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Checked Bags and Big Tags
Checked Bags and Big Tags episodes
- Episode 43 - Rough Waters Ahead
Fall travel has thrown some curveballs, and our phones have been ringing. In this episode, Ilisa and Sean catch up on life and travel, then get into the questions clients are asking right now.
First up is Europe. With protests and strikes in France making headlines, is it still safe to go? We talk about what's really happening on the ground, how advisors are helping nervous travelers decide whether to go, adjust or postpone, and the simple steps that make any trip safer.
Next, Royal Caribbean. Imagine packing for CocoCay and waking up in Halifax. That's what happened to guests on Oasis of the Seas when a storm forced a complete itinerary change the night before sailing. We look at how often this happens, what the cruise contract actually allows, and what Royal Caribbean offered passengers.
Finally, we check in on Europe's rivers. After a record-breaking drought summer, where do water levels stand heading into Christmas Markets season, and how can you protect your river cruise?
Our takeaway: headlines are loud, but good information, a little flexibility and a trusted advisor go a long way.
Ilisa Oman
www.oneworldfamilytravel.com
Sean Mouttet
www.gallivantluxurytravel.com
Find us on Facebook! Watch on Youtube
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH
Source: https://freetouse.com/music
Free Music No Copyright (Safe)
40 min - Episode 42- Borders, Bots and Bad Travel Trends
Europe's border system is still a work in progress — nine countries just got another pass on full biometric enforcement, and ETIAS is delayed with no new launch date in sight. We break down what's actually happening at EES checkpoints right now, why ETIAS "applications" being sold online are a scam, and give you the latest on Italy's travel advisory.
Then we get into it: the travel trends we're ready to see disappear in 2026 — overstuffed itineraries, building your whole trip off TikTok, algorithm-driven overtourism, and yes, letting AI plan your vacation without a second thought. (Spoiler: AI can give you a starting point. It can't tell you the restaurant is closed, or that you just scheduled two museums on opposite sides of the city.)
Follow along for more real talk on travel planning, industry updates, and the occasional rant.
Ilisa Oman
www.oneworldfamilytravel.com
Sean Mouttet
www.gallivantluxurytravel.com
Find us on Facebook! Watch on Youtube
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH
Source: https://freetouse.com/music
Free Music No Copyright (Safe)
42 min - Episode 41 - Low Rivers, High Temps, and a Fork Nobody Should've Used
Europe's rivers are running low, the heat is running high, and this week's "Travelers Behaving Badly" story is one for the history books. On this episode of Checked Bags and Big Tags, we're covering:
🚢 River cruise disruptions — Why low water levels on the Danube and Rhine are forcing cruise lines to get creative with bus transfers, ship swaps, and modified itineraries, and how a good travel advisor keeps clients informed without causing panic
🌡️ Europe's heat waves — What record-breaking summer temperatures mean for flight delays and your daily touring plans, plus practical tips to keep your trip enjoyable (hint: mornings, evenings, and a lot less "death march" energy)
✈️ The State Department's Worldwide Caution — What this advisory actually says, who it applies to, and why it doesn't mean you should cancel your trip to Europe
🍴 Travelers Behaving Badly — This week's entry involves a Carnival cruise, a buffet, and a fork used for something forks were never meant to do. You'll want to hear this one.
Whether you're planning a river cruise, a European getaway, or just love a good cautionary tale about manners, this episode has something for you.
lisa Oman
www.oneworldfamilytravel.com
Sean Mouttet
www.gallivantluxurytravel.com
Find us on Facebook! Watch on YouTube
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH
Source: https://freetouse.com/music
Free Music No Copyright (Safe)
34 min - Episode 40 - Turning Layovers Into Adventures & the Real Truth About "All-Inclusive"
Your "all-inclusive" fare might not include what you think. In this episode, we break down exactly what's covered — and what's not — across every tier of cruise line and resort.
