La Ruchotte, Bligny Sur Ouche, France

I am following the lead of Raymond Blanc and have booked lunch at a tiny farm in Bourgogne on Sunday.  Never has the term 'middle of nowhere' been more applicable, as the farm is set deep in the French countryside, without even a sign outside to indicate the declicious on offer within.

Booking La Ruchotte has been interesting to say the least, involving several emails (in French), and payment of a 30 Euro deposit.  No menu is on offer in advance - the chef cooks whatever is available on the farm (so I'm guessing we don't neeed to worry about my shellfish allergy...).  It's open for lunch only on Saturdays and Sundays and only takes 24 or so people round a big farmhouse table - so I'm hoping they don't mind having small children in the mix.  There's only so much colouring in little people can do before they get antsy.  But it will be delicieux I'm sure - and a very good, and very french way to start our half term holiday...

Airbnb

I have booked quite a bit of my next break to France via airbnb.  We've booked a huge apartment right beside the Eiffel Tower for about the half the price of a hotel room in the area, especially good value when you need two bedrooms, and the Frenchhotel system doesn't seem to understand the concept of 'family suites.'  The owners of the luxurious apartment were understandably nervous and asking lots of questions, but having established we're respectable enough, all is now set and ready to go.  The concept is good, but it's based on trust, and it is kind of wierd living in someone else's home - and with small kids you do tend to feel a bit paranoid about everything.  Nevertheless it's so good to have your own space and live like a local for a bit.

Planning to go visit Pink Flamingo for pizza when in Paris - dinner by the Canal St Martin sounds rather lovely.