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.
American Express is currently offering a 30 percent bonus on transfers of Membership Rewards points to three Avios-based loyalty programs. The promotion runs through September 27 and applies to British Airways Club, Iberia Club and Aer Lingus AerClub. For travelers who hold Amex points, the window creates a practical opportunity to stretch balances further on
Stavanger sits on Norway’s southwestern coast as a place where everyday city life flows naturally into some of the country’s most striking natural scenery. Within minutes of walking past rows of white wooden houses or pausing at a waterfront café, travelers can find themselves on trails that climb toward sheer cliffs above the Lysefjord. The
In the Flemish town of Dendermonde, roughly 30 kilometers northwest of Brussels, a standard renovation project took an unexpected turn when workers uncovered a substantial cache of gold. The find, valued at approximately nine million euros or more than $10 million, emerged from the walls and foundations of a building undergoing updates. What began as
American Airlines has decided to equip its entire mainline narrowbody fleet with seatback entertainment screens, beginning the rollout in 2028. The Fort Worth-based carrier will target its 876 single-aisle aircraft, with the goal of completing the work across the fleet by the early 2030s. Widebody aircraft already feature screens in every cabin, while regional jets
Florida has long drawn travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, lively entertainment, and easy access to both relaxation and adventure. A recent WalletHub study placed the state in second position nationwide for overall fun, reflecting strong showings across categories such as entertainment options, outdoor recreation, and nightlife. The ranking underscores how the state’s diverse
Aurora, Illinois – Young peregrine falcons have recently left the nest built outside city hall, drawing quiet attention from residents and visitors alike. The fledglings represent more than a seasonal milestone. Their presence marks a measurable return of birds of prey to a river system that once supported none. A Region Once Without These Birds
Bangkok has gained a new luxury address with the arrival of Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit. The 416-room property marks the first time the Fairmont brand has opened in Thailand, bringing its emphasis on cultural connection and refined service to the bustling Sukhumvit district. Developed with Asset World Corp, the hotel positions itself as both a destination
Los Angeles – In the height of August, when the city basks in long, warm days, a distinctive sight appears in parks, gardens, and neighborhoods across the region. Large, vivid green beetles take to the air in noticeable numbers, their presence marking a familiar seasonal rhythm for locals and travelers alike. These figeater beetles move
Every circle of friends has at least one person who quietly takes charge when a group trip is proposed. They compare flight options late into the night, build detailed spreadsheets, confirm hotel availability, and juggle everyone’s schedules until the itinerary feels solid. Their efforts often go unnoticed once the journey begins, yet without them many
Malang sits in the cool highlands of East Java, where fresh mountain air and a slower rhythm invite travelers to linger. The city combines colonial-era architecture with easy access to some of the region’s most striking volcanic landscapes. Many visitors first encounter it only in passing, yet those who stay longer discover a place that
Bandung sits in the highlands of West Java as a city shaped by its own layered history and present-day energy. Colonial-era structures line many of its streets, offering a tangible record of earlier periods of development. At the same time, a lively arts community continues to expand, giving the city a creative pulse that stands
American Express Membership Rewards introduced Leading Hotels of the World as a transfer partner in July, a development that received less immediate attention than some earlier additions. The partnership brings access to a collection of distinctive properties across the globe, many of them independent and character-rich. For travelers who value thoughtful stays over standard chains,
