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Business Travel, Lifestyle talk, Toronto Family Travel, toronto toursim

Work Hard, Play Harder: The Rise of Bleisure Travel

February 28, 2024
bleisure travel

The clock is always ticking in business; time is a precious commodity. Annually, corporate travellers find themselves spending an average of 22 days on the move, crisscrossing the globe for meetings, sealing deals, and attending conferences.

Perhaps you’re on the verge of closing a pivotal deal with a major international client. In the most critical of meetings, the knight in shining armour is often none other than business travel.

In the wake of the business world’s recovery from the pandemic, the business travel industry has seen a resurgence, signalling its enduring importance. However, this resurrection is more than a return to the past. This calls for a new era.

Enter “bleisure travel.” No longer confined to boardrooms and hotel rooms, bleisure seamlessly integrates work and leisure. The focus on bleisure is about creating an experience that is not only productive but also rejuvenating, offering a more stress-free short-term stay for those who find themselves on the road.

Discover how the business travel landscape is undergoing a transformation, creating an environment that fosters success without sacrificing the joys of relaxation.

What is Bleisure Travel?

As the term implies, “bleisure” is the clever blending of business and leisure travel. This turns what might be a conventional business trip into an opportunity to add a dash of exploration and relaxation. 

This emerging trend is gaining traction, with almost 42% of business travellers now preferring to infuse their work-related journeys with a bit of leisure time.

The concept of bleisure travel is extending business trips on either end to explore new destinations. It’s not just about the solo business traveller, either. This can also be done by bringing friends and family along for the journey, adding shared experiences that enrich the business travel experience.

The rise of bleisure travel is closely tied to the changing dynamics of work in the wake of the pandemic. With more people embracing remote work, individuals find themselves untethered from a fixed office location.

While digital nomads might choose to work from various destinations, bleisure travellers are motivated primarily by the business aspect of their trip. However, the desire to explore new places, reduce environmental impact, or simply savour the joys of a change of scenery drives them to extend their trips.

Source: Pexels

Factors Driving the Bleisure Trend

The rise of bleisure travel is a breath of fresh air. It’s a response to the changing dynamics of work and the quest for a more balanced lifestyle. The factors driving this trend reflect a collective desire to redefine the traditional boundaries of business trips.

Changing Attitudes of Business Travellers

The conventional perception of business travel often brings to mind images of packed schedules, back-to-back meetings, and minimal time for personal exploration. However, the tide is turning, and business travellers are adopting a more holistic approach.

Whether it’s extending a stay to explore local attractions, immerse in cultural experiences, or simply unwind in a new environment, the changing attitudes reflect a conscious effort to blend the lines between work and leisure.

Influence of Work-Life Balance Considerations

Work-life balance has become a cornerstone in discussions surrounding modern employment. Work-life balance is already important to 94% of employees.

The traditional notion of segregating work and personal life is gradually giving way to a more integrated approach. This cultural shift is especially pronounced in business travel, where professionals are seeking ways to infuse a sense of leisure into their work-related journeys.

The purpose of leisure travel is to break free from the monotony of conventional work models, allowing professionals to inject moments of relaxation and exploration into their busy schedules. Work-life balance considerations are driving the bleisure trend, which reflects a societal shift towards prioritizing well-being, both at work and at home.

Impact of Technological Advancements on Remote Work

Professionals are liberated from the constraints of mundane office setups thanks to advancements in technology. The advent of remote work, coupled with advanced communication tools, has redefined the very nature of work. 

This major shift in the way work is conducted has a direct impact on the trends in business travel as well. Professionals now have the flexibility to seamlessly conduct business from anywhere, be it a bustling city or a serene coastal town. 

It’s clear that bleisure travel is not just a shift in travel preferences, but a shift in mindset. The journey is no longer a linear progression from point A to point B. This type of travel offers a hybrid experience, combining work and leisure to enrich both professional and personal lives.

