Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast

Autopilot Monitors Flight Price Drops After Booking | Save Money, Cash & Points | Sam Hollander Interview Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast interviews Sam Hollander from Autopilot about how travelers can track flight price drops after booking and potentially save money, receive travel credits, or rebook award flights for fewer points. Autopilot helps monitor eligible flights booked directly with supported airlines, making it easier to spot lower fares without manually checking prices every day. Sam explains how the idea for Autopilot came after many airlines reduced or removed change fees, why repricing opportunities are often missed, and how the platform works for both paid tickets and award travel. Autopilot affiliate link: http://withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy In this interview, Justin and Sam discuss supported airlines, how to import reservations, privacy considerations, common savings opportunities, how Autopilot compares with competitors, upgrade alert features, and upcoming plans for hotel repricing. Whether you book flights with cash, points, or miles, this episode covers a useful travel tool that may help you save money after you've already booked. Timestamps: 00:00 Podcast Intro 00:32 Meet Sam Hollander and Autopilot 01:13 How Autopilot Got Started 03:06 How Autopilot Works 04:39 Importing Flights and Tracking Prices 05:52 Eligible Flights and Savings Opportunities 07:44 Big Savings and Real Price Drops 10:13 International Flights and Airline Partners 12:03 Privacy and Security 13:30 Break and Links 16:19 Competitors and New Features 17:31 Upgrade Alerts and Hotel Repricing 19:51 Travel Plans and Final Discussion 21:51 Credit Cards and Outro — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/

Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast shares a full Calala Island trip report from one of the most exclusive Hilton redemptions in the world. This private ultra all-inclusive island resort in Nicaragua was booked with four Hilton Free Night Certificates from American Express Hilton cards, and Justin also received a $2,510 wire bonus in under a week. In this episode, Justin and guest James break down the full experience, including how to book Calala Island, complicated transfer logistics through Managua, Bluefields, and multiple boat rides, and what it’s really like staying at this luxury private island resort. Justin also shares the downsides of the trip, including heat, sunburn, getting sick near the end of the stay, and an early rainy departure, plus thoughts on the value of Hilton Free Night Certificates, how hard Calala Island is to book, and why award availability is so limited. Timestamps: 00:00 Points and miles intro 00:44 Calala Island big win 02:13 Getting paid 03:43 How to get there 06:00 Boat ride and wildlife 06:59 Pre-arrival info call 08:22 WhatsApp concierge service 09:42 Rooms and master suite 11:49 Sleep tips 13:23 Bugs and no-see-ums 15:02 Food, lobster, and value 18:50 Picnic basket setup 20:50 Excursions and sunburn 22:41 Sunscreen recommendation 23:37 Why there are show ads 24:07 Where to follow 24:32 Meetups and conferences 25:27 Affiliate tools 26:13 Guest podcast plug 26:56 Island activities 29:50 Spa and gift cards 30:11 How many nights 32:19 Extend your stay 34:54 Getting sick and leaving 37:04 Airport and Wi-Fi 38:18 Listener Q&A 39:48 Hilton certificate strategy 43:30 Wrap-up and wire talk 46:40 Final thanks and outro — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

Bilt Palladium Card: Month 1 Results | Bilt Cash, Points Accelerator, Dining & Hotel Credits Justin Vacula and returning co-host Darren evaluate their first month with the Bilt Palladium Card, including how they used Bilt Cash redemptions, the Points Accelerator, and stacked valuable hotel, dining, Lyft, Grubhub, and Walgreens credits. In this episode, they explain why the Bilt Palladium Card is a strong option for everyday non-bonus spend, especially for people looking to combine solid earnings with flexible redemption options. Justin also shares real-world examples of using Bilt benefits, including stacking the monthly $100 Bilt Travel portal two-night hotel credit with the card’s $200 hotel credit for a Miami stay, successfully redeeming the $25 monthly Bilt Dining credit through QR-code checkout in Washington, DC, and using the easy $10 monthly Grubhub, $10 Walgreens gift card, and $10 Lyft credit. If you’re interested in Bilt Rewards, credit card points, travel rewards, monthly statement credits, and whether the Bilt Palladium Card annual fee is worth it, this episode covers the card’s first-month value in detail. Timestamps 00:00 Points and Miles Intro 00:32 Bilt Palladium Month One 01:44 Bilt Cash Basics 02:27 Points Accelerator Explained 04:01 Hotel Portal Credit Win 05:57 Blacklane Credit Delays 07:37 Bilt Dining Credit Tips 09:03 QR Code Checkout Story 11:49 Expiration and Earn & Burn 13:32 Vegas Plans 16:10 Announcements 16:23 Socials and Meetups 18:29 FTU Dallas 19:33 CardPointers and SaveWise 20:44 Grubhub Credit 23:09 Walgreens and Lyft Credits 24:45 Month One Value Recap 26:26 Annual Fee and Downgrade Talk 29:15 Foreign Fee Refund 31:14 China Taiwan Cruise Preview 32:59 Paying Before Statement Close 35:45 Wrap Up and Where to Follow — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/

