We Walked the Rainbow Bridge to the USA From Canada

Walking from Canada to the USA at Niagara Falls: What You Need to Know

About three decades ago, I walked onto the Rainbow Bridge from the U.S. side—only halfway through. I didn’t cross the border back then, but the experience stayed with me. So when I recently walked from Canada to the United States across the same bridge, it brought back vivid memories and a sense of full-circle adventure.

In our recent journey, we—Ahmed Dawn and Walking Lady—documented the entire process of walking from the Canadian side to the U.S. side. Starting near Casino Niagara and the Radisson Hotel, we took a short Uber ride to the pedestrian entrance of the Rainbow Bridge to save our energy for the walk itself.

The crossing begins with a clearly-marked path leading to the turnstile area. Here’s the key detail: you’ll need to pay a $1 toll to access the bridge. The machines accept Canadian or U.S. coins, and change machines are available if you don’t have exact change. You can use four quarters or a loonie—either works.

Once you’re past the turnstile, you’ll walk across the bridge with stunning views of Niagara Falls. The walk is short but memorable, offering a rare chance to stand between two nations with the roar of the falls in the background.

At the U.S. border checkpoint, you’ll need to present your passport and any required visa documents. For Canadian citizens, no visas or additional documents are required. The officers may ask basic questions about your visit, so be prepared to disclose your travel plans.

After clearing immigration, you’ll officially be on the U.S. side of Niagara Falls. From there, you can explore attractions like Niagara Falls State Park, the Observation Tower, and more.

Tips for Travelers:

• Bring exact change for the toll.

• Carry your passport and visa documents.

• Check border hours before you go.

Walking across the Rainbow Bridge is a unique travel experience that blends convenience, beauty, and international adventure—all for just $1.

View my full trip here: Walking Niagara Falls Canada to USA on Rainbow Bridge

Maldives Travel Guide: What’s Missing in the Maldives

Maldives: Paradise: What This Island Nation Doesn’t Have

After finishing my trip in the Maldives, I was convinced that if paradise exists on earth, it has to be the Maldives. This made me think; even paradise isn’t 100% perfect, so what are some things the Maldives is missing? Unlike many tropical destinations, the Maldives is defined by absence as much as presence. I came up with some of the things the paradise that is the Maldives is missing. There are certainly other things worth mentioning, but in this article, I will stay focused on the few mentioned below. 

1. No Mountains - Step onto any island and you’ll notice immediately: there are no mountains rising in the distance. The Maldives is the world’s flattest country, with its highest natural point barely two meters above sea level. That means no hiking trails, no dramatic peaks, and no waterfalls tumbling down cliffs. The landscape is ocean‑dominated, not land‑dominated.

2. No Rivers or Lakes - You’ll also find no rivers or lakes. These coral atolls have no freshwater systems, so there are no winding rivers to kayak, no lakeside villages, and no inland wetlands. Fresh water comes from ocean desalination, underscoring how fragile life here can be in paradise.

3. No Caves or Cliffs - Look closer and you’ll see no caves or cliffs. The Maldives isn’t volcanic or mountainous, so there are no cavern systems to explore, no dramatic escarpments overlooking valleys. The islands simply melt into the ocean; their drama found in coral reefs rather than rugged terrain.

4. No Woldlife - On land, there is no large wildlife. You won’t encounter elephants, monkeys, or deer. The biodiversity is overwhelmingly marine—whale sharks, manta rays, and kaleidoscopic reef fish. The islands themselves host only small birds, crabs, and lizards.

5. No Malls or Big Cities - And for those seeking urban diversions, there are no malls or sprawling cities. Outside the capital of Malé, life is quiet and village‑like. Resorts dominate, and shopping is limited to small local markets. The Maldives is not a place for retail therapy or buzzing nightlife; it’s a place for stillness, ocean breezes, and sunsets.