What Bleisure Travellers Look For

So, what exactly are bleisure travellers looking for? Some notable considerations include:

  • Work-Life Balance: Bleisure travellers seek destinations that offer a blend of business amenities and leisure activities, allowing them to transition from boardrooms to local attractions seamlessly.
  • Convenient Connectivity: Accessible airports, efficient public transportation, and reliable Wi-Fi are non-negotiables. These individuals want to stay connected to work while also being able to explore their surroundings hassle-free.
  • Flexible Accommodations: Bleisure travellers have shifted away from standard hotels in favour of short-term rentals that cater to both work and relaxation. Short-term rentals offer well-equipped business centers, ergonomic workspaces, and comfortable lounging areas, making them highly appealing.
  • Local Experiences: One of the main draws for bleisure travellers is the opportunity to experience the local culture. They seek destinations that offer unique attractions, dining experiences, and cultural insights.
  • Networking Opportunities: Business doesn’t always stop after office hours. Bleisure travellers value destinations where networking opportunities extend beyond formal meetings. A vibrant business community and networking events contribute to the overall appeal of a location.
  • Time Efficiency: Bleisure travellers are time-conscious. They appreciate destinations where they can efficiently manage their work obligations without spending excessive time in transit.
  • Health and Wellness Options: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a priority for many bleisure travellers. Access to fitness facilities, wellness programs, and healthy dining options contribute to the overall appeal of a destination.
  • Tech-Friendly Environment: Destinations that embrace technological advancements, from efficient transportation systems to smart hotel features, are likely to attract these tech-savvy travellers.

Offering the right combination of work amenities and leisure opportunities can help destinations position themselves as ideal choices for travellers seeking a seamless integration of work and relaxation.

Source: Pexels

Tips for a Successful Bleisure Trip

Embarking on a bleisure trip? Here are some quick tips to ensure your business-meets-leisure journey goes off without a hitch. 

  • Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible: Start by outlining your work commitments and key deadlines. Plan your leisure activities around these, but leave some flexibility. Unexpected work issues can arise, so having a bit of wiggle room in your schedule can be a lifesaver.
  • Choose Your Accommodations Wisely: Opt for furnished rentals that offer comfortable workspaces, reliable Wi-Fi, and amenities that cater to both business and leisure needs.
  • Stay Connected on the Go: Having the right technology can enhance both your work and leisure experiences. Ensure you have the necessary tech tools to stay connected while on the move.
  • Know Your Company’s Policies: Understand any limitations or guidelines to avoid any hiccups during your trip. Clear communication with your employer ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.
  • Explore Transportation Options: Consider factors like proximity to your accommodations, convenience, and the opportunity to explore the destination during your commute.
  • Prioritize Self-Care: Get enough rest, stay hydrated, and consider incorporating wellness activities into your itinerary. A balanced approach to your well-being contributes to a more enjoyable trip overall.
  • Network Strategically: Leverage the networking opportunities your destination offers. Attend industry events, conferences, or local meetups to expand your professional circle.

The key to a successful and enriching bleisure trip is to combine thoughtful planning with a flexible mindset.

In Conclusion

A bleisure travel approach to business travel lets you view your next trip not just as a business trip but also as an opportunity for combining work and play. 

Now, if you’re on the lookout for the perfect bleisure stay within the vibrant Greater Toronto Area (GTA), DelSuites is the perfect choice. Every stay with us is personalized, and the Canadian skyline outside your window becomes the backdrop to your unforgettable adventure.

So, whether you’re extending your business trip for leisure or seeking the perfect blend of work and travel, DelSuites leads you to a more fulfilling, balanced, and engaging travel experience.

Your journey across GTA awaits – redefine it with DelSuites!

 

Business Travel, Toronto Family Travel, Vacation Travel

Passport to Tomorrow: A Glimpse into 2024 Travel Predictions

February 14, 2024
2024 travel predictions

Travel enthusiasts, rejoice! The world is once again opening its doors, and the wanderlust that was momentarily restrained is now flourishing with renewed vigour.

Despite the obstacles thrown by the pandemic, the travel industry is bouncing back, and the statistics tell an intriguing tale. In pre-pandemic 2019, an impressive 1.461 billion international arrivals were recorded, only to plummet by 74% to 381 million in 2020. There is an alarming possibility that without adequate preparation, businesses may fail.

