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 travel landscape has transformed significantly in recent years, with loyalty programmes emerging as a powerful tool for both travellers and businesses. As demand for travel rebounds post-pandemic, loyalty schemes are evolving to provide greater value, enhanced redemption options, and seamless booking experiences. This shift is particularly evident in the rise of direct booking capabilities […]
Spring breathes new life into Canada’s diverse landscapes, transforming them into a hiker’s paradise of blossoming wildflowers, melting snowcaps, and wildlife re-emerging after winter’s slumber. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged peaks of the Rockies or the coastal vistas of the Maritimes, these breathtaking trails showcase Canada’s natural beauty at its finest. Lace up your […]
Loyalty programs have long been a staple in the travel industry, enticing members with points, discounts, and exclusive perks. Traditionally, these programs revolved around flights, hotel stays, and retail discounts. However, as consumer preferences shift toward greater personalization and tangible rewards, a new trend is emerging: car rentals as a major loyalty benefit. A recent study by […]
Travellers seeking authentic and meaningful experiences are increasingly turning to Indigenous-led tourism. These experiences provide an opportunity to connect with the deep history, traditions, and cultural knowledge of First Nations communities across Canada. By engaging with Indigenous-led travel, visitors gain a greater appreciation for the land, its original caretakers, and the resilience of Indigenous cultures. […]
Travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s about perspective. The kind of perspective that only comes from watching the sunrise over a foreign skyline, tasting a dish you can’t quite pronounce, or getting lost in a conversation where words fail but gestures speak volumes. Travel expands our world, not just through stamps in a passport but […]
Packing for a trip can be a delicate balance between preparation and overpacking. While it’s tempting to bring every gadget and convenience item, some things just take up space without adding real value to your journey. Here are 10 travel items you can confidently leave behind—and what to bring instead! 1. Money Belts Once considered a […]
Canada is a vast country with an equally diverse culinary scene. From the salty sea air of the Maritimes to the rugged peaks of British Columbia, each province and territory tells its own story through food, shaped by history, geography, and cultural influences. Whether you embark on a full cross-country journey or find yourself exploring […]
Toronto is a city that transforms with the seasons. Winter blankets the streets in snow, bringing ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square and cozying up in warm cafés. Spring shakes off the cold, bursting into bloom with cherry blossoms, outdoor patios, and cultural festivals. Summer sees the waterfront buzzing with life, from boat cruises to music festivals, while autumn paints the city in […]
San Antonio, Texas, is a city where history and culture intertwine, offering visitors a compelling blend of historic landmarks, vibrant marketplaces, and enriching experiences. Known as the heart of Texas history, San Antonio tells a story of resilience, cultural fusion, and transformation. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to rediscover its charm, […]
Fredericksburg, Texas, is a charming small town with a big personality. With a population of approximately 11,000, it welcomes over one million visitors each year—and for good reason. Situated in the heart of Texas Hill Country, it blends rich German heritage, a thriving wine scene, and a vibrant Main Street with the beauty of a designated Dark Sky Community. Whether you’re making […]
The sun casts long shadows over the rugged terrain of Texas Hill Country, a region home to over 100 wineries, with Fredericksburg at its heart. Here, vineyards are shaping the future of American winemaking. In this vast landscape of limestone-rich soils and pioneering ambition, Texas is proving that world-class wine can flourish far beyond Napa […]
