Episódios

  • More MGM Cruise Enchancements

    More MGM Cruise Enchancements
    Jun 13 2025
    In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula and co-host Darren Remsberg discuss the latest enhancements to the MGM Rewards program, particularly its new benefits with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. Listeners learn how to earn points, tier credits, and slot dollars on cruises booked through MGM, adding incredible value to their travel experiences. The episode also delves into strategies for maximizing benefits with MGM credit cards, how to leverage these rewards for luxurious cruises, and the potential impact on status qualification. Upcoming events and meetups are announced, offering more opportunities to engage with the travel hacking community. 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:47 MGM Rewards and Cruise Enhancements 01:58 Details on MGM Rewards Points and Benefits 03:43 Booking and Utilizing MGM Cruises 06:32 Strategies for Maximizing MGM Rewards 14:27 Gambling Tips and Considerations 20:04 Future Plans and Upcoming Cruises 22:32 Unanswered Questions and Final Thoughts 25:10 MGM and Cruise Line Rewards Programs 25:51 Comparing MGM and Caesars Rewards 29:24 FNBO Credit Cards and Strategies 41:09 Gift Card Market and Promotions 44:22 Upcoming Events and Announcements -- 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast On: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/ 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/ 👉 Stitcher → https://www.stitcher.com/ 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/ 👉 Google Podcasts → https://podcasts.google.com/ 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/ 👉 Overcast → https://overcast.fm/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/ 👉 Pocket Casts → https://www.pocketcasts.com/ 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/ 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/ 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/ 👉 Player FM → https://player.fm/ 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss --- 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/ 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/ CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. Learn how I use CardPointers effectively in this podcast episode. --- 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (you can submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Early access to select episodes & bonus content 🎁 --- 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/ 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://twitter.com/ 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/ 💬 Optional: Join the Conversation on Discord → [insert your link if you have one] --- ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳
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    47 minutos
  • Chicago Seminars Hyatt Regency 2025 with Jackie Wisniewski

    Chicago Seminars Hyatt Regency 2025 with Jackie Wisniewski
    Jun 5 2025
    In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula interviews Jackie Wisniewski about the upcoming Chicago Seminars at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare in 2025. Jackie discusses her decade-long involvement in the award travel community, her role in organizing the seminars, and what attendees can expect, including networking opportunities, educational sessions, and community-building events. The seminar, celebrating its 15th anniversary, will feature over 500 attendees, 50 speakers, and various sponsors, all in a nonprofit setting aimed at raising funds for charity. 00:00 Theme Song 00:35 Meet the Host and Guest 01:42 Chicago Seminars Overview 02:49 Event Details and Logistics 03:56 Networking and Education at the Seminars 04:42 Speakers and Sessions 09:31 Sponsors and Additional Activities 15:02 Travel Tips 19:11 Building Connections Through Travel 20:36 Advice for First-Time Attendees 21:17 Preparing for the Conference 23:07 Connecting Before the Event 23:43 Highlighting the Speakers 26:27 Social Events and Activities 29:26 Travel Stories and Tips 32:48 Credit Card Strategies 34:49 Final Thoughts and Event Information 35:38 Closing Announcements -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ CardPointers affiliate link: https://cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel 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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    38 minutos
  • Krakow Poland Trip Report

    Krakow Poland Trip Report
    Jun 2 2025
    In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, Justin Vacula and co-host Darren Remsberg dive into Justin's affordable travel experiences using credit card points and miles. The episode features a detailed trip report on Justin's recent visit to Krakow, Poland, highlighting how he used credit card rewards to minimize costs. They discuss accommodations, local attractions, transportation, and practical tips for maximizing points. Justin also shares details about upcoming meetups and conferences, along with offering insight on leveraging points for future travels. Practical advice and personal anecdotes make this a valuable listen for anyone interested in budget travel strategies. 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:44 Krakow Poland Trip Report Begins 01:46 Booking and Travel Logistics 04:26 Navigating Newark and Toronto Airports 10:00 Exploring Business Class on Lot Polish Airlines 13:28 Arrival and Train Journey to Krakow 18:50 Staying at Hyatt Place Krakow 22:04 Exploring Krakow and Surroundings 25:14 Salt Mine Experience and Lord of the Rings Cosplay 26:07 Travel Tips and Recommendations for Poland 29:24 Exploring Japanese Culture in Poland 30:15 Using Credit Card Points for Dining 32:29 Safe Solo Travel in Poland 32:54 Navigating Flights and Airports 44:31 Upcoming Travel Plans and Events 48:14 Supporting the Podcast and Final Thoughts -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ CardPointers affiliate link: https://cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel 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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    50 minutos
  • Zorkfest 2025 with Michael Trager

    Zorkfest 2025 with Michael Trager
    May 28 2025
    In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula is joined by special guest Michael Trager to discuss ZorkFest 2025, a conference focused on maximizing travel and casino loyalty rewards. Scheduled for December 5th-7th in Las Vegas, ZorkFest offers a range of educational sessions covering the use of credit card points, miles, and casino loyalty programs to enhance travel experiences. Topics include detailed discussions on loyalty programs like American Airlines Advantage, Delta SkyMiles, and reward currencies such as Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards. The episode also highlights the unique aspects of the event, including hands-on casino game labs, optional masterclasses, and various social activities. Listeners are encouraged to book their reservations early and to engage in the networking opportunities available. Find more information at www.zorkfest.com 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:54 Special Guest: Michael Trager and ZorkFest 2025 03:12 Venue and Logistics of ZorkFest 2025 07:07 Activities and Sessions at ZorkFest 10:06 Speakers and Experts at ZorkFest 17:55 Maximizing Travel and Casino Loyalty Programs 23:20 Responsible Gambling and Risk Management 28:30 Understanding Low-Risk Gambling 28:51 ZorkFest: A Passion Project 30:07 Booking Early for ZorkFest 32:33 Maximizing Comp and Discounted Rooms 36:32 Listener Questions: Gambling in Texas 41:56 Leveraging Casino Promotions 45:26 Maximizing Credit Card Rewards 48:40 Masterclasses and Schedule 51:44 Closing Announcements and Future Events -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ CardPointers affiliate link: https://cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel 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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    55 minutos
  • Emerald Princess Cruise Trip Report

