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.
Gulf Shores, Alabama – The white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico will once again host a three-day celebration of music and coastal living when Morgan Wallen’s Sand In My Boots Festival returns May 21–23, 2027. The event blends live performances with the natural rhythms of the shoreline, offering visitors a chance to experience the
Stone crab season has opened in the Florida Keys, with the 15th annual Stone Crab Eating Contest at Key Fisheries serving as the opening marker on Sunday. A Florida man took the top spot in the event. ([1])The gathering highlights a longstanding local practice tied to the region’s working waterfront and seasonal marine harvests. Marking
Cambridge, Massachusetts – A six-bedroom Colonial that served as Julia Child’s home for decades has changed hands for $6.52 million, closing just weeks after it appeared on the market. The transaction marks the end of a private chapter for the property while underscoring the lasting public reach of the chef’s work. Her influence continues to
San Juan del Sur sits along Nicaragua’s Pacific coast, where a wide crescent bay meets rolling hills and consistent swells. Travelers often find themselves drawn to its mix of surf culture, hillside viewpoints, and a welcoming blend of local and international flavors. The town’s distinctive character emerges in everyday scenes, from beachfront strolls to meals
As families and friends begin mapping out holiday gatherings and reunions in early November, the logistics of moving everyone to one destination at the same time often rise to the top of planning lists. Southwest Airlines offers a dedicated group travel service designed precisely for these moments, allowing coordinators to arrange flights for multiple travelers
Winter journeys across Europe reward travelers who prepare thoughtfully for changing conditions and the simple pleasure of moving comfortably through historic streets and festive squares. A well-planned layering system turns cold days into opportunities for extended exploration rather than hurried returns to shelter. The approach centers on an insulated coat paired with thermal base layers,
Kinilaw stands apart as a traditional Filipino preparation that transforms fresh fish through acid rather than heat. The dish relies on vinegar and citrus to firm the protein while preserving its texture and flavor. Travelers often encounter it as a bright, tangy starter that reflects local ingredients and techniques passed down through generations. ([1]) Understanding
A long connection in Istanbul can shift from a waiting game into a genuine encounter with one of the world’s most layered cities. The traveler who has passed through twice, once for 36 hours and once for roughly 24, knows the value of pacing that limited window with care. The result is not a sprint
United Airlines and Southwest Airlines have introduced significant changes to their loyalty programs that place greater emphasis on overall spending rather than flight activity alone. The adjustments, set to take effect in 2027, reflect a broader industry movement already seen at American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Travelers who value elite benefits will need to
Southern California’s coastline recently experienced notable flooding across Los Angeles and Orange counties, a development scientists have now linked to a specific ocean phenomenon. A Kelvin wave, powered by the current El Niño pattern, traveled thousands of miles across the Pacific and contributed to elevated sea levels that affected local beaches and communities. This connection,
Clocks across most of the United States moved back one hour on November 1, 2026, marking the end of daylight saving time for the year. Travelers who cross borders or rely on digital schedules often encounter unexpected shifts in timing that can affect flights, reservations, and daily plans. The Points Guy recently highlighted several common
Travelers planning future trips with United Airlines may find the current moment worth noting. Six United cobranded credit cards from Chase now carry elevated welcome offers that meet standard thresholds for consideration, according to reporting from The Points Guy in November 2026. Two of the personal cards stand out because their current offers match or