Checked Bags and Big Tags

Ilisa Oman and Sean Mouttet

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!

  1. Jul 28

    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 ilisa@oneworldfamilytravel.com www.oneworldfamilytravel.com   Sean Mouttet sean.mouttet@gallivantluxurytravel.com 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 checkedbagsandbigtags@gmail.com. Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH Source: https://freetouse.com/music Free Music No Copyright (Safe)

  2. Jun 15

    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 sean.mouttet@gallivantluxurytravel.com 🌐 www.gallivantluxurytravel.com   Ilisa Oman — Founder, One World Family Travel ilisa@oneworldfamilytravel.com 🌐 www.oneworldfamilytravel.com Do you have any travel questions or topics you want us to cover? Send us an email at checkedbagsandbigtags@gmail.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 checkedbagsandbigtags@gmail.com.   Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH Source: https://freetouse.com/music Free Music No Copyright (Safe)

  3. Jun 1

    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 ilisa@oneworldfamilytravel.com www.oneworldfamilytravel.com   Sean Mouttet sean.mouttet@gallivantluxurytravel.com 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 checkedbagsandbigtags@gmail.com.   Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH Source: https://freetouse.com/music Free Music No Copyright (Safe)

  4. May 13

    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 ilisa@oneworldfamilytravel.com www.oneworldfamilytravel.com   Sean Mouttet sean.mouttet@gallivantluxurytravel.com 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 checkedbagsandbigtags@gmail.com. Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH Source: https://freetouse.com/music Free Music No Copyright (Safe)

  5. May 3

    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: ilisa@oneworldfamilytravel.com sean.mouttet@gallivantluxurytravel.com 🎙️ Don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow Checked Bags and Big Tags for more travel insights, tips, and inspiration. Ilisa Oman ilisa@oneworldfamilytravel.com www.oneworldfamilytravel.com Sean Mouttet sean.mouttet@gallivantluxurytravel.com 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 checkedbagsandbigtags@gmail.com. Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH Source: https://freetouse.com/music Free Music No Copyright (Safe)

  6. Apr 13

    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 ilisa@oneworldfamilytravel.com www.oneworldfamilytravel.com   Sean Mouttet sean.mouttet@gallivantluxurytravel.com 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 checkedbagsandbigtags@gmail.com.   Music track: Cuba by ASHUTOSH Source: https://freetouse.com/music Free Music No Copyright (Safe)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

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!