Helen Hatzis Profile Overview

Helen Hatzis

Helen Hatzis

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.
solo travel
 · 2 min read

The Power of Solo Travel: Self-Awareness, Confidence, and Personal Growth

Solo travel is more than just an adventure—it’s an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. Travelling alone builds confidence, encourages self-awareness, and fosters a deeper connection with the places you visit. In this guide, we explore the benefits of solo travel and offer tips for responsible and safe journeys as a solo traveller. 1. Embrace the […]

Eco-Luxury Retreats
 · 3 min read

Top Eco-Luxury Retreats: Combining Comfort and Sustainability

Eco-luxury retreats offer the perfect balance between sustainability and indulgence, allowing travellers to enjoy a high-end experience while minimizing their environmental impact. From off-the-grid escapes to sustainable resorts, these destinations prove that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to be eco-conscious. This post showcases some of the top eco-luxury retreats around the world where you […]

Oktoberfest
 · 4 min read

The Best Places to Celebrate Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is one of the most famous cultural celebrations in the world, originating in Germany and spreading across continents through its vibrant customs. This blog post dives into the festival’s roots and highlights five destinations where Oktoberfest retains its authenticity and cultural importance. A Brief History of Oktoberfest Oktoberfest traces back to October 12, 1810, […]

Truth and Reconciliation
 · 5 min read

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Honouring Indigenous Land and Culture Through Travel

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed annually on September 30th, serves as a day of reflection on the painful legacy of Canada’s residential school system. It also provides an opportunity for Canadians and visitors to honour the diverse cultures, traditions, and deep-rooted connections of Indigenous peoples to the land. Exploring Indigenous-led tourism offers […]

ethical souvenirs
 · 2 min read

Tips to Choose Ethical Souvenirs: Supporting Local Artisans and Communities

Choosing ethical souvenirs is a powerful way to support local artisans and contribute to the economy of the destinations you visit. Ethical souvenirs are not only a meaningful reminder of your travels but also ensure that your purchase has a positive impact on the community. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose ethical souvenirs […]

St Lawrence Market
 · 5 min read

Top Tips to Exploring Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market

Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s historic Old Town, the St. Lawrence Market stands as a testament to the city’s rich culinary and cultural heritage. This market is more than just a place to shop; it’s a living museum where history, community, and commerce blend seamlessly. A visit here is a multi-sensory experience, from the […]

carry-on
 · 3 min read

How to Travel with Only a Carry-On: A Step-by-Step Guide

Travelling with only a carry-on might seem challenging, but it’s a smart way to simplify your journey, avoid extra baggage fees, and speed through airports. I recently traveled to NYC for a conference and live by carry-on, period. It’s a fast and efficient way to travel. I’m not one who thinks, “Hmmm, I might wear […]

Michelin Star
 · 5 min read

Don’t ’86’ This Place: NYC’s Michelin Star Hotspot

Nestled in the far right corner of the restaurant, I found myself with a prime view of the open kitchen, a focal point that showcased the culinary artistry within. Shmoné, which quietly opened two years ago, remained a well-kept secret until the MICHELIN GUIDE took notice, awarding it a star in 2023 within its first […]

Central Park
 · 4 min read

Central Park: A Peaceful Escape Through NYC’s Iconic Urban Oasis

On a bustling day filled with networking and discussions at the Concordia Summit in Manhattan, NYC, I found myself in need of a moment of respite. After attending an event at East 86th Street and 5th Avenue, I decided to take a walk through Central Park. My journey began at East 72nd Street, where I […]

Digital Detox
 · 3 min read

The Art of Disconnecting: How Digital Detox Travel Can Improve Your Mental Health

In a world dominated by screens, notifications, and constant connectivity, digital detox travel offers a much-needed break from technology. Disconnecting from digital distractions not only enhances your travel experience but also has profound benefits for your mental health. In this blog post, we’ll explore how digital detox travel can help you reconnect with yourself, reduce […]

volunteer
 · 2 min read

Volunteering on Vacation: How to Contribute Responsibly While Travelling

Volunteering on vacation can be a rewarding way to give back to the communities you visit. However, it’s essential to approach volunteer travel responsibly, ensuring that your contributions are ethical and beneficial. This guide explores how to volunteer responsibly while travelling, offering tips on finding the right opportunities and making a positive impact. 1. Choose Ethical […]

Navigating Airports Like a Pro
 · 4 min read

Travel Tip: Navigating Airports Like a Pro

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 […]