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June 3-4: Sydney to Bordeaux

Well I made it, with no issues! I was paranoid about my luggage not arriving because it had to be transferred across 2 flights with different airlines. But there it was…the second bag off at Bordeaux airport (although a little the worse for wear). The airport was empty.

Got the airport shuttle which took me to the central railway station and my hotel was a 5 minute walk from the station

Bordeaux is often described as one of Europe’s most beautiful 18th‑century cities, with more than 350 historic monuments. Its city centre was listed as a UNESCO world heritage centre since 2007, recognised for its architecture and history. The city only has a population of around 260,000 but it attracts millions of tourists ( although I didn’t see ANY Japanese tourist buses today).

The Hotel de Ville has lots of important history . The square in front of the building was Paris’ main public gathering place—and its execution ground for 500 years. From 1310 to 1832, hangings, burnings, and public punishments happened here. Crowds also gathered here to hear royal edicts and revolutionary speeches. In 1944, Charles de Gaulle addressed the crowds after the Liberation of Paris from the balcony

And yes it was cold and rainy!

Saint-Andre Cathedral is described as a gothic masterpiece. It’s the seat of the Archbishop of Bordeaux and is part of the Santiago de Compostela route.A church on this site dates back at least to the early Middle Ages ( mentioned in 814).It was rebuilt and expanded between the 12th and 16th centuries, gradually adopting Gothic style.The Place de la Bourse is an iconic square facing the river , across from the reflection of the Miroir d’eau.

Then, quite out of character with all the other historic buildings is this monstrosity.

It’s a Xavier Veilhan “Blue Horse” — a contemporary, faceted sculpture that turns a familiar animal into a digital‑age monument.

I had a lot of cooperative photographers today, along with thousands of bikes with helmet less riders (you can travel right along the Garonne river for 35 miles), who didn’t stop for pedestrians…it’s ok, I’m still alive!!

Also found a coffee shop that specialises in Madeliene biscuits!

Time to catch up on lost airline sleep…..