Tonya Fitzpatrick
Tonya Fitzpatrick, Esq. is a co-founder of World Footprints. A three-time TEDx presenter and international speaker, Tonya was appointed a Delegate to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (63rd Session). An almost “recovering attorney”, Tonya has found her purpose as a cultural connector. She loves spreading positive messages about the power of travel and the strength of the common humanity we share. Tonya holds a Masters Degree from the London School of Economics and memberships in the National Speakers Association, Society of American Travel Journalists, Women in Film and Video, Society of Professional Journalists and the North American Travel Journalist Association where she serves as a Board Member. Tonya enjoys a life full of adventure, dark chocolate and champagne with her husband and business partner, Ian, and their beloved cat, Irwin.
Articles by Tonya Fitzpatrick
9 Powerful Transformative Travel Stories That Inspire
By Tonya FitzpatrickThe greatest gift that travel affords us is the power to transform our lives. Travel is like an elixir for the soul. A single trip can change your life by giving you the space to embark on an inner journey towards personal growth and self-reflection.
The World Transformative
Developing a Consciousness for Marine Conservation
By Tonya FitzpatrickIf you were to hear that by 2050 there will be more plastic in our oceans (by weight) than there will be fish, would you be alarmed? I definitely was alarmed when I read white paper about the plastic economy projected by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
The World Conservation Social Responsibility
Places in Jerusalem where Easter comes alive
By Tonya FitzpatrickEaster Sunday is the most joyous day in the Christian calendar. On a recent trip to Israel we had the pleasure of visiting numerous sites throughout the country that really brought the Bible to life for us.
Middle East Religious Travel History
India’s Golden Triangle: Beyond History, Culture, Food and Architecture
By Tonya FitzpatrickThe most popular circuit amongst foreign tourists is the Golden Triangle, comprising Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra.
India Architecture Food & Drink History
Celebrating the joy of travel on National Shop for Travel Day
By Tonya FitzpatrickThe technological resources that are available make research and planning for vacations much easier. This was the reasoning behind the creation of National Shop for Travel Day.
United States Events & Festivals
Five Travelers share their Travel Wish List for 2021
By Tonya FitzpatrickWe were curious about the places other travelers are dreaming about so we asked some of our fellow travelers to share their travel wish list for 2021.
The World Insights
Safe and Spooky: Where to enjoy Halloween from a Social Distance
By Tonya FitzpatrickHalloween is around the corner and the ghouls and goblins are coming for us whether we’re ready or not. This time they will be frightening us from a safe distance. But don’t worry because your adrenaline will still run high.
The World Family Travel Events & Festivals
Exploring Until the World Opens Back Up
We can’t travel at the moment…but it’s OK because we’ll be able to again soon. Right now it’s important that we stay home. While home we can satisfy our wanderlust by traveling virtually. We can enjoy a safari or visit places we’ve only dreamed about –all online. We can also … Read more
The World Insights Social Responsibility Sustainability
St. Vincent pianist, Kendol Bacchus, shares healing music and updates from the island
Pianist Kendol Bacchus, who hails from the island of St. Vincent, is riding out the COVID-19 pandemic in Florida. He had a concert tour planned when he arrived in the U.S. two months ago so he is hunkering down until he can resume his concert schedule. Until that time comes, … Read more
Caribbean and Atlantic Literature & Music The Arts
COVID-19 in the French Alps: Chambery, France
Recently France experienced the highest number of COVID-19 related deaths in any one day. Like every other country in the world, France has not been immune to the spread of this virus. And, in dense cities like Paris it is not surprising to see the devastation the coronavirus has left … Read more
France Health & Wellness Insights
COVID-19 Report: Rome and the Vatican during Holy Week
For the Vatican and the City of Rome, Holy Week has been eerily quiet. The thousands who generally flock to St. Peter’s Square have stayed away because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the Pope will be celebrating all services on his own with no audience. And the Vatican’s offices remain … Read more
