iPhone 5 release on Dec. 7th, how's the quickest way to get one?

Hi I'm looking to possibly upgrade my current smartphone to an iPhone 5 before I leave on vacation.

It was just announced that the phone will go on sale Dec. 7th, unfrotunately for me I'm leaving Dec. 6th for the month to travel, then returning after Christmas.

I want a new phone for while I travel but am not sure if the store would be willing to sell me a new iPhone before the official release date. I know in Canada they are pretty willing to bend the rules to help customers.

Has anyone purchased a previous iPhone on or before the official release day? Oh by the way I'm on SK but would be willing to switch over to Olleh if that would make it easier.

Thanks for the help, hopefully I can get one before I leave :)

Re: iPhone 5 release on Dec. 7th, how's the quickest way to ...

I've been on a pre- pre-reservation list since the end of September at the local Olleh shop around the corner from my place. I'm pretty sure my husband and I were first on the list at that shop. The ladies just called the other day to confirm my reservation, but mentioned there are different rounds of release happening. I'm in the 7th round which means even though iPhone5 is released Dec 7th, I won't get it until some time in the week of Dec 17th. I'm not sure how to get higher up in the release rounds...connections I suppose.