Helen Hatzis Profile Overview

Helen Hatzis

Helen Hatzis

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.
ecotherapy
 · 3 min read

Nature’s Healing Power: The Benefits Of Ecotherapy In Travel

I try my best to carve out time each day to walk in the forest near my house or, at the very least, along the boardwalk, taking in the vastness of Lake Ontario. Ecotherapy, also known as nature therapy, is a powerful way to harness the healing effects of the natural world. Spending time outdoors […]

hawaii
 · 4 min read

A Day With Hawaii In Toronto: Exploring The Islands

Today, I had the pleasure of attending a gathering that brought together representatives from four of Hawaii’s stunning islands—Hawai’i, O’ahu, Maui, and Kauai. Having personally visited the islands of Hawai’i, Maui, and Kauai, I was excited to deepen my knowledge about each one and look forward to exploring O’ahu in the future. My last visit […]

destination dupe
 · 5 min read

Destination “Dupes”: The Smart Way to Travel in 2024

In an age where social media and global connectivity have made travel more accessible and desirable, popular tourist destinations are often overwhelmed with visitors. The charm and allure of places like Portofino, Santorini, Bali, and Paris can be somewhat diminished by the throngs of tourists, long queues, and soaring prices. As a result, a new […]

Regenerative travel
 · 2 min read

Regenerative Travel: Going Beyond Sustainability for a Positive Impact

Regenerative travel takes the concept of sustainability one step further by encouraging travellers to leave destinations better than they found them. Unlike sustainable tourism, which focuses on minimising impact, regenerative travel seeks to restore and enhance the natural environment and local cultures. This post explores how you can embrace regenerative travel and contribute to the […]

forest bathing
 · 2 min read

Forest Bathing: How Immersing in Nature Can Revitalise Your Travels

Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is the Japanese practice of immersing oneself in nature to reduce stress and promote well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, forest bathing offers a mindful way to slow down, reconnect with nature, and revitalise both body and mind during your travels. This guide explores how forest bathing can enhance your travel experience, offering […]

New York Wine Experience 2024
 · 6 min read

My First New York Wine Experience: A Taste of Global Excellence

Attending the New York Wine Experience 2024 for the first time was an exhilarating experience. I was there on behalf of Grapes for Humanity Canada, where I serve as President of the Board of Directors, alongside fellow board member Steven Campbell, a seasoned veteran in the restaurant and wine industry with over 50 years of […]

wine
 · 4 min read

Wine, Philanthropy, and a Serendipitous Lunch in NYC

I arrived in New York City yesterday for a truly special event: the Grapes for Humanity Global Foundation’s “Wine Legends Dinner V.” As the sister organization to Grapes for Humanity Canada, the U.S. chapter, founded in 2003 by Arlene Willis, shares the same passion for wine and philanthropy. This year’s event promised to be an […]

Fall Foliage
 · 4 min read

Embracing Autumn in Toronto: 5 Must-Do Activities for Fall

As the summer heat fades and the crisp autumn air takes over, Toronto transforms into a vibrant canvas of red, yellow, and orange hues. Fall in the city offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural events, and cozy experiences that make it an ideal time for exploration. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here […]

gratitude
 · 6 min read

Giving Thanks: My Gratitude to Canada

As the child of Greek immigrants who made Canada their home in the 1960s, I find myself filled with gratitude as I reflect on all this country has given me and my family. My parents arrived here with dreams of building a better life, and Canada welcomed them with open arms, offering opportunities and a […]

thanksgiving
 · 6 min read

Thanksgiving and Indigenous Peoples’ Day: A Journey Through Gratitude and Reflection Across Borders

Thanksgiving is a holiday filled with family, food, and gratitude, yet its origins and traditions differ between Canada and the United States. It’s also worth noting how Thanksgiving intersects with the acknowledgment of Indigenous peoples in both nations. Let’s explore the history, cultural differences, and the interesting fact that Thanksgiving in the U.S. and Indigenous […]

Casa Loma
 · 6 min read

Casa Loma: A Legacy of Opulence and Advocacy

Nestled atop a hill overlooking Toronto, Casa Loma stands as a timeless monument to the city’s early 20th-century grandeur. For years, I mistakenly referred to it as “Castle Loma”—can you blame me? With its towering spires, stone façade, and grandiose appearance, it certainly looks like a castle. In fact, many of the promotional materials refer […]