Europe Health & Wellness Insights Religious Travel
COVID-19 Report from London including status of P.M. Boris Johnson
The coronavirus in London, England has had a vast impact on the health of Prince Charles and Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who is currently in intensive care. Henry Ridgwell, Voice of America correspondent from London says that COVID-19 has altered British societal norms for years to come and it has … Read more
United Kingdom Health & Wellness Insights Social Responsibility
A COVID-19 Survivor’s Message
Travel journalist, Terri Marshall Holder, has recently come out on the other side of a coronavirus infection. Terri just returned from back-to-back trips—one international and one domestic—but she thinks she actually contracted the virus after returning home to New York. Terri joined World Footprints to share her experience with battling … Read more
United States Health & Wellness Insights
COVID-19 Report from Holland
Coronavirus knows no boundaries but we were surprised to learn how the virus has devastated the Netherlands. With fields laden with tulips and landscapes dotted with windmills, Holland is a beautiful country that no one can fully enjoy these days. We speak to Holland resident Merijn Martens about the impact … Read more
Europe Health & Wellness Insights
Take the “Island Time” challenge with San Juan Islands during COVID-19
Even an island paradise is not immune to the coronavirus as we learned from San Juan Islands’ Barbara Marrett. But the virus has not significantly impacted the San Juan Islands despite the islands proximity to Seattle, Washington – a coronavirus cluster. This is attributed to the islands limited accessibility via … Read more
United States Experiences
COVID-19 Report from the Western Cape of South Africa
The COVID-19 virus trickled down through the African Nations slower than other continents but South African recently went into lockdown. So what does the new normal look like in South Africa? We’ll hear from Western Cape resident, Johannes Syms, about the status of South Africa’s fight against the coronavirus and … Read more
Africa Health & Wellness Insights
Traveling from Cape Town to Vancouver during a pandemic
Kellie Paxian just made it out of South Africa before the country went into lockdown. The country was expecting COVID-19 to take a hold on South Africans but was the country prepared? What about Vancouver? Kellie joins World Footprints to answer these questions and more. She provides some insights into … Read more
North America The World Health & Wellness Insights Safety
COVID-19: Insights from Japan
Japan has been in the news a lot regarding it’s fight with the coronavirus that resulted in the subsequent postponement of the 2020 Olympic Games. But what is really happening in Japan? How do the Japanese feel about all of the recent events? World Footprints contacted a family member, Chuck … Read more
Asia Health & Wellness Insights
Connecting Across Distances: COVID-19 Impact on Puerto Rico
As we continue navigating this new normal of lockdowns and social distancing, World Footprints connects with Sarah Ratliff, a previous podcast guest from Puerto Rico. Backed by statistics, Sarah offers some interesting insights into the impact of coronavirus on Puerto Rico and the government’s response to the pandemic. She also … Read more
United States Health & Wellness Insights Social Responsibility
Connecting across Distances: The Impact of COVID-19 in Belgium
Coronavirus may be keeping us at physical distances but it isn’t preventing us from connecting socially through technology. World Footprints believes in the power of connection so we are traveling around the world to connect with family, friends and colleagues while adhering to health and safety guidelines. We are sharing … Read more
Europe Health & Wellness Insights
Surviving COVID-19 with Kindness in Florida
Being socially distant does not mean that we must also be emotionally distant. As human beings we have a natural need to feel connected to a community and the common experiences we all share as a result of the coronavirus pandemic has reminded us of the dynamic global community we’re … Read more
United States Health & Wellness Insights Humanity
Around the World in 16 Photos
By Tonya FitzpatrickPhotos and good storytelling inspire and engage our senses so we have curated this compelling photo essay from 16 fellow travelers who have memorable travel stories to share.
