A Veterans’ Guide to Southern Ontario

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Niagara Falls is the collective name for three waterfalls that straddle the international border between Canada and the United States; more specifically, between the province of Ontario and the state of New York. They form the southern end of the Niagara Gorge. From largest to smallest, the three waterfalls are the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls. The Horseshoe Falls lie mostly on the Canadian side and the American Falls entirely on the American side, separated by Goat Island. The smaller Bridal Veil Falls are also located on the American side, separated from the other waterfalls by Luna Island. The international boundary line was originally drawn through Horseshoe Falls in 1819, but the boundary has long been in dispute due to natural erosion and construction. Located on the Niagara River, which drains Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, the combined falls form the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world, with a vertical drop of more than 165 feet (50 m). Horseshoe Falls is the most powerful waterfall in North America, as measured by vertical height and also by flow rate. The falls are located 17 miles (27 km) north-northwest of Buffalo, New York and 75 miles (121 km) south-southeast of Toronto, between the twin cities of Niagara Falls, Ontario, and Niagara Falls, New York. Niagara Falls were formed when glaciers receded at the end of the Wisconsin glaciation (the last ice age), and water from the newly formed Great Lakes carved a path through the Niagara Escarpment en route to the Atlantic Ocean. While not exceptionally high, the Niagara Falls are very wide. More than six million cubic feet (168,000 m3) of water falls over the crest line every minute in high flow, and almost four million cubic feet (110,000 m3) on average. The Niagara Falls are renowned both for their beauty and as a valuable source of hydroelectric power. Managing the balance between recreational, commercial, and industrial uses has been a challenge for the stew

Just beyond the border lies a little slice of paradise that many fellow veterans have already staked their claim on. Southern Ontario is a great vacation destination for people from upstate New York, Michigan, and Ohio. With natural wonders, cultural centers, and plenty of wilderness to get lost in, southern Ontario can be a great vacation destination for you and your family.

It is also a veteran-friendly region. Plenty of US veterans regularly travel to Ontario and even have summer homes there, meaning that you will likely find a community no matter which town you settle in. The wilderness and solitude are rejuvenating for many veterans, and many with PTSD find it healing. Finally, the strength of the US dollar compared to the Canadian one means you can likely afford a high standard of living while on vacation here.

If you’ve been thinking about a getaway without going too far from home, look no further than southern Ontario. Here is everything that you need to know about vacationing in the region.

Get Out in Nature



Southern Ontario is home to many tourist attractions that are fun for people of all ages, from botanical gardens to zoos to lavender farms. However, the region’s biggest draw goes beyond the centers of tourism. The further away from people you go and more into nature, the better Ontario get.

For people in search of beaches, southern Ontario has miles of coastline alongside the Great Lakes. If you drive further north, you can get away from nature by visiting Algonquin Provincial Park or La Verendrye Wildlife Reserve.

Summer Home Guide

Canada’s natural wonders and relaxing atmosphere is so attractive that many people from the US side of the Great Lakes buy summer homes up north, including many veterans.

If you like the region, you can also buy a summer home. Popular areas include Georgian Bay, Muskoka, the Thousand Islands, or the Kawarthas. These regions offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, water sports, or just relaxing and watching the world go by.

Whether you choose to buy or rent a cottage, you may be surprised by the prices. That is because the average price for the property, including waterfront lots, is much lower than in the United States. You will have plenty of choices, from the simplest of forest cabins to luxurious properties with hot tubs and other amenities.

Stop Over in Hamilton

Hamilton, Ontario, is usually a city that people drive through on their way to more attractive destinations or when returning to the United States. However, it is an excellent practical stop when you’re on your way back home after your vacation. The exchange rate favors Americans, which means that you can get many goods and services at a much cheaper price over the border.

One of the most significant areas where you can save is health care. While the VA promises a lot in health care, it does not consistently deliver, and private practice visits can set you back a significant amount of money. It is often more affordable to stop and visit a Hamilton dental clinic or doctor than to wait your turn back in the States.

Besides dental care, you can also get your shopping done in Hamilton. The city is home to many malls as well as designer outlets, including Toronto Premium Outlets. Get designer clothing for yourself at discount prices, or stock up on gifts for others.

For a relaxing vacation, a home away from home, and even less expensive services such as dental care, southern Ontario can’t be beaten as a destination for Americans from the Great Lakes. Hop over the border and see for yourself today!

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