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Downtown Toronto, Downtown Toronto Condos, Lifestyle talk, Toronto Condos

5 Ways You Can Stay Productive While Working Remotely

June 3, 2024

working from short-term rentals in toronto

Whether you’re working from home as a result of the lockdown across Toronto, or you have just started a new remote job, adjusting to life without an office can be trickier than you initially imagined.

While the idea of rolling out of bed at 8:20 a.m. and starting work at 8:30 a.m. sounds like a dream come true to many, after a few days or weeks of remote working, you may find yourself struggling to stay productive.

Here are 5 Ways You Can Stay Productive While Working Remotely

1. Schedule Breaks in Your Day

If you’re struggling to get work done from a remote location, you may think that adding more breaks to your day would be counterproductive. However, studies have shown that carefully scheduled work breaks can improve the quality of the work you produce.

The Pomodoro Technique is a pretty extreme, regimented version of this concept. In this technique, you. Break your day into 25-minute work periods separated by 5-minute breaks. After four rounds, you will get a longer break of 15 to 20 minutes.

While you may find this structure a bit too intense, it’s still helpful to schedule in breaks. This way, your day will feel more purposeful. Because you have set break times, you’ll stop feeling aimless as you work. Instead, you’ll begin working towards mini-deadlines throughout the day.

2. Set Up a Remote Working “Office” in Your Home

Whether you’re working at home, or you’re staying and working in one of our downtown Toronto apartments, it’s inevitable that your workspace and your living space will somewhat overlap. Many remote workers make the mistake of getting a little too comfortable when working at home. While you may love the idea of grabbing your laptop and typing away while still in bed, this can be a seriously unproductive setup.

In order to trick the mind into feeling productive, you need to feel like you are in a work environment. Set up a well-lit, organized desk in your home that will serve as your office. Be vigilant about using this area for work and only for work. This way, your muscle memory will get in the habit of treating this home office as a special place of productivity, and you should find it easier to get stuff done.

3. Turn Off Your Phone

The modern world is filled with constant distractions — and most of them originate from our smartphone devices. In 2017, a shocking study revealed that Americans tend to check their phones once every 12 minutes on average. No wonder we find it so hard to concentrate and keep our levels of productivity up!

To keep your mind focused on what you’re doing, remove this major distraction by turning off your device, or, even better, by sticking it in a drawer. This way, you won’t be tempted to absent-mindedly open Twitter or Instagram every few minutes throughout the day.

4. Use Video Conferencing to Maintain Contact With Colleagues

If you’re used to working in a close-knit team, you may be finding remote working conditions pretty tricky. Working alongside colleagues can help us to feel inspired and motivated. When we get stuck, we can bounce around ideas; when we get bored, we can have a quick chat, and then get back to it.

In order to maintain a sense of teamwork and community, try to schedule a few Zoom sessions a week with your colleagues. This will break up the monotony of at-home working, plus, it will give you a much-needed boost in energy so that you can finish off your week with high levels of productivity.

5. Get Outside

When we commute to an office every day, we are forced to spend at least a few minutes in the fresh air. However, many remote workers find that they can go days on end without seeing the sun. Aside from the dangers of developing vitamin D definitely, a lack of outdoor time can be pretty stifling for the mind.

Try to find time to get outside for a daily walk. The fresh air and change of scenery can help you to rethink problems, while the exercise will boost your energy levels for the rest of the day.

Our downtown Toronto apartments are all perfectly situated near some of the city’s best parks so that you can step out your door for a quick stroll, and find yourself in a green oasis in just a few short minutes.

Discover Toronto Short-Term Rentals With DelSuites Today

Are you looking for short-term rentals in Toronto? Our downtown Toronto apartments are perfect for students and professionals alike. Whether you need to work from your new home, or you need a base in the downtown area, DelSuites has you covered.

We can help you find the perfect place to call home. Get in touch with our sales team today by calling 647-370-4313.