MGM Rewards Cruises: How to Book BOTH Gold & Platinum Cruises Can MGM Rewards members book both Gold and Platinum complimentary cruises in the same earned-status year? In this episode, host Justin Vacula is joined by returning guest Marc Konchinsky to break down how it can be done, even when cruise reps and agents give conflicting answers. Marc shares his firsthand experience booking and sailing both a Gold cruise and a Platinum cruise, including a Radiance of the Seas sailing and a Wonder of the Seas sailing, while dealing with missing offer codes, incorrect account coding, long hold times, and an escalation process with MGM. Topics covered: How to book both MGM Gold and Platinum cruises Missing offer codes and account coding issues HUCA strategies and escalation tips Differences between Gold and Platinum cruise benefits Royal Caribbean cruise experiences and ship highlights Pre-cruise hotel stays and points strategy Status matching, travel planning, and card rewards discussion Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:45 MGM Cruises Controversy 01:47 Marc’s Two-Cruise Timeline 02:32 Codes and Finger Pointing 03:55 Email Escalation 06:51 Hold Times and Booking Tactics 07:31 Cruise Offer Details and Confusion 10:25 Perks and Why It’s Worth It 13:01 2026 Strategy and MGM Cards 16:35 Announcements and Affiliates 19:12 Live Update: New Code 20:14 Missing Cruise Benefits 21:02 Cruise Planning and Hilton Stays 22:24 Ship Highlights 23:15 Dining and Internet 25:41 Shows, Waterslides, and Amenities 26:40 Cabins, Bathrooms, and Balconies 28:00 Status Match Cruise Stacking 28:51 CocoCay, Casino 30:34 Upcoming Travel and Cruise Teasers 31:17 GM Credit Card Rewards 35:03 Why Three Hilton Surpass Cards 36:44 Final Tips and Listener Wrap — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/

In this March 2026 Rove Report, Justin Vacula is joined by Carissa Rawson from Rove to talk about ways to earn and use points for travel. They discuss Rove’s growing list of transfer partners, as well as two major recent developments: the new SAS Scandinavian Airlines partnership and the launch of Japan Airlines. They explain the 20% SAS transfer bonus through April 8, 2026, including sweet spots such as 60,000 points for transatlantic business class. They also cover the Japan Airlines launch and a 50% transfer bonus through the end of March, along with examples of how to get outsized value from JAL’s award chart. Other topics include stacking with GiftCards.com, upcoming Rove features like elite status, card-linked offers, app beta access, better flight search, and merchant reliability scores, plus what to do when miles do not post correctly. The episode also includes travel stories, points strategy talk, meetups, and what is next for Rove. If you enjoy points and miles news, transfer bonus analysis, loyalty program updates, and practical travel rewards strategy, subscribe to Hurdy Gurdy Travel for more. Timestamps/Chapters 00:00 Show intro and March update 01:24 SAS partnership and transfer bonus 01:50 What is Rove Miles? 02:54 SAS sweet spots explained 03:29 Japan Airlines launch bonus 04:55 GiftCards.com stacking strategy 06:31 JAL bonus redemption example 07:17 Rove roadmap and Q2 features 09:17 Portal denials and card-linked fixes 12:06 Social links, meetups, and sponsors 16:18 Using Rove Miles 16:57 Rove Miles airport stays 17:37 Bora Bora points devaluation 18:38 Calala Island story 20:18 Calala tips and sunscreen 20:51 Credit card talk 21:33 New York move and online gambling 22:35 Maximizing monthly credits 24:55 Cruise deals and status 25:45 Rove updates and April plans 27:00 Where to find Rove 28:52 Final thanks and outro — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/

