Swimming

Kathryn had another request regarding cool places to swim in Montreal. There are so many pools, but one option in particular stands out because of the nature of the services they provide; Ecole D’O on Jeanne Mance! They offer a variety of lessons for all levels of swimmers. They have water-fitness classes, aqua massage, dancing under water, and a variety of innovative programs. If you love to swim, or are even afraid of the water, their approach and knowledge caters to all!

Skating Fun!

Kathryn, a Breaky with Becky reader, has asked me about cool placed to skate (and swim) in Montreal. So, for those of you who love to skate, or want to give it a try, here are a few great options:

The Atrium (1000 De La Gauchetiere W) hosts various themes and also has a full schedule of upcoming events including the Montreal All-Nighter festival that I have previously blogged about. Check out the schedule, rates, and rentals, group reservations , birthday packages, and lessons!

Beaver Lake's Refrigerated Rink on Mount Royal

The Quays of the Old Port as part of Old Montreal’s Extravaganza (also a previous post). There is a D.J party every Friday evening from 6:00-9:00. Don’t forget to drop by the Winter Bar before you leave!

Stay tuned for the next posting on places to swim – coming to a blog near you!

Wildside Theatre Festival

The Wildside Theatre Festival is nearly over, but your still have the chance to check out a show before the 25th! Productions are international, the themes are varied, and the tickets are affordable. The festival's objective is to encourage small theatre companies and provide them with the opportunity to use the Centaur Theatre's stage, crew, and PR team.

Shows & Details:

Sahara Crossing

Zeppelin was a Cover Band

The Sputniks

The Shape of a Girl

The Ballad of the Young Offender

Die Roten Punkte - Super Musikant

The Invisible Life of Joseph Finch

Enjoy!

Any Requests?

I have noticed that many of you are looking for things to do in Montreal when you stumble upon my blog. Any special requests this week? I can write about whatever you may be interested in, so post a comment and let me know.

I hope to hear from you soon!

The Ride to Conquer Cancer

Do you want to get in shape and make a difference? The Ride to Conquer Cancer is a 2 day cycling fundraiser (July 10-12 2009) from Montreal to Quebec City with proceeds going to the Montreal Jewish General Hospital. It will certainly be a challenge, but with some drive and determination, you can do it!

You can attend an orientation to find out all about the resources (training and nutrition programs, etc.) that will be provided in anticipation of the event to make sure you have a safe and successful ride.

There is a $2,500 minimum fundraising level to participate in this event. I know this seems like a lot, but if you tap into your network, you will be amazed at how supportive your friends, families, and colleagues can be. I personally raised over $5,500 over 2 years for the Weekend Walk to End Breast Cancer, a 60 km walk throughout the neighborhoods of Montreal. If you want some more details, or personal insights on this event, please let me know!

Cooking Classes & Workshops

Another favorite revealed by my survey shows a high interest in cooking classes and workshops. Check out the following cooking schools in Montreal:

Academie Culinaire Cooking classes are mostly offered in French but there are some held in English.

Bon Appétit Cookbooks An English cookbook boutique in Westmount that offers cooking classes based on published cook books. Class participants get a 10% discount on books purchased during the class.

Masala Cuisine There is a Montreal singles interactive cooking class on January 20th. (Indian cuisine)

Miyamoto Cooking Classes (Sushi)

Karen’s Kitchen (Vegetarian)

Loblaw’s Cooking School Select a specific location for further details.

La Gaterie Theoretical and Practical classes on baking cakes.

One Roast Chicken This is an online cooking school.

Various other Options

Bon Appétit!

Racquet Sports

The responses to my survey have indicated that many of you are interested in racquet sports but have trouble finding people to play with or coordinating your leisure time with your friends’ schedules. The following resources will help you find racquet clubs as well as other people interested in finding friends to team up with in Montreal!

http://www.localmontreal.com/index.asp?L1ID=29&L1BID=216&L2ID=2502
Type in Montreal as the location and a list of participating racquet clubs will come up with a text-box in which you may request a quote for membership. Although they are listed as Tennis Clubs, this is not necessarily the case since some of them also have squash courts and other services. I’m personally a member of the Sporting Club Du Sanctuaire, now known as The Midtown Athletic Club. The membership rates are pricey, but well worth the money if you’re an avid racquet sports player, or exercise fanatic!

http://www.fitness-singles.com/register-land.asp?fit=Tennis&i=1
This looks like a fun site for singles of all ages! I do find however that they ask a few too many questions to get started. This site is not restricted to racquet sports and it claims to be meant for friendship as well. However, the questions about appearance seem to imply dating only, as does the drop down menu for marital status that does not allow you to select a “Married” option. If you’re single though, this site could be a lot of fun!

http://racquetnetwork.com/clubs/?cityId=39&clubId=2&city=Montreal&club=Squash
This comprehensive website allows you to select Badminton, Racquetball, Squash, Table Tennis, or Tennis and provides you with a lot of relevant news, information, networks, venues, associations, etc. and will direct you to their corresponding websites.

Have Fun!!!