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Travel

Montpellier or bust, summer holiday with adopted kids, in the South of France,

Tooting Mama
38 Comments
August 9, 2016
6 Mins read
223 Views
WE Survived summer-2

We’re just back from our summer holiday in Montpellier, South of France with our two adopted kids, and we survived.

Just under two glorious weeks of sunshine, beaches, and a few tantrums and meltdowns, otherwise it would not have been a holiday with adopted kids.

Getting there

As we live in Paris we decided to get to the South of France by train, the ultra fast TGV. It was a no brainer  – nine hours by car, with two kids and Mr L (Lucius our dog) or three and a half hours, in an air conditioned carriage with leg room, buffet car, the kids can watch a DVD and I can enjoy a glass of wine.

All we had to do was pick up the holiday car from the car rental outlet, conveniently located in Montpellier station then drive to the house we had booked through  airbnb.

The house

PupinthegardenThis is the first time we have used airbnb for a family holiday and it worked out well.

We booked a three bedroom, family house with garden on the outskirts of Montpellier.

OK, it wasn’t a beach front apartment, nor in the centre of the beautiful old town. But the house was in the great place, with its own parking, to use as base for our many trips to beaches, scenic villages and spectacular sights.

We made full use of the garden: breakfast and dinner outside; somewhere for Mr L  to roam around and chase cats; and when the kids were in bed kick back with a glass of wine.

Houses are part of our essential holiday strategy, it gives our kids a feel of the familiar.

The beaches

PuponthebeachThis was why we came, and we were not disappointed.

The Languedoc is spoilt for beautiful, mile upon mile of golden sandy beaches. Even though it was high season we didn’t have to fight for a spot on the sand.

Where ever we pitched up we found our spot, set up our parasols, spread out our towels and settled down for a day of sunbathing and swimming.

Top three beaches as voted by our kids

The  favourite beach was Portiragnes, remote, a little on the wild side, few facilities, no crowds. We spent a day here, with Mr L (dogs allowed).

The kids loved playing among the drift wood logs – perfect for den making. There’s a small little restaurant serving up delicious sea food (and it has a kids menu too).

A close second, was L’Espiguette, another wild beach. This one is unsupervised (no life guards) so keep a close eye on your kids.

Again, miles of golden sand, no crowds, plenty of sand dunes to get lost in. It does have a little restaurant which served up a delicious tapas salad for me, chicken sandwiches, crisps and drinks for the kids. We even sneaked on the Mr L – no complaints from anyone.

The third favourite, and another really fab beach was just outside Sete, the North Corniche.

The kids loved this beach because the water was particularly shallow, making it great for splashing and swimming.

The beach restaurant was a big hit with the kids dishing up the best chicken nuggets ever. There are lots of amenities on this beach but it can get a little crowed.  If you want a wilder beach, then check out the South Corniche.

The food was great – if you love sea food

SeafoodSouth of France, it had to be sea food, were ever we went, we were spoilt for choice with fresh grilled fish, mussels, oysters, squid, crabs, cuttle fish, prawns, bouillabaisse. All mouth-wateringly good.

If you want to sample great sea food, then head to the little fishing village of Meze. Around the working harbour are many restaurants specialising in fish. After you have eaten, you can take a walk around the village, before heading to Meze’s own little village beach.

Fighting a loosing battle with the kids

It was a little harder for the kids, both are picky eaters (really common with adopted kids). And what one likes the other hates. Yup, I am often tearing my hair out when it comes to meal times.

We managed to find decent restaurants with decent(-ish) kids’ menus – steak hache, poulet nuggets, pizza. That’s what our kids want to eat when they go out. And they’d rather go hungry than eat anything else.

We have been down that very messy road many times. I know which battles are worth fighting – going out to eat isn’t one of them.

Montpellier

Montpelier TownWhen we finally got to Montpellier I could understand what all the fuss was about. It’s beautiful, faded splendour, hinting of days of glory in years gone by.

Even the kids didn’t fuss too much about walking the meandering  cobbled streets as we admired the renaissance architecture.