The World Insights
The Red Rocks of Sedona, Arizonia
Explore a bit of Sedona, Arizona in this legacy video. Sedona is a desert town near Flagstaff, Arizona that’s surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. Noted for it’s mild climate and vibrant arts community, some say that Sedona’s red rocks hold a spiritual energy. We … Read more
United States Family Travel Landscape
The White House Fall Garden Tour (2012)
Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the South Lawn of the Obama White House and all of the beautiful gardens as World Footprints enjoys a private media tour. We walk past all of the famous and lesser known gardens including the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, the Rose Garden, the Children’s … Read more
United States Experiences
Exploring historic Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk, Virginia is a vibrant city with a rich cultural and historical heritage. From the outstanding culinary scene (the best She Crab soup is served in Norfolk) to the world-class museums and historical attractions like the Chrysler Museum of Art, Botanical Gardens, Virginia Zoo and Nauticus maritime museum, visitors can … Read more
United States Family Travel History
High above Bogota, Colombia
Travel with us to the summit of Monserrate above Bogota, Colombia. The mountain is part of the Andes and is a focal point in center of Colombia’s capital city. It rises to 3,152 metres (10,341 ft) above sea level. At the top of Monserrate sits a 17th century church that houses … Read more
Central and South America History
Celebrating Bermuda Day
Every May the entire population on the island of Bermuda gathers to celebrate Bermuda Day, formerly known as Empire Day. The holiday initially marked the birthday of Queen Victoria across all of the British colonies. However, as the colonies gained independence this day shifted as a celebration to mark national … Read more
Caribbean and Atlantic Events & Festivals History
Sailing the Potomac River on the Minnie V
We welcomed a cool breeze as we stepped aboard the historic Skipjack Minnie V at Maryland’s National Harbor. Only one of 30 skipjacks in existence, this beautiful vessel treated us to a relaxing excursion along the Potomac River.
United States Cruising Family Travel
Tonya and Ian on The Cliffs of Moher in Ireland
This is our personal take on one of our favorite attractions. The Cliffs of Moher offers an extraordinary view can be found on the west coast of Ireland. From atop the vertical drop of the cliffs one can see the heaving Atlantic ocean below and across the water to the … Read more
Ireland Family Travel Landscape
Digging up dinosaurs in Montana
Our recent trip to Big Sky country, Montana, yielded the discovery of new dinosaur fossils and other treasures. We spent some time working on a previously discovered dinosaur named “Carl” and we covered him with a new “jacket” of plaster. Then we visited the high-tech Dino Lab and lent a … Read more
United States Experiences History Preservation
Christmas on the Potomac at Maryland’s National Harbor
Christmas on the Potomac in Maryland is an extravaganza that the Gaylord National hosts each year. Marvel at more than 2 million holiday lights and acres of magnificent decorations. Spectacular holiday activities and events like ICE!–a wonderland of 2 million pounds of artistically carved ice blocks that bring stories to … Read more
United States Family Travel Events & Festivals
Want to visit Africa? Uganda is everything and more
By Tonya FitzpatrickAlthough located in the very heart of East Africa, Uganda is much less visited than most countries in East Africa and receives just a fraction of the visitors who arrive in neighboring Kenya each year for an adventure into the Masaai Mara.
Africa Off the Beaten Path
A Look at the Calgary Stampede – “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”
Because the world famous Calgary Stampede has just started, World Footprints takes a look back at our time at the rodeo. This rodeo spectacular IS the greatest outdoor show on earth. At Stampede you’ll find everything from Vegas & Broadway style shows to bull-riding, roping and an ice skating show … Read more
Canada Family Travel Sports Events & Festivals
10 notable Fourth of July celebrations across America
By Tonya FitzpatrickOn July 4th, the nation sings Happy birthday to the United States of America. This summer day is Independence Day in the US and one of the busiest travel and tourism holidays in North America. Flights coming to America and from coast to coast are full. Hotels in the top … Read more
United States Family Travel Events & Festivals History
Anthony Bourdain and the Stories Left Untold
By Tonya Fitzpatrick“In my world view, food certainly plays a role hopefully in bringing some kind of enlightenment and understanding, openness and appreciation of other cultures.” –Anthony Bourdain Like so many people across the globe, Anthony Bourdain’s death has left me numb. Anthony was a true global citizen who touched many people … Read more
United States Insights
Travel as an Antidote to Divisiveness | Tonya Fitzpatrick | TEDxWayneStateU
Tonya Fitzpatrick discusses the power of travel. She presents to us a new way of looking at travel and how doing this can open up new doors and wholly transform you and those around you in ways you never could have imagined. What does travel mean to you? Tonya created … Read more
United States Insights Humanity
Quebec City: Where New France celebrates its heritage
