Interview: Lindsey Tramuta, Travel Writer and Photographer

Lindsey Tramuta is a freelance writer and photographer who contributed to The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Bon Appétit and more. Originally from Philadelphia, Tramuta spent seven years as a Parisian transplant after falling in love with the city during a study abroad semester. You can follow her personal blog at LostInCheeseland.com.

Name: Lindsey Tramuta

Profession: Writer

Age: 29

Packing Tip? 

Plan ahead and make a list. I’ve avoided many aggravating “I know I forgot something important” moments by creating a checklist in advance. That simple!

Favorite travel memory?

My 2014 trip to Israel, nothing short of eye-opening and soulful.

Bucket List Destination?

Japan! I’ve dreamed of eating my way through the country for years and I hope 2015 will be the year I get there.

Favorite off-the-beaten-path spot?

I wouldn’t qualify it as truly off-the-beaten path, but Minorca, the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is unspoiled and full of ancient coves and ruins to explore. The people are warm, the wines are delicious and the sunrises are truly some of the best in Europe. I highly recommend this island over Majorca and Spring Break favorite, Ibiza.

What kind of traveler are you?

A culinary traveler — I follow my belly!

Funniest travel story?

Not exactly ha ha funny, but I have a tendency to run into old friends or former acquaintances when I’m on the road and the encounter invariably reignites our bond. Travel is enriching in more ways than one!

Best meal you’ve had on your travels?

I could never name just one, but every trip to Philadelphia is a culinary experience. Talula’s Garden is a favorite and I can’t go without gelato at Capogiro. Aside from that, my first meal in Tel Aviv at Mizlala was one of the most memorable.

Craziest thing you’ve done while traveling?

My kind of crazy is taking several forms of public transportation to cross a town I barely know to indulge in its local specialty, typically pastries and locally roasted coffee.

Favorite item collected from your travels?

A colorful ceramic tile from Seville, where I honeymooned. It adorns our kitchen.

Where next?

Nothing locked yet, but hoping for a chocolate adventure in Zurich, more time in Italy (Monte Rosso specifically) and that epic trip to Japan I’ve been dreaming of for ages. Anywhere else is bonus!