We cut them loose in Montpellier’s magical Jardin de Plantes which feels like a secret, lost garden in the middle of a hot sweaty city.

There are plenty of scenic villages 

If you want a cute, picturesque village, head to Pezenas.

Pazenas is full of restaurants with tables tumbling onto its winding cobbled streets,  and art galleries, artisan workshops, old-fashioned sweet shops and toys shops.  Hold on tight to your purse it’s hard not to spend money in Pezenas. I walked away with a new handbag  – I just had to have it!

Nimes is where you go if you want history, Roman history. Take a look at the arena – it’s still in use today (bull fights – let’s not go there), there is the Roman temple, Maison Carre and the Temple of Diana.

Jaw dropping sights

fourpostersunloungersWell if you are in Nimes then you have to take a trip to the jaw droppingly, amazing Pont du Gard. Built by the Romans, the Pont du Gard aqueduct diverted water to Nimes.  It’s worth walking up to, on to and beyond for the panoramic views.

You can take lunch here at the Terrace restaurant, before heading down to the river bank, to nab yourself a family sized, four-poster sun lounger (they’ll all be gone by 2pm) and take a well-earned dip in the river.

And what about the kids? 

Love stone

We broke our own rules

Only a few weeks ago I wrote about coping with the summer holidays with adopted kids, and the importance of routine etc.

We broke our rules, we had a leisurely late supper, took the kids for a late(-ish) walk, and they went to bed late(-ish).

Oh we paid for it the next day, grumps for breakfast, fighting over nothing, constant bickering, finally culminating in tantrum central.

I guess we just have to realise when we are on holiday our kids like their routine. This is now etched in my brain – bedtime is sacrosanct!

We had plenty of tantrums

It was our first two-week holiday with our adopted kids, and after days of not really knowing what we are doing, sunning ourselves on the beach, swimming for hours, traipsing around yet another pretty village, finding restaurants that met everyone’s particular taste, getting very hot and bothered, little tempers started to fray.

Old habits re-appeared: the fidgeting, out doing each other at every available opportunity, you love him/her more than me, not going to bed, shouting instead of talking, shouting then becomes screaming, refusing to eat because it looks weird, controlling behaviour because we feel out of control. The usual stuff when cortisol levels peak, adrenaline rages in your veins. The result, a monumental meltdown.

Welcome to life with adopted kids.

Did we have fun?

Yeah! We loved it.  The kids loved it. And even Mr L loved it.

And what about next year

Of course we will have another holiday, nothing puts us off.

And this time, we’re thinking of three weeks (just like the French), out towards Perpignan, near the Spanish border and a few days up in the Pyrenees.

Cuddle Fairy
Lou Messugo
Dear Bear and Beany

Brilliant blog posts on HonestMum.com

ethannevelyn

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adopted children coping with summer holidays Montpellier
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38 Comments
  1. Phoebe

    March 1, 2018 3:55 pm

    Very useful article! I also found a page of spending summer with language learning in Montpellier 😀 very interesting! https://www.institut-europeen.com/reasons-learn-french-summer-montpellier/

    Reply
  2. Laura - dear bear and beany

    August 16, 2016 8:50 pm

    Oh this looks a beautiful place to visit and I really hope to visit the south of France one day. The sea food platter looks amazing. Holidays are difficult with the good and the bad parts. My girls need their routine and as much as would like a later night out to enjoy the evenings we know they can’t cope with it and it would ruin the next day. Thanks for joining us at #SharingtheBlogLove Laura x
    Laura – dear bear and beany recently posted…Review: Thaikhun Restaurant – OxfordMy Profile

    Reply
  3. Su {Ethan & Evelyn}

    August 14, 2016 9:50 am

    Wow! It sound like you had a fabulous holiday. The beaches sound lovely and is making me wanting to visit too. I’d love to go on that super fast train, sound like the kind of thing my kids would love to go on it too. I know about routine. I had to keep minds in bed by the set time too, otherwise all hell break loose the next day! lol! Glad you had a lovely time with the kids and Mr T. You are making super memories for everyone. 🙂 Thank you so much for linking up with us on #FabFridayPost xx
    Su {Ethan & Evelyn} recently posted…#FabFridayPost Linky #44 {11.08.16}My Profile

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 14, 2016 4:08 pm

      If you do get the change to pop down to the south of France, do – it’s so lovely, and so much to do. I’ve been really enjoying reading about your travels too. Loving the #FabFridayPost – it’s a great end to the week!

