Dear editor:

A favourite pastime of mine is heading down to Queen Street. After a quick stop at Victoria’s for a flavoured coffee, I love sitting at an outside table and watching the world pass by.

As I enjoy reading, it always surprises me when a passerby looks over and smiles. But then, I really shouldn’t be surprised — Niagara-on-the-Lake is one of the friendliest places I’ve ever visited.

Strangers will bid you hello and give a friendly wave from across the street. Coming from a big city, it’s rather unexpected but incredibly nice.

I hope you like dogs because there are plenty here — all shapes and sizes, much like their owners. The shopkeepers routinely put bowls of water out for them, which is just another reason why I love this town.

Then there are the delectable aromas wafting from the bakeries, and the temptations of the candy shops are simply irresistible.

Sitting here, I can put my troubles aside for a while. If I’m lucky, I’ll be able to stay a few days in one of the charming local hotels or B&Bs.

Every season here has its own special charm. Hundreds of tulips line the streets in the spring; summer brings an abundance of blooming flowers, and autumn introduces a splendour of colours.

Winter I believe is the most magical time, especially during the Christmas season. The streets are lined with holly, evergreens, and adorned with sparkling ornaments, transforming the town into a magic place.

So, visit when you can, and as often as you can. Maybe you’ll catch me reading a book on Queen Street, watching the world pass by. If you do, don’t forget to smile.

Lucy Kovaliv
Mississauga