That said, it doesn’t matter which year it is; the industry always adjusts to the ever-changing travel needs. 

The great news is that the demand for travel is at a new high, and this year promises to be an exhilarating one for those who yearn for exploration. Even business travel, often considered the pulse of global commerce, is also making a robust comeback.

Before you head on to your 2024 travel bucket list, make sure you’re armed with the collective knowledge and expertise gained in the years past. Without further ado, let’s uncover the travel predictions that will shape our experiences in the year ahead.

Source: Pexels

The Power of AI in Travel

The year 2024 is poised to be an important one where artificial intelligence (AI) in travel exerts its influence over the industry even further. 

We anticipate significant strides in the implementation of generative AI, particularly in areas such as itinerary planning for travel agents online, the rise of AI-driven travel assistants, and customer support within the hospitality sector.

The marriage of digital transformation, AI, and data analytics is set to redefine the landscape of travel, making it smarter and more tailored to individual preferences.

The evolution of AI in travel is becoming a revolution. Imagine seamless itinerary planning, personalized travel recommendations, and instant assistance at your fingertips.

The possibilities are vast, and as we delve into the year, the travel industry is primed to leverage AI in ways that will enhance the overall travel experience for individuals and businesses alike.

Source: Pexels

Adapting to Agile Transformations

With a focus on efficiency and convenience, modern payment methods and adaptive technologies have become pivotal in reshaping the travel landscape.

The pandemic accelerated the urgency for digital transformation, birthing innovations like QR scanning and facial recognition technology that replaced tedious manual processes.

Agile transformations go beyond improving operational efficiency. They foster adaptability, responsiveness, and a heightened ability to navigate the ever-evolving demands of the travel industry. Today, the industry is redefining how it operates, ensuring a smoother, more responsive travel experience for all.

From booking to boarding, the agile transformation is a testament to the industry’s commitment to embracing change and enhancing the overall journey for travellers.

safety and security

Emphasizing the Value of Authentic Hospitality Experiences

Amidst the digital revolution that propels efficiency in travel, there’s a growing appreciation for the timeless allure of authentic hospitality experiences that reflect the company’s brand.

We’ve rediscovered the joy of tactile moments that surprise and delight. This trend is reflected in the meticulous design and amenities offered by accommodations, emphasizing a personalized experience that goes beyond the digital realm.

In the age of technology, the value of human connection cannot be overstated. Hotels and hospitality services are also recognizing the need to strike a balance between tech-driven efficiency and the warm, personalized touch that defines memorable experiences.

This year, the industry is set to elevate the importance of genuine, human-centric hospitality, ensuring that every traveller is treated to moments that rise above the ordinary.

Identifying Affordable and Sustainable Travel Options

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword that some adopt haphazardly and move on. It’s become a guiding principle for the modern traveller. The emphasis on eco-friendly business travel is gaining momentum, with promotions and initiatives encouraging travellers to make environmentally conscious choices during their stays. 

The significance of sustainable travel lies in the conscious decisions made by travellers – opting for public transportation, reducing waste, and supporting accommodations that prioritize environmental and social responsibility.

Affordability and sustainability are also no longer mutually exclusive. The industry is capitalizing on this opportunity as the desire to travel remains strong, even amidst economic fluctuations.

Gen Z, following in the footsteps of millennials, is keen on exploring the world and finding ways to make it fit into their budgets. The industry’s response shows how budget-friendly and sustainable travel can coexist in the same space with quality travel experiences.

Source: Pexels

Boosting Customer Interaction

In an era dominated by social media, customer engagement has become the cornerstone of the travel industry. In fact, 87% of millennials turn to platforms like Instagram and Facebook for vacation inspiration.

The role of social media in shaping travel trends cannot be overstated. User-generated content, coupled with data-driven targeted marketing, is the driving force behind successful customer interaction strategies.

As we delve deeper into 2024, the industry is poised to leverage the power of customer engagement through innovative social media campaigns, personalized incentives, and strategic use of data.

The goal is to not only meet but exceed the expectations of the modern traveller, creating an immersive and interactive journey that begins long before the boarding pass is issued.

