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.
On my recent visit to Jacksonville, Florida, I took a leap and visited Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary—a refuge dedicated to rescuing endangered big cats and exotic animals. While excited, I was a little nervous. I adore animals and share my home with two beloved rescue cats, but I struggle with seeing animals in captivity. […]
Few journeys offer the profound blend of beauty and introspection found along Florida’s historic A1A. This coastal path leads not only through landscapes of serene beauty but also through spaces that bear the weight of the past. Starting with a short ferry ride across the St. Johns River, this route takes you into the heart […]
As the sun set over downtown Jacksonville, the streets transformed into a vibrant blend of art, music, and culture for this month’s Art Walk celebration. With a Día de los Muertos theme, the city pulsed with the rhythms of salsa from a live DJ, while friends, families, and couples in colourful costumes strolled through lively […]
Travel is set to transform in 2025, as travellers seek unique experiences that are as meaningful as they are convenient. From exploring quiet retreats to revisiting nostalgic destinations, here’s a rundown of the top travel trends we expect to shape the new year. Each trend reflects a shift toward more personalized, engaging journeys that emphasize […]
There’s something magical about exploring a city by bike. From the thrill of breezing past traffic to the freedom to pivot plans and explore unexpected spots, cycling offers an unbeatable way to experience urban life. A bike gives you a front-row seat to a city’s unique sights, sounds, and secrets—up close and personal. Here’s a […]
Gone are the days when hotel restaurants were an afterthought, a mere convenience for late-night meals or early morning coffee. Today, we’re in the midst of a hotel restaurant renaissance, where travellers are finding world-class culinary experiences right within their accommodations. No longer overshadowed by local eateries, hotel dining experiences are setting the standard with […]
When planning a trip, we often focus on the most popular destinations, eager to check off iconic landmarks and top attractions. But what if the real magic lies just a little off the beaten path? “Detour Destinations” is the latest travel trend encouraging travellers to venture beyond the usual hotspots to uncover the charm and […]
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 […]
Halloween is more than costumes and candy – it’s a full-on celebration in some cities, where the spooky season lasts weeks! From thrilling haunted houses to eerie parades and historic haunts, here are the top five cities where Halloween is celebrated in unforgettable ways. 1. Salem, Massachusetts – Witch Capital of the World 2. New Orleans, Louisiana […]
During COVID, I was introduced to this workout, and for those of us without gym equipment at home, it was a total game-changer! Now, with winter around the corner and hibernation mode kicking in, it’s easy to let the shorter days impact our energy and fitness. However, a quick 30-minute body-weight workout can keep you […]
As an avid traveller and reader, I’ve always packed books for the journey—whether it’s a plane ride, lounging on a lanai with an ocean view, or finding shade under a palm tree. Before embracing audiobooks, I would lug around physical books, filling my carry-on with five or more titles for long holidays. For some time […]
Island hopping in Hawaii is an experience like no other, and stepping onto Kauai feels like entering a laid-back haven with lush landscapes and a pace that shifts you into relaxation mode. After leaving the vibrant energy of Maui, Kauai greeted me with a calm, tranquil atmosphere that reminded me of a weekend getaway in […]