Combine the sugar, water, ginger and vanilla bean and seeds in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. Cook the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 1 minute. Cool at room temperature and strain.
Combine the pineapple juice, 1 cup of pineapple cubes, the simple syrup and vodka in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into glasses filled with pineapple cubes, if desired, and garnish with mint and pineapple slices.