      Reply
  4. Sarah Stockley

    August 13, 2016 2:34 pm

    It sounds and looks beautiful. I’m really hoping we can start taking our kids to explore France soon. Sarah #FabFridayPost
    Sarah Stockley recently posted…The Family Travel Show, LondonMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 14, 2016 4:11 pm

      I hope so too, I am sure they will love it here. I’d really love to read your blogs when you make it over here!

      Reply
  5. Newcastle Family Life

    August 13, 2016 10:55 am

    It looks like a lovely holiday. We have been thinking of visiting the South Of France with are children next summer, I have never been but my dad goes every year x
    Newcastle Family Life recently posted…My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic Sugarcube Corner Playset ReviewMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 13, 2016 1:30 pm

      Oh you should, I am sure everyone will love it. The great think about France is how everyone is so super relaxed, the weather was great, and the beaches …. well it’s a great holiday spot.

      Reply
  6. Katy - Hot Pink Wellingtons

    August 12, 2016 3:44 pm

    Just stopping by again to say thanks so much for joining us at #SharingtheBlogLove – my mouth is once again watering at the sight of that seafood platter!
    Katy – Hot Pink Wellingtons recently posted…#SharingtheBlogLove #7My Profile

    Reply
  7. laura dove

    August 12, 2016 9:53 am

    What beautiful photos and it sounds as though you had a wonderful time. I love the south of france and yet we haven’t taken the children over there yet. Perhaps next year! #fabfridaypost

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 12, 2016 10:13 am

      Aww, thank you so much. The South of France is so great for kids, they will love it, add it to you travel list!

      Reply
  8. Diane

    August 12, 2016 6:14 am

    Thank you for sharing your vacation with #allaboutfrance. I hope to get to that region one of these days. 😉
    Diane recently posted…The France I loveMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 12, 2016 7:21 am

      Hi there thanks for your comment, and if you do I am sure you will love it!

      Reply
  9. Kate

    August 11, 2016 3:59 pm

    oh, forgot the hashatag, #brillblogposts 🙂
    Kate recently posted…Why Setting Limits About Screentime Starts With YouMy Profile

    Reply
  10. Kate

    August 11, 2016 3:57 pm

    It was a real coincidence that this came up in my newsfeed. I live in Switzerland although I’m originally from the UK and on hot days, I so crave the sea! Last summer we went on a wonderful train journey to Spain via one night in Montepelier, but we were inland and I had no idea the sea was so near! I was just thinking these last few days, that I want to spend some time in the south of france. Thanks so much for the good timing of this post, I’m going to save the info for later.

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 7:01 pm

      The south of France is pretty spectacular and I love the Languedoc region so much less touristy than the further west. I do hope you get there soon and if you blog about it – I’d love to read it!

      Reply
  11. Lianne

    August 11, 2016 1:19 pm

    Looks a lovely place, I’d love to go to the south of France! Sounds beautiful! #sharingthebloglove

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 1:38 pm

      Hi thanks for the comment, it’s a beautiful place, if you get the chance do go, I’m sure you will love it!

      Reply
  12. Candace

    August 11, 2016 10:29 am

    Looks absolutely glorious! I’m s big fan of relaxing and enjoying exploring the surroundings. Think I’d love it here especially as I’m a big fan of seafood

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 11:23 am

      On you should go, it was glorious and if you love sea food, it’s the place for you!

      Reply
  13. Ana De- Jesus

    August 11, 2016 10:29 am

    It is important to have routine but there is nothing wrong with breaking out of it once in a while. Looks like you had a good holiday though!
    Ana De- Jesus recently posted…My Mermaid FantasyMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 11:22 am

      I agree routine is important, and yes breaking the rules can be fun. We had a lovely time – thank you.

