The Atlas Obscura Podcast Dylan’s Mailbag: Trips We’d Never Go On, the First Places in the Atlas, and Worst Bathroom Experiences
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Jun 16, 2025 Join the hosts as they hilariously navigate the quirks of travel, from claustrophobia in Egypt to the dangers of deep-sea diving. They share tales of awkward bathroom encounters, including a memorable camping fiasco. Critiques of popular tourist destinations reveal surprising truths behind iconic spots like the Mona Lisa. The conversation highlights the joys of unique experiences over conventional tourism, creating a delightful blend of humor and genuine travel wisdom.
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Pyramid Interior Nightmare
- Amanda McGowan shares her fear of going inside Egypt's pyramids due to claustrophobia and crowded narrow passageways.
- She finds the experience of walking through the hot, confined, and twisty spaces inside pyramids nightmarish.
Avoid Dangerous, Unpleasant Trips
- Avoid trips with serious safety risks or unpleasant experiences like climbing Mount Everest or inside pyramids.
- Consider whether long waits in dangerous conditions or cramped hazardous spaces are worth it.
Avoid Overhyped Crowds
- Skip popular events like the running of the bulls, Bourbon Street Mardi Gras, or Times Square on New Year's Eve.
- They tend to be overcrowded, unsafe, and generally unpleasant despite their fame.