Source: Unsplash

The Rise of Bleisure Travel

In the post-pandemic era, the concept of “bleisure travel” has gained significant traction. Bleisure travel shows the changing attitudes of business travellers who now prioritize well-being even during work-related commitments. 

Business travellers seeking a more personalized and comfortable experience are opting for accommodations that offer the flexibility to transition between work and leisure seamlessly.

This is why the appeal of bleisure travel has given rise to a surge in the popularity of quality and sustainable short-term rentals over traditional hotels, providing a home-like environment that aligns more with the modern business traveller’s needs.

By ensuring a memorable experience that caters to both business and leisure aspects, property managers can create lasting relationships among guests. Satisfied bleisure travellers are more likely to return, resulting in the short-term rental industry’s continued growth.

Wrapping Up

The 2024 travel predictions promise a rainbow of exciting experiences. Travel continues to evolve, providing convenience like never before while ensuring that the hospitality experience is always at the forefront.

If you find yourself yearning for the ideal stay within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), look no further than DelSuites. Our commitment to providing a home away from home, where productivity meets relaxation, guarantees an unforgettable stay.

So, here’s to tomorrow’s adventures – today. Step into the future of business travel with DelSuites, where every moment is an opportunity to discover, unwind, and redefine the way you travel.

Business Travel, Corporate Housing, Lifestyle talk, Relocation, Toronto Family Travel, toronto toursim

How to Welcome an Employee Relocating

January 17, 2024

Thoughtful relocation support can make a big difference and can positively impact the performance and overall happiness of your new team member. So, how can you make your employee relocating feel right at home in their new city? Here are some ways that you can welcome your new employees so that you can make a great impression on them from the start.

Employee Relocating – Give Them a Welcome Pack

This is a lovely gesture that will make your new employee feel special. You can give it to them on the first day at work, or have it waiting for them at their accommodation. What should you put in it? How about:

  • A warm and friendly letter welcoming them to the city and the company.
  • A guide to the city with suggestions on interesting spots to visit.
  • Local snacks or cookies.
  • A bottle of wine or a case of local beer.
  • A map of the area where they will be living.
  • Coupons for discounts or freebies at local businesses.

Provide Them With Convenient Accommodation

Employee RelocatingPlacing your new employees in a hotel until they can move into a more permanent home isn’t a great solution, especially if they need to stay there for a month or longer. Instead, provide them with a furnished corporate housing apartment where they can enjoy all of the comforts of home, such as a kitchen, washer and dryer, living room, office space and parking.

Plus, make sure that they are located close to where they will be working. They are new to the city and they don’t want to be spending all of their time getting lost while commuting.

Create a Helpful Checklist

When locating a new province or country, there are a lot of things that your new employee will need to think about when getting themselves settled in their new home. This can be overwhelming for them, as there are so many things to do and it’s hard to know what is time-sensitive and what isn’t.

It can be very helpful to create a checklist for your employee relocating, to help them understand what needs to be done and what their priorities are. It will break down the large and overwhelming task into simpler and more manageable pieces. For reference, here’s a helpful checklist for employees moving to Canada from abroad.

Host Opportunities to Socialize

Employee RelocatingWhen your new employee arrives, they will likely not know anyone in the city and might feel a little bit lonely. You can make them feel more at home by hosting events where they will have a chance to make friends.

You can also offer information to them about other opportunities to meet people. If you aren’t sure what to suggest, ask your existing employees what events or get-togethers they attend or what things they did in the city to make friends when they first arrived. Many different activities and groups will welcome newcomers and make them feel like part of the community.

If you are looking for more information about employee relocation be sure to learn more about Employee Relocation and if you are looking for a place around Toronto, be sure to search which short-term rental works best for you.

Business Travel, Corporate Housing, Relocation, Toronto Family Travel, toronto toursim

Why Furnished Rentals Beat Hotel Stays

October 13, 2023

Furnished rentals are an alternative to hotel stays when you are travelling for business or pleasure, but they also give so much more. Here are a few of the benefits that apartment-furnished rentals in Toronto have to offer.

With Furnished Rentals, you’ll have a full kitchen.

