of Joan of Arc in the Loire Valley
• Transcript for Episode 447: First Frame: The Revolutionary Lumière Brothers
• Transcript for Episode 446: Languedoc-Roussillon: A Journey Through One of France's Hidden Gem
• Transcript for Episode 445: France Bootcamp 2023 Report
• Transcript for Episode 444: D-Day Anniversary Visit to Normandy
• Transcript for Episode 443: Flight Path: Charting the History of Aviation in Toulouse
• Transcript for Episode 442: Mediterranean Cruise, a Trip Report
• Transcript for Episode 441: Jean Jaurès and his Birthplace, Castres
• Transcript for Episode 440: Budget Family Travel in France
• Transcript for Episode 439: Revolutionary Feminist: Exploring the Life and Legacy of Olympe de Gouges
• Transcript for Episode 438: In Search of Josephine Baker in France
• Transcript for Episode 437: Baron Haussmann and the Transformation of Paris
• Transcript for Episode 436: Four Days in Strasbourg
• Transcript for Episode 435: Free in Paris: Uncovering Hidden Gems on a Budget
• Transcript for Episode 434: Weekend road trip in Southern France: A Tale of Three Walled Cities
• Transcript for Episode 433: Get Ready for the Rugby World Cup 2023 in France!
• Transcript for Episode 432: Visiting the Loire Valley Without a Car
• Transcript for Episode 431: Visit Strasbourg at Christmas Time or Any Time!
• February 2023
• Transcript for Episode 430: Attending Roland-Garros
• Transcript for Episode 429: Coming Up in Paris in 2023
• Transcript for Episode 428: All Aboard the French Train System
• Transcript for Episode 427: Huguenot Heritage in France
• January 2023
• Transcript for Episode 426: African Americans in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 425: Vauban Fortifications in France
• Transcript for Episode 424: A Dream Trip to France Becomes a Reality
• Transcript for Episode 423: Dog Poop and Other Problems Suffered in France
• Transcript for Episode 422: Going Back to Paris as a Family
• December 2022
• Transcript for Episode 421: Rookie Mistakes Visitors Make in France
• Transcript for Episode 420: A Jewish Perspective on Paris
• Transcript for Episode 419: Lavaur in Occitanie
• Transcript for Episode 418: First Visit to France as a Solo Traveler
• November 2022
• Transcript for Episode 417: A visit to Lautrec in the Tarn
• Transcript for Episode 416: The Life and Times of Jean-François Champollion
• Transcript for Episode 415: Following the Tour de France
• Transcript for Episode 414: Berthe Morisot an Artist who Defied Conventions
• October 2022
• Transcript for Episode 413: Travel Fast and Slow in Brittany and Paris
• Transcript for Episode 412: Eleanor of Aquitaine, a Tumultuous Life
• Transcript for Episode 411: Watching a stage of the Tour de France in France
• Transcript for Episode 410: Classic French Soups
• September 2022
• Transcript for Episode 409: French Professor Visits France
• Transcript for Episode 408: Standing Stones around Carnac in Brittany
• Transcript for Episode 407: An Accidental Francophile Moves to Paris
• Transcript for Episode 406: Everyday Life in France
• Transcript for Episode 405: France with a Baby
• August 2022
• Transcript for Episode 404: Introduction to Victor Hugo
• Transcript for Episode 403: A Visit to Narbonne and the Mediterranean Coast
• Transcript for Episode 402: The Napoleon Route, a Scenic Drive in France
• Transcript for Episode 401: Toulouse to Marseille by Train
• Transcript for Episode 400: L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
• Transcript for Episode 399: Introducing your Partner to France
• Transcript for Episode 398: Sénanque Abbey and Gordes
• Transcript for Episode 397: Running into Snags while Visiting France
• Transcript for Episode 396: Rosa Bonheur, the Artist Who Wore Pants
• Transcript for Episode 395: How to Enjoy France on a Student Budget
• Transcript for Episode 394: A Brief History of the Tour de France
• Transcript for Episode 393: Life on the Canal du Midi
• Transcript for Episode 392: The Jardin des Plantes in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 391: Looking for a place to call your own in France
• Transcript for Episode 390: A Brief History of the Chemin de Compostelle
• Transcript for Episode 389: Classic French Recipes with a Vegan Twist
• Transcript for Episode 388: The Crusade Against the Cathars
• Transcript for Episode 387: Cathar Beliefs and Lifestyle
• Transcript for Episode 386: 7 Day Trips from Paris
• Transcript for Episode 385: Les Vosges, Off the Beaten Track
• Transcript for Episode 384: Favorite Walking Tours in Nice
• Transcript for Episode 381: The Shocking History of Saint Denis Basilica
• Transcript for Episode 380: Moving to France on a Long-Term Tourist Visa with a Child
• Transcript for Episode 379: Celebrating 400 years of Molière
• February 2022
• Transcript for Episode 377: Acquiring a Golden Visa
• Transcript for Episode 376: 12 Days Solo in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 375: Get Ready to Visit Dijon, France!
• January 2022
• Transcript for Episode 374: A Leisurely Trip Through France
• Transcript for Episode 373: A Brief History of French Porcelain
• Transcript for Episode 372: Cruise and Pilgrimage on the Seine River
• Transcript for Episode 371: The Paris Bookseller
• December 2021
• Transcript for Episode 367: What happened during the Terror?
• Transcript for Episode 335: Napoleon: the Long and Short of It
• August 2020
• Transcript for Episode 300: Castelnaudary, Cassoulet and Canal du Midi
• Transcript for Episode 283: Provence Cycling Tour
• Transcript for Episode 280: Rennes-le-Château: a Place of Legend
• Transcript for Episode 279: Family Vacation in Provence and the French Alps
• Transcript for Episode 276: Having a Baby in France
• Transcript for Episode 274: Tours Make a Vacation Better
• Transcript for Episode 273: Solo in Paris: Enjoy Paris on Your Own!