This pattern of absence is what makes the Maldives unique. It is paradise stripped of mountains, rivers, caves, cliffs, and wildlife roaming the land. Instead, its drama lies entirely in the ocean—an endless horizon, a reef teeming with life, and a lifestyle shaped by water. The Maldives reminds us that sometimes paradise is not about having everything, but about having just enough.

Tagpuan: Best Filipino Budget Restaurant in Downtown Toronto

Discovering Tagpuan: A Hidden Filipino Gem in Downtown Toronto

I accidentally discovered Tagpuan while returning from a doctor’s appointment. Toronto’s vibrant food scene is full of surprises and, nestled near College and Bathurst, Tagpuan is one of those surprises.  Tagpuan Restaurant brings the warmth of Filipino street food to the heart of the city. In my latest YouTube video, I explored this cozy spot that’s quickly becoming a favorite among locals and food lovers alike.

Tagpuan, which means “a place to meet” in Filipino, lives up to its name by offering a welcoming atmosphere and authentic flavors that transport you straight to the Philippines. The restaurant’s menu is a celebration of traditional Filipino comfort food, served in a casual setting that feels like home.

During my visit, I tried several dishes that showcased the rich and savory profile of Filipino cuisine. From the classic silog meals (garlic rice, fried egg, and your choice of meat) to the flavorful sisig and BBQ skewers, every bite was a reminder of the country’s culinary heritage. The food is not only delicious but also incredibly affordable—making Tagpuan a standout option for budget-conscious diners in downtown Toronto.

We tried Beef Caldereta and Pinakbet and were blown away by the quality and affordable prices. What sets Tagpuan apart is its commitment to authenticity. I think this is a family business and that’s why it differs from a regular commercial restaurant.

Whether you’re a Filipino missing the taste of home or someone curious to explore new flavors, Tagpuan offers a genuine experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. I felt like I was in Manila.

The restaurant’s location is convenient and its laid-back vibe makes it perfect for a quick lunch, casual dinner, or a late-night bite. The staff are friendly and passionate, adding to the overall charm of the place.

If you’re looking to discover a new favorite spot or simply want to indulge in hearty, flavorful dishes, Tagpuan is a must-visit. Check out my full video review here and see why this Filipino eatery deserves a spot on your Toronto food map.

Tagpuan Filipino Restaurant Toronto: Is This The Best Value Meal?

5 Things We Used in the Maldives & 3 We Didn’t

Maldives Packing Hacks: What We Used & What Didn’t

Packing for the Maldives can be tricky—you want to be prepared without overpacking. After visiting 4 Maldives local islands and 1 resort islands, here are five things I actually used and three that stayed in my bag.

✅ 5 Things I Actually Used

1. Full-Sleeve Sun Protection Shirt - The Maldivian sun is strong and this lightweight shirt kept me cool while protecting my skin during snorkeling and beach walks.

2. Sunblock (High SPF) - An absolute must. Whether relaxing on the beach or on a boat trip, sunblock was essential every single day.

3. Crocs Sandals - Comfortable, waterproof, and perfect for sandy beaches and rocky paths. On our boat tour, we left them on the dock in the open sun for 6 hours and still didn’t find any damage from overheating.

4. Light Portable Foldable Backpack - Ideal for carrying essentials during day trips without feeling bulky.

5. Mini Flashlight - Dhigurah’s roads were pitch black at night with no street lamps. This small flashlight was a lifesaver for evening walks.

❌ 3 Things I Didn't Use

1. Mosquito Repellent - I packed 5 bottles expecting trouble, but mosquitoes were barely an issue. We only used one. The rest I gave to hotel employees on different islands.

2. Extra Coffee & Brewing Gear - Every island had plenty of coffee shops and hotel rooms offered complimentary coffee. Our Tim Hortons coffee and filters stayed unused.

3. Rain Jacket - The Maldives rain comes in short bursts and clears quickly. We carried our rain jackets everywhere but never needed them.