Part of the joy of travelling somewhere is checking out the local culinary scene, but if you are eating out for every meal during your trip it can get old (and expensive!). With your own kitchen, you will be able to cook whenever you wish and even host guests or business meetings within your own private space.

Kitchen

It’s so convenient to have your own kitchen so that you can whip up a quick breakfast in the morning before a day of sightseeing, or cook dinner for yourself with simple ingredients from the supermarket when you want to skip dining out and save money. The option to self-cater is also a huge life-saver if you have special dietary requirements that make it difficult to dine out.

You’ll have much more room.

Another delight of staying in a furnished apartment rental in Toronto that you just don’t get with a hotel room is the amount of space you will have. In a hotel room, you will usually just have a bed and perhaps a table, but in a furnished apartment you will have a living room, a separate bedroom and a kitchen. This means that if your travel partner wants to stay up and watch TV and you want to go to bed, you can do so without disturbing each other.

According to the Association of Serviced Apartment Providers, on average you will have 30% more space than the equivalent standard of a hotel. However, they figure that serviced apartment prices are typically 20% less than hotel rates of the same standard. So, you’ll be getting more space for a better rate.

Furnished Rentals

You can do laundry.

If you are in a hotel you have to send your clothes away for cleaning, which will cost extra. In your furnished apartment, all you have to do is pop them in the washing machine, add some soap, press a button and Voila! This means that if you spill food on your shirt before an important business meeting, there’s nothing to stress about. Also, you can pack light even for a longer trip, making getting around so much easier.

You’ll have parking.

Parking in the city is a pain, but when you stay in furnished apartments you’ll be able to keep your car safe and sound in the building’s covered parking lot. This saves you a lot of hassle. Plus – you may not even need a car. Many of our furnished rentals in Toronto are so well located that you’ll be close to public transit and you’ll be only a short walk from anything you might need like shops, entertainment, restaurants and more.

When it comes to having a comfortable, homey place to stay, furnished rentals in Toronto beat a hotel room – hands down.

Customer Service Experience, Family Vacations in Toronto, Lifestyle talk, Toronto Family Travel, Uncategorized

Kid-Friendly Furnished Apartments in Toronto

September 17, 2023
Kid-friendly, furnished apartments, suites, Toronto, Family Friendly

Looking for a kid-friendly furnished suite for your vacation in Toronto?

As you plan and pack for your family vacation, you go through a lot of effort so that your whole clan will enjoy their trip. By the time you reach your destination, you’re all looking forward to enjoying a little extra quality time. 

As soon as you start unpacking, you don’t want to feel restricted by space, you want to be able to enjoy, cook together, and have space to relax on the couch and watch a movie together. This all comes down to finding a kid-friendly furnished suite that allows you to enjoy these moments.

Finding a kid-friendly furnished suite that’s right for you

As a parent, it’s reassuring to know that when you’re staying at a Delsuites downtown Toronto apartment, your family will be in an environment that’s as safe as your own home.  With a few simple adjustments such as cabinet latches, edge guards for tables and outlet safety covers, your fully-furnished suite can instantly be transformed to fit your family’s needs.

When you’re speaking with the Guest Service Team, it’s important to let them know what child-friendly items you may need during your stay. Right from the beginning of your stay, your complimentary airport pick-up will be equipped with comfortable CSA-approved child car seats, making your journey a safe and comfortable ride for everyone.

For infant bedtime, cribs and rocking chairs will help parents transition their babies into a new environment while bed rails and water-proof mattresses help to ensure that toddlers and older children are sleeping safe and sound. Child-friendly step stools offer your little one the independence they need to brush their teeth and wash their face at bedtime and in the morning. 

Among the other family-friendly services, a professional child minder can also be scheduled should you need in-suite child care.

On arrival, each child also receives an age-appropriate welcoming gift, a simple touch that offers parents the assurance that they’ve chosen the right home away from home for their family vacation.

Choose your kid-friendly suite here for your next 30+ day trip

Are you looking for a kid-friendly furnished apartment for your next trip? DelSuites have fully furnished units with full kitchens, separate rooms, laundry services and great amenities to help you. Look for furnished short-term rentals available now for Etobicoke, Toronto, Markham, Scarborough, North York and more!