Start Planning Your Future Vacation
Looking to the future, we will continue to provide you with travel inspiration from across the globe. And when you are ready, whether now for a local getaway to destress or at a later time when world travel reconvenes, we will be here for you. And if 2020 is on your radar, we feel that the current lenient cancellation policies, together with wide availability, will provide you the freedom to choose from a variety of ideal travel experiences. For those needing bit of distraction now, a visit to Montecito Village Travel is a good place to start.
A Taste of Bourdeaux
Travel to France’s legendary wine capital, Bordeaux. Iconic châteaux, timeless vineyards and delicious wine tastings are plentiful as you visit Libourne, Blaye, Bourg, Pauillac and Cadillac. This trip is a must for anyone interested in the best of French culture, lifestyle, wine and food. There’s so much more to see in Bordeaux than the incredible wines. There are numerous monuments and landmarks to enjoy, such as the lovely Place du Parlement with its richly decorated façade. The square was created in 1790and it has been listed as a historical monument since 1952. On the Ama Waterways guided bike tour, you’ll also see the more modern Tribunal de Grande Instance and the Grosse Cloche, one of the oldest belfries in France. First cast in 1775, it rings once a month (first Sunday at noon) and for six special occasions during the year (such as Bastille Day and Christmas).
Explore Bourdeaux's Most Iconic Landmarks
Always a favorite, the exquisite Place de la Bourse (sometimes referred to as the Place Royale) is one of the most recognizable sights in a region primarily known for its incredible vineyards. Built from 1728-1755 by Jacques Gabriel and his son Ange-Jacques Gabriel (known for the Place de la Concorde in Paris and parts of Versailles), the Place de la Bourse was originally intended to honor King Louis XV with a large equestrian statue of the ruler in the middle of the square. Attacked and removed during the French Revolution, the statue was ultimately replaced by the lovely fountain of the Three Graces that resides there to this day.
Of course, one of the most striking features is the “Mirror des Quais” or The Quay Mirror. A recent addition, Jean-Max Llorca built this so-called ‘mirror’ in 2006. It is the world’s largest reflecting pool and a popular spot for both kids and adults to play during the summer.
During your guided bike tour, you’ll have ample time to stop, take photos and learn more. At the end of the tour,you’ll also have the option to follow the guide back to the ship or loop back to spend more time at one of your favorite spots. You could check out the stunning new wine museum, which Alain Juppé declared a “Guggenheim to wine.” Designed by Paris-based XTU Architects to resemble “the swirl in a wine glass” the building is a sight to see from the exterior shots, as well as a thrill to explore inside. Or go shopping. The Rue Sainte-Catherine and Cours de l'Intendance are the two main shopping streets you’ll see—and perhaps choose to cycle back to at the end of the guided tour.
