Within the next few months we’ll probably discover that “tourist trap” has new meaning.
Here’s how it can happen.
Despite all the notices that people need more documentation to cross the border, countless tourists will inevitably show up at the Niagara Falls State Park and other attractions here still convinced they can slip across the border, if only to enjoy the view from there. After all, that’s always been an exciting part of a trip to Niagara, to say you also had a chance to visit another country.
Ask most Americans and you’ll find they still can’t accept the fact that they need a passport (or similar proof) to return to their own country.
That’s where the “tourist trap” takes shape.
For example, a family of four from Pennsylvania or Michigan — among states that comprise a hefty percentage of our visitors — will think twice when told everyone in the vehicle needs a passport. That family like thousands of others is bound to be turned off by the cost of passports for the foursome: $370.
The “trap” continues to build.
The visitors, impacted like millions of other people, will decide to stay on this side. Follow that logic and the hotels should be filled every weekend and on many other days in summer. The waiting line to Smokin’ Joe Anderson’s Snow Park Niagara Falls could extend to the empty buildings in the Entertainment District on Third Street. And motels on Niagara Falls Boulevard will have a rare chance to hang out the “No Vacancy” sign.
Visitors who wipe out any thought of crossing the bridge will not be content to look at all the action on the other side, the high-rise hotels, the glitzy casinos, the observation towers and even the honky-tonk dotting the skyline. In fact, many will probably return home upset they couldn’t visit Canada.
In all fairness, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection has made a concerted effort to spread the word that everyone (including U.S. citizens) need proper documentation when returning from the Ontario side (e.g., U.S. Passport, NEXUS card for pre-approved, low-risk travelers, an Enhanced Driver’s License) or a U.S. Passport Card (wallet size) issued by the State Department.)
Contrary to some reports that has caused unwarranted concern, Americans returning from Canada without a passport or at least one of the required documents will not be herded into a holding center to undergo an intensive interrogation. “We can quickly establish whether they’re U.S. citizens or not, and if they are they’ll be permitted to proceed with a printed reminder that they will need to be in compliance in the future,” said Kevin Corsaro, liaison for public affairs with the Customs and Border Protection.
Even if they can count on returning home, there’s every indication though that both sides of the border will be heavily impacted by the new rules.
Some other reasons why tourists to Niagara will remain on this side:
n The rising loonie (Canadian dollar) offers little relief for Americans still reeling from a depressed economy. There are few bargains on Lundy’s Lane or within a block of a casino.
n Only 28 percent of Americans had passports as of June 1, compared with 53 percent of Canadians.
n Some sightseeing operators here are already expecting a drop in the evening “tour packages,” which often include dinner at the Skylon or some other restaurant with a view of the falls.
n At this point — and it will only get worse — traffic is down 10 percent to 12 percent on all the international bridges, according to Niagara Falls Bridge Commission officials.
n The number of American visitors to Canada has declined by 43 percent since 2002 to 24 million in 2008. According to a study, the number of U.S. autos entering Canada is down 40 percent from 2003 to 2007.
Maybe that’s why the border traffic flows so smoothly.
•••
ON THE MEND: Tom Darro, host of the popular “Viewpoint” talk show on radio station WJJL (1440-AM) has been recovering from heart surgery this past week at Millard Fillmore Hospital-Gate Circle- in Buffalo.
Before his return to the airwaves, Darro had been a longtime vice president of public relations for the Convention and Visitors Bureau, the predecessor of the Niagara Tourism and Convention Corp.
He’s expected to be back home early this week.
Contact reporter Don Glynn at 282-2311, ext. 2246.
Columns
GLYNN: Tourists may find the view better on this side
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