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 WNBA’s decision to bring its 2027 All-Star Weekend to Chase Center gives travelers and local businesses a clear timeline for preparation. With the Golden State Valkyries already established in the city, the event adds another layer of interest to San Francisco’s calendar. Advance notice allows visitors to consider how the weekend fits into broader
Los Angeles – Late summer brings a distinctive sight to the skies over Southern California. Large, metallic-green beetles take to the air in noticeable numbers, their flight paths often erratic and low to the ground. These figeater beetles, known scientifically as Cotinis mutabilis, mark a familiar seasonal shift for residents and visitors alike. A Native
Slovenia’s Julian Alps rise sharply from the landscape, and Mount Triglav stands as the country’s highest point at 2,864 meters. The peak appears on the national flag, and local tradition holds that a true Slovenian has stood atop it. Yet one traveler on a women’s group trek chose not to continue to the summit, and
Travelers drawn to the American West often find themselves standing at the edge of vast waters that have long defined the region. Lake Mead and Lake Powell, the country’s two largest reservoirs, sit along the Colorado River and continue to shape both the landscape and the journeys of those who visit. Recent satellite comparisons now
Honolulu – Tropical Storm Lala swept past Hawaii’s islands over the weekend, bringing intense rainfall and strong winds that left communities dealing with flooding, debris, and widespread power loss. The storm, which weakened from hurricane strength before reaching the state, caused one confirmed fatality and disrupted daily life for residents and visitors alike. Recovery efforts
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