      Reply
  14. Jayne (@SMABLblog)

    August 11, 2016 9:36 am

    What a fab break.
    Looks like you had an amazing time and made some lovely memories 🙂 x

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 11:21 am

      Thank you, great memories, half of me is still there lying on the beach….but back to reality!

      Reply
  15. Fashion and Style Police

    August 11, 2016 6:57 am

    What a great vacation. I think I need a holiday now.

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 11:20 am

      Book yourself something relaxing yet stylish! Maybe a spa retreat?!

      Reply
  16. yvonne

    August 10, 2016 9:01 pm

    I love AirBNB, I think it is a great find! Sounds like a great holiday, glad you all had a fun time xx

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 11:19 am

      It was the first time we used airbnb for a family holiday. We’ll definitely use it again.

      Reply
  17. Katy - Hot Pink Wellingtons

    August 10, 2016 6:10 pm

    Oh, it looks fantastic! I remember many lovely holidays in the South of France as a child. Love the look of that seafood platter! I think holidays bring out both the worst and the best in families – I always find things more difficult in parts, but it’s completely outweighed by the amazing memories and fun times. #bloggerclubuk
    Katy – Hot Pink Wellingtons recently posted…My favourite Up and Coming Instagram AccountsMy Profile

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 11:17 am

      My mouth still waters when I see that sea food platter. You’re right about holidays bringing out the best and the worst. But now we are at home we are only really remembering the best of times.

      Reply
  18. Anosa

    August 10, 2016 4:48 pm

    Oh my goodness, the sea food has me really hungry right now. It looks absolutely delicious. I would love to visit the south of France one day.
    Anosa recently posted…{Beauty} Pumkin Glycolic Mask Review My Profile

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 11:16 am

      Add to to your travel destination list! You have to go!

      Reply
  19. Jordanne | Thelifeofaglasgowgirl

    August 10, 2016 12:30 pm

    It really looks like you had a nice time. I like the sound of Nimes because I love anything gets historic.

    Jordanne || Thelifeofaglasgowgirl.co.uk

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 11:15 am

      Thanks, we had an amazing time. Nimes was beautiful I just wish we had a bit more time there, I love all that Roman history – it’s so fascinating.

      Reply
  20. Elizabeth

    August 10, 2016 8:11 am

    What a wonderful adventure, something the children will remember when they get older. I’d love to visit there one day.
    Elizabeth recently posted…Looking for a Food Photographer in London?My Profile

    Reply
    1. Tooting Mama

      August 11, 2016 11:14 am

      It was a super adventure, and bucket loads of memories. If you get a chance to visit do go, it’s a glorious place. I’d love to hear what you think about the food, it’s foodie heaven!

      Reply
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Ranji Thangiah

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I'm Ranji! I am a food photographer, recipe creator, lover of Sri Lankan food which I want to share with you.

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That'll be a full Sri Lankan for me.​​​​​​​​​
@cynthia.uma I want to say good luck as you welcome your first guest to your new Sri Lankan restaurant @rambutan_ldn.

I know this project has been in gestation for a long time, and I can only imagine the excitement you are feeling as you welcome your first guests to dine with you. 

I also know you're going to smash this while putting Tamil Sri Lankan food on the map!

If you can't wait that long, grab a  copy of Cynthia's awesome cookbook Rambutan. 

This is the roasted butternut squash curry, perfect for soaking up fragrant spices that pack a punch. 

My husband and I, we are hooked on seeni sambol toasties. This was something my mum used to make, and you'll find it in the book. Think cheese toasties with an onion jam on acid! Try it, you'll be hooked too! 

