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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.

Downtown Toronto

What to Expect From Each Toronto Neighborhood as a Visitor

September 30, 2020
toronto neighborhoods

If you’re planning a trip to Toronto for the first time, you may be wondering where to stay. The city is made up of quite a few distinct neighborhoods, each of which has its pros and cons.

In the central area of the city, you’ll find leafy residential streets lined with townhouses, beautiful homes, the University of Toronto campus, and the bright lights of the downtown area. In the east, you’ll find wide-open green spaces, residential homes, and even waterfront hikes. 

Here are a few of the city’s most popular neighbourhoods and what you can expect if you choose to stay in them. 

Yorkville

This centrally located area is just north of one of Toronto’s main streets—Bloor Street. While the neighbourhood is close to the hustle and bustle of the city, it offers a much more quiet and tranquil atmosphere. 

It’s a relatively upscale area, with pricier restaurants, bars, and shops. If you’re looking for a neighbourhood that’s close to Bloor St., but that offers a quiet, trendy way of life, Yorkville might be ideal for you.

Downtown and the Entertainment District

Downtown Toronto is usually considered to be located around the Yonge-Dundas Square area. This area is always bustling and is filled with shopping, offices, and skyscrapers. If you’re travelling to Toronto for business, you may very well end up in the downtown area on a daily basis. 

Downtown Toronto is conveniently located and has excellent transport links. Plus, if you’re interested in shopping, eating out, or catching a movie or a play, it’s ideal. However, it’s not a particularly homely area, and it may get a little hectic for some visitors.

The Annex

The Annex is another central area in Toronto, located just west of its bustling downtown. The Annex is filled with student houses along with plenty of charming family townhouses. It’s a slightly quieter, cooler area in comparison to both Yorkville and downtown. 

Here, you’ll find plenty of affordable, hip restaurants, cafes, and bars, along with some interesting second-hand boutiques. If you like leafy, pretty streets, but still want to be close to the entertainment district or to the University of Toronto, the Annex is perfect for you.

The Beaches

The Beaches is a little further out than the other areas we’ve discussed so far. It’s located in the east end of Toronto (on the east of the Don Valley Parkway). 

The Beaches are aptly named—the area is known for its sandy waterfront walks, it’s village-like feel, and it’s intimate bakeries, cafes, and bistros. If you don’t need to be close to the downtown area of Toronto, this east end paradise is quiet and charming. 

Cabbagetown

Cabbagetown is a small, idyllic area in the west end of Toronto. While the Annex is on the west of the university, Cabbagetown is to the east. It offers a quiet, residential feel, along with lots of family-friendly restaurants. 

Highlights of this area include Allan Gardens and Riverdale Farm. If you happen to be travelling with kids, this area is perfect for you.

Parkdale

This west end residential area is known for its inclusive, artistic spirit. You’ll find colourful street art and a wide range of entertainment and restaurant options. 

This hip, laid back area is centered around Queen St W, which is filled with boutiques, vintage stores, and vegetarian eateries. 

Roncesvalles

Roncesvalles is west of the Annex. In the past few years, this area has become more and more trendy. These days, it’s where you’ll find some of the coolest wine bars and tapas restaurants in the city. 

You’ll also find independent bookshops and cafes, as well as the city’s huge High Park. This area is a little far out from the hustle and bustle of downtown, but it’s easy to get around by streetcar or subway.

The Danforth

The Danforth is the Main Street in Toronto’s east end. It’s a largely residential area with lots of young families. It’s got lots of parks, easy-going restaurants, and idyllic side streets. 

While this area is east of the Don Valley Parkway, simply hop on the subway to get back to Toronto’s Entertainment District.

Finding Your Home Away From Home in Toronto

Here at DelSuites, we offer a wide range of furnished suites on a temporary short-term basis. Our fully fitted homes are ideal for people travelling to the city for business or short-term school purposes. With suites dotted all over the city, you’re bound to find a gorgeous apartment in whichever area you think will suit you best.

Start browsing our listings and discover the home of your dreams in Toronto.

Business Travel, Downtown Toronto, Family Vacations in Toronto

A Guide to Getting Around Toronto During COVID-19

September 21, 2020
toronto-streetcar-covid-19

If you’re planning on visiting Toronto or the surrounding area, you may be in for a little surprise. Even if you’ve visited the city in the past, things have changed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

As with most large cities, Toronto has had to make some slight changes to its travel system to ensure people’s safety. While the changes are fairly easy to navigate, it’s important to be prepared for the new rules.