What I Would Do Differently Next Time

Packing smart for the Maldives means focusing on sun protection and practical essentials. Leave behind the "just in case” or excess items. Instead, bring what you'll truly use—like a good sunblock and even a mini flashlight for those quiet island nights. We would still carry our light foldable rain jacket next time but the rest of the items we didn’t use won’t make the cut. The Maldives is all about simplicity, so travel light and enjoy paradise.

12 Surprising Maldives Secrets Every Traveler Should Know

12 Maldives Facts You Didn’t Know

When you think of the Maldives, you probably imagine overwater villas, endless tuna dishes, and heavy rain during the monsoon season. But after spending two weeks exploring the local islands, I discovered that many common assumptions about the Maldives are completely wrong. Here are 12 surprising realities that will change how you plan your trip.

 1. Solo Female Travelers Are Safe and Thriving

Despite what some blogs and videos claim, the Maldives is generally safe for solo female travelers. I met many young women exploring the local islands without any issues. The community vibe and hospitality make it a welcoming destination.

 2. You Won’t Be Eating Tuna All Day

Yes, tuna is a staple in Maldivian cuisine, but don’t worry—you won’t be stuck eating it for every meal. Local cafés and guesthouses serve a variety of dishes, from flavorful curries to fried rice and even Western options. I barely ate tuna during my trip!

 3. Mosquito Myths Are Overblown

Before my trip, I stocked up on mosquito repellent, expecting swarms on the islands. In reality? There was hardly any mosquitoes. Sea breezes and clean surroundings keep them away, so don’t overpack repellents.

 4. Rainy Season Isn’t Really “Rainy”

I visited during the southwest monsoon (May–October), expecting constant rain. It rained only once in two weeks—and just for a short burst. Booking in the rainy season can save you a lot of money without sacrificing good weather.

 5. Most People Working Aren’t Maldivian

Here’s something few people know: the majority of workers in resorts and guesthouses are from Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Stores, groceries, cafes, restaurants, construction, and everywhere else most of the people we met were from Bangladesh. We found local employees only on tours and diving.

 6. The Maldives Is the Flattest Country on Earth

With an average elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level, the Maldives is the world’s lowest-lying nation. This unique geography creates stunning horizons but also makes the islands vulnerable to rising seas.

 7. Local Islands Offer Authentic Culture

Luxury resorts are beautiful, but the local islands give you a real taste of Maldivian life—family-run cafés, traditional dhoni boats, and cultural music like Bodu Beru drumming. Plus, staying on these local islands is far more affordable.

 8. Freshwater Comes from the Ocean

There are no rivers or lakes in the Maldives. Drinking water comes from desalination plants that convert seawater into fresh water—a fascinating sustainability practice you’ll notice everywhere.

 9. You Can’t Go Wrong with Any Island

Every single one of the Maldives’ 1,190 islands is a coral paradise with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. There’s truly nothing else like this in the world—there are no “bad” islands here. Whether you choose a resort or a local island, the beaches will blow your mind.

 10. You Can Save Big in Off-Peak Season

Traveling during the rainy season or staying on local islands can cut your costs by up to 50%. Combine that with fewer crowds and mostly sunny weather, and you’ve got a smart travel hack.

 11. Sharks, Manta Rays, and Whale Sharks Are Gentle Giants

The Maldives is one of the few places where you can swim alongside incredible marine life without fear. Reef sharks don’t eat humans, manta rays don’t bite, and even the humongous whale shark peacefully shares the water with snorkelers. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience—and found only in the Maldives.

 12. Everyone Speaks English

Another thing about the Maldives is that everyone speaks English – even the kids. Also, I was shocked to have a conversation with them finding out that they are fluent in English and do not have a thick accent that many other countries have where it’s difficult to understand.

 Final Thoughts

The Maldives isn’t just about luxury resorts and postcard-perfect beaches—it’s full of surprises that make it more accessible and enjoyable than most people think. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a budget explorer, or someone seeking authentic culture, these insights will help you plan a smarter, more rewarding trip.