Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas Trip Report Jan 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula shares a detailed travel report from his stay at Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas, utilizing a complimentary offer from Caesars Rewards Diamond Status. Joined by returning guest Mandi, Justin discusses the logistics of their trip, transportation, the luxurious amenities at Atlantis, and the trade-offs they made to stay within budget. The duo talks about the highs and lows of their stay, including the exhilarating water park, various dining options, and their approach to managing food expenses. They also highlight their plans for earning Caesars Diamond and Seven Stars status, future travel meetups, and upcoming podcast episodes. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel 00:32 Podcast Overview and Guest Introduction 01:52 Atlantis Bahamas Trip Report 02:24 Caesars Rewards Diamond Status Benefits 04:16 Travel Logistics and Arrival 07:22 Exploring Atlantis Resort 10:14 Casino Experience and Comped Stay 15:51 Fun Activities at Atlantis 21:53 Exciting Water Slides and Attractions 22:38 Exploring the Beautiful Beaches 23:10 Marine Life and Resort Amenities 24:07 Dining Options and Prices 26:16 Bringing Your Own Food 28:01 Social Experiences and Events 28:43 Waterpark Costs and Benefits 29:42 Future Travel Plans and Tips 31:43 Maximizing Rewards and Benefits 34:48 Final Thoughts and Announcements

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady Trip Report Jan 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula and guest Mandi share their experiences from their January 2025 cruise on Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady. They discuss how they secured a comp offer, the dining experiences onboard, and various port stops, including Roatan, Honduras, Costa Maya, Mexico, and Bimini Beach, Bahamas. They highlight the ship's amenities, including fitness classes, casino sessions, and ways to save money using credit card rewards. The episode also covers tips for scheduling rideshares and navigating disembarkation challenges. Finally, listener questions are addressed about MGM status and comparing the experience with other cruise lines. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel 00:49 Virgin Voyages Cruise Overview 02:15 Dining and Rewards on the Cruise 02:51 Comp Offers and Casino Matches 06:30 Boarding and Initial Impressions 08:30 Dining Experiences on the Ship 15:47 Casino Adventures and Challenges 27:56 Delicious Dining Experiences 32:09 Exploring Fitness Classes on the Ship 34:30 Port Adventures: Roatan and Costa Maya 36:42 Bimini Beach: A Tropical Paradise 39:02 Entertainment and Shows on Board 41:07 Disembarkation and Travel Tips 45:52 Listener Questions and Future Plans 52:00 Closing Announcements and Farewell

Hard Rock Mastercard Credit Card Review Jan 09, 2025

Show notes

In this Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast episode, host Justin Vacula reviews the newly released Hard Rock MasterCard, launched in December 2024. He discusses earning unity points through various categories such as gaming, food, merchandise, and more, highlighting benefits like free car washes, buffet discounts, and no resort fees with the Icon status. Additionally, the episode touches on the uses of unity points in multiple locations, the ease of application, and the potential for leveraging the card's perks in places like Atlantic City, Las Vegas, and Florida. The discussion also includes insights on combining this card with other rewards and status matches, concluding with a brief mention of related travel events and meetups. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:50 Hard Rock MasterCard Credit Card Review 01:09 Meetups and Social Media Connections 01:49 Deep Dive into Hard Rock MasterCard Benefits 04:41 Earning and Using Unity Points 06:30 Status Matching and Tier Benefits 11:05 Using Unity Points at Various Locations 21:02 Cruise Experience and Future Plans 21:50 Closing Announcements and Upcoming Events -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Earning MGM Status in 2025 Jan 01, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula and co-host Darren Remsburg discuss how to earn MGM Gold and Platinum status using points and miles from credit card rewards. They highlight the benefits of these statuses such as waived resort fees, free parking, lounge access, and dining credits. Detailed insights into the MGM Mastercard's earning potential, including strategies for leveraging tier multipliers and promotional offers, are shared. The episode provides tips for maximizing rewards and considering the value of status based on individual travel habits. Justin also mentions upcoming events and meetups for travel enthusiasts. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:50 Earning MGM Gold and Platinum Status in 2025 01:08 Meetups and Social Media Engagement 01:47 Welcome Back, Darren Remsburg 02:27 Status Matching and Cruise Opportunities 05:29 Benefits of MGM Gold and Platinum Status 12:41 MGM Mastercard: Earning Tier Levels and Benefits 22:45 Video Poker Strategies and Tips 26:32 Reducing Variance in Gambling 27:27 Credit Card Issued by First National Bank of Omaha 29:13 Using MGM Rewards Credit Card for Gambling 36:14 Maximizing Rewards with MyVegas Games 46:33 Upcoming Travel Plans and Strategies 48:11 Closing Announcements and Future Events -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Miles, Points, and Travel with Arthur Chow Dec 30, 2024

