Victoria, B.C.

Based in the Empress Hotel for meetings, the grounds and location are gorgeous. The Hotel is a little odd in orientation, but it still feels classy.

I have a few hours to explore the city so head right from the Empress Hotel along Government St, with lots of lovely shops. You will find the souvenir shops here, a number of your standard chains, and some other more local shops. Definitely worth a stop at Artina's, for some beautiful glass bead, silver, etc jewelry, all by Canadian artists. 

Turning right on Fort St, it is a charming 20 min walk past antiques stores and cafes to Craigdarroch Castle, the home of a coal baron. Built in the late 1800's, I recommend taking in the movie, with a fascinating story of its many uses, from schools to hospitals.

Heading off to find Beacons Hill Park and the tallest totem pole on the island, I detour at Government House to walk around the grounds and visit the Tea House. Definitely worth the stop, although the tip that there was a great local artist collective in the basement of the mall at Fort and Douglas, was too late for me - a little shout out for Migration here, although there was a selection of their work at the Tea House gift shop as well.

Unfortunately that detour left me with insufficient time to make it to Beacon Hill - I should not have slept in this morning :(

The return walk back along Fairfield was fascinating, as there was a very eclectic mix of architecture, old and modern, Victorian features and wrought iron‎.

Mirvish - Motown

A great collage of songs and stories underlying the growth of Motown Records, before it was sold to Universal. Treating us to many of our favourite songs from that label, there were many stand-out performances, particularly from the lad playing the youngest Jackson Five, and really tight choreography. A fun and inspiring evening - highly recommended.

Soulpepper - Yours Forever, Mary-Lou

Dysfunctional and unforgiving, the patterns of bad behavior are almost hard to watch.‎ A very intense play, the characters are genuine. You really feel their pain and frustration and the futility of the place they created for themselves.  The entire cast is outstanding, their accents amazing - highly recommended.‎

Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition

An annual event in Nathan Phillips Square, deferred from July due to the Panam Games, the show was a little smaller, but no less wonderful than in previous years. The quality and variety of artisans is amazing, with the perfect mix of regular favourites and new entrants. It is so hard to keep your wallet in your purse :)

Cabbagetown Arts and Crafts Festival

A stellar show for jewelry, with lots of selection and some of the best the city has to offer. There are also lots of interesting textiles, pottery and yummy preserves and such. The artists are all friendly and relaxed and Riverdale Farm is an excellent distraction for the younger set, leaving you with ample time to chat and shop. Impossible to get out of this show with your wallet intact. 

Trinity Bellwoods Park - Outdoor Art Show and Sale

One of my favourite shows for unique pottery and wall art, this is also a great neighbourhood to hang out in. Drop in for coffee and pastries before the show, peruse various forms of art in a lovely setting and then head off to Ossington for a nice dinner. You can even top it off with the best ice cream in the city at Bang Bang on Ossington.

Créations Musca Inc (part of the Cirque de Soleil group) - Empire

OMG, you have to run out and get tickets right away. The acrobatics, strength, showmanship and plenty of eye candy are worth every cent and more. Awesome show that had us talking about it exuberantly well after the show ended. Oh, and a little warning if you have minors with you, there is nudity.‎..

Soulpepper - The Plays The Thing

A fun little farce of a play within a play. The playwright was great and the butler was hysterical, both parts played by company stalwarts. Definitely a fun night out.