Mostly I became obsessed with Niagara because I am an American, and although it sits mainly in Canada, Niagara Falls has a lot to tell us about America.

NPR: Excerpt: 'Inventing Niagara'

Thousands were on hand to watch Wallenda teeter his way on the 2-inch-wide wire over Horseshoe Falls toward Canada.

CNN: Daredevil completes walk across Niagara Falls

In 11 out of 14 countries, for example, confidence in parliament has declined, with especially sharp falls in Canada, Germany, Britain, Sweden and the United States.

ECONOMIST: POLITICS BRIEF: Is there a crisis? | The

Finding Falls: This Alberta, Canada cache, sponsored by Waterton Lakes National Park, involves a relaxing stroll along Cameron Creek with the reward of picturesque white-water falls at the end.

BBC: Geocaching Travel 101