Here’s what you need to know about Toronto and the way the city is handling the COVID-19 pandemic.

Getting to Canada 

The biggest changes you’re likely to experience in travelling to Toronto is getting into the country. As of September 2020, the border with the US is closed to most foreign nationals unless you are a citizen or permanent resident of Canada.

If you’re travelling from another country via plane, the airline will do a health assessment to check for symptoms of COVID-19. If you display any of the symptoms, you won’t be able to board the flight. You will also need to wear a face mask over your mouth and nose during the flight. Toronto Pearson (YYZ) is one of the only four Canadian airports currently allowing international flights. 

When you arrive at Toronto Pearson, you will again be checked for symptoms. Whether you display symptoms or not, you will be required to isolate for 14 days if you are coming to Canada from another country. Certain exemptions may be made if you take a COVID-19 test, or if you’re classified as an essential worker.

Public Transit With the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)

Once you’ve arrived in Toronto (and gone through the necessary 14-day self-isolation period if you’re coming from another country), you’ll probably need to get around the city!

The TTC is Toronto’s public transport network. It consists of subway trains, streetcars, and buses. While the entire system is now up and running as normal, there are some additional guidelines to be aware of.

As of July 2020, it is mandatory to wear a mask or face mask while using TTC public transport, unless you have an underlying medical condition that makes wearing a mask unsafe. 

On all buses, streetcars, and trains, you may notice that several seats are blocked off. Avoid using these seats to ensure you are practicing social distancing from other passengers.

Fares can be paid as normal by cash, PRESTO card, or token. 

Click here to see the latest guidance from the TTC about using public transport safely. You can also visit the TTC website to see a full map of the city’s public transport. 

Use a Ride-Hailing App

Uber and other ride-hailing apps have become increasingly popular over the last few years. With Uber and other similar apps, you can order a cab to your exact location and it usually arrives within the space of a few minutes. For many, it’s a more convenient and affordable option than regular taxi cabs. 

As of March 2020, all Uber drivers and passengers are required to wear masks while in the car. Drivers now have to verify they are wearing a mask through the app before they are assigned to a ride. 

Drivers are also required to sign documentation confirming they:

  • Have no COVID-19 symptoms
  • Have disinfected their vehicle
  • Have washed their hands

If your driver arrives without a mask, you’ll be able to cancel your ride for free.

You will also have the luxury of choice when it comes to ride-hailing apps in Toronto. Other ride-hailing apps that are currently available include:

  • Lyft
  • RideGuru
  • Ola
  • Didi
  • Poparide
  • BlancRide
  • HiRide

Toronto’s regular taxis are still in service too.

Bike Share in Toronto

Bike Share Toronto offers an easy bike renting system. With over 6,000 bikes held at convenient outdoor stations around the city, you can grab a bike easily and quickly and drop it off at another station when you’re finished.

This bike rental system is still in operation despite the COVID-19 pandemic. While it isn’t required, you may wish to wipe down the handlebars of your bike and sanitize your hands before and after your trip.

Find out more about renting a bike in Toronto.

Finding the Perfect Accommodations in Toronto

Travelling around Toronto is actually a lot easier than you may think, in spite of the ongoing pandemic. Just remember to keep a respectful distance from other passengers when possible. And don’t forget to bring a few masks with you, so you never have to worry about being refused entry.

No matter how long your trip is, DelSuites has the perfect temporary accommodations in Toronto. Find out how we’re keeping our guests safe during the pandemic. 

Whether you’re travelling for business or for pleasure, our fully furnished, stylish suites will make you feel right at home from the moment you step through the front door. 

Plus, with suites located all over the city, you’re sure to find a place to stay that’s exactly where you need to be. If you’re lucky, you may not need to worry about public transport at all! Discover our short-term rentals in Toronto today.

Business Travel, Downtown Toronto, Family Vacations in Toronto

Fun COVID-Friendly Activities to Keep You Busy During Your Business Trip to Toronto

September 15, 2020
covid 19 restaurant

Travel probably won’t be the same for quite some time. The coronavirus has made travel much more complicated. And when it comes to entertainment, lots of businesses have had to close or change their services. Nevertheless, there’s still plenty to do in Toronto if you’re visiting!

In Ontario, the government has created a system of various stages to control the spread of coronavirus. In each stage, certain activities and businesses are allowed to operate, while others are not. 

As of September 2020, Toronto is in “stage 3.” In this stage, certain things aren’t operating as normal, such as amusement parks, buffet restaurants, saunas, and bars. However, there are still plenty of businesses operating that promise a great time! Here are some ideas of some fun things to do in Toronto that are safe and, most importantly, open.

Head to a Restaurant Patio

As of September 2020, restaurants are open with a few restrictions in place. If you’re dining inside, there will be plastic partitions between tables, and you’ll be asked to stay seated throughout your meal. However, if weather permits, sitting at an outdoor patio can feel pretty normal. 

Spend an evening enjoying a meal and drinks at a restaurant like Hemingway’s, The Porch, or Against the Grain. 

Get a Massage

While certain features of Toronto’s spas are currently closed (such as saunas), you can still head to one of the city’s masseuses. If you’re travelling for business, this is a wonderful way to unwind, de-stress, and release some of those post-lockdown knots! Make sure to bring a mask with you as it will be required inside.

Try a Socially Distanced Fitness Class

In the past few months, fitness studios have started to reopen around the city. Most studios that have reopened have had to cut their class sizes by quite a lot in order to allow for social distancing. Try taking a barre, yoga, or spin class to get a feel for the city’s amazing fitness scene! 

Visit an Outdoor Cinema

Indoor cinemas have reopened with smaller audience capacities. However, Toronto is home to a few excellent outdoor cinemas. Before the cold Canadian winter sets in, catch a film at an outdoor cinema. 

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has planned an outdoor drive-in cinema in early September at five locations around the city! Find out more today. 

Take Part in a Small Tour of the City

While large tours are no longer operating, smaller guided tours of the city have started up again. If you’re new to Toronto, this is a great way to get a feel for the city and learn about its history. Or, if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, why not follow a map and take yourself on a walking tour!

Visit One of the City’s Amazing Museums

Most of Toronto’s museums have reopened to the public. Here are a few of the city’s best-loved museums and what you can see there:

  • Royal Ontario Museum. See a huge collection of Canadian artifacts in this centrally located museum
  • Casa Loma. This faux chateau was built in 1914, but feels like a true Baroque relic
  • Art Gallery of Ontario. One of the country’s most famous galleries, featuring pieces by Canadian and international artists
  • Bata Shoe Museum. Discover the surprisingly fascinating history of shoes
  • Aga Khan Museum. Discover the rich history of Islamic civilizations 
  • Mackenzie House. See the home of Toronto’s first mayor in this intimate, historic home

While all of these museums are reopened, most require you to wear a mask inside and book in advance.

Catch a Live Performance

Most theatres and music venues remain shut due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are actually a few opportunities to see live performances this fall in Toronto. For instance, this September sees the outdoor Jazz Festival up and running. Plus, Canadian Stage recently announced that they are presenting a range of theatrical and dance performances in safe outdoor venues throughout the fall. 

DelSuites: The Perfect Place to Stay in Toronto

Here at DelSuites, we understand that travelling in 2020 has proven to be a little trickier than anyone anticipated. That’s why we’ve done everything in our power to make our temporary furnished suites the perfect place to call home while working remotely. With additional cleaning regimes in place, and a fully trained team of staff, you can always rest assured that your stay will be safe and comfortable. 

We offer short-term rentals that suit everyone’s needs and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a contemporary apartment in Yorkville, or you’d prefer a cozy place to call home in East Toronto, we have you covered. Start browsing our downtown Toronto apartments today.

Business Travel, Downtown Toronto, Family Vacations in Toronto

Your COVID-19 Guide to Toronto’s Virtual Museums 

July 6, 2020
toronto royal ontario museum

Toronto is Canada’s most popular tourism destination—and for good reason. Whether you’re looking for downtown Toronto apartments or to visit the city, the capital of Ontario is home to diverse cuisines and cultures, Instagram-friendly landmarks, and kind, easygoing locals. Canada’s most famous city has its own unique charm—and, in spite of its far-reaching impact, the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t changed the city’s fundamental sense of community and caring. 

