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.
Along the shores of Lake Ontario, just east of Toronto’s downtown core, lies the Beach—a neighbourhood that blends small-town charm with big-city amenities and a population of just over 20,000 residents. It’s a community where the bustle of Toronto melts into the sound of waves meeting the shoreline, children playing, and friends and families strolling […]
I still remember the feeling—the slight weight of my first passport in hand, the soft bend of its navy-blue cover, and the silent promise held within its pages. I was a teenager boarding a flight to London, England, with wide eyes and a heart ready to be changed. Until then, my travel experiences were closer […]
Eco-friendly travel is no longer just a buzzword but a way of life for many conscious travellers. As destinations around the globe prioritize sustainability and environmental protection, eco-conscious travellers are increasingly seeking places that support green tourism. In this guide, we’ll explore eco-friendly travel destinations where you can enjoy your holiday while contributing to the […]
On September 11, 2001, as terror brought the skies to a standstill, nearly 7,000 passengers (fondly known as the ‘Plane People’) from 95 different countries found themselves grounded in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, Canada—a dot on the map with a giant heart. With no warning, this town of 9,300 people welcomed strangers from […]
Being a responsible tourist is no longer a trend but an essential approach to modern travel. With the growing awareness of environmental and social impacts, more travellers are seeking ways to explore the world without leaving a negative footprint. This blog post offers practical tips for eco-friendly adventures, helping you become a responsible tourist while fully […]
In our fast-paced, hyper-connected world, the concept of JOMO—the Joy of Missing Out—is gaining traction, especially in the realm of travel. Originally coined by entrepreneur Anil Dash in 2012 as a counter to FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), JOMO encourages individuals to find contentment in choosing less and savouring moments of stillness. This philosophy is […]
Discover how travelling with parents, grandparents, or elders can strengthen bonds, bridge generations, and keep cultural wisdom alive. In a world that moves quickly and prizes the new, there’s something profoundly grounding about slowing down to journey with those who came before us. Travelling with elders—parents, grandparents, aunties, uncles, or chosen family—offers far more than a […]
There’s something unforgettable about locking eyes with a wild animal—on their terms, not ours. But in a world where animal tourism is often driven by performance and profit, the most meaningful wildlife experiences are those that let nature take the lead. Discovering Wildlife Without Disturbing It is a guide to gentle, responsible travel: observing animals respectfully, leaving […]
From soul-searching hikes to spiritual awakenings and cross-continental love stories, these acclaimed travel memoirs offer the kind of inspiration that lingers long after the final page. Books have the power to transport us—to a new country, a new state of mind, or even a new version of ourselves. You’ll find soul-stirring magic in these unforgettable […]
Toronto is a city of vibrant neighbourhoods, each with its own unique flavour, but few are as iconic and eclectic as Kensington Market. Nestled between College and Dundas Street West, Kensington Market has been a hub of diversity, culture, and creativity for over a century. With its pedestrian-friendly streets and rustic, shabby-chic vibe, the market invites […]
From glass igloos to underwater suites, these unique stays redefine the travel experience. Why book a standard hotel room when the world offers magical treehouses, underwater hideaways, and ice palaces? Today’s travellers aren’t just chasing destinations—they’re chasing experiences. And nothing says “unforgettable” like falling asleep beneath the shimmering Northern Lights or waking up to waves […]
Travelling with only a carry-on might seem challenging, but it’s a smart way to simplify your journey, avoid extra baggage fees, and speed through airports. It is a fast and efficient way to travel. I’m not one who thinks, “Hmmm, I might wear that, so I’ll bring it.” I think about each day realistically and […]