Bordeaux: A Tranquil Getaway for Autistic Travelers
Nestled in the southwest of France, Bordeaux is renowned for its exceptional wine, excellent food, rich pastries, fantastic chocolate, rich (but a violent one due to it being the main European port for the African Slave Trade) history, and stunning architecture. However, beyond its popular tourist attractions, Bordeaux offers something truly special for our autistic community. The city's unique features, such as low population density, abundant green spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere, create a harmonious environment that can be especially welcoming to autistic people. Part of an ongoing series on the city, I will delve into why Bordeaux is a fantastic city for autistic people, highlighting its tranquility, open spaces, and sensory-friendly establishments.
Low Density and Minimal Traffic
Bordeaux is relatively less crowded compared to other major cities in France, making it an excellent choice for autistic folks who prefer fewer interactions and a quieter pace of life. The low density of people and traffic allows for a more peaceful and less overwhelming experience than Paris, Lyon, Marseille, or Toulouse.
Residential Streets with Dimmed Lights (or No Lights At All!) at Night
One remarkable aspect of Bordeaux is its commitment to reducing light pollution. Many residential streets in the city have their lights dimmed or turned off at night, providing a serene environment conducive to relaxation and better sleep. For autistic people who may be sensitive to bright lights, this thoughtful initiative can make a significant difference in their daily lives.
Car-Free City Center
Bordeaux's city center is remarkably pedestrian-friendly, with limited car access. This not only enhances safety but also significantly reduces noise pollution, contributing to a more comfortable environment for those with sensory sensitivities, not just autistic people.
Abundance of Green Spaces and Low-Rise Buildings
The city boasts numerous beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Jardin Public, providing peaceful retreats amidst nature. Additionally, Bordeaux has embraced low-rise architecture, preserving its charm and avoiding the overwhelming feeling of towering skyscrapers that can be distressing for many autistic individuals. The scale of the city doesn’t add to the visual and spacial overwhelm that many of us can experience.
Serenity and Lack of Hustle and Bustle
Despite being a vibrant city, Bordeaux maintains a serene ambiance. Its streets exude a sense of calm and tranquility, offering a sanctuary away from the bustling metropolis, which can be especially beneficial for autistic humans who thrive in a more peaceful setting.
Autistic-Friendly Establishments
I’ll be covering each of these (and more) in more detail in future posts, but in the meantime…
Demeter stands out as a sensory-friendly dining experience. The establishment prides itself on offering a relaxing atmosphere, accommodating sensory sensitivities, and providing delicious organic meals that cater to various dietary requirements. Located in the very heart of Bordeaux, despite its central location it’s very quiet with great acoustics. With few tables and with ample space between them, you never feel like you’re in a crowded restaurant. The service is impeccable and everything explained clearly in a variety of languages (we tried French, English, and Spanish!)
Samos Greek Food is another sensory-friendly restaurant in Bordeaux. Known for its warm hospitality and delectable Mediterranean cuisine, it ensures a welcoming environment for all guests, including those with sensory needs. It’s location on a quiet street, but in close proximity to the Marché des Capucins in the heart of the Saint-Michel neighborhood (one of the city’s most fun) also makes it a great spot to eat and rest before heading into the more heavily foot traffic parts of the city.
Café Piha is a charming coffee roaster and cafe that emphasizes comfort and tranquility. Coffee nerds, this is for you! With its inviting ambiance, it offers an ideal spot for autistic individuals seeking a peaceful place to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. This is one of my absolute favorite coffee roasters in the world which makes the experience of actually sitting there and knowing it’s also accessible for autistic people even better! Piha’s Colombian just won the best bean in France, so if you’re a coffee-nerd, absolutely check them out.
Soif is a unique wine bar and restaurant that takes pride in its serene and cozy setting. With a focus on natural wines and seasonal dishes, it provides a delightful culinary experience in a relaxing environment.
Bordeaux is more than just a picturesque city; it is an oasis of tranquility and sensory-friendly spaces, making it an excellent destination for autistic individuals seeking a peaceful and inclusive environment. From the lush green parks to the car-free city center, Bordeaux offers a variety of calming and enjoyable experiences. With plenty of autistic friendly restaurants and shops, it’s one of the more inclusive places I’ve found myself in my journeys throughout the world. So, if you are an autistic individual or have a loved one who is autistic, Bordeaux might just be the perfect city to explore while in France. Stay tuned for more posts on the city!