Read all about it! The November Spotlight

The November edition of Spotlight goes on sale on Wednesday, 28 October. Eamonn Fitzgerald spoke to Editor-in-Chief Inez Sharp about the next issue.

Fitzgerald: Winter is coming, but Spotlight is off to Florida, which is also known as the "Sunshine State". What can readers find in our November cover story?

Sharp: For many visitors, Florida is about Disney World, Miami and the Keys. But there are other sides to the state, and we visit two of those in our November travel story. Spotlight travel correspondent and photographer Franz Marc Frei takes a kayaking trip through the wonderfully exotic Everglades. This swampy region of southern Florida is home to some very interesting wildlife, including plenty of alligators and crocodiles. He also visits the state's lovely east coast and stays in the chic resort of Naples — quite a contrast to the Everglades.

"From videos for learners to virtual lessons"

Fitzgerald: Before going to Florida, Spotlight readers can improve their English by using the internet. The November language feature is about online learning.

Sharp: The internet offers all sorts of exciting options for the language student, from videos for learners to virtual lessons. A lot of people still think a real classroom is the most productive environment for learning, but the internet can add support and variety, even for those who prefer a more traditional approach to learning.

"The car, not the skirt"

Fitzgerald: From travel, to language, to design and an article about something quintessentially British that's 50 this year.

Sharp: Oh, yes: the famous Mini — the car, that is, not the skirt. These days, it might be hard to see just how revolutionary the Mini was, but 50 years ago, when it came on the market, there was nothing comparable. We not only have an excellent feature on the car, explaining how it was developed, but we also test-drove a new Mini, which was fun.

"Queen and Commons"

Fitzgerald: Also very British is a ceremony that takes place in London on 18 November. Queen Elizabeth will be adding pomp and glory to the day.

Sharp: British Conservative MP John Gummer talks to Spotlight this month about the annual state opening of parliament. This is a ritual that might seem rather old-fashioned and pointless. In fact, Gummer explains clearly and simply why the event is significant even today. To find out more, you'll have to read the feature for yourself. One interesting fact I found out from the feature was that the queen is never allowed into the House of Commons. This is a symbolic reminder of the independence of the House of Commons.

"I'm very soft-hearted"

Fitzgerald: And what treats have we got for our audio community in November?

Sharp: Listen to Barbara Shaum on the Day in My Life track. Shaum is in her 80s and is still going to work six days a week as a sandal-maker in New York. Now, there's someone who loves her job!

Fitzgerald: Before you go, a word about tipping, please.

Sharp: In his column Before You Go, Paul Smith talks about tipping and has some very interesting things to say. I'm afraid my behaviour is a bit contradictory when it comes to this topic. I always tell other people: "Tip carefully: it's your chance to send a message about how you have been treated as a customer." As for myself, I'm very soft-hearted. As most people who receive tips are in badly paid jobs, I almost always give a decent amount — sometimes probably a bit too much.

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