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Business Travel, Community Events, Uncategorized

The Best Team Building Activities in Toronto

October 4, 2019
team building activities in Toronto

According to a recent study by the Kenexa Research Institute, companies with highly engaged employees achieved twice the net annual income of companies whose employees were not engaged. In addition, the researchers found social interaction outside the workplace influenced 50% of positive changes in workplace communication.

This means that initiatives that foster employee engagement (ie. team building activities in Toronto) are not only fun. They also have a significant positive impact on the bottom line.

Toronto is an excellent location for corporate team-building. It offers a wide range of options for exciting and memorable activities that will bring a team together. Therefore, here are just a few of the options for team building activities in Toronto:

SPiN Toronto

SPiN is a ping pong social club where you can host a tournament with your entire office, or enroll in ping-pong lessons. The club has two fully licensed bars as well as twelve ping pong tables, a full menu and a private party room. Playing ping pong can be a great ice-breaker and a bit of competition can really bring your team together.

Le Dolci

If your team members are obsessed with sweet treats, they will love the experience of taking part in a cake baking challenge at Le Dolci. The Grand Cake Challenge is a competition to create the perfect dessert and it’s hosted by a professional baker. Your group will split up into small teams of 4-6 people and will design, bake and decorate a sugary masterpieces. In addition, prizes will be awarded for teamwork, originality and execution.
team building activities in Toronto

PaintLounge

Take your team for a “social painting” experience at PaintLounge. You’ll get access to high quality painting supplies and you’ll be invited to play around with colours, lines and ideas.
This is a great way for your team to use the creative side of their brains and think in a different way than usual. You don’t have to be Da Vinci to enjoy this activity. In fact, you don’t even have to have any art-making experience at all. If you need help, the artist staff are always there to assist you.

Far Shot

How about axe throwing as a team building activity? This activity is quickly becoming popular for corporate team building and events and it will encourage your team to get outside of their comfort zone. Plus, there’s something extremely satisfying about learning how to deftly throw an axe and hearing it “thunk” as it embeds in the target.

Far Shot, located in Black Creek Pioneer Village, is one of the best places in Toronto to organize an axe-throwing team building event. They are experts at running large group events. The facility has catering, meeting spaces and its own brewery. Meanwhile, your team can also try archery, knife throwing and other games.

Planning team building activities in Toronto?

Delsuites offers high quality furnished apartments in convenient locations. Most importantly, the top notch amenities will make your team feel right at home. To learn more, contact us today.

Business Travel, Downtown Toronto, Uncategorized, Vacation Travel

The Essential Travel Packing List

October 1, 2019

When you are planning for a trip, it really helps to have a travel checklist you can follow along with – to make sure you don’t forget anything important.

Packing can be stressful and it’s easy to accidentally forget something important. With a checklist, you don’t have to think so hard. You can simply follow along with the checklist and make sure you have remember all the travel essentials you wanted to bring.

So, what should you include on your travel packing list? Your packing list for vacation will of course depend on where you are going and what you plan to do when you get there. However, there are a few essentials that you will likely want to bring along with you on any trip – which is why a general international travel packing list is helpful.

The key to packing light is to bring items that are compact and serve multiple purposes. For example, a sarong is a great travel essential. It can roll up very small but it can be used as a scarf, a skirt, a swimsuit cover-up, a towel and even a lightweight sheet or blanket. Another great item is a simple cotton dress that can be worn with casual shoes or sandals during the day, then dressed up with jewellery in the evening.

Also, remember that if you are coming for a long trip you might be able to find the items you need when you arrive. Most items are available in local shops and pharmacies abroad – with the exception of special prescription medication and some other personal items.