Lifestyle talk

Spring Cleaning Tips for Your DelSuites Apartment: Keeping Your Space Fresh and Inviting

May 8, 2024

Welcome to springtime in Toronto! The city bursts into life with vibrant colours and invigorating energy. As we embrace the warmer days and budding blossoms, it’s also time to tackle that age-old tradition: spring cleaning.

Did you know that sunlight plays a key role in regulating our sleep hormone, melatonin? With more daylight hours, we feel more alert and energized, ready to tackle any task that comes our way. This makes cleaning during spring so ideal.

No matter what the season, we ensure your furnished DelSuites apartment is in top shape. We make it easy, as our Guest Services team is always here to help, whether it’s arranging general maintenance or liaising with building management.

But if you’re itching to get started on a major spring cleaning journey, we’ve put together some handy tips to keep your apartment looking fresh and inviting.

So grab your vacuum cleaner, and let’s make your space shine brighter than ever before. After all, there’s nothing quite like a clean home to welcome the joys of spring.

Make a plan of attack to tackle tasks efficiently.

Creating a plan makes spring cleaning easier. Start by listing all the tasks you need to complete and prioritizing them based on urgency or difficulty. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps to prevent feeling overwhelmed. Allocate specific time slots or days for each task, setting realistic goals to avoid burnout.

By planning ahead, you’ll streamline your cleaning process and maximize productivity. This leaves you with more time to enjoy the sunny days of spring – and even visit a quirky local museum or two.

Let the sunshine in with sparkling glass.

There’s nothing quite like the sight of sunlight streaming through squeaky clean windows to brighten up your home.

Gather your cleaning supplies; a glass cleaner or a homemade solution of vinegar and water works wonders. Use a microfiber cloth or newspaper for a streak-free shine.

Begin by dusting window frames and sills, then spray your chosen cleaner onto the glass surface. Wipe in a circular motion to remove dirt and grime, focusing on any stubborn spots. Finish by buffing the glass with a dry cloth for a flawless finish.

Not only will your windows look pristine, but you’ll also invite more natural light into your space, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Freshen up your fabrics.

After a long winter of hibernation, it’s time to give your fabrics a much-needed refresh.

Start by stripping the bedding and curtains. Launder linens with a fresh-scented detergent, adding a splash of vinegar to remove any lingering odours. While the linens are being washed, vacuum upholstered furniture to remove dust and debris, using an upholstery attachment for crevices and seams. Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble your space with fresh, fluffy fabrics, ready to welcome the sunny days of spring with open arms.

Scrub-a-dub the floors.

Roll up your sleeves and give those floors a thorough scrubbing. The usual way to get started is to sweep and vacuum the floor to remove any loose dirt and debris. Then, depending on your floor type, choose an appropriate cleaning solution.

For hardwood or laminate floors, use a damp mop with a mild cleaner, making sure not to saturate the wood. Meanwhile, it’s best to mix warm water and floor cleaner for tile or vinyl floors. Work your way methodically across the room, focusing on any spills or stains in places where people gather most.

Finally, let your floors air dry or dry them with a clean towel for a gleaming finish that will make your whole space feel fresh and revitalized.

Keep your pet’s space fresh and odour-free.

At DelSuites, we understand the importance of caring for your beloved pets during your stay. That’s why we offer pet-friendly stays, ensuring that your furry companions can join you on your travels without any hassle.

But, while we know that bringing our pets along can make travel more fun, they can also leave behind some not-so-pleasant smells. Keep your pet’s space clean and odour-free by staying on top of regular maintenance.

Scoop the litter box daily and change the litter as needed. For cages or enclosures, remove any bedding or substrate and clean the area with a pet-safe cleaner. Wash food and water bowls regularly to prevent bacteria buildup, and don’t forget to give your pet’s toys a good scrub, too.

Clear out the excess (and expired) stuff.

It’s time to say goodbye to clutter and make room for a fresh start. Tackle one area at a time, whether it’s a closet, drawer, or shelf. Sort through your belongings and set aside items that you no longer use or need.

“Does this spark joy?” as Marie Kondo suggests. Be ruthless and ask yourself if each item still serves a purpose. Donate gently used items to charity or sell them online to give them a new home.

