University of Waterloo Conference Centre

The most popular accommodation on www.backpackers.ca , judging by number of hits to each listing, is the University of Waterloo Conference Centre in Kitchener-Waterloo. Dorm rooms are available on campus at the University of Waterloo in Ron Eydt Village annually between May and August. Just minutes from downtown Waterloo, the U. of W. Conference Services are located in the heart of Mennonite country with the Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery, African Lion Safari and the Stratford Festival also close at hand.

Accommodations include single and double rooms. Each floor consists of 24 rooms with 2 large washrooms per floor (1 male and 1 female) along with a common lounge for after-hours networking. Guests have access to the Internet cafe and are welcome to use the weight room, TV lounge and games room located in the Ron Eydt Village.

Feature of the Week, May 13th to 17th 2011
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

YMCA Geneva Park, Simcoe/Muskoka

One of the newest members of Backpackers Hostels Canada is the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. The YMCA Geneva Park encompasses over 150 acres of pristine natural peninsula and over three kilometres of beautiful shoreline on Lake Couchiching. The privacy and natural surroundings bring focus and intimacy to every group experience, leaving you rejuvenated and inspired.

Built on a peninsula on Lake Couchiching, YMCA Geneva Park offers a rare combination of extraordinary natural surroundings and proximity to urban amenities. This training and conference centre is only 90 minutes from Toronto, but it’s a lifetime away from the stress of daily life.

Over 15,000 people a year visit YMCA Geneva Park for the individual needs of their group or organization. Their specialty is affordable conferences, meetings and leadership development in a natural setting that fosters greater connection and accomplishment. However, individuals are also welcome to stay. During the summer months, there are canoes, kayaks, Yoga, Crafts, Nature Centre or just snuggling up with a good book while sitting in a Muskoka chair by the lake.

Feature of the Week, June 6th to 13th 2011
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada