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Business Travel, Vacation Travel

Moving During COVID Times: What You Need to Know

March 22, 2021
short-term rental moving day

The world has changed in numerous ways over the last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people have put much of their lives on hold, working from home or being unable to work at all. 

That said, there still are many reasons why you might need to move at this time, despite (or even because of) the pandemic. Since this time is so unprecedented, many questions come up when planning a move. 

DelSuites is here to answer them all and help make this process as smooth as possible for you. 

Moving Right Now

The first question is probably, “Can I even move at this time?” The simple answer is yes. There are apartment buildings that are limiting or not allowing the move-in/move-out process currently so the best option is to contact everyone directly to verify. Also, something might come up that would require you to delay or cancel a move. 

Most businesses have new guidelines with more flexibility than usual for these situations. All DelSuites buildings are allowing people to move-in or move-out, with rules and restrictions in place to keep everybody as safe as possible. 

Touring a New Place

While touring your potential new home is still available, it is discouraged so you can adhere to social distancing protocols. Luckily, DelSuites includes as many photos as possible on our website and has virtual tours and video links offered as an alternate solution to tours. Also, tours by video call are available as another safe option to view a place while keeping everybody healthy. 

Purchasing Moving Supplies

Both packing supply stores and big box stores are considered essential and are still opened at this time. You should be able to purchase anything you need at one of these. If you want to keep even safer and order online, please keep in mind that there have been shipping delays during this time. Make sure to give yourself enough time for any packages to arrive. 

Staying Safe While Traveling

At a personal level, you can stay safe while traveling by keeping socially distanced from others as much as possible, always wearing your mask, and washing your hands thoroughly as often as possible. If you are traveling by air or rail, follow all rules and recommendations provided by the company providing the service. And before anything, be sure to check the Public Health Agency of Canada’s latest updates about everything COVID-19.

Traveling Between Provinces

Canada currently does not have any federal restrictions on traveling between provinces. There may be provincial or territorial rules and restrictions in place for where you are moving to so it is best to check government websites for the most current rules. If you’re moving to Ontario from another province, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health strongly advises that you self-isolate for 14 days after arriving. 

Staying Clean While Moving In

As long as you follow all guidelines recommended by the Public Health Agency of Canada and verify that the businesses you’re dealing with are doing the same, everybody should be kept clean and safe during this process. If you’re moving into a DelSuites location, we offer numerous pre-arrival and quarantine assistance:

  • Extra bed linens and towels
  • Easy Self-Service Grocery
  • Safe Delivery and Garbage Disposal procedures
  • COVID-19 Information Resources

Staying Safe Once Moved In

After arriving, it is necessary to continue to follow protocols to stay safe. As an active member of its communities, DelSuites does adhere to the safety protocols of each building. Listed below are some expected safety protocols:

  • Sanitizer stations are prominently placed throughout all buildings.
  • Mask wearing in common areas and maintaining a distance of 2m is required in all buildings.
  • Elevator spacing guidelines and a maximum of 2 people per household in all elevators.
  • Maximum capacity has been revised and new restrictions for safe use in fitness centers, swimming pools, and other amenities. 
  • Closures of some common areas or recreational amenities are possible as decided by the Property Management/Condominium Board.

For more information, please read DelSuites Enhance Hygiene Practices and Protocols.

About DelSuites Short-Term Rentals

DelSuites provides quality furnished suites in superb residential communities within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). DelSuites has developed a reputation for quality accommodations in prime locations and personalized service.

If you’d like to learn more about short-term rentals anywhere in the Greater Toronto Area and the options that DelSuites can offer, please contact us today or reach out directly by calling 1-877-228-7677. We are more than happy to help!

Business Travel, Scarborough, Vacation Travel

4 Reasons Why Scarborough Apartments for Rent Are Going Fast in 2021

February 22, 2021
scarborough apartments

Are you looking for the right Scarborough apartments for rent? Finding the right place to live isn’t easy. But With DelSuites, we make finding your next place that much easier.

