History, Culture and Heritage – how does Encounter Niagara differ from other Tours Companies?
America was founded and grown through times of adversity,challenge, economic difficulties and conflict.   America has always overcome such challenges.  We explore the great qualities of our nation, and the character of those people who built it!  It is OUR history, and it is presented in such a way as to make it engaging, entertaining, light-hearted and relevant to today.

What Is A Step-On Guide? 
A guide who literally “steps”  onto a bus, or hosts a group, on behalf of the Region that group is visiting.  We do not provide the transportation, but we provide the individual(s) who bring alive all that you are seeing and doing on that day.   Our guides describe and interpret all the features and sights of your Tour.  Period-dress guides may be relevant to the itinerary of your experience, or to the overall History of our Region. 

Where do we meet your guides in Niagara?
We normally meet our group at their first stop, or shortly before.  This depends on where your group originates and their route to the Niagara Region.  For Schools within the Greater Buffalo area we are also pleased to join your group at the departure point (usually your school) and commence our Tour from the School. 

What do you mean by “curricular relevant”?
Our team communicate with Student Groups in advance of their visit.  We are familiar with the State Mandated curriculum that is applicable to our region, and we engage Educators by determining key areas of interest and focus for any visit.  We want our trip to bring alive the classroom experience and to encourage curiosity and fun in our Student guests. 

Do we have to select a Tour from Your List?
Not at all – our suggested itineraries are simply guidelines.  We can customize an Experience to your specific needs, interests or desires.  We draw from an extensive menu of attractions, experiences and dining options and can create a unique experience for anyone.  We can do this quickly and make changes according to your review. 

How fast can we expect a quotation and itinerary?
We can have a quotation to you within 24 hours of speaking with a Representative of our Company.  We can modify and change as needed.  The finished itinerary can be forwarded after confirmation is received from you and can be changed as needed.  (Some restrictions apply on changes to specific attractions – deadlines for each will be included in your Confirmation.

What About Crossing the Border?  Is it a lot of hassle?
The experience in our region is always enhanced by the cross-border experience.  It’s certainly not necessary, but for those who desire to visit Canada it need not be a hassle or difficulty.  Our staff will help you – especially student groups – prepare for this process well in advance.   For student groups, the process of crossing the border can be educational unto itself.  We hope to utilize any crossing in such a way as to provide a better understanding of the process and those who enforce it – for the safety and security of us all.

 

Border Crossing Information

On June 1, 2009, all travelers, including citizens of the United States, Canada and Bermuda, entering or re-entering the United States will be required to have a passport, passport card or WHTI-compliant document For more information about entry into the United States, visit the US Customs and Border Security website at www.cbp.gov or www.getyouhome.gov. Additional information may also be found on the US Department of State website at www.travel.state.gov or the US Department of Homeland Security website at www.dhs.gov.

For current information concerning entering or leaving Canada, please visit www.cbsa.gc.ca.