By Tonya FitzpatrickIn 1608 the first Europeans set foot on North American soil. Samuel de Champlain, considered to be the founding father of New France, built a settlement that would later be called Quebec City. For the last few decades the arrival of these first French settlers has been celebrated in the … Read more
Canada Events & Festivals History
Aruba: One Happy Island
By Tonya FitzpatrickLocated some nineteen miles north of Venezuela, Aruba surprises the imagination and tantalizes the senses of the most intrepid traveler. A warm Arubian smile and “Bon Bini” welcomes one and all to one of the most multicultural and ecologically diverse seventy-seven square miles anywhere on the planet. As the “A” … Read more
Caribbean and Atlantic Luxury Travel Food & Drink
Walking in the footsteps of Elizabeth I
By Tonya FitzpatrickElizabeth I remains one of the most popular English monarchs more than 400 years after her death. So much about this first woman to reign England in her own right intrigues and captivates us. The daughter of boisterous Henry VIII and his infamous second wife, Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth learned early … Read more
United Kingdom Experiences History The Arts
To ski or not to ski–where should you go?
By Tonya FitzpatrickFor those that love the snow or even those that enjoy limited time with the white stuff, skiing is a common denominator. Whether it is downhill skiing or cross-country, snapping on the boots and winter gear is the popular winter activity across the planet. Of course, there are some countries … Read more
The World Adventure Insights
The Hills have Eyes in South Dakota
By Tonya FitzpatrickWhile most first time visitors to the United States generally gravitate towards the iconic cities on the East or West Coast, there are many places in the interior of the country where “America the Beautiful” can be experienced. Located in the north-central region of the United States, the Great Plains … Read more
United States Landscape History
Exploring St. Vincent’s Historical Attractions
By Tonya FitzpatrickThe small island of Saint Vincent can be easily overlooked from the grand scene of world travel, surrounded by the endless ocean and other more glittering destinations. Nevertheless, some places deserve to be left alone, unknown to the effects of mass tourism, veritable oasis of authenticity and exoticism. Part of … Read more
Caribbean and Atlantic History
Visit the World of the Romanovs
By Tonya FitzpatrickThe Romanov family was infamously and brutally murdered by the Bolsheviks at the end of World War I. Czar Nicholas II, his wife, and their five children were executed to make way for the new ruling hierarchy under the communist leadership of Vladimir Lenin. The Romanov dynasty had just celebrated … Read more
Europe Architecture History The Arts
Walk where Jesus walked
By Tonya FitzpatrickWestern Wall in Jerusalem. Photo: S. Argun For Christians, few travel opportunities are as meaningful as the chance to visit Israel and follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Even those who do not consider themselves Christians can enjoy the ancient history and stories behind these moving sites. Jerusalem Within the … Read more
Middle East History Preservation
Visit the World of King Richard III
By Tonya FitzpatrickWhether you are a historian who has long been fascinated by the controversy surrounding Richard III’s life and death or someone who has been intrigued by the recent developments regarding his remains, an exciting tour of medieval England can help you learn more. Little of the English countryside looks as … Read more
United Kingdom Architecture History
Backpacking South East Asia оn аn Adventurous Route
By Tonya FitzpatrickThe South East Asian region, еsресіаllу the countries of Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos – has bесоmе increasingly popular with travelers seeking adventure. But travelers to that region are often faced with a travel dilemma—which route to take. If a traveler wants to experience each of the aforementioned countries for … Read more
Asia Backpacking & Camping
Exploring Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores from Cedar Point to beyond
By Tonya FitzpatrickCedar Point from Lake Erie. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick Mixing the exquisite location on the shores of Lake Erie–its pleasant beaches and unforgettable sunsets–with the thrill of exciting family oriented theme parks and a touch of fascinating American history, Sandusky, Ohio is one of the best places to visit in … Read more
United States Adventure Family Travel History
Discovering small treasures on St. Vincent
By Tonya FitzpatrickFisherman pulling in their catch on St. Vincent. Photo (c) Tonya Fitzpatrick. On the grand scheme of world travel, the small island of Saint Vincent can be easily overlooked because of more developed islands or more convenient travel options. One could argue that this area of the world is a … Read more
Caribbean and Atlantic History Preservation
Garifuna culture and history throughout St. Vincent and Grenadine Islands
By Tonya FitzpatrickTraveling throughout the Caribbean and especially the West Indies, one can experience the cultural influences of the Garifuna people in the food, music, dance and island traditions. The Garifuna people are the mixed-race descendants of Carib, African and Arawak people. When indigenous Amerindian inhabitants of these Caribbean islands, intermarried Western … Read more
Caribbean and Atlantic Experiences Indigenous
Tonya and Ian on New Orleans’ French Quarter Festival
In this video we will share our own personal insights and footage from our visits to New Orleans during French Quarter Festival.
