The Atlas Obscura Podcast AO Mailbag: How Shlubby Is Too Shlubby On an Airplane?
Mar 11, 2026
Cozy conversations about places that felt like home and where they could imagine living permanently. A lively debate on planning every minute of a trip versus going with the flow and handling Type A vs Type B travel styles. A humorous discussion about what counts as acceptable airplane attire and practical tips for comfortable travel clothing.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Every Place Feels Like Home For Kelly
- Kelly McEvers says she wants to live in every place she visits and imagines small daily rituals like coffee and cake in Vienna.
- She recounts picturing herself studying Arabic and sipping tea in Yemen while living in a mafraj in the old city.
New Orleans Felt Like Family For Jerome
- Jerome Campbell describes New Orleans making him feel embraced after brief visits and memorable encounters with locals.
- He remembers an Uber driver inviting him to her family and promising to make a beignet next time, which made him feel at home.
Mexico Is Manolo's Comfort Zone
- Manolo Morales says Mexico feels like home because his family is from Puebla and he grew up visiting since age five.
- He fondly recalls rural life details like waking to roosters and his grandmother keeping chickens, pigs, and goats.