    Emerald Princess Cruise Trip Report
    May 15 2025
    Join Justin Vacula on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast for a special episode recapping his Emerald Princess Europe cruise. Dive into the intricacies of traveling at a low cost with credit card points, miles, and benefits. Hear about his adventures in Europe, from the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the rocks of Gibraltar. Learn about his experiences with various loyalty programs and the unique opportunities they offer. This episode also features a special guest, Darren, and provides useful tips on maximizing deals and offers. 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:47 Emerald Princess Europe Cruise Trip Report 01:36 Travel Adventures and Casino Fun 02:14 From Boston to Rome 04:12 Cruise Experience and Onboard Activities 06:39 Dining and Entertainment on the Cruise 22:18 Exploring Ports and Local Attractions 27:15 Casino Troubles with Onboard Spending 31:28 Exploring Onboard Credits and Spa Experiences 32:44 The Value of Points and Business Class Flights 33:51 Booking Challenges and Travel Hacks 36:23 Gibraltar and Wildlife Adventures 39:12 Lisbon and Mediterranean Cruise Reflections 41:22 Southampton Stay and Hilton Hotel Issues 48:07 Return Journey and JetBlue Mint Experience 54:54 Meeting Pari Kim from Love On The Spectrum 56:18 Closing Announcements and Upcoming Events Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ CardPointers affiliate link: https://cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel 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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    59 minutos
  • Pari Kim from 'Love on the Spectrum' Interview - Trains and Amtrak

    Pari Kim from 'Love on the Spectrum' Interview - Trains and Amtrak
    Apr 26 2025
    Pari Kim from 'Love on the Spectrum' Interview - Trains and Amtrak by Justin Vacula
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    48 minutos
  • MGM Rewards Iconic Credit Card

    MGM Rewards Iconic Credit Card
    Apr 25 2025
    In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula and returning guest Darren Remsberg dive deep into the features and benefits of the new MGM Rewards Iconic Credit Card. They explore its potential for earning rewards and enhanced travel experiences through MGM Rewards. The discussion covers sign-up bonuses, annual fees, spending structures, and unique perks such as complimentary nights and tier status benefits. They also address potential drawbacks, strategies for maximizing value, and the card's suitability for different types of users. The episode is packed with practical advice and insights for those looking to optimize their rewards and travel at a low cost. 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 01:40 Darren's Experience 02:46 MGM Rewards Iconic MasterCard Features 03:28 Sign-Up Bonus and Benefits 11:41 Earning Structure and Spending Strategies 17:45 Additional Card Benefits and Usage Tips 27:22 Discovering MGM Properties and Benefits 27:53 Exploring MGM Status and Cruise Benefits 28:56 Maximizing MGM Credit Card Benefits 29:49 Strategies for Credit Card Applications 32:26 Travel and Online Gaming Opportunities 34:51 Upcoming Travel Plans and Events 47:37 Final Thoughts and Announcements -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ CardPointers affiliate link: https://cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel 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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    51 minutos
  • Amtrak Guest Rewards with Deker

    Amtrak Guest Rewards with Deker
    Apr 7 2025
    In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula discusses low-cost travel using points and miles, focusing on Amtrak Guest Rewards with special guest Deker. They delve into the benefits and earning potentials of Amtrak's credit cards, including a special offer for 40,000 points. Deker shares his journey into the world of points and miles during COVID, his experiences with Amtrak's credit cards, and tips for maximizing travel rewards. The conversation also covers notable Amtrak routes, the benefits of different train cars, and how to find the best deals for train travel. Listener questions about Amtrak's amenities, connection opportunities with the Amtrak social media team, and future travel plans are addressed. The show concludes with announcements about upcoming meetups and events. Justin and Deker also give a shoutout to Amtrak superfan Pari Kim, PurplePrincessPari on Instagram, who recently appeared on season three of the Netflix show 'Love on the Spectrum.' 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:32 Meet the Host and Special Guest 00:47 Amtrak Guest Rewards and Meetups 01:38 Decker's Journey into Points and Miles 02:35 Discovering Amtrak's Loyalty Program 03:16 Hosting Points Quest Conference 06:16 Amtrak's Popularity and Challenges 10:55 Exploring Amtrak's Scenic Routes 17:10 Amtrak Credit Cards and Benefits 24:12 Creative Spending Strategies 25:05 Listener Question: Earning Guest Rewards Points 26:10 Maximizing Amtrak Points and Status 26:54 Finding Good Deals with Amtrak 28:07 Speculative Travel and Cancellation Policies 29:33 Travel Tips for Long Amtrak Journeys 32:55 Must-Have Items for Comfortable Travel 34:58 Listener Questions: Amtrak Social Media and Cafe Closures 39:19 Upcoming Travel Plans and Credit Card Strategies 41:59 Connecting with the Amtrak Community 45:46 Closing Announcements and Future Events -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ CardPointers affiliate link: https://cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel 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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    49 minutos