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.
If you’re passionate about vibrant murals, thought-provoking graffiti, and public art that tells a story, these five cities should be at the top of any art lovers travel list. From politically charged pieces in Berlin to the colourful streets of Buenos Aires, these urban landscapes have become canvases for some of the world’s most talented […]
Navigating airports can be one of the most daunting aspects of any journey, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few clever strategies, you can glide through check-in, breeze past security, find the best lounges, and make your entire airport experience smoother, less stressful, and dare we say, enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned jet-setter […]
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 […]
Travel isn’t just about checking destinations off a list—it’s about the moments that quietly alter our perspective and enrich our lives. Whether it’s a serendipitous encounter or a quiet moment of reflection, each experience has the power to change us forever. In this post, we celebrate 10 travel moments that remind us why purposeful, responsible […]
In a world that constantly nudges us toward far-flung adventures—airplane selfies, bucket-list destinations, and exotic itineraries—it’s easy to overlook the everyday magic that exists right outside our doors. But sometimes, the most meaningful journeys are the ones that require no passport at all. Staycations—those slow, intentional getaways in our own cities or neighbouring regions—are not […]
In an age where speed and efficiency often take precedence, the concept of slow travel offers a refreshing alternative. Rather than rushing through a checklist of must-see sights and attractions, slow travel encourages you to take your time, immerse yourself in the local culture, and truly savor your experiences. It’s about quality over quantity, depth […]
Travel is a transformative experience that can foster gratitude and self-awareness by immersing you in new cultures, environments, and perspectives. Whether you’re exploring distant lands or nearby regions, travel provides a unique opportunity to reflect on your place in the world and develop a deeper appreciation for life. This guide explores how travel can cultivate […]
Along the shores of Lake Ontario, just east of Toronto’s downtown core, lies the Beach—a neighbourhood that blends small-town charm with big-city amenities and a population of just over 20,000 residents. It’s a community where the bustle of Toronto melts into the sound of waves meeting the shoreline, children playing, and friends and families strolling […]
I still remember the feeling—the slight weight of my first passport in hand, the soft bend of its navy-blue cover, and the silent promise held within its pages. I was a teenager boarding a flight to London, England, with wide eyes and a heart ready to be changed. Until then, my travel experiences were closer […]
Eco-friendly travel is no longer just a buzzword but a way of life for many conscious travellers. As destinations around the globe prioritize sustainability and environmental protection, eco-conscious travellers are increasingly seeking places that support green tourism. In this guide, we’ll explore eco-friendly travel destinations where you can enjoy your holiday while contributing to the […]
On September 11, 2001, as terror brought the skies to a standstill, nearly 7,000 passengers (fondly known as the ‘Plane People’) from 95 different countries found themselves grounded in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, Canada—a dot on the map with a giant heart. With no warning, this town of 9,300 people welcomed strangers from […]
Being a responsible tourist is no longer a trend but an essential approach to modern travel. With the growing awareness of environmental and social impacts, more travellers are seeking ways to explore the world without leaving a negative footprint. This blog post offers practical tips for eco-friendly adventures, helping you become a responsible tourist while fully […]