This amazing natural phenomenon was not high on our list of must sees, but since it is so famous and we were going right past we included it on our itinerary. The falls are incredible and very beautiful, but equally as amazing is the fact that huge high-rise buildings are built almost literally around the edges of the falls. Most of our waterfalls in Australia are tucked away in remote and reasonably inaccessible national parks, so to visit here with all its urban infrastructure was quite eye-opening. We chose to stay on the Canadian side as the views of the falls are better and it was fun to visit another country, even if for only one day!
This is the breathtaking view from our hotel, which we booked solely for the views. The reviews of all the affordable hotels with fall views were disappointing, mainly due to being constantly crowded with huge queues for the elevators and the included breakfast. This was certainly our experience, but it was a small price to pay for the luxury of being able to see the falls from your bed! They are spectacularly lit up with fireworks every night at 10pm throughout the summer.
An enjoyable way to experience the falls is to take a boat cruise to the rapids just below the falls on the Maid of the Mist. This departs from the American side, so you have to have your passport handy to cross the Rainbow Bridge from Ontario into the state of New York. The boat cruise is particularly enjoyable for children, as you get so close to the falls you would be soaking wet if it wasn’t for the provided poncho.
The twin cities of Niagara Falls are not particularly attractive and have that rundown, shabby feel that seems to afflict most border towns. It is also a commercial, touristy area lacking in soul and authenticity. Having said that, we were certainly happy to have visited and engaged in our own spot of commercialism by spending a couple of hours shopping at one of the outlet malls. These malls are one of the joys of travelling in the US – you can purchase designer items at a fraction of the original price. Another joy was visiting IHOP (International House of Pancakes) and allowing our resident pancake lover the delight of eating a huge stack of pancakes for dinner!