🍀Good luck Cynthia, I'm rooting for you! 👊🏾

Recipe: Sri Lankan butternut squash curry, recipe from Rambutan cookbook
Photography: Moi 
Food styling: Moi

#srilankanfoodrecipes #srilankanfoodphotograher #srilankanfoodlovers #srilankanfoodiesaroundtheworld #srilankantraveldiaries #srilankantravel #foodandflatlay #foodstylingandphotography #foodstylingphotography #foodphotographymagazine #restaurantphotographer #londonfoodphotographer #seedifferently #sonyalpha #sonyalphafemale #seedifferently #sonyalpha #sonyalphafemale
My creative juices are feeling drained, and I’ve My creative juices are feeling drained, and I’ve sucking up the last dribbles from my creative well.

I did a shoot for two recipes I had created. 

I loved the recipes, hot spicy traditional Sri Lankan curries, kalupol chicken and a side of sambar. The flavours that had depth, the kind of flavours reach into you and touch your soul! 

But, I hated the pictures.

It was frustrating. 

Even though I had meticulous planned my shots, they just didn’t work.

It sometimes happens, especially when you feel sapped of your creativity. 

Creativity is a muscle that has to be exercised, and then there are times when it simply needs a rest.

I gave my brain a break from food photography, and embarked of a photo walk in the fascinating company of @step_hen_les_lie, a brilliant and insanely knowledgeable street photographer.

I needed to engage and see the world, in a different way.

With street photography, the shot comes you. If that sounds easy? Think again. 

Street photography tests your mental sharpness, your power of seeing the out of the ordinary. 

It’s a case of walking, waiting and watching, waiting for something unusual, out of place or something just plain old god damn bonkers to happen. 

And you need a truckload of patience, and be ready to catch that shot! 

