North America
Totem Poles of the First Nations in Vancouver Canada. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick
“Through travel I first became aware of the outside world; it was through travel that I found my own introspective way into becoming a part of it.”
– Eudora Welty
Explore the history, diverse cultures and traditions of the North American countries of Canada, Mexico and the United States. North American culture reflects both the cultures of its indigenous people- the Native Americans as well as the culture that is influenced by European Colonization.
The United States is the third largest country in the world and one of the most culturally diverse countries of the world. Described as the ‘melting pot‘ of North America , amalgamation of different cultures has given shape to the unique U.S. culture.
Mexico is the most populous state of North America and one of the largest city in the world.
Canada is the largest country of North American region and covering more than half of the continent’s area.
On July 1, 1867, with passage of the British North America Act and merging of Canada's three provinces-- Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and the Canada province (now Ontario and Quebec), the Dominion of Canada was officially established as a self-governing entity within the British Empire. Canadians celebrate this day with tradition fanfare--parades, barbecues, concerts and fireworks. The day also holds welcome ceremonies for new Canadian citizens. The British monarchy has been known to join in the celebrations. In 2010, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip attended the celebration in Canada's capital city, Ottawa. Prince William and his wife, Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton, attended in 2011. O Canada!Our home and native land!True patriot love in all of us command.With glowing hearts we see thee rise,The True North strong and free!.... Parliament Building in the Canadian capital city of Ottawa.
On June 25, 1876, one of the most significant battles in American history unfolded during the Great Sioux War—the Battle of the Little Bighorn. This fierce clash, also known as "Custer's Last Stand," pitted the 7th Cavalry of the United States Army, led by General George Armstrong Custer, against a coalition of Lakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes.
World Footprints will talk to intrepid travelers, explore America's Natural Parks and endangered World Heritage Sites, and we'll pay a visit to the Philippines and Northern Florida. First, the Congo's Virunga National Park has been ensnared in bloody conflict for years but National Geographic Explorer correspondent, Justin Hall, discusses whether this vast natural resource can uplift the Congo's fortunes. This park is unique with its active chain of volcanoes and rich diversity of habitats that surpass those of any other African park Then, hear about what lies "Beyond the Horizon" with author and traveler Christopher Many, who has taken some unconventional means to traveler around the world. Also, we welcome back television personality and former Travel Channel host, Samantha Brown, who has joined forces with AARP to celebrate the centennial of the U.S. National Park Service. Finally, Dr. Mechtild Rossler, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Center joins World Footprints to discuss [...]
On June 3, 1982, Memphis, Tennessee earned its place as the unofficial "Royal Capital" of the United States when Elvis Presley's iconic Graceland mansion opened its doors to the public. The estate, once the private home of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, became a pilgrimage site for fans and history buffs alike. Visitors to Graceland now have the chance to explore the rooms and memorabilia of one of music's greatest legends. For those curious about the history and significance of Graceland, the video below provides an in-depth look at the mansion and the life of Elvis Presley.
Jalisco is the seventh largest state of the 32 states in Mexico. It is rich in history and considered to be the true Mexico since many of the cultural characteristics of the country (Mariachis, the sombrero, Mexican Hat Dance, tequila) originated there. While touring the state we enjoyed a playful swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Discovery in Puerto Vallarta and spoke to a resident veterinarian about how Dolphin Discovery is at the forefront of marine life conservation.
Today we’ll go on some remarkable adventures and we’ll review the history of friendship between the United States and Japan. Mary Anne Potts has worked in the adventure travel editorial space for more than eleven years. She started on the editorial staff of National Geographic Adventure magazine in 2001 and has moved up the ranks from there. She has run the magazine’s website and also launched its social media presence. Mary Anne continues to run Adventure as a standalone digital brand for National Geographic and includes her National Geographic Adventure blog which Outdoor Magazine recognized as No. 3 within its Top 10 List of Adventure blogs. Richard Wiese has been called the modern day Indiana Jones. He is a world-class explorer and host of ABC’s new program, Born to Explore. As an explorer and field scientist Richard has traveled to all seven continents. From tagging jaguars in the Yucatan jungles [...]
Join World Footprints as we explore Lynchburg, Virginia's history on an art and architectural tour including spotlight stops at the Point of Honor historic home and the Riverviews Artspace.
In one of her last interviews, the late Dr. Maya Angelou spent time with us to share her early life, lessons learned along her adult journey and golden nuggets of wisdom.
Award-winning travel writer and photographer David Noyes has learned to experience the world through more than his lens and pen. He says that in order to appreciate our world we must investigate a destination as part of the human condition. His new book, The Photographing Tourist, David shows us remote places around the world and he offers tips that well help anyone develop the well-trained eye of a travel photographer.
One way that residents of Vancouver Island really connect with the outdoors and wildlife is through the Marmot Refuge located close to Nanaimo.
After a long and exhausting work week, months filled with stressful schoolwork, or many hours spent with your children and family, many of us need a break from reality. A retreat can be the perfect way to do this, whether alone, or with close friends.
One of the North’s most recognized species, the polar bear (Ursus maritimus being its Latin Name) has a notorious reputation as a bold and brainy predator, not to mention its massive size.