FTU Dallas 2026 Preview | New Venue, Speakers, Tours, Live Podcast Studio & Earn/Burn Points Frequent Traveler University Dallas is back for 2026, and host Justin Vacula is joined by returning guest Hunter Threadgill to preview everything attendees can expect from FTU Dallas, May 1–3, 2026. In this episode, Justin and Hunter discuss the new FTU Dallas venue at NYLO Las Colinas, part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton, located near DFW Airport, along with expected attendance of around 200 people. They break down what makes this event appealing for points and miles enthusiasts, including a refreshed conference structure with Saturday focused on earning points and miles and Sunday focused on burning points for travel. They also cover what is new for 2026, including a Friday airline tour, open-bar happy hour, a Friday night game show, and a new live podcast studio. The conversation highlights ticket pricing, FTU membership benefits, hotel options, included lunches, speaker topics, sponsor involvement, and the networking opportunities that make Frequent Traveler University events valuable for both beginners and advanced travelers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:32 FTU Dallas 2026 Overview 01:59 Weekend Format: Earn and Burn 02:30 Tickets and Membership Perks 04:02 What’s New in 2026 05:54 Behind-the-Scenes Planning 07:21 New Speaker Highlights 10:25 Returning Favorites and Travel Legends 14:33 Hotel Deals and Nearby Stays 16:52 Announcements and Useful Links 18:39 More Speakers and Sponsors 20:24 Sponsors and Sessions 21:05 Conference Fun and Networking 22:13 Using Card Credits in Dallas 22:52 Tex-Mex and Restaurant Picks 24:30 Next Credit Card Applications 24:51 Status Goals and Priorities 26:23 Bilt Credit Hotel Win 29:33 Chase Edit and IHG Stacking 30:37 Upcoming Trips: Miami and More 31:33 Big Trips: Island Stay and Asia 33:06 Cherry Blossoms and Washington, DC Plans 35:27 FTU Dallas Final Reminder 36:03 Plum Card Roast Tease 37:04 Wrap-Up and Support Links — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/

Brisbane on a Delta One Flash Deal | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast Justin Vacula returns home after an exciting trip to Brisbane, Australia. Frequent co-host Darren joins this episode. Justin shares highlights from the journey, including his Delta One experience with a lie-flat seat, plus time at the Delta One Lounge at LAX with private security access. The trip recap includes walks around downtown Brisbane, a visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and encounters with koalas, free-range kangaroos, and other Australian wildlife. Justin then shifts into points and miles news, covering topics like the Rove 20% SAS transfer bonus, upcoming meetups and Frequent Traveler University Dallas, Bilt credits for Miami, a possible Vermont hotel credit play, American Express retention and downgrade decisions, Caesars and MGM payment-method limitations, and upcoming travel. This episode is packed with award travel insights, airline and hotel strategy, loyalty program updates, trip report highlights, and practical ways to save money while traveling. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro 00:44 Trip Setup Brisbane 02:11 Flash Deal Delta One 03:52 Delta One Lounge LAX 04:29 Vegas Pit Stop Strategy 05:49 Delta One Flight Review 07:16 Blacklane Airport Transfer 09:28 Hyatt Regency Perks 10:55 Food Hacks Abroad 13:17 Exploring Downtown Brisbane 14:35 Koala Sanctuary Visit 17:46 Kangaroo Point Views 19:16 Airport Lounge Return 20:21 Show Announcements 20:50 Meetups and FTU Dallas 21:47 CardPointers and SaveWise 22:33 SaveWise Grocery Wins 23:37 SAS Transfer Bonus 24:13 Rove Meetup Plans 25:01 Bilt Miami Pre-Cruise 26:10 Vermont Hotel Credit Play 28:03 Amex Retention Decisions 31:32 Caesars and MGM Negative Changes 34:37 Work Travel and Spring Break 35:24 Upcoming Trips and Calala Island 36:30 Amtrak Lounge Status 37:40 MGM Iconic Credit Card Increased Offer 38:37 Wrap Up and Support Links 39:31 Outro Credits and Theme — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ —

Miles, Points & Creative Spending: A Tribute to Bill Dickerson (Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast) Justin of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast remasters and re-releases an episode recorded 2–3 years ago with twins Eric and Bill Dickerson as a tribute to Bill, following his death from stroke-related complications. This conversation captures their early journey into miles and points and creative spending: credit card welcome bonuses, bank account bonuses, gift card reselling (including buyers like CardCenter.cc and QCGC), and using ACH payouts to help meet bank bonus requirements. They also discuss finding an edge with online gambling in Pennsylvania and New Jersey using blackjack strategy, casino promos, referrals, and gift-card-funded play. Since this recording, their strategies helped unlock meaningful travel, including trips to Aruba and Florida. Bill will be missed. Bill Dickerson Obituary: https://www.poconorecord.com/obituaries/psom1417872 Timestamps 00:00 Points & Miles Intro 00:36 Tribute and Re-release Context 02:50 Meet the Twins 03:26 Origin Story and Getting Started 05:31 Making Money Gambling 08:09 Casino Promos and Referrals 09:51 CVS CarePass Easy Wins 10:55 Grocery Points and Free Gas 14:41 Manufactured Spend Mindset 16:28 Learning Curve and Cashier Hurdles 20:08 Gift Card Suspicion 21:16 Reselling and Arbitrage 22:07 Bank Bonus Stacking 24:09 Time Value Strategy 25:17 Store Rules Reality 26:26 Split Tender Tactics 29:28 De-risking New Cards 31:33 Hobby Mindset Wins 33:19 Start Small Advice 34:26 Travel Rewards Wrap-Up 35:37 Final Takeaways — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍

Supercharge Points & Miles with Gift Card Reselling - QCGC Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast | Justin Vacula Justin Vacula hosts Taylor from QCGC (qcgc.io) to show how gift card reselling can help you earn more credit card points, miles, and cashback beyond everyday spending. By buying gift cards during promotions and reselling them through QCGC, keep the rewards while scaling your credit card spending. Recorded February 6, 2026, this episode covers QCGC’s newly launched portal (live since December 2025) that replaces the old spreadsheet system. Taylor walks through the platform’s deals section (profit, end dates, sources, remaining capacity, payout rates, and timeframes), the rates page that consolidates brands and denominations (including anywhere sources), and customizable deal alerts (with SMS planned). They also discuss entering payment details for ACH payouts and enabling optional two-factor authentication. Chapters / Timestamps: 00:00 Intro: Travel with Points & Miles 00:32 Meet Taylor & QCGC 01:57 Gift Card Reselling 101 04:31 Inside the New QCGC Portal: Deals Page, Alerts 06:14 Rates Page, Popular Brands & Converting Multi-Brand Gift Cards 08:37 Payout Timing, ACH Deposits & Bank Account Bonuses 09:30 De-Risking & Bank Scrutiny: Amex and Safer Buying Habits 13:15 More Portal Features: SMS Alerts, Payment Info, 2FA & Feature Requests 15:09 How to Join QCGC + Community: Onboarding, Support 17:02 Break + Announcements: Socials, Meetups, FTU, and CardPointers 21:20 Deal Math in Action: Lowe’s Promo, Gas Points, Staples & Profit Thresholds 26:06 Best Cards to Us 27:44 Real-World Friction: Store Limits, Cashiers Making Up Rules 29:39 Listener Q&A: Trust, Reputation, Starting Small 32:55 Step-by-Step Submissions: Reserving Capacity, Uploading Cards 34:52 Avoiding Mistakes 37:04 Wrap-Up — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 📡 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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

