Travels with Terri

Rick and I finished 2023 with a trip to Bordeaux shortly before Christmas. As we already had tickets to see the amazing Beatles Tribute band The Analogues, we decided to stay a few extra days to visit the Christmas Market at Allées de Tourny. Our small but very well-appointed apartment was located on a pedestrian only street just around the corner from Place Gambetta. As we walked through the 18th century Neoclassical Porte Dijeuax Gate towards our apartment, I was delighted to see such a great variety of shops and dining choices. Everything from walk-up takeaway to French bistros and discount to high end stores were within a few minutes walk.

Since we usually don’t travel over the holidays, it was lovely to see all the shops decked out with ornaments, holly, Christmas trees, and lights. Our neighborhood was bustling with shoppers both during the day and well into the evening. A stand selling roasted chestnuts by the Porte Dijeaux Gate was quite popular and we enjoyed listening to a street musician perform while sipping on hot chocolate and munching on yummy chestnuts. We were both very impressed by the holiday lights that adorned every street near our apartment. The Christmas Market at Allées de Tourny was a ten-minute walk from our apartment and offered everything from local delicacies to handmade crafts including jewelry, clothing, and art. There were several rides for children and of course a giant sleigh for Santa Claus. We thoroughly enjoyed our brief time in Bordeaux and hope to visit again in the future.

Where in Europe can you see a wall honoring John Lennon, walk along the Vltava River, visit a museum dedicated to Franz Kafka, and drink some of the best beers in the world? Join me for my next blog where I recap our 2019 trip to one of our favorite cities.