I'm very happy to introduce you to Lindsey today on the blog. You may know her better as Lost in Cheeseland? An American transplant from Philadelphia and based in Paris for nine years now, Lindsey is someone I have been following on social media since I first came to Paris in 2009. I love her writing style and am in awe of what she has achieved in her 30 years. Lindsey contributes to many well-respected web and print publications, is a travel ambassador for Afar travel magazine and has a drool-worthy Instagram feed. If I'm looking for some restaurant inspiration, or food porn, I head straight to Lindsey's Instagram. Some random facts about Lindsey: she's got a soft spot for both dogs and cats and is great company over a beer. I'll leave you to discover more about her below!
Lindsey, how did you end up in Paris?
The short version: summer study abroad –> fell in love with the city and a boy > came back to finish my undergraduate studies in Paris > moved in with the boy and never left! That scenario took one year. Then I struggled to find work so I pursued graduate studies at The American University of Paris and that set me on the path that led me to where I am now. At the core of my whole Parisian journey was a deep fascination and profound respect for French culture. I was a French literature major in college and knew that my life would somehow, at some point, bring me to Paris.
What was your motivation for starting Lost in Cheeseland?
Initially, it was a forum to air my frustrations with expat life. “Why do they collect the garbage during rush hour and block the bus lane?!”, “why doesn’t anyone pick up their dog dung?!”, the usual batch of head scratchers. Then, it became the motivation to get out and explore my new city. My husband wasn’t as curious as I was so I had to rely on myself to learn about what Paris had to offer, in terms of food and culture in neighborhoods beyond our own. And it’s because of my early explorative outings that I wanted to continue telling stories, speaking with people and exchanging with creative, interesting locals. Now, I do a bit of personal storytelling as well as cover what is happening in the city (mostly in food!).
Could you tell us a little bit about what you do here in Paris?
I write! I typically write about food and lifestyle, for different newspapers and magazines, and I run the site Lost In Cheeseland. I am also a social media consultant and have worked with brands small and large to bring their missions to life across the most appropriate social channels.
You have 24 hours left in Paris before you move away. What would you choose to do?
Eat everything. I’m talking éclairs, bread, jam, Al Taglio pizza, chocolate, pastries, you name it. And then I’d walk until the very last possible moment along the Seine.
One thing on your bucket list?
Having a dog – I had two growing up and it’s an experience I’d like to have in my adult life.
If you could move anywhere in the world for a career opportunity, where would you choose to go and why?
Oh dear, that’s a tough one because it’s almost inconceivable to me that life would or should lead me away from Paris. BUT I’m very much intrigued by Japan and I think it would be an enriching experience to live in that culture. On the flipside, I am also curious about what it would feel like to live in Philly, where I’m from, nine years after I left. I never worked there so that alone would be a new, exciting experience.
Quick Fire questions
Favourite patisserie? Des Gâteaux et du Pain.
Favourite metro line? Line 3 - it’s actually the one I take the most.
Rive Gauche ou Rive Droite? No question, rive droite.
Red, white or rosé? Depends on the season! Overall, white.
Favourite Parisian café? It’s more of a new type of Parisian café but I adore HONOR.
Favourite French film? Le Placard or Les Enfants du Siècle.
Main photo: Jean-Laurent Gaudy