Among the things that Toronto is known for—including its breathtaking skyline views and the crowning jewel of film festivals—are expansive museums of art, world culture, and natural history. While the doors to these museums are closed until further notice, you can still enjoy their exhibits without leaving the comfort of your furnished suite. 

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a native Torontonian, we’ve put together a list of four virtual museums across the country that are now available for your viewing pleasure. 

1. Art Gallery of Ontario 

art gallery of ontario

The AGO is one of the largest art museums in North America. From leading contemporary artists like Pierre Huyghe to emerging Indigenous Canadian artists, the AGO’s collection consists of tens of thousands of artworks from all over the world and across time. 

In the wake of COVID-19, the AGO’s online collections can be viewed for free at home, at any time. We recommend checking out the Boxwood Project, which features intricate and mystifying miniature boxwood carvings from the Gothic era. Make sure to zoom in on the incredibly fine details of this prayer bead from the 1500s. 

Don’t exit your browser without taking a look at the AGO’s Prints and Drawings collection, including over 20,000 prints, drawings, and watercolours from as far back as the 1400s. View the sketches of Michelangelo, Picasso, van Gogh, and legendary Canadian artists like David Milne, Michael Snow, and David Blackwood, among other familiar names. 

2. Canadian Museum of History 

The CMH is Canada’s national museum of human history, exploring not just Canadian history, but the past 20,000 years of our existence as a species. With the museum’s own roots dating back to 1856, the CMH is one of North America’s oldest cultural institutions. 

With interactive exhibits, activities, and educational resources, the CMH is a playground for historically-minded individuals who are stuck at home. The museum has also made it possible for online visitors to stream vivid documentaries on ocean life, dinosaurs, and ancient Egyptian mummies. 

For thought-provoking and amusing exhibits, we recommend the Art of Puppetry, which showcases over 2,000 puppets and their unique stories, and Canadian Dress: The Confederation Era, an exhibit examining what men, women, and children wore in the nineteenth century.  

3. Royal Ontario Museum

The ROM is a national treasure, garnering over a million visitors every year. Its eye-catching architecture is a staple of downtown Toronto, and its exhibits within are all the more captivating. 

Home to 13 million artworks, cultural artifacts, and historical relics, the ROM holds the title of Canada’s largest museum. Nearly 50,000 of its featured objects are available for exploring online at any time. 

We highly recommend the ROM’s online interactive exhibits, two of which are powered using Google. One tells the tragic story of a blue whale salvaged back in 2014 when nine whales were found entombed in ice off the western coast of Newfoundland. A team from the ROM itself travelled to Newfoundland to investigate, transforming a tragedy into a touching educational adventure. 

4. National Gallery of Canada 

National Gallery of Canada 

Located in Ottawa, the NGC is an architectural beauty, with towering glass windows that perfectly mirror the sky. Like the Art Gallery of Ontario, the NGC is one of the largest art museums in North America. Physically, it occupies nearly 50,000 square metres of exhibition space. Within these exhibits, the gallery boasts a collection of over 93,000 artworks with Canadian, European, and Asian roots. 

Tour and explore the NGC’s newly-launched virtual galleries, thought-provoking videos, and photostories. Experience a selection of artworks handpicked by the gallery’s curators, enter a viewing room for intriguing historical photography, and embark on an audio tour of artworks intent on capturing nature’s colourful charm. 

Stay Safe and Informed With DelSuites

Attractions across the country have closed their doors and entered a digital space in a concerted effort to keep visitors as safe as possible. Likewise, if you’re relocating within Toronto during the pandemic, safety should be your foremost concern.

Our furnished apartments in downtown Toronto, Mississauga, Scarborough, and North York provide you with the sanitization standards of a hotel—as well as the luxury—without breaking the bank. 

In particular, DelSuites offers you a tranquil environment to rest, rejuvenate, and explore. From a fully-stocked kitchen and ensuite laundry to high-speed internet access, guests are provided with everything they need to stay exactly where they are. When it comes to short-term rentals in Toronto, DelSuites ensures that safety and luxury go hand-in-hand. 

Are you moving within Toronto during the pandemic? Visit our website to book a furnished suite today. 

For more information on how you can stay safe while enjoying yourself during the COVID-19 pandemic, get in touch with our team at info@delsuites.com.

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