I’ve been to Bordeaux three times so far, and its beauty has only increased. The architecture is glorious – regal, ornate, historic, and utterly charming. There are churches and towers that appear taken from a fairy tale, and cafes and shops designed for leisure and pleasure.
But there are also narrow side streets, grimy and unkempt. There are flea markets with piles of treasure and trash. Edgy art galleries with controversial works. Protesters in yellow jackets charging at riot police amid smoke bombs and sirens (this was what I witnessed while disembarking from the bus one morning).
Bordeaux has been developed into an elegant tourist-friendly city, but it still retains its murkier past and passionate people. For me, this is the perfect city – it feels authentic. It has energy, a unique atmosphere that is both welcoming and invigorating. I want to come back here time and time again.
Rachel Wade 
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