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

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

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

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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

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast

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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!

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

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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!

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

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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!

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

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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!

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

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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!

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!