Save Money on Groceries & Online Shopping with SaveWise (Portals, Auto-Clipped Coupons & Stackable Offers) | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast They also dive into SaveWise’s grocery coupon auto-clipping tool (app + browser extension), which supports 28 major grocery brands and 5,500+ stores, including Safeway and Acme. With one click, you can activate every available offer and stack them with store loyalty rewards. Other features covered include discounted gift cards, the Stackable Offers Index (to find merchants where portal rewards can stack with card-linked offers like Rakuten + Amex or AA + SimplyMiles), and a prototype product search tool for finding the best store to buy specific items. Sign up: www.GetSaveWise.com/HurdyGurdy Save 20% on SaveWise Pro (first year): promo code HurdyGurdy Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 Intro: Travel with points, miles & rewards 01:22 Meet Avneesh (SaveWise) + how he got into points & miles 03:06 SaveWise 101: What it does (portals, gift cards, more) 03:52 Shopping portals explained (why they’re worth the extra click) 04:48 Best portal selection + historical rate trends 07:51 Grocery coupon auto-clipping for Safeway/Acme + 5,500+ stores 09:25 How often to clip + notifications + real savings per trip 12:19 Mobile apps roadmap: iOS now, Android coming soon 12:54 Free vs Pro: historical data, alerts, and pricing perks 14:41 Stackable Offers Index + product search prototype (advanced stacking) 16:59 Mid-roll announcements: FTU + local meetups 18:14 Privacy & data security: how SaveWise handles your info 19:39 Grocery logins + regional deal differences 20:45 What’s next: dining portals and restaurant double-dipping 22:28 Discounted gift cards: underrated savings + future integrations 23:52 Avneesh’s 2026 travel plans + points strategy (BILT, status, Hyatt) 27:04 Wrap-up + outro — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 📡 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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

Exclusive $2,510 Cash Incentive at Calala Island (Nicaragua)! | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast (ft. James of the Churn and Burn Podast) In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula is joined by James from the Churn and Burn Podcast to discuss one of the wildest luxury travel promos we’ve seen: an exclusive $2,510 cash incentive tied to a four-night stay at Calala Island in Nicaragua. We cover what the offer includes, how the booking works, and the real-world logistics: flights, transfers, timing, and what to expect on an ultra-exclusive private island with a tiny guest count. You’ll also hear practical strategy talk on Hilton points, free night certificates, credit cards, and the common pitfalls people may miss when trying to replicate deals like this. If you’re into points and miles, Hilton redemptions, Hilton free night certificates, luxury travel hacks, and Caribbean/Central America resort escapes, this one’s for you. Recorded February 9, 2026 Chapters 00:00 Intro: Travel Rewards + Why This Deal Is Huge 00:59 Guest Intro: James (Churn and Burn Podcast) 02:03 Calala Island Promo ($2,510 Incentive) 08:24 Booking Steps + Travel Logistics (Flights/Transfers/Timing) 19:20 Podcast Updates + Other Promotions 22:03 What You Actually Do on Calala Island 22:32 Openness to Experience 22:47 Deserted Island Picnic 24:04 Rum Tasting Adventure 25:36 Cooking Lobster Pizza 25:49 Hawksbill Turtle Nesting 27:06 Maximizing Hilton Points + Free Night Certificates 33:01 Listener Questions + Practical Travel Tips 35:47 Final Thoughts + Where to Follow — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

Unlock Las Vegas value with this Rio Las Vegas trip report! Join Justin Vacula on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast with co-host Darren as we break down how Hyatt Globalist benefits, smart booking strategy, and low-variance video poker can add up to an affordable and fun Las Vegas stay. We cover what it’s like staying at Rio Las Vegas, why it can be a hidden gem for value-focused travelers, and how to think about Hyatt points, elite status perks, resort fees, comps, tier credits, and casino loyalty without getting lost in the weeds. We also explain why multi-hand or multi-play video poker games can lower risk while still earning meaningful rewards. We also share updates on upcoming meetups, conferences, and travel plans, plus a quick discussion of tools like CardPointers for staying organized with credit card points and benefits. 📍 Recorded: February 5, 2026 Topics covered: Las Vegas on a budget, Rio Las Vegas review, Hyatt Globalist, Hyatt rewards, Hyatt points strategy, video poker, casino comps, tier credits, loyalty programs, travel hacking, credit card points and miles, and practical ways to reduce trip costs. Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome + Episode Overview 00:44 Rio Las Vegas Trip Report Begins 02:34 Hyatt Globalist Benefits 03:14 Booking Strategy: Rates, Value, and Timing 04:53 Food and Breakfast Options at Rio 07:43 Video Poker Strategy 11:30 Earning and Using Rio Rewards 17:25 Host/Property Interactions + Offers 19:38 Shows and Entertainment Recap 24:14 Tier Credits and Drink Rewards 24:45 Planning the Next Vegas Trip 25:41 Podcast Updates + Social Media 27:24 CardPointers and Tracking Benefits 28:48 Gambling Strategy + Hotel Comparisons 35:11 Listener Questions and Comments 46:33 Upcoming Trips + Final Wrap-Up — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