Plus: what should have been a 3-hour layover at Heathrow taught us about turning travel chaos into one of the best days of the trip, and a quick update on the ETIAS delay everyone traveling to Europe should know about.
Ilisa Oman
www.oneworldfamilytravel.com
Sean Mouttet
www.gallivantluxurytravel.com
Find us on Facebook
Watch on Youtube
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH
Source: https://freetouse.com/music
Free Music No Copyright (Safe)
31 min - Episode 39 - Crowd Control, Peaceful Paradises & the Seat-Swap Showdown
Are your favorite destinations being loved to death? Where in the world is it still blissfully peaceful? And what exactly is going on with passenger behavior up in the sky? Sean Mouttet of Gallivant Luxury Travel and Ilisa Oman of One World Family Travel get into all of it — no filter, no holding back.
In this episode of Checked Bags & Big Tags:
🌍 OVER-TOURISM IS REAL — NOW WHAT?
Barcelona. Santorini. Kyoto. These iconic destinations are buckling under the weight of too many visitors — and locals are pushing back hard. We break down what's actually happening on the ground, the new tourist taxes and visitor caps being rolled out across Europe and beyond, and most importantly — what responsible luxury travelers can actually DO about it. Spoiler: the answer is better than you think.
🕊️ PEACEFUL PARADISES — THE WORLD'S MOST PEACEFUL DESTINATIONS FOR 2026
The Global Peace Index just released its 2026 rankings — and the top of the list is full of incredible travel inspiration. Iceland holds the #1 spot for the 19th year in a row. New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia, Portugal, and Japan all make the top 10. We dig into the list, talk about the hidden gems worth adding to your bucket list, and discuss how peace rankings factor into how we counsel our clients.
✈️ WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE CABIN?
Flight attendants are warning that passenger behavior has declined sharply — and the numbers back it up. We share what crews are dealing with daily, what airlines are doing about it, and why the first 90 seconds of boarding sets the tone for the entire flight.
🪑 THE HOT SEAT: DO YOU SWITCH SEATS WHEN SOMEONE ASKS?
Someone taps you on the shoulder and asks you to give up the window seat you booked three months ago. What do you do? Sean and Ilisa go head to head on one of the most divisive debates in air travel — and we want YOUR take in the comments.
--- 🎙️ ABOUT THE SHOW
Checked Bags & Big Tags is the no-filter, no-holds-barred travel podcast for people who take their trips seriously. Hosted by two of the travel industry's most passionate insiders, this show covers insider tips, destination deep dives, and the travel news that actually matters.
Sean Mouttet — Founder, Gallivant Luxury Travel
🌐 www.gallivantluxurytravel.com
Ilisa Oman — Founder, One World Family Travel
🌐 www.oneworldfamilytravel.com
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Find us on Facebook! Watch on Youtube
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH
Source: https://freetouse.com/music
Free Music No Copyright (Safe)
39 min - Episode 38 - Luxury Redefined, Thailand Tightens Up and the Airport Story That Has Us Talking
What does "luxury" actually mean in 2026 — and is the old definition dead? Sean Mouttet of Gallivant Luxury Travel and Ilisa Oman of One World Family Travel get into it, and they don't hold back.
In this episode of Checked Bags & Big Tags:
LUXURY REDEFINED — Thread counts, marble lobbies, and white-glove service were the old standard. But today's high-end traveler is chasing something different: time, access, personalization, and the elimination of friction. Sean and Ilisa break down what luxury really looks like for modern travelers — and what it means for how you plan and sell travel.
THAILAND TIGHTENS UP — Thailand has officially cut its visa-free stay from 60 days to 30 days for travelers from 93 countries, including the US, UK, and Australia, effective June 2026. The reason? Bad actors exploiting the program for illegal work, long-term squatting, and unlicensed rentals. We break down what changed, who it affects, and what your clients need to know before they book.