Check out my photographs and let me what you think. 
#streetphotographylondon #londonphotographer #documentaryphoto #londonrestaurantphotographer #foodphotographerlondon #visualstorytelling #candidstreetphotography #streetphotomag #streetlifeworldwide #seedifferently #sonyalpha #sonyalphafemale #capturestreets
We connected over fish. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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After connecting on Instagram and following her foodie adventures around the world across Australia and India, I finally got to meet Sohini, who runs the fabulous food account @smokeandlime.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Sohini creates inventive menus for her line of supper clubs inspired by her Kolkata heritage.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We met, in South London, in the Elephant and Castle.I’ve worked around the Elephant for almost twenty years. With jobs that took me down the Aylesbury Estate; I’ve seen tea dances in the Elephant & Castle shopping centre where I played ten pin bowling when I volunteered with a cub troupe from Peckham. This was at a time when the Elephant was a no-go for gentrification.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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How it has changed. Sprouting out of the earth like giant stalagmites are these huge glass towers with apartments commanding eye watering rents. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Like the old housing estates, the old carbuncle of a shopping centre has been bulldozed; In its wake are small eateries and boutiques. The big brands aren’t here yet, but it’s only a matter of time. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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At Sohini’s suggestion we met at a little Peruvian place, @saborperuano_elephant, just under Strata Tower in a brutalist concrete parade of shops. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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This restaurant is old school, no frills, white vinyl tablecloths, giant-screened TV. Yet the food is…..EPIC!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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The ceviche, marinaded in tangy cheeksuckingly good leche de tigre, succulent beef hearts threaded on to skewers, fresh crispy deep fried squid, and I’m pretty sure we ate vegetables to. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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And, for two hours straight, we spoke about nothing else but food. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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It’s was great. And my heart is lost in Peru! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#londonfoodphotographer #Londonfoodie #restaurantphotographer #commericialphotographer #stilllife #stilllifephotography #stilllifestories
Thai aubergines. It's hard to believe these are ve Thai aubergines. It's hard to believe these are vegetables.​​​​​​​​
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That green, they look like little semi precious stones, or marbles, the ones I used to play with when I was a kid.​​​​​​​​
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I saw these in my local Sri Lankan grocers, and had to grab my phone and snatch picture!​​​​​​​​
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They're almost too cute to cook!​​​​​​​​
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#pinkladysnapsfeb23 @pinkladyappleuk @davidloftus​​​​​​​​
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 #myediblecaptures monochromatic bliss by @andreakoever judge @eli_and_co sponsor @blueberrybackdrops ​​​​​​​​
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#aubergines #stilllife #stilllifegallery #stilllifephotographer #raw_minimial #belightinspired #shotoniphone #foodstyling #srilankanfood #restaurantphotographer #londoncommercialphotographer #foodstylistlondon #saveurmag #bonappetit #londonfoodstylist #srilankanfoodphotographer #Londonfoodphotographer #editorialphotographer #beautifulfood #f52community
When I was a kid, we always made thin, French-styl When I was a kid, we always made thin, French-style crepes. And our topping was only ever lemon and sugar. 🍋​​​​​​​​
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The American fluffy pancakes were, well exotic. ​​​​​​​​
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We only ever saw them on American kids' shows. And they always seemed to have pancakes for breakfast. And they always covered them in syrup! I'd watch wide-eyed agog at these pile of delicious pile of pancakes.​​​​​​​​
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When I was a kid, pancakes were a once-a-year thing.​​​​​​​​
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The excitement and build-up was almost too much as we approached Pancake day, aka Shove Tuesday, gobbling up all the good stuff before we headed into Lent and abstinence before we crack open the Easter eggs. ​​​​​​​​
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Now, I can make whatever pancakes I like. And I like to make fluffy American ones. Perhaps it reminds me of those Saturday morning American kids' shows, and those hearty American breakfasts, served by all-American moms to their all-American families.​​​​​​​​
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There's something indulgent about a pile of fluffy buttermilk pancakes, ready and waiting, drenched with something delicious and to be devoured by a brood of hungry mouths. ​​​​​​​​
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What pancakes did you make this year? And more importantly, what was your topping? ​​​​​​​​
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#pinkladysnapsfeb23 @foodphotoaward @pinkladyappleuk @davidloftus ​​​​​​​​
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February open theme #foodphotobiteswithritu @foodphotobiteswithritu @happytummybyritumbhara judge: @ferraronierica ​​​​​​​​
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American pancakes: Recipe @marthastewart, Food styling: Moi​​​​​​​​
Photography: Moi. Syrup: @lylesgoldensyrup​​​​​​​​
Inspiration: @louisehagger - an incredible food photographer with so much wit & creativity 🤩​​​​​​​​
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Making my mother Sri Lankan Love cake has become a Making my mother Sri Lankan Love cake has become a tradition. I like to make it about this time of year, you know, love and #Valentines and all that.​​​​​​​​
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The recipe I bake yields a hefty portion.  Love Cake is dense, it’s not designed to be wolfed down in a single session. It’s a cake to savour and relishes to cherish while sipping a cup of Sri Lankan tea.​​​​​​​​
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Having made it so often it's only now that I am digging into its provenance.  Sri Lankan Love Cake has an interesting backstory of colonialism, culture, and personal stories of migration.​​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​
If you want to know more about the history of this delicious cake, hop to the Tooting Mama website, there’s a link in my bio. You’ll find the recipe there too. ​​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​
Because, the only way to experience Love Cake is to make it. ​​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​
#lovecake #srilankancuisine #srilankanfood #restaurantphotographer #londoncommercialphotographer #foodstylistlondon #saveurmag #bonappetit #londonfoodstylist #srilankanfoodphotographer #Londonfoodphotographer #editorialphotographer #beautifulfood #f52community #hautecuisines #raw_sweets #raw_sweets_
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That'll be a full Sri Lankan for me.​​​​​​​​​
@cynthia.uma I want to say good luck as you welcome your first guest to your new Sri Lankan restaurant @rambutan_ldn.

I know this project has been in gestation for a long time, and I can only imagine the excitement you are feeling as you welcome your first guests to dine with you. 

I also know you're going to smash this while putting Tamil Sri Lankan food on the map!

If you can't wait that long, grab a  copy of Cynthia's awesome cookbook Rambutan. 

This is the roasted butternut squash curry, perfect for soaking up fragrant spices that pack a punch. 

My husband and I, we are hooked on seeni sambol toasties. This was something my mum used to make, and you'll find it in the book. Think cheese toasties with an onion jam on acid! Try it, you'll be hooked too! 

