The border crossing back in to the USA was a little easier than lasts nights entry into Canada. Only 4 buses before ours, but at least the USA Border Protection had 6 officers on duty compared with the Canadians one!

The USAside hotel a de terrain eat area is not as inviting as the Canadian and compared to the hustle and bustle of the Canadian side, it is very quiet, and further from the action.

The Maid of the Mist has been chugging up the Niagara River taking tourists to get soaked since 1846. We were given blue ponchos and the little boat set off upstream past The American Falls towards the Horseshoe Falls. Closer -windier, "mistier" wetter, and we are all giggling with excitement. It is the only way to see Niagara Falls up close. Seeing the falls from the river, looking up and being envelope by the sight, sounds and mist is one of life'sgreatexperiences. Tick - another one off the bucket list! They are being ticked off quite fast these days.

The observation deck up high on the cliff face gives a spectacular view upstream, with the mist rising above the thunderous roar of the noise.

Decision time. USA or Canada?

USA pros: Great viewing, less commercialised, less high rises (none in the river's edge)
cons: Un-inviting tourist areas

Canada pros: Great views, more tourist activities/facilities
cons: Very commercialised, high rises and casinos right in the edge of the downstream
river cliffs

It is a tough decision. Overall?....

Canada wins.