When I first walked into my new cabin at the MS Cyrano de Bergerac, I have to admit, I giggled a little bit.

Why? It’s just so pretty. I am in love with the colour scheme of this boat, which was built in 2013 and is beautifully decorated throughout in pastel blue and purple. As I write this, I am huddled in a mass of warm blankets and pillows, taking in the simple beauty of my cabin. Something tells me I’m going to be very happy here.

I arrived in Bordeaux last night and took the afternoon today to explore. The city is buzzing with activity, because we have arrived in the middle of the Bordeaux Fête du Fleuve, an annual event that brings vendors, concerts and activities to the riverside. In fact, the MS Cyrano de Bergerac opened its doors to the public as part of the festival, drawing a huge audience of all-ages to come explore the boat! It seems they were just as enamored by the decor as I was.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bordeaux is impossibly charming. The architecture is so intricate and beautiful, even simple, residential buildings look important! Even though I went in with no map and no plan, I managed to come across many of Bordeaux’s main sights, including the Place de la Bourse, Bordeaux Cathedral, City Hall and the city’s famous Opera House.

At the Opera House, I took some time to sit on the stairs and soak in the life happening around me. I think when we’re constantly travelling, we have the tendency to take things for granted, because we’re seeing so many beautiful things every day. Taking some time to pause and reflect is so important. Here, sitting on the steps of this famous theatre, I got a real chance to appreciate Bordeaux and all its charms. The rickety chains of bicycles whizzing by, the high-pitched chime of passing trams, and even the murmurs of locals as they smoked and complained about the weather… I felt perfectly content to be here, not doing anything in particular.

In a few days time, I’ll be coming back to Bordeaux for a proper tour of the city. Until then, I’ll be cruising along the Gironde Estuary, partaking in wine tastings, excursions and exploring this beautiful region of France! Another cruise has begun, and I am determined to make it just as good as the last one.

Talk to you all soon!

- Christina