Bordeaux: The Heart of France's Wine Country

• HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
• GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
• YesOui
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• NoNon
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• Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
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• Thank youMerci
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• Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ex-kew-zay mwa/day-zoh-lay]
• How are you?Comment ça va?
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• Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byen. ay voo]
• Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
• I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
• I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]

• Help!Au secours!
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• Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay vooz ahn]
• Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-puh-lay lah po-lees]
• Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
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• I'm lostJe suis perdu
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• I'm illJe suis malade
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• I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
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• I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
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• How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
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• That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
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• Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
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• What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
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• It's one o'clockIl est une heure
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• Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
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• MorningMatin
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• AfternoonAprès-midi
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• TodayAujourd'hui
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• TomorrowDemain
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• Where's a/the...?Où est...?
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• What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-veh voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
• When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn eh luh proh-shahn (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

The Bordeaux Wine Region's history of viticulture dates back to the Roman era, around the first century AD. The Romans planted the first vines in the region, recognizing its potential for producing high-quality wines. The fertile soil and favorable climate conditions contributed to the early success of Bordeaux wines, laying the foundation for the region's wine-making traditions.

In 1152, the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine to Henry II of England brought Bordeaux under English rule. This period saw an increase in wine exports to England, as Bordeaux wines became highly favored at the English court. The region's wine trade flourished, establishing a strong commercial relationship between Bordeaux and England that lasted until the end of the Hundred Years' War in 1453.

During the 17th century, the Dutch played a significant role in the development of Bordeaux's wine industry. They introduced techniques to drain the marshlands around the city, converting them into fertile vineyards. Their efforts expanded the wine-producing area and improved the quality of Bordeaux wines. The Dutch also helped establish Bordeaux wines in the international market, particularly in Northern Europe.

One of the most pivotal moments in Bordeaux's wine history was the official classification of 1855. Commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III for the Exposition Universelle de Paris, the classification ranked the top châteaux of the Médoc and Graves regions based on their reputation and trading price. This classification system, which includes prestigious names like Château Lafite Rothschild and Château Margaux, remains largely unchanged and continues to influence the Bordeaux wine market.

In the late 19th century, Bordeaux's vineyards were devastated by the phylloxera epidemic, a pest that attacked the roots of grapevines. This crisis led to the destruction of many vineyards and a significant decline in wine production. The recovery involved grafting European grapevines onto resistant American rootstocks, a practice that saved Bordeaux's wine industry and continues to be used today.

The 20th and 21st centuries have seen Bordeaux embrace modern winemaking techniques and technology. Innovations such as temperature-controlled fermentation, advanced vineyard management practices, and sustainable viticulture have improved the quality and consistency of Bordeaux wines. The region has continued to adapt, ensuring its wines remain competitive in the global market while preserving its rich heritage and traditions.

Bordeaux Wine Region is accessible through Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD), which serves both domestic and international flights. The airport is approximately 12 kilometers from the city center. From Paris, the high-speed TGV train offers a convenient option, taking around 2 hours to reach Bordeaux. Additionally, buses and car rentals are available for those who prefer driving.

Within Bordeaux, public transportation includes trams, buses, and bicycles, all operated by TBM (Transports Bordeaux Métropole). The tram network is extensive and efficient for getting around the city. For exploring the wine regions, renting a car or joining a guided tour is recommended. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in rural areas. ATMs are readily available throughout Bordeaux, including at the airport and major tourist spots.

Bordeaux is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it's important to be cautious. Avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded places, such as public transportation and popular tourist attractions. The neighborhoods of St. Michel and Victoire can be less safe, particularly after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for all services including police, fire, and medical assistance. Bordeaux has several hospitals and clinics, such as Hôpital Pellegrin. Pharmacies are also widespread and can provide assistance for minor health issues. Always carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially when dining out or visiting wineries. Avoid overly casual attire. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting churches or religious sites. Dress modestly and avoid loud behavior. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trams and buses. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants. A handshake is common for formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and delicacies. Don’t rush through meals; dining is often a leisurely experience.

For an authentic experience, visit the local markets like Marché des Capucins for fresh produce and regional specialties. Take a leisurely stroll along the Garonne River or explore the historic district of Saint-Pierre. Engage with locals, many of whom are proud of their heritage and happy to share recommendations. Don’t miss out on visiting a few lesser-known wineries to discover hidden gems.