Day 45: 24.08.09
Since the weather yesterday consisted of rain, rain and more rain, at times bordering on torrential, we decided to cut our losses and head to the retail outlets over the border on the US side of Niagara Falls. We spent most of the day there cruising for bargains and snagging one or two before returning to the van to settle for the evening.
Today was a better day and we took the scenic route into town to do the famous “Maid of the Mist” Tour. This was everything it promised to be. We boarded a vessel which took us right up to and under the Falls. The roar of the water catapulting over the edge was incredible. Fortunately we were wearing beautiful blue plastic ponchos so we were shielded from most of the water. It was a very unique way to Experience the majesty of Niagara Falls.
When we got back we headed up to Clifton Hill for lunch at a Tim Horton’s. Clifton Hill is everything Niagara Falls is not – its’ rampant commercialism provides a stark contrast to what is one of the natural wonders of the world. It is designed to capture the dollar and lure unsuspecting tourists into staying in town a little longer. From massive indoor water parks, to haunted houses, 4D rides, the regulation Wax Works and Ripley’s, this place serves only to attract the attention of kids and zap parent's wallets. Of course, John and I are very adept at deflecting the forces of “pester power” and whilst we were happy to wander up and down the street, it was strictly a look but dont touch policy along here.
After lunch, we took the pedestrian path across the Rainbow Bridge (the views from here were incredible) into the US to have a look at the Falls from the American side. I must admit, I actually preferred this side. The American Falls is in a State Park and the many vantage points are accessed along well signed paths and tranquil gardens. It really was quite refreshing compared to the Canadian side of the Falls. Unfortunately, the kids were quite tired and tetchy with one another and possibly didn’t enjoy the experience as much as John & I did. We have been travelling for almost seven weeks now and I guess they are longing to be home.
With only one day left before returning to Kingston, we have travelled over 8000 kilometres, seen many incredible sights, enjoyed some unique experiences and hopefully, created lasting memories for the whole family. Coming home will seem strange but it will be great to see everine at school as well as all our canadian friends. Coming home also serves as a stark reminder that our time in Canada is is rapidly drawing to a close.
Since the weather yesterday consisted of rain, rain and more rain, at times bordering on torrential, we decided to cut our losses and head to the retail outlets over the border on the US side of Niagara Falls. We spent most of the day there cruising for bargains and snagging one or two before returning to the van to settle for the evening.
Today was a better day and we took the scenic route into town to do the famous “Maid of the Mist” Tour. This was everything it promised to be. We boarded a vessel which took us right up to and under the Falls. The roar of the water catapulting over the edge was incredible. Fortunately we were wearing beautiful blue plastic ponchos so we were shielded from most of the water. It was a very unique way to Experience the majesty of Niagara Falls.
When we got back we headed up to Clifton Hill for lunch at a Tim Horton’s. Clifton Hill is everything Niagara Falls is not – its’ rampant commercialism provides a stark contrast to what is one of the natural wonders of the world. It is designed to capture the dollar and lure unsuspecting tourists into staying in town a little longer. From massive indoor water parks, to haunted houses, 4D rides, the regulation Wax Works and Ripley’s, this place serves only to attract the attention of kids and zap parent's wallets. Of course, John and I are very adept at deflecting the forces of “pester power” and whilst we were happy to wander up and down the street, it was strictly a look but dont touch policy along here.
After lunch, we took the pedestrian path across the Rainbow Bridge (the views from here were incredible) into the US to have a look at the Falls from the American side. I must admit, I actually preferred this side. The American Falls is in a State Park and the many vantage points are accessed along well signed paths and tranquil gardens. It really was quite refreshing compared to the Canadian side of the Falls. Unfortunately, the kids were quite tired and tetchy with one another and possibly didn’t enjoy the experience as much as John & I did. We have been travelling for almost seven weeks now and I guess they are longing to be home.
With only one day left before returning to Kingston, we have travelled over 8000 kilometres, seen many incredible sights, enjoyed some unique experiences and hopefully, created lasting memories for the whole family. Coming home will seem strange but it will be great to see everine at school as well as all our canadian friends. Coming home also serves as a stark reminder that our time in Canada is is rapidly drawing to a close.
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