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.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed annually on September 30th, serves as a day of reflection on the painful legacy of Canada’s residential school system. It also provides an opportunity for Canadians and visitors to honour the diverse cultures, traditions, and deep-rooted connections of Indigenous peoples to the land. Exploring Indigenous-led tourism offers […]
Choosing ethical souvenirs is a powerful way to support local artisans and contribute to the economy of the destinations you visit. Ethical souvenirs are not only a meaningful reminder of your travels but also ensure that your purchase has a positive impact on the community. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose ethical souvenirs […]
Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s historic Old Town, the St. Lawrence Market stands as a testament to the city’s rich culinary and cultural heritage. This market is more than just a place to shop; it’s a living museum where history, community, and commerce blend seamlessly. A visit here is a multi-sensory experience, from the […]
Nestled in the far right corner of the restaurant, I found myself with a prime view of the open kitchen, a focal point that showcased the culinary artistry within. Shmoné, which quietly opened two years ago, remained a well-kept secret until the MICHELIN GUIDE took notice, awarding it a star in 2023 within its first […]
On a bustling day filled with networking and discussions at the Concordia Summit in Manhattan, NYC, I found myself in need of a moment of respite. After attending an event at East 86th Street and 5th Avenue, I decided to take a walk through Central Park. My journey began at East 72nd Street, where I […]
Volunteering on vacation can be a rewarding way to give back to the communities you visit. However, it’s essential to approach volunteer travel responsibly, ensuring that your contributions are ethical and beneficial. This guide explores how to volunteer responsibly while travelling, offering tips on finding the right opportunities and making a positive impact. 1. Choose Ethical […]
Last night, I had the pleasure of dining with friends in Toronto’s vibrant Queen West, a neighbourhood celebrated for its eclectic mix of fashion, art, and music. My dinner companions were Chrissy, co-host of Alien Encounters: Fact or Fiction on Discovery and HBO Max, and Rich, a talented graphic designer. Both are creative souls with an […]
Ever find yourself sitting on a bus or train and staring at a mysterious button or sign, wondering, “What does this even do?” Public transport systems around the globe are full of unique symbols and buttons that can leave travellers scratching their heads. Some are functional, while others are cultural curiosities, designed to make commuting […]
The world has changed in countless ways since COVID-19. As we continue to assimilate to a post pandemic world, it’s clear that it has left an indelible mark—not just on how we travel, but also on how we relate to one another. For many, the isolation, uncertainty, and stress of the last few years have […]
Summer will fade into fall, the changing leaves bring some of Ontario’s most breathtaking scenery. If you’re looking for a way to embrace the season and get out into nature, a scenic road trip to enjoy the vibrant autumn colour is the perfect solution. From rich reds and golden yellows to fiery oranges, fall foliage […]
As the summer days in Toronto begin to dwindle and the crispness of fall starts creeping in, now is the perfect time to make the most of the last warm spell. Whether you’re looking to bask in the sunshine or enjoy a final taste of summer activities, there’s still time to soak up everything the […]
With a potential strike by Air Canada pilots up in the air (pun intended), the uncertainty surrounding travel plans is affecting tens of thousands of passengers. The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), representing over 5,000 Air Canada pilots, is negotiating wage demands that could lead to a total shutdown of the airline’s operations if no agreement is […]
