Helen Hatzis, is the Chief Exploration Office and Co-Founder of Trip Jaunt.
Helen is a recipient of the Governor-General Award, has been honoured as one of Canada's Nicest People! A true xenophile at heart, she finds joy in traveling and delights in sharing her experiences through Trip Jaunt (formerly Weekend Jaunt), an online travel community and hub she established in 2010. Her aspiration is to inspire others to explore the world as she does!
Helen is an esteemed advisory member of the North American Travel Journalists Association.
I usually end my stories with this reflection, but today, I feel it belongs at the beginning: Every journey leaves a mark, and small choices can make a big difference. Choosing eco-friendly stays, supporting local communities, and being mindful of plastic use help preserve the beauty of the places we visit. Respecting wildlife, conserving resources, […]
Travelling is meant to be joyful—not stressful. As we look ahead to 2026, a new generation of artificial intelligence (AI) tools is transforming how people plan, book, and experience travel. And while the term ‘AI’ might sound intimidating at first, these tools are designed to be practical, user-friendly, and helpful—especially for travellers who value comfort, […]
Whether it’s your honeymoon, an anniversary, or a spontaneous escape, these unforgettable destinations will sweep you off your feet—and each other’s. Romance looks different to everyone. For some, it’s candlelit dinners in cobblestone alleyways; for others, it’s soaking in hot springs under the stars or hiking hand-in-hand through cloud forests. Whatever your definition of love, […]
Why now is the perfect time to plan your theatre getaway to New York City This season, Broadway is beaming brighter than ever—and not just because of the glittering marquees in Times Square. With 57 Tony Award nominations across a wide spectrum of productions, The Broadway Collection is taking centre stage in 2025, reminding travellers that no trip to New York City is truly complete without experiencing the thrill of live theatre. 2025 Tony Awards: The Standout Nominees The 78th annual Tony Awards, airing on June 8, 2025 and hosted by Cynthia Erivo, are set to be a celebration of bold storytelling and transformative performances. Topping the list of nominations are three-must see productions that span cultures, genres, and even species. More Nods for New Favourites and Classic Revivals Other standout nominees in the Broadway Collection include: Whether you’re into musical nostalgia, fantastical retellings, or cutting-edge theatrical experiences, there’s a show waiting for you. What Is The Broadway Collection? Curated for visitors […]
The Grand Bazaar Offers a Traditional Shopping Experience The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. With over 4,000 shops, it is the perfect place to find handmade Jewellery, vibrant textiles, ceramics, spices, and Turkish delight. Bargaining is expected, adding an interactive element to the shopping […]
Why Everyone Is Talking About Travel to Georgia The Caucasus nation of Georgia is quickly becoming a favourite for travellers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures. Set where Europe meets Asia, this beautiful country is rich in ancient history and stunning landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Tbilisi to the snow-capped Caucasus Mountains, Georgia offers a perfect […]
Plan Your Adventure Planning your trekking adventure in Nepal starts with smart packing. You will pass through everything from humid valleys to chilly mountain passes, so a flexible gear list is essential. Proper equipment means you can comfortably enjoy the stunning trails, whether heading for Everest Base Camp or exploring the Annapurna Circuit. This guide […]
Where the World’s Coolest Neighbourhoods Are Redefining Travel Looking for your next city adventure that feels more local than touristy? These global neighbourhoods are reshaping what it means to travel cool. They’re not just trendy. They reflect deep community roots, creativity, and resilience. Whether you’re chasing street food in Lisbon or wandering art-filled alleys in […]
PreCheck Is Becoming Practically Essential With rising passenger volumes and tighter screening, TSA PreCheck is no longer just a perk—it’s becoming a travel essential. In 2025, more airports are streamlining lanes to prioritize trusted travellers, cutting wait times by up to 70%. If you’re not enrolled, expect longer lines and more frequent bag checks. The […]
Learn the Culture by Cooking It Italian cuisine isn’t just food. It’s a window into the country’s heart and soul. From rolling fresh pasta to simmering slow-cooked sauces, local cooking classes across Italy invite travelers into a cultural ritual passed down through generations. These hands-on experiences are more than just lessons; they’re immersive storytelling sessions […]
Discover the Magic of Slow Travel Ever felt like you need to just… breathe? These little corners of the world invite you to do just that. Picture yourself strolling down lanes where no one’s in a hurry, where smiles come easy and genuine. You know that feeling when you sink into a comfy chair with […]
Where Life Goes Underground and Dreams Are Carved from Stone Somewhere in the arid heart of South Australia, a day’s drive from Adelaide and far from city lights and coastal breezes, lies a town unlike any other on Earth. At first glance, Coober Pedy seems like a ghost town—flat, dusty, and scattered with heaps of […]