Feeling the energy at Niagara Falls

I think anyone must visit Niagara Falls at some point in their life; it is after all an iconic Canadian location. The falls are an awesome sight any time of year, and in November you get to experience it without the large crowds that the summer months bring.

If you’ve never been, you might think that you know what it’s like from photos. But trust me, pictures do not do justice to the power of these falls, you really do have to get yourself up close. You won’t appreciate from pictures how blue and crystal clear the water is as it surges to the edge until you’re standing right there, wedged in among the tourists. You get dizzy as you look down and can’t help but think of the stories you’ve heard of people going over the falls and surviving.

Unfortunately the Maid of the Mist boat trips stop running at the end of October for the winter months, but if you do get a chance to visit the falls during the spring and summer months then the Maid of the Mist is a must. Just putting on those famous blue ponchos adds to the thrill of the boat trip that takes you as close to the falls as you could ever hope to get; it really is an exhilarating experience.

If you need to have a break from all the water, you can always saunter up to nearby Clifton Hill. It’s a gaudy street lined with funhouse attractions and chain restaurants, Clifton Hill offers some cheesy fun. At the very least, you can gawk at the lit storefronts with Vegas-style aspirations.

On December 1, Red Bull Crashed Ice, the ice cross downhill world championships, is coming to Niagara. Anyone who’s attended the event before knows how much of a party they are. An incredible atmosphere takes over the city as some of the best ice-hockey players rush downhill in groups of four. (Almost) every move is allowed! Sounds like something you might like? Book your stay at the HI-Niagara Falls Hostel and ask for their Red Bull Crashed Ice’s special offer: $50 for two nights in a dorm or $100 for two nights in a private room.