Just had a fantastic couple days in Niagara Falls, Ontario.   I've been down there a few times, but every trip seems to be a little different.  There's a lot to offer I guess, with a little something for everyone.  While the falls were gorgeous (as always), and we had terrific accomodations (Sterling Inn and Spa - check it out, you won't be disappointed!),  the highlight of the weekend was a side trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake (NotL); a quaint town about 20 minutes outside of the tourist centre that is the Falls proper.  Maybe it was the stark contrast of the bustle and commercialism of the Falls itself, but there was a sense of calm and peace in NotL that was almost indescribeable.  And while it's a beautiful town, truth be told, there's not a whole lot going on in NotL.  Yet what they do have, they do well.  The whole town consists of a couple golf courses, one small stretch of even smaller shops, and a startling collection of wineries.   And all of them are immaculate.  You could tell that the people and patrons of the area took great pride in the aesthetic and atmosphere of the place; a fact that was even more apparent when you realize that there aren't that many communities left that have that sense of dignified purpose.  These people do two things (wine and golf), and they're ok with that.  Located less than 1/2 an hour from one of the great wonders of the world (and all the commercialization that has been built up around it) and you would never have any idea you were in the same part of the world. 

When defining their town, I can only imagine the temptation to focus on the falls and try to pull the same breed of tourist into their community.  But they didn't.  They realized what they were good at and set themselves apart from the region around them, regardless of hype.  And in my opinion, they're better for it. 

There's something to be said for the quiet simplicity of working within your purpose.  It creates an almost palpable aura in the air; one that lingers on you even after to returning home. 

The falls are gorgeous, and the "Niagara Strip" is great to check out with lots to do, but if you want to be in the company of people who really "get it", spend some time with folks at Niagara on the Lake.