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

--

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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/

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Pari Kim from 'Love on the Spectrum' Interview - Trains and Amtrak by Justin Vacula

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/

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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/

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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

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/

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Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/

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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

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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/

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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/

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