

Who buys luggage at the airport luggage store?
107 snips Dec 6, 2024
Alastair Gordon, a cultural historian and author of "Naked Airport," dives into the peculiar phenomenon of airport luggage stores. He explores the strange trend of shopping for luggage in places where travelers already have bags, revealing the cultural significance of these retail spaces. Gordon shares insights on the evolution of air travel and the transformation of airports into shopping destinations. He also discusses the quirky demographics of luggage buyers and the intriguing history of unclaimed baggage, uncovering surprising stories behind lost items.
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Airport Meltdown
- Alastair Gordon had a meltdown in a Singapore airport after a flight cancellation.
- This inspired him to research and write "Naked Airport," a cultural history of airports.
Early Airports
- Early airports in Europe resembled grand train stations, benefiting from government subsidies.
- American airports, lacking federal support, were often basic hangars.
LaGuardia's Gambit
- Mayor LaGuardia bought a Pan Am ticket to "New York City" but landed in Newark, NJ.
- He used this to highlight the need for a proper NYC airport, leading to LaGuardia's creation.