After a scenic two-hour train ride from Bayonne, I arrived at Gare Saint-Jean in Bordeaux. The plan was to take the tram to the closet stop to the Airbnb apartment I had rented. I have mentioned how important it is not to over pack, haven’t I? I tried but failed this time, convincing myself that I’d be gone for six weeks, needing a wardrobe for end of summer to the chill of fall. Struggling on and off the train, to the tram and changing stops, rolling luggage down cobblestone streets, over curbs, tracks, and then up steep windy stairs—I really hope to take my own advice next time.
The apartment (on Rue Boulan above) is located in a lively neighborhood of the Saint-Pierre district of Bordeaux, directly across the street from Le Musée des Beaux-Arts and two long blocks from Place Gambetta. Everything of interest to me is within walking distance or just a quick tram ride away. I saw the Bordeaux sights and did the day trips last year. This visit is about studying French in a city I want to get to know better. After settling in, I decided to do a neighborhood stroll today and share what I saw and heard with you. So much to enjoy particularly the street art and musicians, and the fact that pianos are placed in stores and public spaces for a passerby to play.
Statue of politician Jacques Chaban-Delmas opposite Palais Rohan, Place Gambetta, bike and scooter culture, City workers’ demonstration, La Garonne River, reflecting pool fronting Place de la Bourse, carousel for all ages, art gallery, and favorite shops.
All for now.
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