While Scarborough is often viewed as its own city or region by visitors, it’s very much part of the City of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Invisible borders and boundaries detach it from Toronto and the downtown Toronto core, but traveling to and from Scarborough and Toronto is quick and easy. 

Even if you work or study in Toronto, living in Scarborough can be a great experience. In this article, we’ll discuss why you should consider a Scarborough apartment for your short-term stay and why others are renting and buying in too. 

1. There’s Limited Space in Toronto

Space is limited in Toronto. With zoning bylaws, existing structures, and high population density, there’s only so much real estate to go around. This can make it difficult for renters to find that perfect place in Toronto. 

While Scarborough is considered its distinct area, it’s still a part of Toronto. If you are in Toronto to work or looking to experience a new area of the city, try a Scarborough apartment for rent near the Old City boundaries. 

2. It’s a Landlord’s Market

We’re living in a landlord’s market—and thanks to the pandemic—many people are staying put. Low vacancy rates, high demand, increasing rents, and similar factors favor landlords in the housing market. 

A landlord’s market is not a new phenomenon in Toronto either. When you have a world-class city, it shouldn’t surprise you that people want to move here.

This is not a description of doom and gloom for the average renter, though. When you are in a landlord’s market, it’s an excellent time to participate as well, even for a short time with a short-term rental. 

Scarborough is a great city to work in, live in, and our units are kid-friendly, making it a suitable alternative to the hustle and bustle of the downtown core.

3. More People Are Migrating to Toronto for Work

Toronto is a world-class city. Many things are happening in the city, especially for youths and young working professionals. 

The city features its own financial district with many established companies. Our universities are among the best in the world. Many sports teams train and play here. This makes Toronto an attractive place for families, working professionals, and business travel.

4. Toronto’s Real Estate Market Continues to Boom

Many residents and visitors, both from overseas and around Canada, migrate to Toronto. Toronto offers that big city feel, an enriching cultural experience, and straightforward transit routes. 

Education is also excellent in Toronto, with many world-class institutions and the downtown core featuring several notable hospitals, clinics, and other professional services.

But with this attraction comes a price—high rents and limited apartments. These real estate trends are one of the main reasons why Scarborough continues to grow in popularity for families and professionals looking for a more affordable place to live. 

The DelSuites Difference: Great Locations & Exceptional Service

DelSuites offers furnished short-term apartment rentals, perfect for the staycationer or short-term student or businessperson. With access to local events and attractions, shops, and transit lines, you can go and do many different activities in the greater city area, as long as you abide by lockdown rules (which are temporary, given that we have vaccines now).

Scarborough features an incredible amount of diversity, and various cultures are promoted and celebrated throughout the city, providing you with a global experience at a fraction of the cost of a plane ticket.

DelSuites provides short-term rentals, furnished apartments, and hotel apartments for clients, ensuring that you are as comfortable as possible for your stay. Our apartments are clean, safe, and hospitable, making them the perfect option for anyone looking to live in Toronto.

DelSuites is also taking the COVID-19 pandemic very seriously. Our cleaning staff use disinfectant cleaners with bleach, which have always been a part of our high standard cleaning practices. We also offer clients their own set of cleaning supplies (by request), so you can continue to feel safe and clean throughout your stay.

Book Your Next Stay With DelSuites Today

With great locations, clean apartments, and a caring team that takes the pandemic seriously, DelSuites makes it easy for you to find the best Scarborough apartments for rent.

Check out the different Scarborough apartments we have available on our website or contact us directly. We can help you find the perfect apartment for your short- or long-term rental needs.

Business Travel, Downtown Toronto, Vacation Travel

COVID-19 Safety Tips for Your Downtown Toronto Rental

October 30, 2020
woman visitng downtown toronto rental

As many would agree, dealing with COVID-19 has made us all adopt a new normal. With changes to how we commute, work, and communicate, it can be stressful trying to navigate these unfamiliar rules.

However, when staying in a major city like Toronto, with the help of health experts and government guidelines, settling into your temporary home in Toronto and adapting to these changes doesn’t have to be so scary. 

Here are some tips on how you can maintain safety during your stay at one of our downtown Toronto rentals.

The Basics of Public Safety Guidelines in Toronto 

Under official public health guidelines, businesses and individuals alike are doing their part in reducing the spread of COVID-19. This has meant increased precautions like contact tracing at many restaurants offering customer seating and limitations to indoor gatherings.

Likewise, for international travellers just landing in the city, you must undergo a 14 day self-isolation period according to Toronto Public Health. And while you’re here, adopting healthy habits can be the best defence in keeping you safe. This includes:

  • Wearing a face mask
  • Washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds
  • Maintaining social distancing or two-meter distance from others
  • Staying home if you are sick

Take Advantage of Travel and Booking Flexibility

As we’ve seen throughout this year, how we travel is constantly changing, especially dealing with COVID-19. Understanding this, there are options to help you book your stay in Toronto. 

Our company has always been a supporter of green initiatives. All agreements are signed digitally, limiting the number of face-to-face interactions required to finalize your rental. You can view all photos and virtual tours for a specific suite online.

We’re committed to giving you the utmost flexibility, meaning we allow for advanced reservation or short notice cancellations in light of these circumstances. 

Commuting Around the City Safely 

You have several options available to you when travelling in Toronto. These include public transit with the TTC, taxis, and ride-sharing programs through Uber and Lyft.

If you do have to take transit, the TTC is a great resource. Along with increased transit service and cleaning protocols, to reduce the spread of COVID-19,  masks and face covers are mandatory on the TTC as of September 2020. As well, maintaining social distancing and constant hand washing when travelling helps to keep you safe.

Plan Ahead

Using google maps or Rocketman for the TTC to track when your next bus arrives will allow you to plan your trip ahead of time. This way you do not have to worry about asking for directions or getting lost around the city. And with our 15 locations all around the city and the GTA, transit accessibility and safely reaching your destination is not a problem.

Work Remotely From Home

In the effort of reducing the spread of COVID-19, more people are working right from home. With everyone trying to adapt to this new work environment, video conferencing tools like Zoom have become essential to how we communicate and conduct our business. Luckily, you never have to worry about buffering or missing a call with our high-speed internet and wi-fi available throughout your stay at our downtown Toronto rentals.

All of our downtown Toronto rentals also include local and North American long-distance calling. Additionally, certain units come with work desks and chairs.

Make the Most of Your Downtown Toronto Rental

Settle in and Spread Out

Private common areas and fully furnished living spaces mean you don’t have to worry about unnecessary interactions with other people and can enjoy your temporary home in peace. 

Live More Independently

Downtown Toronto rentals offer more independence and individualistic living so you can limit your contact with the outside world. This means amenities like washers and dryers are available for you to do your own laundry and cleaning at your convenience. 

Utilize High-Quality House Cleaning

At DelSuites, we offer bi-weekly housekeeping (certain conditions apply) to enhance cleaning and sanitization at the highest level. Also in your serviced downtown Toronto rental, fresh linens and cleaning supplies are always stocked and at your disposal. 

Prepare Meals in Your Own Kitchen

With fully operational kitchens, you can take care of the majority of your meals right inside of your downtown Toronto rental. Buying groceries and cooking from home reduces contact with restaurants and the hassle of take-away while saving you money. 

DelSuites: Working Together to Keep You Safe

The health and safety of our guests and associates is our number one priority. This means we are always keeping on top of and maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene to keep you safe. 

During these unprecedented times maintaining healthy habits and making sure you are safe can be stressful. But you are not alone. Feel confident that with DelSuites and our world-class staff, your downtown Toronto rental is a secure and safe place that you can call home. 

We provide what you need to work effectively and live comfortably during your stay in your downtown Toronto rental. Visit our website and book with us today.

Business Travel, Corporate Housing, Toronto Condos, Vacation Travel

Short-Term Rental vs. Hotel: Weighing Your Options on Where You Should Stay in Toronto

October 26, 2020
toronto travel hotel vs short-term rental

You land in the city and are looking for a place to stay. Finding a living space that is clean and comfortable is going to be priority number one. Luckily you have options. When it comes to serviced living spaces, the two most popular options include: booking a short-term rental or finding a hotel. 

Depending on what type of trip you are taking to the city, whether it’s business or leisure, how you want to spend your time here, and where you reside will change. Both hotels and short-term rentals offer different experiences that can enhance or hinder your stay. 

Here is a breakdown that will help you weigh your options and help you decide which is better for you: 

What Do Short-Term Rentals Offer?

short-term rental unit

Privacy

Since the entire living space is rented, you get a greater sense of privacy and experience fewer interruptions from other guests or staff like you would at a hotel. Especially in a time of social distancing, you do not have to worry about sharing common areas with other patrons or having to wear a face mask every time you leave your room. Instead, settle in and spread out as you please. 

Feeling At Home

Amenities like a kitchen, washer and dryer, and fully furnished living spaces are often included. This enhances the feeling of home as you can prepare your various meals, tend to your own laundry and live at your own pace in your home away from home.

Better Sense of the Neighbourhood

Short-term rentals are great for a longer stay. With locations throughout most major cities, you can get to know the area and community you are living in. Feel like a local and get fantastic intel on the best bars, restaurants, and hidden gems in the neighbourhood.

Saves You Money

Being able to do things like cook for yourself in a kitchen means you don’t have to worry about added costs on amenities that are included right in your living space. Likewise, the ability to be more self-sufficient means less hassle with cleaning fees and having to tip the bellboy. 

Drawbacks

For short-term rentals, the increased independent living does mean you miss out on things like room service or larger amenities that a luxury hotel might provide. However, for condo-style or suite-style temporary rentals with DelSuites, things like a gym or a pool are still often available to you. 

What Do Hotels Offer?

hotel room vs short term rental

Many, Many Locations

Most major cities are no stranger to luxury hotels. This means you can have your pick of the best hotel in whichever neighbourhood you’d like to reside on your trip. Grab the best view in the city or the closest room to your favourite places in the downtown core, the choice is up to you. 

Service When You Want It

Hotels provide round-the-clock service. This means convenience and direct customer service whenever you have a complaint or concern with your room. Likewise, prepared meals are available for delivery at a cost, just pick up the phone and dial room service.

You’re In and Out

Reception operates 24/7 which allows for check-in and check-out at any time of the day or night.  This is great for international travellers or those on short business trips as you do not have to deal with the hassle of extensive clean up when you leave. 

Drawbacks

For hotels, rooms must be cleaned frequently and linens changed almost every day. This constant servicing can be very disruptive as it increases unnecessary interaction with staff and can alter travel itineraries based on house cleaning hours. At the same time, with so many rooms to service, specialized care, and focus on your living space is reduced. 

In this time of social distancing, it is vital to limit interaction with other people and increase cleanliness in high touch areas, something that might be overlooked in hotel room maintenance. 

Choosing the Best Option for Your Trip 

Both hotels and short-term rentals have pros and cons and can alter how you experience a city. In a major city like Toronto, with so much to see and unique activities to do, it is important to experience the most of this beautiful city at your own pace. Although hotels provide luxury and convenience, short-term rentals save you money while allowing you to feel the privacy and comforts of home so you can focus on your trip. 

When you’re staying in Toronto, booking with DelSuites is the best of both worlds. Our short-term rentals allow you to enjoy your independence during your stay, but when you need it, maintenance and customer service are just one call away. With well-established locations throughout the city, you can rely on us to make you feel right at home anywhere you are. 

If you’re interested in learning more, visit our website today to see how staying with DelSuites is the best choice for your trip to Toronto. 

Business Travel, Corporate Housing

A Guide to Hosting Virtual Corporate Meetings From Your Remote Location

September 25, 2020
virtual-meeting-corporate-housing

By now, we’ve all attended at least one virtual meeting. The COVID-19 pandemic has made it essential for all of us to learn new ways of conducting business—even if it means migrating to an online setting and working remotely. Luckily, we do have access to exceptional technology that allows us to continue to do business, even if in-person meetings are no longer a possibility in many cases. 

While video conferencing tools like Zoom are helping millions of businesses to conduct meetings and events seamlessly throughout the pandemic, for many, it’s proving a little difficult to master the art of the online meeting. After all, to run an effective meeting, a whole new host of skills are required. Using this guide, you’ll be able to run an efficient and productive virtual meeting. 

Have Someone Present to Let People Into the Meeting

With video conferencing apps like Zoom, the host often needs to be present to let attendees into the meeting room. To make the meeting as seamless as possible, assign someone to the role of “virtual receptionist.” 

Make sure they are on hand a few minutes prior to the meeting’s start time to let people into the meeting room and introduce them to other early birds. This will give the meeting an extra professional feel and will set people at ease from the get-go. 

Set Ground Rules

As you can easily imagine, virtual meetings can easily get confusing and chaotic, especially when there are lots of attendees. To ensure that the meeting runs smoothly, set some ground rules in advance. The following points can be extremely helpful in keeping things on track:

  • Ask people to mute themselves when they don’t have the floor. This will help the speaker to get their points across and will prevent background noise from creating unnecessary distractions. With some apps, people’s video feeds will take over the screen when they make noise, which can be distracting for obvious reasons!
  • Set rules for how people will contribute. A good way to do this is to assign someone the role of the meeting organizer. Ask people with questions or points to write a message in the chatbox. When an appropriate moment arises, the meeting leader can give this person the floor. 
  • Set rules about staying on topic. The meeting leader should have the power to divert the conversation back on track if the meeting veers off course onto a tangent. 

With clear, pre-set rules, you won’t have to worry about the meeting taking a wrong turn. Plus, you’ll ensure that every speaker gets their turn!

Create an Itinerary and Make Sure Attendees are on the Same Page

In addition to sending attendees some ground rules in advance, send them a rough itinerary of what will be covered. Set aside a specific amount of time for each item on the agenda. This way, you can stay on course and cover everything you need to in the meeting. 

Write a Script or a Guide for Presentations

If you are presenting ideas or products during the meeting, don’t feel as though you need to think on your feet. Prepare as you would for an in-person presentation, and jot down some notes on what you want to say. For more formal presentations, you might even write a rough script. 

Make Use of Features Like Screen Sharing

While video conferencing isn’t always ideal, it does have some perks. Namely, that there are many features that can make sharing information quick and easy. Screen and file sharing is an excellent feature that allows you to share slides, images, and documents with all attendees. Some might even say it’s better than a projector!

Use Breakout Rooms for Smaller Group Sessions

Another excellent feature of many video conferencing apps is the breakout room feature. For longer business meetings, you may wish to split the large group into a few smaller groups. This will give people a chance to come up with ideas, reflect, and discuss. 

Depending on the purpose of your breakout rooms, you can set the app to choose groups at random, or you can set the groups in advance. Using this feature will give the meeting structure and will help to keep all attendees engaged and active throughout.

DelSuites: Find the Perfect Home Office Away From Home

Even though businesses are operating largely online, lots of people are beginning to travel for business. Here in Toronto and the GTA, we’ve seen more and more executives visiting the city. 

We offer beautiful, temporary accommodation and corporate housing that is perfect for people visiting the city on business. With our enhanced cleaning regime and our fully-fitted suites, you’ll find yourself in the perfect place to set up a temporary office—and host those virtual meetings like a pro! Find out about our short-term rentals in Toronto today.