Unlock affordable family travel using credit card points and miles! In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula sits down with Kate from Kate’s On A Plane to break down practical strategies for low-cost travel with kids using points, miles, credit card benefits, and loyalty programs. We cover real-world tips for booking trips, saving on dining, planning family-friendly itineraries, and making award travel simpler (even when juggling school schedules and picky eaters). If you’re trying to travel more for less in 2025 (and beyond), this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Topics include: Family travel strategies with points & miles Managing award bookings and travel planning with kids Vegetarian-friendly travel and food tips on the road Cruise travel tips and what families should know Staycations, local travel, and maximizing shorter trips Building a points strategy your whole family can understand Community events, meetups, and what’s ahead in 2026 Timestamps: 00:00 Intro – Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:45 Guest Intro – Kate (Kate’s On A Plane) 01:48 Upcoming Travel Plans & Destinations 03:24 Vegetarian Travel Tips 04:35 Cruise Travel Tips for Families 05:48 Family Travel Strategy & Planning 10:54 Local Trips, Weekend Getaways, Staycations 16:02 Credit Card Points, Miles, and Benefits 21:56 Getting Family Involved in Points & Miles 22:56 Events, Conferences, and Community 24:42 CardPointers 25:46 Points & Miles Meetups 27:25 Travel Stories – Portugal & More 32:16 Award Travel Strategy Lessons 35:18 Listener Questions & What’s Next 42:31 Predictions and Trends for 2026 47:04 Wrap-Up + Contact Info — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

BILT 2.0 Credit Cards Showdown: Palladium vs. Obsidian | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast Join Justin Vacula and frequent co-host Darren for a detailed breakdown of the new BILT 2.0 premium credit cards—the Palladium vs Obsidian—and what they mean for points-and-miles and credit card enthusiasts. We compare earning rates, welcome offers, annual-fee value, and the real-world usefulness of BILT Cash (including redemption options and potential value pitfalls). If you’re trying to decide which BILT card is best or whether either one makes sense alongside cards from Amex, Chase, Citi, and other issuers, this episode walks through the pros, cons, and best-use strategies so you can maximize rewards on the spend you already do. Topics covered: BILT 2.0 overview: what changed and why it matters Palladium vs Obsidian: benefits, perks, and who each card fits Earning structure + where the value actually comes from BILT Cash explained: redemption options, value, and what to watch out for Strategy tips, stacking ✅ Subscribe for more: points & miles, credit cards, travel hacks, manufactured spend strategy, and real-world redemption math from the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to low-cost travel with points & miles 00:45 Battle of the premium BILT 2.0 credit cards 01:19 Meetups + social media updates 02:03 Detailed breakdown of the BILT 2.0 lineup 12:50 Comparing BILT points vs BILT Cash 17:02 BILT Cash redemption options explained 23:55 Upcoming events and conferences 24:55 CardPointers + BILT Cash 26:08 Monthly travel & points meetups 26:40 Redemption strategy 27:34 Maximizing credit card rewards 35:51 Listener questions and tips 47:37 Final thoughts and outro — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

