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

Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas Trip Report

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula and returning guest Mandi discuss a recent casino comp cruise experience on the Carnival Panorama, including tips for traveling at low cost with credit card points and miles. 

They explore destinations such as Cabo, La Paz, and Puerto Vallarta, and discuss onboard activities, food options, and creative spending in the casino. They also share insights on maximizing casino rewards, travel preparations, and event updates, making it a comprehensive guide for budget-savvy travelers and cruise enthusiasts.

00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast
00:51 Carnival Panorama Cruise Overview
01:40 Booking and Preparing for the Cruise
03:50 Journey to Los Angeles
06:24 Boarding the Cruise Ship
06:52 Dining Experiences on the Cruise
12:14 Exploring Cabo San Lucas
13:55 Casino Adventures on the Cruise
23:08 Exploring La Paz
24:38 Discovering Mazatlan
25:58 Puerto Vallarta Adventures
28:35 Casino Experiences and Free Drinks
29:53 Blackjack and Video Poker Stories
35:22 Sushi Dinner and Leaving the Ship
39:49 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
41:26 Closing Announcements and Events

Carnival Panorama Cruise Trip Report

Join host Justin Vacula on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast as he explores the world of points and miles with Julia Menez from Geobreeze Travel.

Discover how to travel at low cost using credit card rewards, benefits, and loyalty programs.

In this episode, they discuss the points and miles lifestyle, financial independence, and share tips on maximizing travel rewards. Learn about exciting conference experiences, favorite travel tips, and upcoming events.

Subscribe for more insights on budget-friendly travel adventures!

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles

01:03 Meetups and Social Media Engagement

01:43 Interview with Julia Menez

02:05 Las Vegas Travel Tips and Zorkfest

09:33 Financial Independence and Geobreeze Travel

11:18 Maximizing Points and Miles for Travel

21:28 Intangible Benefits of Points and Miles

27:59 Getting Started with Miles and Points

29:14 Choosing the Right Credit Cards

30:12 Maximizing Points and Benefits

30:32 Cash and Points

31:58 Earning AA Loyalty Points

34:02 Creative Spending Strategies

41:01 Listener Questions

45:05 Upcoming Cards and Trips in 2025

50:25 Closing Announcements and 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 Julia Menez of Geobreeze Travel

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula shares insights from his recent cruise on the Holland America Nieuw Statendam, obtained through a Wynn Las Vegas tier match offer. 

The episode covers detailed travel arrangements, including flights, hotels, and cruise amenities, as well as personal experiences and evaluations of ship facilities, dining options, internet service, and onboard entertainment. 

Justin also discusses the complications faced in the casino, trip highlights from various ports, and useful tips for future travelers. Additional content and upcoming events are promoted, encouraging listeners to check out more travel-related materials on Justin's YouTube channel and other social media platforms.

00:00 Introduction
01:45 Cruise Experience with Holland America
03:51 Booking and Travel Logistics
05:59 Onboard Experience and Accommodations
12:07 Dining Options and Food Quality
16:36 Casino and Entertainment
19:33 Intelligent Gambling Strategies
20:03 Blackjack Rules and Preferences
21:16 Casino Buy-In Issues
24:26 Cruise App and Information Challenges
25:11 Exploring Path UK and Half Moon Cay
27:28 Grand Turk and Amber Cove Adventures
30:10 Nassau Bahamas and Final Cruise Thoughts
35:09 Future Plans and YouTube Channel Growth
36:28 Closing Announcements and How To Support

--

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!


Holland America Nieuw Statendam Cruise Trip Report

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula and co-host Darren Remsburg delve into Justin's recent travel adventures, focusing on his fourth cruise of 2025 aboard the Celebrity Silhouette. 

Justin shares insights on low-cost travel using credit card points, miles, and perks, and highlights his experiences with the Celebrity Silhouette, including the variety of food options, casino strategies, and on-board activities. 

The podcast also covers interesting stops at Key West and Nassau, Bahamas, where Justin met fellow travel hacker Mark Konchinsky. Additionally, Justin discusses frequent cruising, highlights the importance of adaptability and a positive mindset in travel, and teases future travel plans and events. The episode is rich with practical tips and inspirational anecdotes for travel enthusiasts.

00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel
00:32 Meet the Hosts and Episode Overview
01:37 Cruise Adventures Begin
02:45 Cruise Details and Experiences
05:32 Dining and Onboard Activities
16:10 Casino and Gambling Strategies
27:36 Debating the Dealer: A Poker Controversy
29:36 Casino Chaos: Drunk Players and Dealer Mistakes
31:23 Exploring Key West: Roosters, Trains, and More
37:29 Nassau Bahamas: A Travel Hacker's Reunion
41:14 Cruise Reflections and Travel Tips
49:53 Upcoming Travels and Community Engagement
50:45 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!


