Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
U.S. and Canadian currency fluctuate in relative value, which means that sometimes the
U.S. and Canadian dollar are at par and sometimes not. Businesses set their own exchange
rates and policies on accepting foreign currency. There are two ways to make certain that
youknowtheexchangerateyou'rereceiving.Thefirstistouseyourowncreditcardforall
transactions;theotheristopurchaseCanadiancurrencyatyourlocalbankbeforeyouleave
the United States.
It is important to know your cell phone carrier's policy on roaming charges if you intend
on using your phone in Canada. Roaming charges, especially for data, can quickly add up.
If your carrier charges roaming fees for service in Ontario, you may consider turning off
phone functions that require data roaming and data sync. Switching your phone to airplane
mode insures that your phone will not roam, but you cannot make or receive calls in this
mode. You can, however, use Wi-Fi in airplane mode. Another option is to contact your
carrier and see if they have a service package for Canada, which would allow you full use
of your phone's functions, while avoiding roaming fees.
WHICH IS THE BEST SIDE?
During the 1800s and for much of the 1900s, Niagara Falls, New York, was con-
sidered
the
destination when visiting Niagara. Since the 1960s, that situation has
changed, and Niagara Falls, Ontario, dominates in tourism (number of visitors, hotel
rooms, etc.). A friendly rivalry exists across the border as each destination claims to
be number one. But which side is better?
The answer is they
both
are.
Each side has its own distinct advantages and challenges. The Canadian side of
the border boasts the better view. Without a doubt, this is true—you can see all three
ofthewaterfallsthatmakeupNiagaraFallsfromtheCanadianside.Thevistahereis
clearly superior. However, the Ontario side is also more crowded and is ringed with
high-rise hotels that some feel detract from the natural beauty of the falls.
The New York State Park at Niagara Falls has many more opportunities to exper-
ience the water up close. The park facilitates a relationship with nature that is much
more visceral. By state law, the park is prohibited from becoming over-commercial-