Points accelerators, helicopter rides, dining credits, and much more with BILT atop the fantastic 2x everywhere with the BILT Palladium card! In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula is joined by James from the Churn & Burn podcast to explain what BILT Cash actually is, how redemptions work, and what the new Points Accelerator could mean for earning and using rewards. We cover the best use cases, potential downsides (including redemption value and complexity), and how BILT’s evolving ecosystem might impact points and miles strategies going forward. We also talk travel plans, credit card strategy, and future collaboration ideas. If you’re into credit card rewards, points and miles, and staying on top of program changes, this one’s for you. Topics Covered What BILT Cash is and why it matters Points Accelerator: how it works and who benefits BILT Cash redemption options and value considerations Dining & grocery-related perks/credits Travel and transportation benefits Credit card strategy + upcoming plans BILT release (BILT Cash redemptions, 1/21/26) https://www.reddit.com/r/biltrewards/comments/1qjddrq/a_note_from_me_ankur_jain_your_2026_bilt_cash/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:13 What is BILT Cash? (initial details) 01:18 Guest Intro — James from Churn & Burn 02:32 Breaking news: BILT CEO update 04:39 BILT Cash redemptions explained 06:52 Points Accelerator + key benefits 15:05 Dining & grocery credits/perks 19:55 Travel & transportation perks 22:59 Announcements + upcoming plans 24:10 CardPointers tool for card optimization 26:17 More on BILT Cash redemption strategies 28:39 BILT’s strategy + market positioning 41:08 The future of credit cards + travel plans 43:25 Closing thoughts + where to find the show — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

BILT just rolled out BILT 2.0 with the card issuer Cardless, and the program looks very different compared to the past Wells Fargo version. In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, Justin Vacula and frequent co-host Darren break down the new BILT credit cards—including Palladium, Obsidian, and BILT Blue with a focus on real-world value, rewards math, and the new BILT Cash system. We cover what’s changing, what’s worth it, and what to watch out for: earning structures, annual fees, potential signup bonus value, and how these updates impact points-and-miles strategy for renters and non-renters. We also dig into transfer partners, optimization ideas, and the biggest criticisms and risks people are discussing, including listener questions about the transition and potential issues. If you’re trying to decide whether to keep BILT, upgrade, downgrade, or ignore the new lineup entirely, this episode is your BILT 2.0 guide highlighting positives, negatives, and areas BILT can improve on. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro – BILT 2.0 is here 00:44 What changed in the BILT 2.0 rollout 03:06 BILT Palladium card: perks, fees, and who it’s for 07:15 BILT Obsidian card: earning rates, benefits, value 12:59 BILT Blue card: no-fee option + basics 19:51 Announcements/sponsors 20:53 BILT Cash explained (what it is + why it matters) 27:07 Criticisms of the new BILT model 28:18 Complexity, ecosystem concerns, and fine print 29:55 Listener questions: worries, adjustments, and strategy 31:04 Card transition issues + what to expect 34:36 Rewards math: how to evaluate value & opportunity cost 42:11 Side-by-side comparison: Palladium vs Obsidian vs Blue 47:22 Final thoughts + what we’re watching next — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

Life is Too Short for Frequent Flyer Miles? Response to WSJ | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast Is the points and miles game too complicated to be worthwhile? In this solo episode, Justin Vacula responds to a recent Wall Street Journal column, “Life’s Too Short for Frequent Flyer Miles” by Elliot Penn, and breaks down what the article gets right, what it misses, and how to get real travel savings without turning it into a second job. Original article: https://www.wsj.com/opinion/life-is-too-short-for-frequent-flyer-miles-9b167c35?mod=Searchresults&pos=1&page=1 Recorded from Atlantis Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas, Justin explains how credit card points, airline miles, hotel status, and simple systems can unlock cheaper flights, better rooms, and upgrades even if you’re not an extreme optimizer. You’ll learn a realistic approach to earning and redeeming rewards, avoiding common pitfalls, and why the credit card and travel hobby is worth your time. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Low-Cost Travel With Points & Miles 00:46 Responding to the Wall Street Journal Critique 02:09 How to Simplify Credit Card Rewards 05:16 Debunking Myths and Addressing Criticisms 09:13 Maximizing Benefits Without Overcomplicating 13:52 Personal Experiences and Success Stories 22:26 Closing Thoughts + Upcoming Events — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula chats with travel & miles and points enthusiast Ronnie Dunston. Ronnie, a visitor of 108 countries, explains real-world strategies for traveling more (and spending less) using credit cards, airline miles, hotel points, and loyalty programs. Ronnie shares what actually works for booking award flights, earning faster with the right cards, and keeping it organized when you’re managing multiple accounts, player two, or family travel. We also talk about the reality of flying with kids (economy vs. business), using perks like Fine Hotels + Resorts credits, and how meetups and community can accelerate your learning curve in the points and miles game. If you’re trying to travel more in 2026 without blowing your budget, this one’s packed with practical tips. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to low-cost travel with points and miles 00:59 Upcoming meetups and social media updates 01:47 Introducing Ronnie Dunston 02:07 Travel stories and experiences 03:24 Points and miles strategies 05:49 Credit card strategy and maximizing rewards 25:12 Family travel tips and managing multiple accounts 28:44 Flying with kids: economy vs. business class 30:17 Booking strategies for international travel 31:42 Maximizing points and miles for luxury stays 36:50 Using Fine Hotels + Resorts credits 46:58 The value of travel meetups and community 49:46 Final thoughts and upcoming events — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

