Day 1 found us in a cold and dreary Bordeaux at 6 pm after 18 hours of travel. We rented a car and started navigation to the hotel.  Driving around in circles for 2 hours led us nowhere. At several points, we were driving down a shopping center that (we later discovered) was not meant for cars. Thankfully, we both were calm and FINALLY called the hotel to realize it is in the middle of a shopping center (see above) and you cannot access it by car. . . Parking garage located and luggage hauled through the shopping center!! 

The hotel is in the center of shopping, restaurants and bard. Step outside and you are literally in the excitement of the city. We were weary, but happy to find several restaurants still open on a Sunday night and quickly chose one that had outdoor seating and an menu in Anglais (English). Charcuterie board and a bottle of wine was first. Followed by a ribeye with salad and French fries. All was delicious!