Condo Energy Saving Tips

April 1, 2024

Even if you live in a condo with a relatively small footprint, you may still be using a significant amount of energy – which can add up over time. Fortunately, there are many little things that you can do which will help you to cut down on your energy consumption. These small condo energy-saving tweaks can add up over time and make a big difference in your energy bill.

Here are some helpful tips. They might not all be relevant to your condo, but there will be many that you can start implementing right away to cut back on energy use.

Condo Energy Saving Tips

-Ensure that the furniture in your apartment is not blocking any of the vents.

-Try to avoid running your dishwasher or other appliances during peak hours, to save time and energy. Check the Ontario Energy Board to find out when the peak and off-peak hours are, as they change according to the season.

-Also, when you run the washing machine make sure that you do a full load, as this will be more efficient.

-Washing your laundry on the “cold” setting will save even more power.

-Watch out for energy “vampires” which are devices that use power when they are plugged in – even if you aren’t using them. A good strategy is to plug everything into a power bar so that you can switch it all off at once.

-LED lighting really makes a difference! Although they are more expensive upfront, an LED light bulb will last 8-15 times longer and will use 1/3 to 1/5 of the electricity that an old-fashioned incandescent bulb would use.

-When you go out on a hot day, keep your curtains closed to block the sun from heating your apartment – so you won’t have to use so much AC.

-Make sure that you clean your vents regularly, including the exhaust fan in the bathroom, as this will help to keep them running more efficiently.

-Filling your fridge with full water jugs will help to keep it colder and make it run more efficiently.

-Heating water also uses energy, so avoid taking excessively long showers and turn the tap off when you are shaving or brushing your teeth.

With a few clever tweaks, you can make sure that your energy use in your condo is as efficient as possible. You’ll be amazed at how the little changes add up!

Looking for more sustainable ways to conserve energy while travelling?

Stay with us in a DelSuite short-term rental in Toronto and choose green and eco-friendly options, high-efficiency units and decisions to reduce waste, water and energy.

Business Travel, Corporate Housing, Relocation

Making it Easy – HR to Relocate Employees

March 2, 2024

One of the main roles of an HR professional is to take care of the company’s employees, ensuring that they have everything they need to achieve success in their new role. When you send out key players to a new location, one of the best ways to support them and relocate employees is to set them up with a great place to stay.

Where Do Employees Stay When They Relocate?

Let’s say you are relocating an employee to Toronto on a short-term assignment or project. You can either doom them to a stay in a cramped hotel room where they will have to get work done on a tiny table in the corner and eat dinner in bed, or you can set them up with a full apartment so they can live comfortably. This is especially important when these employees are relocating for work with family and partners, as they will require more space and amenities.

When you offer high quality, comfortable and convenient accommodation for your employees, this will have a positive effect on your bottom line in the way of improved employee satisfaction and better retention. Plus, when employees have a comfortable place to live they will arrive at work happy, healthy, well-rested and ready to perform their best.

Advantages for HR to Relocate Employees into DelSuites Furnished Apartments

When you are relocating employees into furnished apartments in Toronto, they will be more comfortable than in a hotel room. Here are some of the features that a DelSuites fully furnished rental suite offers:

24-hour customer service, secured parking and housekeeping.
A fully equipped kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, allowing for convenient self-catering.
A spacious living area with a separate dining and sleeping area.
Convenient locations close to the most important neighborhoods and transit in Toronto, so that employees don’t have to spend a lot of time commuting.
High-speed internet and free local and long-distance phone calls.
Underground, assigned parking with 24-hour building security.
En-suite laundry facilities.
Many of our properties are pet friendly so that employees can bring their beloved animal companions when they relocate.
A friendly team of experienced staff who will welcome all guests in a professional, helpful way.

These apartments allow employees to have a residential experience while remaining close to the office. Also, they will be able to have a social life, as this style of accommodation enables them to invite family or friends over to visit. Plus, long-term corporate apartment rentals are much more cost-effective than daily hotel rates. When factoring in the benefits of amenities, there are significant savings.

These apartments are the ideal way to bridge the gap between onboarding and a permanent relocation. With comfortable surroundings such as these, employees can ease into their new environment when arriving for a position.

To find out more about our corporate furnished apartments in Toronto for human resources, click here to learn more about Employee Relocation.

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

Work Hard, Play Harder: The Rise of Bleisure Travel

February 28, 2024

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!

Vacation Travel

New Year’s Travel Bucket List: Must-Visit Places for 2024

January 10, 2024

As we usher in a new year, it’s impossible to ignore the resounding hum of excitement in the air. Literally, excitement is up in the sky.

The travel boom is upon us, with 4.7 billion passengers expected to take flight by 2024. That’s a testament to the collective yearning for exploration, adventure, and the simple joy of discovering new horizons.

In the wake of unprecedented times, the travel bug seems to have bitten harder than ever before. With the world gradually reclaiming its sense of normalcy, it’s time to dust off those suitcases, update your passport, and set your sights on destinations that promise unforgettable journeys in the coming year.

As a starting point for your search, here’s our New Year’s travel bucket list presenting the must-visit places for 2024. The world is calling, and it’s time to answer!

Source: Unsplash

Paris, France

Ah, Paris. The eternal city of love and a favourite on the global travel stage. Consistently ranked as one of the most visited cities in the world, Paris beckons with its iconic landmarks, charming cobblestone streets, and a culinary scene that’s nothing short of legendary.

But what sets the City of Light apart in 2024? Well, aside from its timeless allure, Paris is poised to take center stage as the host city for the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. This offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the magic of this beloved metropolis in a whole new light.

Travel tip: Swap the bustling city streets for a Seine River cruise at sunset. This is the perfect way to soak up Parisian romance.

Source: Unsplash

Toronto, Canada

Diverse, dynamic, and drenched in culture. Toronto proudly wears the crown of the world’s most diverse city. The city’s population—more than half born outside Canada—contributes to a vibrant cultural landscape, offering visitors an immersive experience in global traditions, culinary delights, and a rich array of perspectives.

Toronto’s urban sophistication further elevates its status as a top travel destination. It features iconic skyscrapers, world-class museums, enticing beer gardens, and a thriving arts and entertainment scene that reflects the city’s cosmopolitan charm.

This city has also been among the best choices for sustainable business travel, ensuring that your exploration is not only memorable but also environmentally conscious.

Ten York Living Room

Travel tip: For quality accommodations and peace of mind, consider DelSuites. Known for our prime locations and personalized service, we are your home away from home in the heart of Toronto.

Source: Pexels

Bangkok, Thailand

As the perfect place to begin your journey through Asia, Bangkok is a city that seamlessly weaves together history, culture, and architectural splendour.

A tourist magnet for its cultural attractions, world-class shopping, and culinary delights, Bangkok is a sensory feast. The bustling nightlife and larger-than-life street culture add an extra layer of allure for those seeking an unforgettable experience.

Travel tip: Embrace the local transport. Tuk-tuks and long-tail boats provide a truly authentic Bangkok adventure.

Source: Unsplash

Rajasthan, India

Enjoy a journey through India’s northwestern state, Rajasthan, where iconic hotels and cultural treasures await.

A magnet for travellers, Rajasthan stands out thanks to its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. The historical hill forts and palaces, each narrating tales of bygone eras, make Rajasthan a must-visit destination.

Travel tip: Immerse yourself in the royal ambiance by choosing accommodations in one of the historical palaces turned into luxurious hotels.

Source: Unsplash

Kansas City, Missouri

Known as the “heart of America,” Kansas City is more than just a geographic center. This is a destination that promises unique experiences.

With wide-open spaces and a myriad of activities, Kansas City offers everything from pro sports to exploring the largest segment of true tallgrass prairie in the U.S. The city’s cultural vibrancy is on the rise, and did we mention the celebrity touch from Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce?

Travel tip: Dive into the local barbecue scene (with over 100 BBQ restaurants!), savouring the flavours that put Kansas City on the culinary map.

Source: Pexels

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, the city of lights and entertainment, continues to evolve and captivate. Renowned for its gambling and nightlife offerings, 2024 brings new reasons to visit: the futuristic Sphere with its LED exterior and the return of F1 racing.

The sports and entertainment capital of the world also goes beyond desert oasis, providing a sensory overload of shopping, fine dining, and larger-than-life experiences.

Travel tip: Don’t limit yourself to the famous casinos. From the Blue Man Group to Madame Tussauds, Hoover Dam Tour, and more, there’s an ever-growing list of unique attractions and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Source: Pexels

London, England

A visit to London is like stepping into a timeless storybook. With its stunning architecture, hectic streets, and iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, London is a city that has much to offer.

A double-decker bus ride offers a panoramic view of this metropolis, revealing its rich history and bustling presence. And the best part? Many museums and art galleries are free to enter, making London an accessible treasure trove for culture enthusiasts.

Travel tip: Stroll through the city’s lush gardens, offering brief calmness amidst the urban hustle.

Source: Unsplash

Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Set in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is a wildlife haven that offers a safari experience like no other. Picture vast savannahs dotted with iconic acacia trees, and herds of elephants meandering gracefully against the backdrop of Africa’s highest peak.

With its diverse ecosystems, from swamps to woodlands, the park is a playground for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking an authentic African safari experience.

Travel tip: Catch the mesmerizing sunset over Mount Kilimanjaro for a spectacle that will forever be etched into your travel memories.

Source: Pexels

Cusco, Peru

Nestled high in the Andes, Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, exudes a unique charm that captivates every traveller.

The historic center has so much to discover with its exquisite churches, fantastic museums, and cobblestone streets. Cusco has preserved Peru’s natural and cultural wealth, boasting ancient architecture, Inca temples, and palaces that narrate tales of a glorious past.

Travel tip: Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in traditional festivals, such as the Cusco Carnival and Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun).

Source: Unsplash

Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo, a dynamic city on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, beckons with a diverse array of attractions year-round.

From ski slopes to expansive parks and rich history, there’s always something captivating in this booming metropolis. Sapporo is also famous for its spectacular Sapporo Snow Festival, where ice sculptures transform Odori Park into a winter wonderland.

Travel tip: Dive into the local culinary scene, where the city’s signature fresh seafood awaits your taste buds.

Final Thoughts

This coming year, the travel landscape will be alive with possibilities. Each destination promises a unique experience that you won’t forget.

Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time adventurer, may your journey be filled with unexpected delights, new perspectives, and excitement at discovering new places and cultures.

Cheers to 2024—a year destined for extraordinary journeys!

Lifestyle talk

Trick or Treating Safety Tips Halloween

October 23, 2023

Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for your little ones. They get to dress up in costumes and spend the evening knocking on doors and getting heaps of candy. It’s a quintessential childhood experience – but as the responsible adult, you play an important role in making sure trick or treating is done safely. Here are some trick-or-treating safety tips to keep in mind so that you can make sure your kids have a safe and happy Halloween.

Make Sure Their Costumes Are Visible

Wearing a black Batman cape at dusk means that drivers will have a very hard time seeing your child as they try to cross the road. Instead, go for bright and colourful costumes or attach reflective tape to the costume. Also, your child can carry glow sticks, a flashlight or any other type of flashing device to make them more visible in the dark.

Can They Move and See Clearly?

Sometimes the trouble with masks and hooded costumes is that they restrict vision. Your child may struggle to see out of the small eye holes in the mask, which could cause them to walk into traffic or take a nasty fall. It is better to wear face paint rather than masks so that your child’s vision is not obstructed. Also, make sure that their costume doesn’t restrict their movement and make them more likely to trip and fall over such as a long skirt dragging on the ground.

Be Smart Around Strangers

Some other trick or treating safety tips are to trick or treat in a familiar neighbourhood where you know most of the people who live there. Make sure that your child knows that they should never go inside someone’s house unless they know them. Only trick or treat at well-lit houses and do not approach someone’s property if the lights are not on.

Check Out the Candy Before Eating

When your child arrives home with a bag filled with sweets, make sure that you give it an inspection before you let them dig in. Watch out for any items that they are allergic to, or any sweets that look like they have been tampered with or are not in their original wrapping. You might want to place the Halloween candy somewhere on a high shelf so that you can dole out a reasonable amount and avoid a candy binge sugar rush and subsequent crash.

Alone or With Adults?

Children that are quite young should always trick or treat with an adult, or at least with a responsible teenage sibling or family friend. However, your older pre-teen children may be able to trick or treat in a group without an adult. You know your own child and how responsible they are – so use your judgement. When they go out you should know what neighbourhood they will be trick or treating in, they should be contactable via mobile phone and they should agree to be back by a specific time.

Another thing to add is if your child is also showcasing some symptoms of a cold or flu, it might be best for them to stay home.

If you are looking for fun things to do or wondering where to buy a costume, check out this guide to find out the latest on what’s going on in Toronto!

Keep these trick-or-treating safety tips in mind for a fun and safe Halloween!

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