Travel Packing List: What to Pack for A Trip

Wondering what to pack for a trip? Here are some of the typical essentials that most travelers will want to bring with them on their trip. You can use this vacation packing list as a base for developing your own unique, personalized packing checklist.
travel packing list

Clothing Essentials Packing List

  • Socks
    Underwear
    Bras
    T-shirts
    Pajamas (although, these are not necessary if you are short on room. You can sleep in a t-shirt)
    Swimsuit
    Shorts
    Jeans
    Belt
    Dresses
    Skirts
    Sweaters (even if you’re in a warm destination, pack one lightweight layer for air-conditioned airports and buses)
    Scarves
    Sandals
    Running/Walking Shoes
    Purses/Handbags/Wallets
    Sarong
    Travel towel

  • Toiletries Packing List

  • Toothbrush
    Toothpaste
    Dental Floss
    Soap
    Deodorant
    Shampoo/Conditioner (some hotels will have it, but it’s not guaranteed.)
    Small packet of laundry detergent (so you can wash your clothes as you go)
    Hairbrush
    Hair elastics
    Hair products (gel, hairspray, mouse, etc.)
    Facial Cleanser
    Moisturizer
    Sunscreen
    Shaving supplies
    Contact lenses and solution
    Makeup/Makeup Remover
    Tampons/Pads/Diva Cup
    Birth control/Condoms
    Nail clippers
    Tweezers
    Hand sanitizer
    Bandages
    Antibacterial ointment
    Painkillers
    Insect repellant
    Imodium
    Motion sickness pills (especially if you will be traveling by boat)
    Cold and flu tablets
    Medications
    Anything specific to the location (such as antimalarial pills)

  • Electronics & Miscellaneous Items Packing List

  • Laptop
    Smartphone
    Chargers
    Adapter (research which type of electrical socket is used at your destination!)
    Digital camera
    Memory card
    E-reader
    Headphones
    Earplugs
    Tissues
    Gum
    Lip Balm
    Water bottle
    Sunglasses
    Important Documents & Travel Necessities
    Passport
    Flight confirmation
    Credit cards
    Emergency contacts
    Copies of passport/credit card, etc.

  • Tips for Maximizing Space in Your Luggage

  • Don’t leave packing to the last minute. Give yourself time to think carefully about what you should bring.
    Place the largest and heaviest items in first, then pack the other small items around them.
    Bring some laundry powder and wash your clothes in the sink as you go, so you can wear them more than once and don’t have to pack as much. (Wearing clothes with quick-dry fabric really helps with this.)
    Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes while on the plane to save room in your luggage.
    Roll your clothes rather than folding them. It saves more space and eliminates creases.
    Bring a couple of canvas bags. They roll up small and can be used for dirty laundry, shoes or shopping bags.
    Pack items inside other items. For example, roll up socks and put them inside your shoes.
    Last but not least – if you want to pack light, simply bring a smaller suitcase. You’ll be forced to choose only the things you really need.
  • Share your packing tips with us!

    What do you include on your packing list? Do you have any smart packing tips you use when you travel? If there’s anything we’ve missed on this vacation checklist, let us know in the comments below.

    Downtown Toronto Condos, Toronto Condos, Uncategorized

    Delsuites Offers Convenient Accommodation During Home Renovations

    September 27, 2019

    Renovating your home? Get out of the dust and noise and into a furnished Toronto apartment rental.

    If you are currently undergoing a renovation on your home, there are a lot of advantages to vacating the property while the work is going on. You may want to stay put, but sticking around during a renovation can be stressful and can delay the progress.

    Why You Should Find Accommodation During Home Renovations

    Here are some of the reasons to find somewhere else to stay during a remodel:

    – Although rentals do cost extra money, it can also cost money if you stay at home and you are in the way. Many contractors will charge more for projects where clients stay in the house, as this can slow down the construction process and cause additional cleanup costs.
    – If the remodel is extensive (for example, if the roof or walls will be removed), the contractor may need to turn off your electricity, heating or air conditioning – which will make your home unlivable.
    – The noise caused by home renovations can be stressful for cats and dogs. There is a greater likelihood that they will escape via a door or window left open.
    – There will be loud noises, plenty of dust and non-functioning bathroom facilities. This can make your home very unpleasant to live in during the renovation.
    – You may be paying contractors by the hour. If you end up in long conversations with them, you will end up paying more for the project. It’s better to let them do their work uninterrupted and check in occasionally.
    – If the kitchen is being renovated, you face the option of eating out in restaurants or eating processed, microwaved meals for several weeks or months. This is neither affordable nor healthy.