New Orleans Events & Festivals
Live the History in Romania’s Sighisoara Fortress
By Tonya FitzpatrickOne of the last inhabited medieval fortresses of Europe lies in a small Romanian town, deep into the wonderful land of Transylvania, a land of legends and myths. Unknown to many tourists, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most interesting attractions of Romania, with a history that … Read more
Europe Off the Beaten Path Architecture History Preservation
Unique African-American History Attractions – Beyond Black History Month
By Tonya FitzpatrickAmericans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as “Negro History Week” and later as Black History Month and we greatly owe the celebration of this month of Black Heritage, more so, the study of black history to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. The Harvard scholar was disturbed to find … Read more
United States Experiences History
Visit the Winter Olympic Games in Sochi
By Tonya FitzpatrickTonya gazes at the Olympic Rings on the Black Sea. Photo: Ian Fitzpatrick One of the biggest events of next year will grasp the attention of the whole world and will bring into attention the Russian resort city of Sochi. Unknown to many people, that think about Russia and only … Read more
Russia Sports Events & Festivals
Alhambra: A Islamic treasure in Southern Spain
By Tonya FitzpatrickAmong the great architectural miracles of Spain, one place breathes exuberance and style, representing one of the most beautiful structures made by man. The palace of Alhambra is one of the most popular tourists destinations in Spain, with millions of visitors each year. The historical palace and fortress of Alhambra … Read more
Spain Religious Travel History Preservation
Swimming with gentle giants at the Georgia Aquarium
Tonya enjoyed an afternoon dive at the Georgia Aquarium with Nandi the Manta Ray from South Africa and several whale sharks and other species. You can spot Tonya by her long brown pony tail and her “hang loose” hand signs. Scuba diving is like water ballet–very graceful. This video was … Read more
United States Adventure Family Travel
World Footprints Book Club kicks off with actress Gloria Loring
By Tonya FitzpatrickYou may know actress/singer Gloria Loring from her character Liz Chandler on the soap opera Days of Our Lives, or as the singer in the number-one hit song “Friends and Lovers” or as the mother of singer Robin Thicke. But what you may not know is that Gloria has wrestled … Read more
United States Literature & Music
Visiting the St. Benedict orphanage on the island of St. Vincent
Even in the middle of paradise you can find poverty. That was somethings we witnessed while traveling through St. Vincent and the Grenadines. On one day we visited St. Benedict’s Day Nursery and Orphanage. Our visit was purposeful as we had brought a few supplies to share. It was also … Read more
Caribbean and Atlantic Volunteer Travel History Social Responsibility
Screening of Cape Spin: An American Power Struggle
By Tonya FitzpatrickJoin us for an exciting evening on March 15th for the DC Environmental Film Festival screening of Cape Spin: An American Struggle. The film documents the battle over America's first off-shore wind farm in Nantucket Sound.
United States Events & Festivals Sustainability
World Footprints Featured in New Book
By Tonya FitzpatrickWorld Footprints is proud to be featured in the new book, Become an Award Winning Company by award-winning speaker Matt Shoup.