THE AIRPORT STORY EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT — The US Department of Homeland Security has threatened to pull Customs and Border Protection officers from major international airports in sanctuary cities — including LAX, SFO, O'Hare, JFK, and more. The US Travel Association and every major airline have sounded the alarm. We tell you what this could mean for your clients and what to watch.
ABOUT THE SHOW
Checked Bags & Big Tags is the no-filter, no-holds-barred travel podcast hosted by two of the travel industry's most passionate insiders. Whether you're a traveler, a travel professional, or just someone who loves to explore the world in style, this show is for you.
Ilisa Oman
www.oneworldfamilytravel.com
Sean Mouttet
www.gallivantluxurytravel.com
Find us on Facebook! Watch on Youtube
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH
Source: https://freetouse.com/music
Free Music No Copyright (Safe)
33 min - Episode 37 - Staying Healthy, Staying Safe, and Getting Ready for Summer Travel
In this episode of Checked Bags and Big Tags, Sean and Ilisa tackle one of the biggest travel headlines making waves right now: the recent Hantavirus concerns connected to expedition cruising. They break down what travelers actually need to know, why cruising remains an incredibly safe way to travel, and how simple health and safety precautions can help you stay well whether you're at sea, flying, or exploring the world this summer.
The hosts also share important summer travel advice as peak vacation season approaches. From staying hydrated in extreme heat to protecting yourself in crowded airports, navigating busy travel days, and why it's not too late to book that summer getaway, this episode is packed with practical tips every traveler should know before heading out on vacation.
Plus, Sean and Ilisa give listeners an exciting update on the upcoming Checked Bags and Big Tags Greece Group Cruise aboard the Celestyal Cruises Celestyal Journey sailing May 29–June 5, 2027. Learn what makes this immersive Greek Isles experience so special and how you can join them for an unforgettable week exploring Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete, Milos, and more.
They also invite listeners to their Virtual Cruise Night on May 14, where travelers can learn more about the itinerary, pricing, ship experience, and how to reserve their spot. Whether you're planning a cruise, a European vacation, or a summer family getaway, this episode will help you travel smarter, safer, and with confidence .
Ilisa Oman
www.oneworldfamilytravel.com
Sean Mouttet
www.gallivantluxurytravel.com
Find us on Facebook! Watch on YouTube
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH
Source: https://freetouse.com/music
Free Music No Copyright (Safe)
39 min - Episode 36 - Greek Island Dreams: Inside Our 2027 Cruise with Celestyal (And Why This Isn't Your Typical Cruise)
Dreaming of Greece? 🇬🇷 This episode of Checked Bags and Big Tags is your inside look at an unforgettable way to experience it.
Sean and Ilisa are joined by special guests Randy Epstein and Patty Builes of Celestyal Cruises to talk all about our exclusive Checked Bags and Big Tags Greece Cruise sailing May 29 – June 5, 2027 aboard the Celestyal Journey.
We're diving into what truly sets Celestyal apart—from its immersive, destination-focused itineraries to its relaxed, elevated onboard experience that feels authentically Greek from start to finish.
✨ Picture this: Iconic island views, incredible local food and wine, rich history around every corner, and the ease of unpacking once while exploring 7 incredible ports—Athens, Kusadasi, Rhodes, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos, and Milos.
This isn't just a cruise. It's a thoughtfully curated group experience with like-minded travelers—where everything is taken care of, and all you have to do is show up and enjoy it.
In this episode, we cover: ✔️ What makes Celestyal different from other cruise lines ✔️ Why cruising is one of the best ways to experience Greece ✔️ What to expect onboard the Celestyal Journey ✔️ Why this group trip is perfect for couples, friends, and solo travelers ✔️ How to turn your "someday Greece trip" into a reality
If Greece has been on your list, this episode might just be the nudge you've been waiting for.
📩 Ready to join us or want more details? Reach out: [email protected] [email protected]
🎙️ Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow Checked Bags and Big Tags for more travel insights, tips, and inspiration.