    Also, just being involved in the day to day action of a remodeling project can be draining. There’s something nice about being able to escape to clean and quiet accommodation during renovations. You can let the contractors do their job and then return home to a beautifully remodeled home.

    Delsuites: The Ideal Temporary Accommodation During Home Renovations

    Delsuites is a highly advantageous option. It’s much more comfortable than trying to live in a home that has become a construction site. We offer temporary furnished apartments that can be rented by the day, week or month and can be your home away from home during your remodeling project.

    Your furnished apartment will be professionally decorated and will have all of the amenities you need for comfort and convenience,. It will even include a fully equipped kitchen, coffee makers, dinnerware, linens and much more. It doesn’t feel like a hotel room, it feels much more like a home.

    These serviced condominiums are located in 20 locations throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Locations include Mississauga, Scarborough, Downtown, Midtown and Etobicoke. So, you’re sure to find an option that is close to your home and workplace.

    Also, Delsuites offers advantageous prices and special discounts for longer stays. In other words, it will often work out cheaper than staying in a hotel for a comparable amount of time.

    To learn more about our apartments and what we have to offer, please feel free to contact us at any time.

    Lifestyle talk, Vacation Travel

    Must Know Tips for Solo Travel

    September 24, 2019

    Traveling solo is incredibly rewarding. It is empowering, liberating and gives you a chance to truly explore the world at your own pace.
    However, it can also be challenging. Making your way through the world on your own solo vacations comes with its own set of struggles and obstacles to overcome. Here are some important things to know before you set off on your solo travel adventure or singles vacations.

    Solo Travel Tips

    Research in Advance

    Knowledge is your best weapon when it comes to traveling alone. The more you know before you arrive somewhere, the better you’ll be able to navigate when you’re there. Look up important information on your destination, such how to get around, things to do, how much to tip, whether or not to haggle, etc.
    Also, it’s important to research the common scams in your destination before you go. That way, you’ll know what to avoid when you get there. Your best advantage for solo travel is knowledge.

    Stay on Your Guard

    When you’re traveling on your own, you’ll need to be wary of potential threats and look out for your own safety. This means being cautious and trusting your instincts.
    Also, it means following simple common-sense advice to protect yourself. For example, don’t flash a lot of expensive jewellery or electronics as you walk down the street. Don’t walk alone late at night in an isolated neighbourhood. Don’t leave your valuables unattended. It’s alright to have a drink, but try to keep your wits about you.

    But Don’t Be Afraid to Open Up

    Of course, there’s a difference between being safe and sensible while you travel, and not interacting with anyone out of fear. You’ll want to meet people and make connections on your trip, as these can be some of the best memories of your travels. Consider staying in a hostel, so that you’ll naturally have the opportunity to chat with others during your trip. Or, you can take vacations for singles that will help you meet people.

    Pack Light

    One of the typical mistakes first-time solo travellers make is packing too much stuff. Lugging around too much heavy oversized luggage is incredibly hard on your back. But, it also means that you have more stuff to worry about getting stolen. Plus, you’ll really struggle if you have to take a flight of stairs, or run for a train.

    Join a Walking Tour

    One of the best activities you can do when you are traveling solo is to join a walking tour of your destination. There are great tours available in every major tourist city in the world. They will take you to the top highlights of the city and show you some of the most interesting attractions. These types of tours are great for a couple reasons. First of all, they are a safe and easy way to explore without having to worry about getting lost. Secondly, they can be a simple way to meet other travelers and make connections.

    Limit Your Social Media Access

    Of course, you’ll probably want to post some amazing photos of your adventures on your Facebook and Instagram. However, avoid spending your entire trip looking at your phone! Try your best to put down your phone for most of the day when you are traveling solo. You’ll pay more attention to what’s happening around you and it will help you immerse yourself in your destination.