🍀Good luck Cynthia, I'm rooting for you! 👊🏾

Recipe: Sri Lankan butternut squash curry, recipe from Rambutan cookbook
Photography: Moi 
Food styling: Moi

#srilankanfoodrecipes #srilankanfoodphotograher #srilankanfoodlovers #srilankanfoodiesaroundtheworld #srilankantraveldiaries #srilankantravel #foodandflatlay #foodstylingandphotography #foodstylingphotography #foodphotographymagazine #restaurantphotographer #londonfoodphotographer #seedifferently #sonyalpha #sonyalphafemale #seedifferently #sonyalpha #sonyalphafemale
My creative juices are feeling drained, and I’ve My creative juices are feeling drained, and I’ve sucking up the last dribbles from my creative well.

I did a shoot for two recipes I had created. 

I loved the recipes, hot spicy traditional Sri Lankan curries, kalupol chicken and a side of sambar. The flavours that had depth, the kind of flavours reach into you and touch your soul! 

But, I hated the pictures.

It was frustrating. 

Even though I had meticulous planned my shots, they just didn’t work.

It sometimes happens, especially when you feel sapped of your creativity. 

Creativity is a muscle that has to be exercised, and then there are times when it simply needs a rest.

I gave my brain a break from food photography, and embarked of a photo walk in the fascinating company of @step_hen_les_lie, a brilliant and insanely knowledgeable street photographer.

I needed to engage and see the world, in a different way.

With street photography, the shot comes you. If that sounds easy? Think again. 

Street photography tests your mental sharpness, your power of seeing the out of the ordinary. 

It’s a case of walking, waiting and watching, waiting for something unusual, out of place or something just plain old god damn bonkers to happen. 

And you need a truckload of patience, and be ready to catch that shot! 

Check out my photographs and let me what you think. 
#streetphotographylondon #londonphotographer #documentaryphoto #londonrestaurantphotographer #foodphotographerlondon #visualstorytelling #candidstreetphotography #streetphotomag #streetlifeworldwide #seedifferently #sonyalpha #sonyalphafemale #capturestreets
We connected over fish. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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After connecting on Instagram and following her foodie adventures around the world across Australia and India, I finally got to meet Sohini, who runs the fabulous food account @smokeandlime.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Sohini creates inventive menus for her line of supper clubs inspired by her Kolkata heritage.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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We met, in South London, in the Elephant and Castle.I’ve worked around the Elephant for almost twenty years. With jobs that took me down the Aylesbury Estate; I’ve seen tea dances in the Elephant & Castle shopping centre where I played ten pin bowling when I volunteered with a cub troupe from Peckham. This was at a time when the Elephant was a no-go for gentrification.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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How it has changed. Sprouting out of the earth like giant stalagmites are these huge glass towers with apartments commanding eye watering rents. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Like the old housing estates, the old carbuncle of a shopping centre has been bulldozed; In its wake are small eateries and boutiques. The big brands aren’t here yet, but it’s only a matter of time. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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At Sohini’s suggestion we met at a little Peruvian place, @saborperuano_elephant, just under Strata Tower in a brutalist concrete parade of shops. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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This restaurant is old school, no frills, white vinyl tablecloths, giant-screened TV. Yet the food is…..EPIC!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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The ceviche, marinaded in tangy cheeksuckingly good leche de tigre, succulent beef hearts threaded on to skewers, fresh crispy deep fried squid, and I’m pretty sure we ate vegetables to. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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And, for two hours straight, we spoke about nothing else but food. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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It’s was great. And my heart is lost in Peru! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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#londonfoodphotographer #Londonfoodie #restaurantphotographer #commericialphotographer #stilllife #stilllifephotography #stilllifestories
Thai aubergines. It's hard to believe these are ve Thai aubergines. It's hard to believe these are vegetables.​​​​​​​​
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That green, they look like little semi precious stones, or marbles, the ones I used to play with when I was a kid.​​​​​​​​
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I saw these in my local Sri Lankan grocers, and had to grab my phone and snatch picture!​​​​​​​​
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They're almost too cute to cook!​​​​​​​​
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#pinkladysnapsfeb23 @pinkladyappleuk @davidloftus​​​​​​​​
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 #myediblecaptures monochromatic bliss by @andreakoever judge @eli_and_co sponsor @blueberrybackdrops ​​​​​​​​
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#aubergines #stilllife #stilllifegallery #stilllifephotographer #raw_minimial #belightinspired #shotoniphone #foodstyling #srilankanfood #restaurantphotographer #londoncommercialphotographer #foodstylistlondon #saveurmag #bonappetit #londonfoodstylist #srilankanfoodphotographer #Londonfoodphotographer #editorialphotographer #beautifulfood #f52community
When I was a kid, we always made thin, French-styl When I was a kid, we always made thin, French-style crepes. And our topping was only ever lemon and sugar. 🍋​​​​​​​​
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The American fluffy pancakes were, well exotic. ​​​​​​​​
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We only ever saw them on American kids' shows. And they always seemed to have pancakes for breakfast. And they always covered them in syrup! I'd watch wide-eyed agog at these pile of delicious pile of pancakes.​​​​​​​​
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When I was a kid, pancakes were a once-a-year thing.​​​​​​​​
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The excitement and build-up was almost too much as we approached Pancake day, aka Shove Tuesday, gobbling up all the good stuff before we headed into Lent and abstinence before we crack open the Easter eggs. ​​​​​​​​
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Now, I can make whatever pancakes I like. And I like to make fluffy American ones. Perhaps it reminds me of those Saturday morning American kids' shows, and those hearty American breakfasts, served by all-American moms to their all-American families.​​​​​​​​
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There's something indulgent about a pile of fluffy buttermilk pancakes, ready and waiting, drenched with something delicious and to be devoured by a brood of hungry mouths. ​​​​​​​​
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What pancakes did you make this year? And more importantly, what was your topping? ​​​​​​​​
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#pinkladysnapsfeb23 @foodphotoaward @pinkladyappleuk @davidloftus ​​​​​​​​
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February open theme #foodphotobiteswithritu @foodphotobiteswithritu @happytummybyritumbhara judge: @ferraronierica ​​​​​​​​
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American pancakes: Recipe @marthastewart, Food styling: Moi​​​​​​​​
Photography: Moi. Syrup: @lylesgoldensyrup​​​​​​​​
Inspiration: @louisehagger - an incredible food photographer with so much wit & creativity 🤩​​​​​​​​
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#buttermilkpancakes #americanpancakes #pourshot #pancakeday #pancakeday2023 #foodstylistlondon #londonfoodphotographer #foodphotographylondon #londonrestaurantphotographer #commercialphotography #editorialphotographer #beautifulfood #f52community #hautecuisines
Making my mother Sri Lankan Love cake has become a Making my mother Sri Lankan Love cake has become a tradition. I like to make it about this time of year, you know, love and #Valentines and all that.​​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​
The recipe I bake yields a hefty portion.  Love Cake is dense, it’s not designed to be wolfed down in a single session. It’s a cake to savour and relishes to cherish while sipping a cup of Sri Lankan tea.​​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​
Having made it so often it's only now that I am digging into its provenance.  Sri Lankan Love Cake has an interesting backstory of colonialism, culture, and personal stories of migration.​​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​
If you want to know more about the history of this delicious cake, hop to the Tooting Mama website, there’s a link in my bio. You’ll find the recipe there too. ​​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​
Because, the only way to experience Love Cake is to make it. ​​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​​
#lovecake #srilankancuisine #srilankanfood #restaurantphotographer #londoncommercialphotographer #foodstylistlondon #saveurmag #bonappetit #londonfoodstylist #srilankanfoodphotographer #Londonfoodphotographer #editorialphotographer #beautifulfood #f52community #hautecuisines #raw_sweets #raw_sweets_
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About Me

Ranji Thangiah

PHOTOGRAPHER & BLOGGER

I'm Ranji! I am a food photographer, recipe creator, lover of Sri Lankan food which I want to share with you.

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