Celebrity Silhouette Cruise Trip Report

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula interviews Emmanuel Crouvisier of CardPointers. 

They discuss strategies for optimizing credit card spending using the CardPointers app and browser tool, which helps users automatically activate card-linked offers. Emmanuel shares his journey into miles and points, his family's travel history, and how he eventually created CardPointers. 

Listeners learn about the practical benefits of the app, including saving money and maximizing rewards. Upcoming changes and features for CardPointers are also explored, along with insights into credit card usage and optimization tips. The episode concludes with information about meetups in the Greater Philadelphia area and upcoming events.

00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles
00:51 Meet Emmanuel from CardPointers
01:46 Emmanuel's Journey with Points and Miles
04:53 The Birth of CardPointers
06:53 Card Pointers Features and Benefits
08:22 Maximizing Savings with Card Pointers
10:30 Setting Up and Using Card Pointers
14:07 CardPointers for Debit Cards and Future Prospects
16:52 Credit Card Offers and Maximizing Rewards
21:21 User Experiences and Savings with Card Pointers
24:32 User Savings and Membership Costs
25:42 Maximizing Amex Offers with CardPointers
26:38 Navigating Bank Websites and Auto-Adding Offers
27:59 Grouping and Tracking Offers in CardPointers
29:04 Splitting Transactions and Avoiding Merchant Data Sharing
32:09 Upcoming Features and Development Cycle
35:37 Evaluating Card Value and Renewal Reminders
40:55 Autopilot Feature for iPhone Users
42:18 Upcoming Travels and Credit Card Strategies
44:57 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!


Interview with CardPointers Founder Emmanuel Crouvisier

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula welcomes Danielle Fiorino to discuss how to travel the world at low cost using credit cards, points, and miles. 

Danielle shares her experiences from the PointsQuest conference in New York, attending the 2024 Olympics, and traveling to Madrid to see Taylor Swift. 

They also talk about the benefits of various credit cards, lounge access, and upcoming travel plans. Tune in for insights into maximizing rewards programs and engaging stories from seasoned travelers.

00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles
01:43 Meet Danielle Fiorino: PointsQuest and Taylor Swift Adventures
01:50 Chicago Seminars and United Lounge Meetup
04:11 Danielle's Journey into Miles and Points
08:34 Points Quest NYC: A Volunteer’s Perspective
11:37 Olympics 2024: A Miles and Points Success Story
18:53 Madrid Concert: Taylor Swift and VIP Experiences
27:03 Celebrity Sighting and Listener Questions
28:07 Social Media Influence of Love on the Spectrum Cast
29:08 Travel Hacking and Credit Card Strategies
34:31 Exploring Vienna and the Ball Scene
43:00 Upcoming Trips and Events in 2025
47:11 Hacking the 2023 TPG Awards
50:58 Closing Announcements and Future Plans

--

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!


Miles, Points, and Travel with Danielle Fiorino

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula discusses the latest enhancements to the MGM Rewards program, including cruise benefits, rollover tier credits, and more.

Joined by returning guest Marc Konchinsky, they share personal experiences with MGM properties and strategies for maximizing rewards through credit card points and miles. The episode also covers upcoming meetups in Greater Philadelphia, the benefits of the MGM MasterCard, and new credit card rumors. Listeners are encouraged to explore these benefits and consider how to integrate them into their travel strategies.

00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles
00:48 Today's Episode Overview: MGM Rewards and More
01:45 Special Guest: Marc Konchinsky MGM Rewards
02:59 Earning and Maximizing MGM Rewards
11:28 Enhanced Cruise Benefits with MGM
18:07 Upcoming MGM Rewards Credit Card
23:19 Credit Card Strategies and MGM MasterCard
24:20 Personal Insights and Experiences with MGM
26:19 Maximizing MGM Rewards and Status
29:14 Online Gambling and Maximizing Benefits
34:40 Virgin Red Card Application and Benefits
38:36 Upcoming Travel Plans and Cruise Opportunities
40:38 Closing Announcements and Future Events

MGM Rewards Improvements: Cruises and Rollover Tier Credits

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!


Amtrak Guest Rewards with Deker

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!


MGM Rewards Iconic Credit Card

Travel the world at next to no cost with credit card rewards!

New tracks tagged #miles and points