Bordeaux, France

We have arrived in beautiful Bordeaux! We look forward to exploring the region with our traveling companions, Pat and Mike, on a Viking River Cruise. Our ship, the Forseti, is docked on the banks of the Garonne River across from the beautiful Bordeaux waterfront with its neoclassical buildings. It's Saturday so there are lots of people strolling, biking and scootering along the riverbank. There's also an Irish Pub right on the waterfront! After a light lunch on board we toured the Chartrons District. This area was once outside the walls of Bordeaux and was the center of the wine trade. Wine from all over the region arrived here, was stored in barrels in immense warehouses and then shipped all over Europe. The spires of the St Louis-des-Chartrons church tower above this neighborhood of narrow cobblestone streets. Nearby is the Place du Marché des Chartrons. The 1869 market has been renovated in glass, iron and stone. This area seems to be full of boutiques, antique shops and cafes. After a delicious dinner on board we turned in early. Jet lag caught up with us. The name of this cruise is Chateaux, Rivers and Wine. Can't wait to explore the area and especially sample the wine.Read more