2025 and 2026: Points, Miles & Future Adventures | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast Welcome to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast with Justin Vacula, where we share practical ways to make and save money on travel using credit card points, airline miles, hotel points, casino comps, and loyalty program strategies. In this episode, co-host Darren joins Justin for a year-in-review conversation covering wins from travel hacking in 2025, plus a forward-looking game plan for 2026 travel. We break down how we used points and miles for flights and hotels, how status and credits can reduce trip costs, and what’s coming next, including Atlantis (Bahamas), Las Vegas, Southeast Asia, and Australia. 👍 Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more travel rewards strategies, trip reports, and future meetup announcements. ⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:35 Meet the Hosts and Episode Overview 02:27 Favorite Trips of 2025 03:33 Using Points and Miles for Family Trips 05:04 Memorable Events and Cruises in 2025 08:23 Upcoming Trips and Plans for 2026 11:48 Vegas Trips and Status Matches 16:08 Future Meetups and Events 23:31 Southeast Asia Family Trip 24:08 Maximizing Membership Rewards 24:27 Booking Flights and Hotels 25:20 Planning the Itinerary 26:28 Using Credits and Rewards 27:43 Travel Tips and Recommendations 30:49 Credit Card Strategies 33:06 Beach Trips and Scuba Diving 37:46 Listener Questions and Advice 43:27 Upcoming Plans and New Cards 45:25 Conclusion — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ 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.

Comp cruise with Margaritaville at Sea with special guest Marc | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast How did I score a free (or nearly free) balcony suite cruise using a mix of credit card points and casino loyalty perks? In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula breaks down his December 2025 Margaritaville at Sea cruise and explains the strategy behind turning a comp cruise offer into a suite-level upgrade. I cover the whole experience from start to finish: booking and pre-cruise planning, travel to the port, first impressions of the ship, and a detailed look at the balcony suite amenities. You’ll also hear my honest take on dining onboard, what felt worth it, what I’d skip next time, and how Margaritaville at Sea compares to other cruises and travel redemptions. We also get into the casino side of cruising: casino promotions, random drawings, rewards programs, and gambling strategy, including sessions of blackjack and craps, and how I think about offers and play when the goal is maximizing overall value. If you’re into points and miles, MGM Rewards, casino comps, status matches, and travel hacking, this episode is packed with practical takeaways you can apply to your own trips. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:45 Margaritaville at Sea Cruise Experience 01:10 Meetups and Social Media 01:55 Booking and Preparing for the Cruise 02:17 First Impressions and Ship Details 05:22 Room and Amenities 06:33 Travel to Cruise Port 09:58 Boarding and Initial Impressions 12:40 Dining Experiences 21:57 Casino and Gambling Insights 28:15 Casino Strategies and Observations 29:56 Random Drawings and Rewards 30:46 Blackjack and Craps Sessions 33:04 Frequent Traveler University Conference 34:15 Cozumel Port Day 38:19 Progreso Port Day 40:50 Cruise Reflections and Future Plans 44:00 Upcoming Cruises and Status Matches 48:26 Holiday Plans and Rewards 52:19 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …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: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/