Ilisa Oman
www.oneworldfamilytravel.com
Sean Mouttet
www.gallivantluxurytravel.com
Find us on Facebook! Watch on YouTube
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH
Source: https://freetouse.com/music
Free Music No Copyright (Safe)
38 min - We're Taking You to Greece + Europe's New Rules and the Travel "Hack" We're Calling Out
Travel is changing fast—and not always in ways travelers expect.
In this episode of Checked Bags and Big Tags, hosts Ilisa Oman and Sean Mouttet break down the new Entry/Exit System (EES) now in effect across the European Union, and what it means for non-EU travelers heading to Europe. From biometric screening to longer arrival times, this is a must-know update before your next international trip.
Then, the hosts react to a controversial travel "tip" aired on a Philadelphia TV station—suggesting travelers use a travel advisor for recommendations and then book on their own-it's disrespectful to the time, expertise, and value that travel advisors bring to the table.
Plus, with jet fuel shortages tied to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, airlines are starting to feel the strain. Learn how this could impact your travel plans—and what you should do if your flight is delayed or canceled.
And finally… a teaser you won't want to miss 👀 Ilisa and Sean are working on an unforgettable group experience—a Greek cruise in 2027 that could bring the Checked Bags and Big Tags community together for the trip of a lifetime.
Whether you're planning a European getaway or dreaming about Greece, this episode delivers insight, honesty, and expert advice you can actually use.
32 min - Fuel Shortages, New Cruise Departures and How to Choose the Right Travel Advisor
Travel is never static—and this week proves it.
In this episode of Checked Bags and Big Tags, hosts Ilisa Oman and Sean Mouttet break down the latest travel news impacting your next trip, including airline disruptions caused by global fuel shortages, exciting new cruise departures from Philadelphia, and how to confidently choose a qualified travel advisor who will protect your vacation investment.
If you're planning travel in 2026 (or beyond), this is the insider insight you need to stay ahead of changes and travel smarter.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Airline Disruptions & Fuel Shortages Flights are being delayed, rerouted, and even canceled due to fuel supply issues tied to overseas events. Learn how this could affect your upcoming travel—and what you can do now to protect your plans.
Norwegian Cruise Line Launches Cruises from Philadelphia Big news for East Coast travelers! Norwegian Cruise Line is now sailing from Philadelphia to Bermuda, the Caribbean, and New England/Canada—making cruising more accessible than ever (especially for those who prefer to skip flying).
How to Choose a Qualified Travel Advisor Not all travel advisors are created equal. We break down what certifications like CTA, CTC, CLIA, and VTA actually mean—and why working with a trained professional can make or break your travel experience.
Positive Travel Trends & Good News Despite challenges, travel continues to thrive. We highlight the trends we're loving right now—from easier departure options to more meaningful, experience-driven travel.
Travel today is more complex than ever. Between airline schedule changes, supplier policies, and global events, having the right guidance can save you time, money, and stress.
This episode will help you: ✔️ Understand current travel disruptions ✔️ Make smarter booking decisions ✔️ Avoid common travel mistakes ✔️ Feel confident working with a trusted travel advisor
Ilisa Oman
www.oneworldfamilytravel.com
Sean Mouttet
www.gallivantluxurytravel.com
FInd us on Facebook! Watch on Youtube
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify
Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at [email protected].
Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH
Source: https://freetouse.com/music
Free Music No Copyright (Safe)
40 min
About Checked Bags and Big Tags
From the publisher's feed
Ready to take your travel game to the next level? Welcome to the no-filter, no-holds-barred podcast where we spill the truth about globetrotting in style. Join Sean Mouttet of Gallivant Luxury Travel…
and Ilisa Oman of One World Family Travel as they dish on insider tips, epic adventures, and everything you need to know to explore the world like a pro. Whether you're chasing luxury or family-friendly fun, we've got the stories, secrets, and strategies to make every trip unforgettable. Buckle up—it's time to see the world differently!