Southwestern Ontario is proud to bring you Kitchener, a city that cares about entrepreneurship, innovation and education. It's a magnet for thousands of businessmen, families and individuals who are tired of typical North American downtown spots and welcome a change of pace and crave for a tad of ambience. They usually get it in Kitchener, minus the disappointments.



Life is thumping in Kitchener. You'll get a taste of this vibrancy in the most unlikely places - like Bingemans. No, it isn't a pub - sorry folks - but it's a campsite, resort and family playground ensconced in 200 acres of land and 500 campsites that string along the Grand River. You could rent a log cabin too, if you accidentally left the sleeping bags and tents in the other SUV.

Eager for fresh local produce? Your Kitchener Market will delight the ladies and kids. Spoil the kids more and take them to the Waterloo Region Children's Museum, where art and technology are happily blended to stimulate all five senses. Oh boy, don't miss The Aud. This is Kitchener's pride when it comes to sports and entertainment. It has hosted famous events in curling and other very Canadian sports.

Looking for something more quiet and unhurried? Stroll in two of Kitchener's history museums: one is Doon Heritage Crossroads, a simulation revival of a quaint village; the other is Joseph Schneider Haus, a miniaturised Mennonite community going back to 1850.

Just want some fresh air while the hubby slugs it out at a business meeting? Kitchener has laid out a network of beautiful and extensive trails close to the picturesque Grand River.

There's more to Kitchener. The K-W Symphony (which we understand stands for Kitchener-Waterloo) should re-ignite some inspiration, and the K-W Art Gallery and K-W Little Theatre will showcase local and international talent. We heard the Chicopee Ski Club satisfies the needs of both beginner and advanced skiers, staffed by professional instructors and snowboard runs. People looking for wholesome fun are welcome!

And for visiting Germans in winter, Christkindl Market should re-kindle memories as the festival kicks off with German cuisine, trinkets and live entertainment. Relax and have a gluhwein and have a rollicking time. Don't forget to mark it on your to-do list because this 400-year old tradition lasts only four days.

Did anyone tell you about Moose Winooski? No, it isn't a skiing resort. But it's got the best and juiciest of steaks!

No time for the children to stomp their feet in boredom because SportsWorld is just off highway 8 near the 401. It offers wet and dry rides, mini golf courses, indoor driving range, video arcade, Mad Science kiosk and go kart track. This is where Moose Winooski is housed, by the way. A great family entertainment centre! Stay all day if your heart desires...

Accommodation of all types? Not a problem. Kitchener tries to please everyone and caters to every kind of budget. Click on this link http://www.kitchener.ca/visiting_kitchener/accom.html and you'll know we mean business.

Kitchener. It's not a feel-good movie. It's a feel-good place. And it's right in Ontario - all yours to delightfully discover.

The city's web site is a helpful resource: www.kitchener.ca/visiting_kitchener/visiting_main.html.

Copyright 2006 Jason Seib