• January 2020
• Transcript for Episode 268: Honeymoon in Provence
• Transcript for Episode 267: Fall in Love with Corsica
• Transcript for Episode 266: 3 Common Mistakes Tourists Make in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 265: Paris with Preschool Children
• December 2019
• Transcript for Episode 264: Planning a Group Trip to Paris
• Transcript for Episode 263: Christmas Markets of Northern France and Belgium
• Transcript for Episode 262: Collioure and the Côte Vermeille
• Transcript for Episode 261: Women World Cup Trip Report
• Transcript for Episode 259: An Action-Packed Holiday in France with Kids
• November 2019
• Transcript for Episode 258: Toulouse Trip Report
• Transcript for Episode 257: Inspiration for a Successful Multi-Generational Trip to Paris
• October 2019
• Transcript for Episode 254: Ultimate Guide to Getting Around France
• Transcript for Episode 253: Flying to France on an Open Jaw Ticket
• Transcript for Episode 252: A Scenic Drive along the Loire River
• Transcript for Episode 251: The Secrets of Planning a Trip to Paris
• Transcript for Episode 250: Things You Should Consider When Visiting Paris
• September 2019
• Transcript for Episode 249: Who Else Wants to Enjoy the Aiguille du Midi?
• Transcript for Episode 248: Versailles: Yes or No?
• August 2019
• Transcript for Episode 245: Self-Guided Paris Audio Tours
• Transcript for Episode 244: Best Place to Stay on the French Riviera
• Transcript for Episode 243: Visiting Kitchen Supply Stores in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 242: A Multi-Generational Trip to Normandy and Brittany
• Transcript for Episode 241: Lautrec and Castres in the Tarn
• Transcript for Episode 240: Wine Touring and Cooking Classes in Provence
• Transcript for Episode 239: Buying a House in France
• Transcript for Episode 238: Honeymoon in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 236: Normandy Cider Route
• Transcript for Episode 234: 20 Tips for Visiting Paris with Teenagers
• Transcript for Episode 232: The Smart Way to Visit Provence
• Transcript for Episode 231: Tips for a Visit to Etretat in Normandy
• Transcript for Episode 228: Cafe Culture in France
• Transcript for Episode 225: Exploring the City of Nancy
• Transcript for Episode 224: Solo Travel in Paris: Ideas for Women
• February 2019
• Transcript for Episode 223: Quick and Easy Guide to Public Transportation in France: Trains, Buses + Metros
• Transcript for Episode 222: 12 Tips for Visiting Paris You'll Actually Use
• Transcript for Episode 221: Where to Experience the Best Modern and Contemporary Art in France
• January 2019
• Transcript for Episode 220: How to Capture the Best Vacation Photos
• Transcript for Episode 219: Great Destinations in France for Families
• Transcript for Episode 218: 4 Days in Paris
• December 2018
• Transcript for Episode 217: French Christmas Songs
• October 2018
• Transcript for Episode 210: When People Hate Paris
• Transcript for Episode 209: Do's and Don'ts at Restaurants in France
• August 2018
• Transcript for Episode 202: Best Paris Airport Transfer: TAXI
• Transcript for Episode 201: Operation Overlord and the Battle of Normandy
• Transcript for Episode 199: The Vibe of Paris Neighborhoods
• Transcript for Episode 196: Saint-Germain-des-Prés Neighborhood
• Transcript for Episode 195: What to Pack to Look Stylish in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 194: Dicey Paris Neighborhoods
• Transcript for Episode 193: A Cornucopia of Bizarre French Foods
• Transcript for Episode 192: Moving to France on a Long Stay Tourist Visa
• Transcript for Episode 191: A Great Visit to the Chateau of Pau
• Transcript for Episode 190: 12 Perfect Spots for a Picnic in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 189: Train Strikes in France, 2018 Edition
• Transcript for Episode 187: Overview of Paris Museums
• February 2018
• Transcript for Episode 182: The Paris Historical Axis
• January 2018
• Transcript for Episode 181: The Hunchback of Notre Dame
• Transcript for Episode 179: 10 Things to Do in Paris for First Time Visitors
• December 2017
• Transcript for Episode 178: Family Christmas in France
• Transcript for Episode 155: Running the Paris Marathon
• Transcript for Episode 154: How to Protect Yourself from Pickpockets in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 151: Tips for Using Uber in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 113: Top Attractions in Lyon
• December 2015
• Transcript for Episode 96: Layover in Paris, Tour Guide Secrets
• November 2015
• Transcript for Episode 91: Tipping and 10 Things You Didn't Know About France
• October 2015
• Transcript for Episode 90: Paris Highlights You Can See in One Day
• Transcript for Episode 70: Chocolate Museum in Paris
• Transcript for Episode 23: The Medieval Walled City of Carcassonne
• Transcript for Episode 22: Canal du Midi
• Transcript for Episode 21: Strategies for Visiting the Louvre Museum
• Transcript for Episode 20: Albi and Toulouse-Lautrec
• Transcript for Episode 19: A Primer on French Cheese
• Transcript for Episode 18s: D-Day History, Normandy Invasion Special
• Transcript for Episode 18: Strasbourg, France
• Transcript for Episode 16: The Rules of Driving in France
• Transcript for Episode 15: How to Prepare for Your Visit to the Orsay Museum
• Transcript for Episode 14: A Day Trip to Versailles from Paris
• Transcript for Episode 13: A Perfect Day Trip to Reims from Paris
• Transcript for Episode 6: Notre Dame Cathedral Self Guided Tour
• February 2014
• Transcript for Episode 2: Île de la Cité

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