Things To Do
Bordeaux
If you are going to Bordeaux, you need to go to Osteria Palatino located in Rue de la Merci. We had the best truffle pasta there and you will have the feeling of being in Italy. When you're finished with your nice lunch at the place we recommended or one of your choosing (it's hard to go wrong), you should go to the Place de la Bourse, we always love to take a picture there ! If you want to do some shopping, go to the Rue Sainte-Catherine and you will find all you need, also the parallel streets are full of nice little shops. For a nice walk, we recommend to go from the Grand Théâtre to the Place Gambetta or around the Place Tourny and the Quinconces. The Cours Georges Clémenceau with the park called Jardin Public is also a Thing To Do there ! Last but not least, you should walk alongside the Garonne.
Saint-Émilion
For those of you interested in wine which we know most of you are, all of France is known for wine but specifically the Southwest and Bordeaux. And a town not too far from the wedding venue is Saint-Emilion, is one of the best. Take a nice walk around this medieval village known for its historic architecture. One restaurant Joanna's family loves is L'Envers du Décor which we went to for Joanna's 24th birthday, and Max loved it. Also there is a very nice bakery where you should try a little of everything, the name is La Petite Perdrix located in the lower Saint-Emilion. Don't forget to try all the wines and maybe send the case home. There is no specific shop, they are everywhere. If you need, one of Joanna's best friends works for the tourism office of Saint-Emilion and she will be happy to tell you more about this town. Her name is Manon and her phone number is (+33) 6 12 64 02 37. Contact her !
Lacanau Océan
Lacanau is a stretch of coastline where I have had one of my coldest, yet memorable sessions. It is a beach break like almost all spots in France and it is only a short 45 minutes drive from the location of our wedding. Lacanau has its moments and can line up to be a world class sandbar. Most surf events are held there moving north from the also world class Hossegor. If you have a chance and there is some early season action in the Atlantic, then you will be in luck. Warmer water and a beautiful blue sandbar. The surf isn't the only thing worth noting, during summer months, this town comes alive and has such a fun lively atmosphere, attracting tourists from all over Europe. I definitely recommend you check out all the beach front boutiques and snack shops. My favorite restaurant that Joanna's family took me to was Café Maritime, be sure to order the seafood appetizer.
La Dune du Pilat
La Dune du Pilat is a staple of the region, in fact it was Joanna and I's first sunset date when I arrived my first time in France. This place will blow your mind, it is the biggest sand dune in all of Europe. Most people who make it to the bottom cry upon the sight of the return to the top. It makes for a perfect place to practice your gymnastics. When heading to La Dune du Pilat, is best if you can link it with Arcachon, Andernos-les-Bains and Cap Ferret. These cities are all around the Bassin d'Arcachon, which is like a big lake where the Atlantic Ocean flows to. The oyster port in Andernos-les-Bains is the perfect place to eat seafood and specifically oysters.