United States Literature & Music
First Lady Michelle Obama Honors Youth Arts and Humanities at The White House (2011)
By Tonya FitzpatrickOn November 2, 2011, I had the pleasure of covering First Lady Michelle Obama at a President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities (PCAH) ceremony at the White House. This event honored 12 arts and humanities after-school programs with the National Arts and Humanities Youth Award. Twelve young people … Read more
United States Events & Festivals The ArtsSounds of the Amazon
On our first day in the Amazon (south of Leticia, Colombia), we explored some of our majestic surroundings in small wooden canoes. We were told that there were many eyes watching us even when we couldn’t see them.
Central and South America Adventure Off the Beaten Path
In Step with Fela! Yeah-yeah!
By Tonya FitzpatrickAfter thrilling audiences on three continents, FELA!, a three-time Tony Award winning powerhouse production, has arrived at Washington, DC’s Shakespeare Theatre to kick-off its U.S. tour.
Africa Events & Festivals The Arts
Travel Tip: Volunteer Travel
By Tonya FitzpatrickVolunteer travel, also known as, “Voluntourism” – combining travel with volunteer work – is a growing trend because it offers a great opportunity to immerse yourself in local cultures while making a difference in the community you’re visiting.
United States Volunteer Travel
Agritourism Events Offering Authentic Experiences
By Tonya FitzpatrickWith the increased awareness of sustainability, health and the desire to become educated on where food comes from, agritourism is a growing travel trend. More and more farmers are opening their doors to increased number of travelers who are seeking authentic culinary experiences that speak to our food origins. Given … Read more
United States Agritourism Events & Festivals Sustainability
Diving and dining with whales at The Georgia Aquarium
During a travel writer’s conference in Atlanta, Georgia, Tonya and Ian enjoyed a dining experience among Beluga whales and Tonya hopped in the water to scuba dive with whale sharks and other species. Enjoy some of the whale highlights. Visit http://www.georgiaaquarium.org/ to learn more.
United States Adventure Family Travel Social Responsibility
Unique Places to Celebrate Black History
By Tonya FitzpatrickDuring Black History Month, there are many lesser known sites around the country where you can celebrate the month in a unique way. The African-American Heritage Trail is quite long and the short list that follows doesn’t begin to scratch the surface of the attractions you can visit.
United States Off the Beaten Path History
World Footprints radio receives Top Award
By Tonya FitzpatrickThe North American Travel Journalists Association awarded World Footprints Radio the top travel broadcast award for 2009.
United States Events & Festivals
Travelogue: Vancouver Olympics 2010 – Day One
By Tonya FitzpatrickAfter several flight cancellations from Washington DC we finally arrived in Vancouver at 11:15pm on Saturday evening, February 13, 2010. Regrettably we missed the Opening Ceremony but in our short time here we have experienced a wonderful flavor of cultural diversity and national spirit. We have been to Vancouver many times and … Read more
Canada Adventure Sports Events & Festivals
Day Ten through the Canadian Rockies– Towards Calgary and Home
By Tonya FitzpatrickMorning view of Lake Louise from our room. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick Our final day in Lake Louise, we awoke very early to take in the sunrise over the lake and mountains from our large picture window. This place is so beautiful that it brings tears to your eyes. This truly … Read more
Canada Rail & Road Travel
Canadian Rockies train journey on day seven: Discovering Banff
By Tonya FitzpatrickIan working away inside our Douglas Fir chalet. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick Last night we checked into a great resort—the Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets. The resort is set in a wooded area above the town in a remote area and we were given a very nice two-level, loft chalet. The … Read more
Canada Rail & Road Travel
Canadian Rockies Day Five: A Happy Birthday from Vancouver to Kamloops
By Tonya FitzpatrickAs we started the day a bit on the sleepy side, our taxi transported us to the Rocky Mountaineer Station on the outskirts of downtown Vancouver. Over 500 passengers were gathered in anticipation of a long journey from the coastal British Columbia rain-forest through the Canadian Rockies into the desert … Read more
Canada Rail & Road Travel