Show notes

Join host Justin Vacula on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast as he discusses how to travel the world at low cost using credit card points, miles, and other rewards. In this episode, special guest Arthur Chow shares his extensive experiences and tips on maximizing travel rewards for trips to destinations like Europe, Japan, and beyond. They also delve into strategies for booking high-value award flights, navigating credit card sign-ups, and finding great hotel deals. Additionally, Justin provides updates on upcoming 2025 events like Zorkfest and Frequent Traveler University. Tune in for practical advice and inspiring travel stories. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 01:01 Announcements and Upcoming Events 02:39 Interview with Arthur Chow: Miles and Points Journey 05:24 Vegas Adventures and Casino Comps 11:05 European Travels and Booking Tips 25:49 Exploring Christmas Markets in Europe 28:59 Festive Christmas Markets in Germany 29:39 Cold Weather and Market Timings 31:42 Unique Attractions at German Markets 32:39 German Market Foods 34:34 Affordable Prices at German Markets 34:59 Booking Flights and Hotels 35:57 Credit Card Strategies for Travel 42:33 Managing Multiple Credit Cards 45:34 Upcoming Travel Plans and Events 52:05 Conclusion and Contact Information -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Earn Caesars Rewards Diamond Status in 2025 Dec 24, 2024

Show notes

Join host Justin Vacula and co-host Darren Remsburg on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast as they delve into strategies for earning Caesars Rewards Diamond Status in 2025. They discuss leveraging the Caesars Rewards Visa credit card and playing video poker on tier multiplier days to unlock waived resort fees, comp hotel nights, and more. For aspiring travelers and gambling enthusiasts, the episode offers insights on maximizing rewards and benefits, upcoming events like ZorkFest 2025, and the importance of responsible gambling. Tune in for tips on earning valuable status and making the most of your travel and gambling adventures. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:47 Today's Episode: Earning Caesars Rewards Diamond Status 01:13 Upcoming Events and Announcements 03:00 Welcoming Co-Host Darren Remsburg 05:11 The Benefits of Caesars Diamond Status 08:10 How to Earn Caesars Diamond Status 10:11 Caesars Rewards Visa Credit Card Overview 15:43 Earning Tier Credits through Gambling 17:19 Maximizing Tier Credits with Video Poker 23:26 Timing Your Credit Card Signup 26:14 Other Ways to Earn Tier Credits 27:48 Mastering Video Poker Strategies 29:23 The Importance of Practicing Optimal Strategy 31:54 Understanding House Edge and Variance 34:49 Maximizing Casino Promotions and Tier Status 39:35 Credit Cards and Responsible Gambling 45:42 Upcoming Events and Meetups 47:40 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Frequent Traveler University May 2025 with John Ryan Dec 17, 2024

