Our trip to Niagara Falls was one which required little planning or preparation.  Expectations were low but all were game to observe the natural wonder of the Falls.  I would be accompanied by my lady, my sis and her husband.  A one night stay at a trusty Marriott would put us in the heart of the touristy action.  Exactly what we wanted.  We took a Saturday morning flight out of JFK to Buffalo, which would be followed by a quick 4o minute drive across the Canadian border.  We arrived at our hotel round noon, checked in, then immediately started our sight seeing activities.

Seeing the falls for the first time was nothing short of inspiring.  It’s  shear power and beauty was staggering.  However I must admit that I thought they’d be bigger.  Never the less, there were awesome.  We then got up close and personal by taking the Famous Maid of the Mist Boat Tour.  It was at that time that I realized just how immense the falls were when you were directly beneath them.  Wow, that was just a good time!  I do think the tour should be renamed though.  A more appropriate title would be Maid of the Rain, not made of the Mist. 

Dinner at the rotating Skylon Tower was an enjoyable experience.  Prices were pretty steep but the atmosphere was fantastic.  Clifton Hill had a Carnival like atmosphere which was amusing.  The Niagara Aviary was also pretty neat.  But…The biggest surprise by far on our little voyage was that of the Butterfly Conservatory.  What I originally thought would be the cheesiest stops on our tour turned out to be the most entertaining.  Exotic butterflies scampered about without a care in the world in their impressive little ecosystem.  The rainforest backdrop coupled with thousands of these colorful little creatures made for a surreal experience. 

 Great trip, great company.  Niagara Falls…Check!  Next up, Caribean cruise.     continue reading »