Niagara on the lake

We are almost at Niagara Falls.  We are at a campground just outside this small town 20 kms downstream (north) from Niagara Falls, considered one of the best preserved 19^th century towns in North America.  Its lakeside location, tree lined streets and old houses make it a pleasure to visit.

One of the beautiful old buildings on the main street.

I popped into a delightful shop called 10 Thousand Villages which I had heard of.  It is a chain of stores world wide selling artisan-crafted products from around the globe.  It claims to be non-profit and to be "commerce with a conscience" by creating opportunities for artisans in developing countries to earn an income by importing their goods.

I bought a beautiful wrap made from used saris. These were made by women in Bangladesh who have been rescued from the red light districts and this is a new means of income producing activity for them.

The first photo is one side of the wrap and the second is when folded up.  Each side is different and all exquisite.










We are staying at a campground called Vine Ridge Resort.  Its proximity to Niagara Falls commands a high price and it is the most expensive place we have stayed at for $50.  Below is the pool which looks grand but the rest of the park is not that salubrious.

Many people have permanent homes set up here with plants and other home comforts.  Not exactly trailer trash but fairly basic living.  I guess the swimming pool lifts the standard a bit :-)

Tomorrow - the falls!