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.
Doney Park, Ariz. – What began as a personal project after retirement has become a seasonal gathering place where neighbors and passersby can cut their own flowers at no charge. Cindy Wilson tends nearly three acres behind her home on Butterfly Lane, turning rows of blooms into an open invitation each summer. The garden sits
Norwegian Cruise Line has built one of the more generous loyalty structures in the cruise industry through its Latitudes Rewards program. Passengers who sail repeatedly with the line gain access to meaningful discounts, priority services, and even a complimentary voyage at the highest level. The program recognizes steady patronage without requiring annual requalification, allowing points
Tampa residents and visitors alike are witnessing a striking display of civic affection this evening. On September 25, 2026, key downtown landmarks are bathed in bright pink light to mark Dolly Parton Day. The gesture captures the city’s playful spirit and its willingness to celebrate icons who embody joy and resilience. A Citywide Gesture of
Travelers often begin their wildlife journeys with Africa’s celebrated Big Five, yet the same curiosity that draws them to lions and elephants can lead naturally to encounters with polar bears on Arctic ice or primates in dense forests. This progression reflects a growing interest in experiences shaped by habitat, season, and ethical practice rather than
Travelers across the United States have encountered more frequent ground stops and extended waits at major airports in recent months, largely tied to staffing levels among air traffic controllers. A recent account from Denver International Airport illustrated the practical effects when a scheduled evening departure stretched well into the night because of a temporary halt
Fortunately, working in the travel industry gives me access and insight into what’s new and noteworthy around the world. Sometimes, though, the best travel stories lead you back to somewhere you’ve already been. In 2024, I travelled to New York City to see Ariana Madix of Vanderpump Rules make her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in Chicago. Two
Bilt members who act on October 1 can convert points earned through rent payments into substantially more Hilton Honors and Amtrak Guest Rewards currency for future trips. The limited window creates a practical opportunity for travelers who already hold Bilt cards or plan to join before the deadline. Those who transfer points that day receive
Delta Air Lines has announced two new nonstop routes that will connect additional U.S. cities with Venice and Athens beginning in 2027. The move builds on strong traveler interest in southern Europe and aligns with a broader industry shift toward shoulder-season travel. These additions give passengers more direct options while supporting visits outside the busiest
Ponant Explorations operates a compact fleet of small luxury ships that reach remote corners of the globe. Its Yacht Club loyalty program rewards repeat guests with practical benefits that begin early and grow steadily. The structure stands out because status depends solely on completed sailings rather than total days at sea or cabin category. ([1])
Travelers who redeem miles or points for flights are encountering a familiar but restrictive fare class in growing numbers. Several major U.S. carriers now display basic economy options as the lowest award price during searches, even though the booking uses loyalty currency rather than cash. This development changes how award travelers evaluate value and plan
A metal detectorist working near the village of Sysmä in southern Finland recently brought to light more than 4,000 silver coins and related objects dating to the Viking Age, the largest such find ever recorded in the country. The discovery, made on September 3 and quickly reported to authorities, has drawn attention for the remarkable
The Galápagos Islands offer one of the rare places on Earth where travelers can enter the water alongside marine iguanas in their natural habitat. These small-ship expeditions reach remote shores that larger vessels cannot access, creating opportunities for close yet respectful observation of wildlife. The experience combines volcanic landscapes, clear waters, and the chance to