1) Crossing the Border- I.D., Kids & Pets

Please note- the "new" border security measures regarding passports to cross into Canada, take place at the END of 2007 for land (automobile) crossings. You still ONLY need photo ID to cross into Canada and then BACK IN to the U.S.A. until then. Read more HERE.

From the AAA travel guide...

"Passports to enter Canada or return to the USA are not required for native-born citizens of either country. However, proof of citizenship must be carried. A birth certificate accompanied by a photo i.d. will usually suffice. Proof of residence may also be required. Naturalized citizens should carry their naturalization certificate. US resident aliens must have an Alien Registration Receipt ( green card ).

Due to concerns over child abductions, single parents, grandparents, or guardians travelling abroad with a minor should be prepared to document their legal custody and provide proof of citizenship for each child. When the child is with only one parent, that parent should have a notarized letter of consent from the other parent or legal custody documents. In other cases, the minor or the person travelling with the minor, should have a notarized letter of consent from both parents (including a telephone number) or a custody document.

Dogs and cats must be accompanied by a certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian that clearly describes the animal(s) and declares that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies within the past 36 months. Collar tags are not sufficient proof of immunization. This certificate is also needed for the return trip to the USA. Be sure the vaccination does not expire while travelling in Canada. "Seeing Eye" dogs are exempt from these rules."

NOTE: I have been infromed that only vehicles with valid transponders may cross at the Whirlpool Bridge- in other words, FORGETABOUTIT.

Also- do NOT bring anything more than a PICNIC, food wise, over with you. Apparently, a few people have called Customs and sheet cakes, or meats, ... will not be allowed to cross. Please call to be sure if you are planning to BBQ with me Sat or Sun!!!

2) Auto Insurance

From Motor-Mike...

"You may need a Canadian insurance card during your stay. Canadian officials do not recognize standard USA insurance cards. I have mine already. It's good for 6 months and was free from my insurance provider. They seemed very familiar with this.

It reads: "Canada non-resident inter-province motor vehicle liability insurance card" "Certificat D'Assurance - Automobile Responsabilite "

3) Purchase Declarations and Exemptions

From the back of a "WELCOME TO THE UNITED STATES" Customs Declaration form 1515-0041:

"THE AMOUNT OF DUTY TO BE PAID will be determined by a Customs Officer. U.S. residents are normally entitled to a duty free exemption of $ 400 on those items accompanying them; non-residents are entitled to an exemption of $ 100. Duty is normally a flat rate of 10% on the first $ 1000 above the exemption." ...Have recepts ready to present... if requested."

4) G.S.T. (TAX) Rebates

U.S. vistors are entitled to a G.S.T. (Goods and Service Tax, similar to a Value Added Tax) rebate on all G.S.T. paid during your stay. KEEP YOUR RECEIPTS!! Read more HERE.

NOTE:Ontario also has an 8% Sales tax on most everything including food purchases OVER $ 4.

5) Currency Exchange

You will do MUCH better by exchanging your currency OUTSIDE of Niagara Falls... Check here for a real-time converter. Remember, most places here will only give you 15-20%.