WHEREmail

// November 2007

Dear Subscriber

This month discover the hottest events taking place across the country, including a stage production of a beloved '80s film, and a world speed skating competition. We also tell you where to find some of Canada's best shopping areas, and reveal who holds the title of the world's friendliest country. Plus, find great contests, and tips on travelling with a cell phone.

WHAT'S HOT IN NOVEMBER:

Victoria

Victoria's galleries gear up for the holiday season beginning with the Stinking Fish Studio Tour featuring 18 studios in the picturesque communities of Metchosin and East Sooke Nov 23 to 25. On Nov 29 the 2007 Gallery Walk features four of downtown's finest galleries, complete with seasonal treats, entertainment and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Vancouver

You'll think it's Christmas in November with all the yuletide cheer going on this month at events ranging from concerts to a craft fair to buildings lit up with dazzling light displays. The Rogers Santa Claus Parade wends its way through downtown on Nov 25, collecting food and toys for charities.

Toronto

Nobody puts baby in a corner...unless it's the North American premiere of Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story on Stage; this '80s film come-to-life runs through to spring. In sports, check out the hottest Toronto ticket this month at the 95th Grey Cup Game during the four-day festival from Nov 22 to 25 with our guide.

Halifax

Nov 15 is a slam-dunk day for sports fans, as professional basketball returns to the Halifax Metro Centre on Duke Street. The Halifax Rainmen make their American Basketball Association debut, meeting the Boston Blizzard.

Edmonton

Charlie Chaplin's silent film Modern Times gets a score thanks to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. This live performance serves as an accompaniment to the large screen viewing of the famous flick, on Nov 15 at The Winspear Centre.

Ottawa

The notorious heartbreaker, Don Giovanni faces a serious ultimatum: repent or face eternal damnation. This opera is considered by many to be one of the greatest pieces of music ever composed. At the National Arts Centre starting on Nov 10.

Calgary

On Nov 11, the Just for Laughs Comedy Tour returns to Calgary with a relationship-themed show hosted by former Sex and the City consultant Greg Behrendt. Meanwhile, check out the fast ice and tense competition at the Essent ISU World Cup long track speed skating tournament Nov 16, 17 and 18 as Calgary's Olympic Oval plays host to over 200 of the world's best skaters.

The WHERE List:

BEST SHOPPING AREAS

The regional editors at Where have tracked down the best places to go shopping across the country. Whether you like small, artsy boutiques or sprawling malls you'll have lots to choose from.

Ottawa

Along with maple syrup and fresh produce, you can find everything from chic boutiques to one-of-a-kind crafts in the ByWard Market. The area is also home to dozens of pubs and nightclubs as well as some of Ottawa's best restaurants.

Halifax

Running through the heart of the downtown, stylish Spring Garden Road is Halifax's hottest shopping area. You'll find exquisite fashions at Mills, chic jewellery at The Vault, distinctive Maritime products at Jennifer's of Nova Scotia and dozens of unique shops under one roof at Park Lane.

Vancouver

If you're looking for high-end fashion boutiques, brand-name stores, upscale eateries, and more celebrities than you can shake a Manolo Blahnik stiletto at, head to Robson Street. Once the credit card is maxed out, take a break and just people-watch.

Toronto

For great shopping finds from funky frocks to honest bargains to comic books, head to Mirvish Village a tiny enclave on Markham Street.

Edmonton

Under the heading of "stating the obvious," the world's largest shopping mall that includes over 800 stores and services —West Edmonton Mall—offers a plethora of unique shopping opps for the seasoned shopaholic.

Calgary

Nicknamed the "Red Mile" for its festival atmosphere during the Calgary Flames' hockey playoff runs, the rest of the year 17th Avenue features many fashionable, and eclectic boutiques ranging from skater funk to haute couture. Find unique styles from local and international designers at stores like Purr, Park Avenue and Rubaiyat.

Victoria

From local, one-of-a-kind finds to world-class shopping, a pleasant walk along downtown's Government Street is sure to yield great finds; while nearby, along Fort Street, explore a host of boutiques on your way to the city's famed Antique Row. For a quaint shopping getaway minutes from downtown, the neighbourhood of Oak Bay features what's known locally as "The Avenue," home to great boutique shopping and art galleries.

TRAVEL SPECIALS

As a service to readers and our tourism partners, here's a selection of special travel deals. For more information or to book, please contact the providers directly.

Winter Book Early and Save Promotion

Book early and save on your next ski vacation at the Delta Whistler Village Suites. Book your ski vacation prior to November 15th and receive 25 per cent off your room rate and 25 per cent off your ski or snowboard rentals (for a max of 5 nights). Summit is located adjacent to lobby and carries a vast array of high performance ski and snowboard rentals.

Eastern Savings with Via Rail

Travelling east? Save up to 50 per cent when you book long-distance travel in Comfort sleeper class or Comfort class (economy) aboard Via Rail's the Ocean (Montréal-Halifax) or the Chaleur (Montréal-Gaspé). Tickets must be booked before December 14, 2007.

(All prices in Canadian dollars. WHERE accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or availability of these packages. Please contact package supplier directly.)