From the streets of Bordeaux

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Bordeaux

Language, culture, food, wine and hidden spots.
Written by our teachers. Read before you arrive.

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Culture

Shopping in Bordeaux

Discover the most charming shopping streets of Bordeaux beyond the famous Rue Sainte-Catherine — Rue Saint-James, Rue des Remparts and more hidden gems.

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Gastronomy

How to choose a wine from Bordeaux?

Bordeaux is world-famous for its wine. Here's your guide to the 7 sub-regions, the different AOCs and how to choose the right bottle.

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Activities

Activities & celebrations in Bordeaux

Brocantes at Les Quinconces, Christmas markets, local traditions — what to do in Bordeaux in November and December.

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Gastronomy

What is "le Lillet"?

This aperitif is produced in Podensac, close to Bordeaux. Made with 85% wine and 15% fruits and cinchona liquor — white, rosé or red. Plus a cocktail recipe!

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Language

What is this expression: "Une poche"?

You may have heard this expression while shopping in Bordeaux. It's a word with a very specific local meaning — and you'll definitely recognise it when you see the picture!

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Language

What are these expressions from Bordeaux?

"Gavé bien", "aller au maille" — local expressions from the Bordelais dialect, derived from the old Occitan language. Learn them and sound like a local.

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Gastronomy

What is this famous pastry from Bordeaux?

Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside. Made in a special baking tin. The canelé is Bordeaux's most iconic pastry — plus the full recipe!

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Practical

Learning French in Bordeaux: How and Why?

Did you know 24 countries have French as their official language? French is spoken by over 300 million people worldwide. Here's why learning it in Bordeaux makes sense.

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Practical

Accommodation in Bordeaux

University residences, hotels, apart-hotels or host families — we can help you find accommodation that suits your age, budget and preferences, all close to our school.

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Language

En faire voir de toutes les couleurs

This expression sounds colourful but its meaning is anything but cheerful. Discover its 19th century origins and how to use it in everyday French.

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Language

Faire porter le chapeau

When someone refuses to take responsibility and blames someone else, the French say they are making them wear the hat. Discover this vivid expression and its examples.

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Language

Rouler sur l'or

Rolling in gold? This 17th century French expression about wealth works just as well in the negative. Learn to use it both ways and impress your French friends.

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Language

Avoir la chair de poule

Goosebumps in French involve chickens, not geese. Discover the 17th century medical origins of this expression and the science behind the sensation itself.

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Language

Connaître quelque chose comme sa poche

To know something like your own pocket: discover the 18th century origins and real-life examples of this classic French expression about deep, thorough knowledge.

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Language

Une fois n'est pas coutume

Just this once does not make a habit. Discover the history dating back to 1607 and real-life examples of this French expression about making exceptions.

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Language

Avoir quelque chose sur le bout de la langue

It is right there, you almost have it. Discover the 16th century origin and examples of this French expression about having a word on the tip of your tongue.

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Language

C'est la fin des haricots

When beans ran out on a ship, it was time to land. Discover the sailors' origins and meaning of this French expression about total hopelessness.

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Language

C'est tiré par les cheveux

Far-fetched, unconvincing, a stretch. Discover the 17th century origin and examples of this French expression about stories and arguments that do not quite add up.

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Language

Mettre la puce à l'oreille

Eight centuries of history in one expression. Discover how a flea in the ear went from romantic desire in the 12th century to raising suspicion today.

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Language

Chercher midi à quatorze heures

To look for noon at two in the afternoon. Discover the 16th century origin and examples of this expression about overcomplicating simple things.

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Language

Rouler quelqu'un dans la farine

Flour as disguise, smooth talk as deception. Discover the theatrical 19th century origins of this French expression about being tricked or deceived.

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Language

À un de ces quatre

See you around, one of these days. Discover the 19th century origin and warm real-life examples of this classic French farewell expression.

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Language

Garder la tête froide

Keep a cool head under pressure. Discover the origin linked to sang-froid and real-life examples of this French expression about staying calm in difficult situations.

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Language

Rester sur sa faim

To come away still hungry. Discover the medieval banquet origins and examples of this French expression about expectations that fall just short of the mark.

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Language

French grammar lessons in Bordeaux

French grammar for English, Spanish and German speakers — the specific challenges, the common traps, and how our teachers help you navigate them all.

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