I had officially checked off each of the items on my To-Do list after a busy summer and was brainstorming what to do next. As I lounged on the couch, relaxing and rewatching The Office, the idea to go shopping in Canada came to me. Since I didn't have any plans for the day, I immediately embarked on this spontaneous trip.
For some unknown reason, I felt like walking on that warm August morning. I would already be getting plenty of exercise going from store to store, but I thought it would be an even better idea to park near the Peace Bridge on the American side and walk to Canada. I had never done this before and in theory, the benefits were numerous. For example, I would not have to wait in a never-ending line of vehicles, I would save myself at least an hour of time, and I wouldn't have to pay to use the bridge.
The chance of rain in the forecast was slim, so I decided to take my chances and walk to Canada. Did you know you don't even have to pay to enter Canada on foot? It's free! The border patrol took a quick glance at my passport before letting me through. The next few hours were spent shopping, but I did not end up buying anything.
After walking several miles, I was exhausted and ready to return home. A gentle rain started to fall and I had yet to cross the Niagara River to get back to my car. Upon reaching the entrance to the bridge, I noticed a sign. My heart sank and disappointment flooded in. Why does the United States charge 50 cents to get back into the country? I did not have any cash in my wallet and my credit card was useless. To make matters worse, I couldn't ask anyone for help because the people who were outside before were nowhere to be found.
I wandered aimlessly for at least an hour. I asked one woman for two quarters, but she did not speak English. People don't carry cash on them anymore, anyway. I considered taking coins out of the wishing fountain but it was starting to get cold and I was already getting wet from the light rain. I asked several store clerks if they allowed cash back after a purchase. Of course, they didn't. As despair began to set in, I came across a casino and figured I had nothing to lose. I didn't think it would hurt to ask.
I was partially correct. The cashier let me take a cash advance on my credit card but it came at a price. I had to pay $35 in fees to take out $5 in cash. It cost me $40 to cross a 5o cent bridge but I couldn't care less. I was free at last!
Just kidding... The cash register at the casino didn't have any coins. At least I was one step closer to home. The thought of changing into some dry, cozy pajamas and wrapping myself in a blanket was my only motivation to continue on. Another 10 minutes passed before I happened to spot a money exchange machine outside. I held my 50 cent ticket home tightly in my fist as I made my way back toward the bridge. I was moments away from freedom.
"YESSS" I literally shouted as I passed through the entranceway and caught sight of my homeland. The people behind me probably had no idea why I was thrilled to be walking across a bridge and I was too exhausted to explain my day to them.
After that day, friends of mine would give me 50 cents to make sure I didn't get stranded in Canada again. In my defense, there really should be a warning sign before crossing over to let tourists know they will need 50 cents to get back. I hope you learn from my experience and always carry 50 cents with you. You never know when you might need it.
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