    Solo Travel Destinations: The Best Places to Travel Alone

    Some of the best places to travel alone in the US are large cities, because there’s always something to do. But what are some of the best international locations in the world for solo travel?

    The United Kingdom: Friendly, safe and with an extensive public transport network, the UK is a very easy and enjoyable place to travel alone. From world class museums to peaceful countryside villages, there’s a lot to explore.
    Thailand: One of the best countries in Southeast Asia for first-time solo travellers, Thailand is warm, friendly, beautiful and easy to get around. You can enjoy the bustling city life of Bangkok, or find a quiet island to relax for a while.
    New Zealand: A very popular destination with solo backpackers, New Zealand has gorgeous scenery, exciting outdoor adventures and culture-rich cities to explore. It’s one of the best places for solo travel.
    Peru: Whether you’re marvelling at the stunning ruins of Machu Picchu or shopping for locally made textiles in Cusco, Peru is a fun, safe and exciting place to travel on your own. Plus, it’s very affordable if you are on a small budget.
    Georgia: The country of Georgia, not the US state, that is. Explore the stunning Caucasus Mountains, quiet Medieval villages and the vibrant cultural scene of Tbilisi. The locals are incredibly welcoming and are always happy to help a solo traveler enjoy their stay.

    Family Vacations in Toronto, Toronto Condos, Vacation Travel

    Toronto – A Pet-Friendly City

    September 20, 2019

    Although Toronto is one of the largest, busiest and densest cities in Canada – it is surprisingly pet-friendly.

    In fact, Torontonians love their animal friends. According to city planning staff, there are three to five dogs per floor in Toronto condos. There’s a growing number of dog-friendly establishments in the downtown area, and the general attitude to canine companions is a welcoming one.

    In fact, Toronto condos are beginning to build in pet-friendly features to attract a clientele with canine companions – such as dog grooming services, dog parks, pet shops and pet-friendly cafes.

    The Livmore is a great example. On the fifth floor of this chic, stylish downtown Toronto apartment building you will find a convenient dog-friendly area – which is home to a pet spa and an outdoor play area known as the “Bark Park.” This area, lined with artificial turf, features fire hydrants, benches and even a mini obstacle course for dogs to play on.

    The pet-friendly aspects of the Livmore are just one of the many examples of how Toronto offers our furry friends a warm welcome.

    What Makes Toronto Pet-Friendly?

    Let’s take a look at some of the other aspects of the city that make Toronto a great place to hang out with your canine companion.

    Welcoming Shops

    Many of the boutiques and shops between Bathurst and Gladstone are dog friendly and won’t mind if you bring your pooch in with you while you look around. They might even offer water and treats for your furry friend.

    Laid Back Breweries

    If you want to enjoy a local beer, there are many places where you can bring your four-legged companion. For example, at local craft brewery Henderson Brewing, they host monthly dog friendly events and dogs are always welcome whenever you stop in for a tasting.

    Green Spaces

    There are many great parks and wilderness areas scattered throughout the city where you and your dog can get some exercise and fresh air. For example, downtown Toronto borders Lake Ontario to the South, so you can head down to the waterfront to take a stroll along the boardwalk.

    There’s also Trinity Bellwoods park, which features a Dog Bowl off-leash area, where you and your pooch can hang out with many other dogs of Toronto and their owners.
    pet-friendly Toronto

    Pet-Friendly Transport

    Dogs are allowed on the Toronto transport system of buses, streetcars and subways – as long as it is outside of rush hour. So, you can bring your pooch on public transport and explore the city with them!

    Canine-Loving Eateries

    While most cafes and restaurants in Toronto will not allow your dog inside due to health and safety laws, there are still plenty of dog-friendly places to eat. For example, at Lick It Gelato on Queens Quay West, your pooch is welcome and they even sell a “doggie gelato” that is dairy and sugar free.

    Planning a trip to Toronto with Man’s Best Friend?

    If you are heading to Toronto and are looking for a convenient and pet-friendly place to stay, the Livmore is an ideal option. For more info, contact us today.