Niagara and Southwestern Ontario

Marcia Sweet, former editor of the Queen’s Quarterly, is an
information consultant and freelance editor.

This travel guide about attractions in southwest Ontario and the Niagara
region features excellent full-color maps and photographs. In addition
to the description of the historical background of the communities,
there are suggestions for week-long hikes and short day trips, as well
as detailed information about festivals, craft shows, and art galleries.
Outdoor activities such as boating, birding, and camping are covered, as
are activities that will interest youngsters. Appropriately, there are
sections devoted to winetasting and dining.

A more transparent and consistent organization would have made the
guide easier to use. Cross-referencing for the listings is frequently
not provided. Nor is enough information given to enable one to plan a
trip to Uncle Tom’s Cabin Historic Site. Variations in the amount of
detail offered means that someone looking for a hotel will receive
better direction than someone wanting bed-and-breakfast accommodation.
As well, the 1999 central reservations system for provincial campgrounds
should have merited at least a mention. Nevertheless, the book has a
good index and, all in all, is a valuable and attractive guide to the
Niagara region and surrounding areas.