Show notes

The Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, hosted by Justin Vacula, delves into strategies for traveling at minimal cost using credit card points, miles, benefits, and rewards. The episode highlights upcoming 2025 travel events, including Frequent Traveler University in Dallas, Texas, featuring guest John Ryan. The discussion covers optimizing travel rewards, conference specifics, event speakers, and personal travel journeys. Justin and John also share tips for managing multiple rewards accounts and offer advice for new travelers looking to maximize their benefits through credit cards and loyalty programs. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel 00:49 Upcoming Events and Announcements 02:47 Interview with John Ryan 03:20 Event Details and Schedule 06:56 Speakers and Sessions 13:25 Booking and Pricing Information 24:34 Personal Stories and Experiences 27:04 Maximizing Credit Card Rewards for Travel 27:34 Stretching Points for International Trips 28:13 Overcoming Common Misconceptions 30:06 Managing Multiple Credit Card Accounts 35:23 Finding Value in Las Vegas 45:01 Upcoming Trips and New Credit Cards 51:42 Conclusion and Future Events -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Maximizing Grocery Rewards with Safeway (for U) Dec 10, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula discusses traveling affordably using credit card points, miles, and rewards. He chats with Gideon from the Free-quent Flyer blog about maximizing grocery rewards programs such as Safeway's, including strategic tips for earning and redeeming points, managing multiple accounts, and transferring points to Alaska Airlines. The episode also covers navigating credit card benefits, grocery store promotions, and recent changes in the rewards landscape, offering listeners practical insights to optimize their travel and spending strategies. 00:00 Introduction 01:03 Announcements and Upcoming Events 02:50 Interview with Gideon: Maximizing Grocery Rewards 04:56 Understanding Safeway's Points System 08:46 Strategies for Redeeming Points 16:19 FreshPass Program Benefits 23:03 Navigating Gift Card Purchases 24:44 Navigating Multiple Payment Methods 26:03 American Express and Grocery Store Spending 27:09 Exploring Other Credit Card Options 27:42 Maximizing Rewards with MGM and Caesars Credit Cards 30:15 Alaska Airlines Transfer Opportunities 34:22 Dealing with Grocery Store Rewards 38:53 Handling Cashier Issues and Store Policies 40:31 Upcoming Trips and Credit Card Plans 42:42 Closing Thoughts and Future Events -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Talking Miles and Points with Churn and Burn Podcast (Part Two) Dec 04, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula chats with James, host of the Churn and Burn Podcast, about maximizing travel using credit card points and miles. They discuss their origins in the points and miles hobby, favorite travels, spending strategies, and future card plans for 2025. Justin also announces upcoming events and meetups, including ZorkFest 2025, and provides details on how listeners can support and follow the podcast. The episode offers valuable insights into leveraging credit card rewards for affordable travel. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 01:14 Announcements and Upcoming Events 03:02 Interview with James from Churn and Burn Podcast 04:41 Getting Started with Points and Miles 08:04 Navigating Annual Fees and Card Benefits 15:06 Advanced Strategies and Card Recommendations 19:01 Overcoming Objections and Misconceptions 27:10 Personality Traits and Experiences in the Hobby 31:52 Navigating Gift Card Purchases 34:21 Travel Tales: Best Trips with Points and Miles 36:23 Upcoming Travel Plans for 2025 42:11 Credit Card Strategies for 2025 46:13 Gambling and Manufactured Spend Insights 53:23 Closing Thoughts and Future Events -- -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Talking Miles and Points with the Churn and Burn Podcast Part One Dec 03, 2024

Show notes

Join host Justin Vacula on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast as he shares tips on low-cost travel using points, miles, benefits, and rewards from credit cards. This episode features an insightful interview with James from the Churn and Burn podcast discussing Dell credits, the business platinum card, and creative ways to maximize credit card rewards. Justin also announces various travel events for 2025, including ZorkFest and Greater Philadelphia Travel: Credit, Miles, and Points meetups. Learn about personal use of Dell rewards and leveraging buyers’ clubs for good returns. Discover how a miles and points lifestyle can change perspectives and lead to a fulfilling, flexible life. Stay tuned for part two of this collaboration. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 01:23 Special Announcements and Upcoming Events 03:16 Welcome by the Churn and Burn Podcast 04:44 Justin's Journey into Points and Miles 06:03 Gambling and Casino Promotions 12:55 Dell Credits and Personal Use Items 28:26 Introduction to Buyer's Clubs 30:36 Maximizing Dell Credits 34:32 Exploring American Express No Lifetime Language Offers 36:53 Upcoming Travel Plans 40:45 Cruise Lifestyle and Casino Offers 47:30 Philosophical Reflections on Value 53:21 Conclusion and Future Events -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

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