This weekend I was called upon to make a quick jaunt up to Niagra on the
Lake in southern Ontario. Flew into Toronto, rented a Chevy Lumina (a pig
of a car but probably a decent value) and drove down.
If you have never been there, this part of Canada is surrounded by the
Great Lakes and, as such, has a climate that is almost coastal. The area
is mostly covered with orchards and vineyards and, according to the locals,
is getting quite a reputation for their wines. I don't drink so I can't
verify their claims.
If you are looking for a weekend getaway in the fall, this would be a great
choice. The fall colors were just starting and there are plenty of
interesting roads around the Niagra river. It is also a very historic area
with, I am told, the oldest golf course in North America among other
things. The town has good shopping and a more European flair than your
typical American tourist trap. With the strength of the dollar, it also
offers a lot of value.
As far as British cars on the road, I saw almost as many here in one
weekend than I have all summer around home. On Sunday I drove down to the
falls for a look-see- staying on back roads where possible. In or near the
town of Queenston I came across a shop that must specialize in Series Land
Rovers. There were at least a dozed in front of the shop in various
conditions. There was also a Spridget for sale. They also fly the British
flag in this town so you have to love their attitude.
The MGA is doing well with her new radiator and overflow system. The car
stays cooler and the radiator stays full. One thing I would change if I
did it again would be to leave the overflow connection on the carburetor
side of the car. I turned it to the other side to stay away from the
exhaust but now I have the overflow tube running across the top of the
bonnet prop plate and it is kind of unsightly. Otherwise no complaints.
In fact, I may have to go with a warmer thermostat next year in order to
keep it warm enough to run without choke.
Regards,
Bill Eastman
61 MGA who had to stay home this weekend because she won't fit in the
overhead bin or under the seat in front of me.
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