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.
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 […]
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 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, 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 […]
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 […]
There’s something magical about starting the day in New York City, especially when it begins with an indulgent breakfast at renowned Dominique Ansel’s Workshop in Nomad. This morning, I had the pleasure of visiting this location with my good friend Mario, a NYC resident who knows all the best spots. After a night of enjoying […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
I was recently listening in on a webinar hosted by TravMedia, featuring the editorial and communications teams from Fodor’s. During the session, the editors and writers were asked to share their favourite stories. Assignment editor, Eva Morreale brought up her article on the California accent, which got me thinking—what about the Canadian accent? That curiosity […]
The Trevi Fountain in Rome is a masterpiece of Baroque art and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Every year, millions of tourists flock to see this magnificent fountain and take part in an age-old tradition: tossing coins into its waters. While the ritual is said to bring good fortune—particularly a return to Rome—it […]
Zero-waste travel is about making conscious decisions that minimize your environmental impact while exploring the world. By adopting sustainable practices, travellers can significantly reduce the amount of waste they generate, from packing reusable items to choosing eco-friendly accommodations. This guide provides practical tips on how to travel the world with minimal waste, leaving a positive […]