As you declutter, don’t forget to check expiration dates on food items, medications, and household products. Dispose of anything past its prime to make space for fresh, functional replacements.

With each item you clear out, you’ll create a more organized and stress-free environment that’s ready to embrace the season ahead.

Clean appliances inside and out.

It’s time to give your appliances some TLC. Unplug them and remove any removable parts, such as shelves or drawers. Wash these parts with warm, soapy water and set them aside to dry.

Next, use a multipurpose cleaner to wipe down the interior of your appliances, paying special attention to areas prone to spills and stains. For stubborn messes, a mixture of baking soda and water can work wonders. Remember to clean the exterior surfaces as well, using a suitable cleaner for each material.

Source: Pexels

Party up your spring cleaning!

Who says spring cleaning has to be a chore? With a party vibe, you can spice up your spring cleaning routine – solo or with the family.

Turn up the tunes with your favourite cleaning playlist to keep the energy high and the motivation flowing. Make it a fun challenge to see how much you can accomplish before the next song ends. Take turns being the DJ and let everyone pick their personal tunes to keep everyone entertained while they tidy up.

With the right music and a positive attitude, you’ll find that spring cleaning can be a surprisingly enjoyable and productive experience.

Spring into Happiness with DelSuites

Ready to get started? With your spring cleaning journey at DelSuites, a fresh, inviting space is just a plan away. Plus, with our pet-friendly stays, your furry friends can join in, too. Our Guest Services team is here to assist whenever you need.

With our furnished short-term rentals across the GTA, you can be sure that every stay with us will match your specific needs. Take a moment to explore our website, where you’ll find a range of luxurious accommodations to suit every taste.

If you haven’t stayed with us yet, don’t miss out! Contact us today to set up a reservation, and make your stay in Toronto truly spectacular.

Business Travel, Fitness and Health, Lifestyle talk

Toronto’s Business Travelers: Navigating Fitness and Wellness on the Go

April 24, 2024

As we overcome the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Canadians are placing a renewed focus on their health and well-being. In fact, 97% of Canadians prioritize physical health, followed closely by mental health and financial stability.

This shift in perspective is shaping the way business travellers approach their trips, with an increased emphasis on staying healthy and secure along the way.

In response to this trend, we’re committed to providing safe and comfortable furnished rentals in Toronto. But we understand that your stay is about more than just a place to sleep – it’s about maintaining your overall wellness while away from home.

That’s why we’ve curated a selection of fitness and wellness options for business travellers in Toronto. From top-notch fitness facilities to relaxing spa treatments and mindfulness activities, we’ve got everything you need to stay healthy and happy during your time in the city.

Let’s help you make the most of your stay. With our dedication to your well-being, you can rest assured that we’ll go above and beyond to ensure you have a memorable and fulfilling experience.

It’s time to dive in and explore all that Toronto has to offer for your wellness journey!

Hotbox Classes at Spokehaüs

Getting there: 70 Dan Leckie Way, Toronto

Nearby DelSuites Furnished Rental: Element (15-minute walk; 4-minute drive)

Spokehaüs stands out among Toronto’s fitness studios for its innovative approach to workouts, including the exclusive Hotbox class. This 45-minute session takes place in a heated room, set to an ideal 28 degrees Celsius.

The warmth is not just for exhilarating sessions. This temperature enhances your workout by promoting detoxification, increasing calorie burn, and boosting athletic performance.

But if you’re not keen on the heat, Spokehaüs also offers a range of standard 45-minute classes, each filled with engaging choreography and tailored to different fitness levels.

After your session, treat yourself to eucalyptus-infused towels and refreshing smoothies. Plus, newcomers can enjoy extra perks like bonus spins and the option to rent spin shoes, ensuring a seamless introduction to Spokehaüs’ dynamic classes.

Source: Pexels

Performance Unleashed at Equinox

Getting there: 99 Bay Street, Commerce Court West, Toronto

Nearby DelSuites Furnished Rental: Qwest (13-minute walk; 6-minute drive)

There’s more to Equinox than just a gym. This is a fitness sanctuary offering the ultimate collection of classes and amenities. From Pilates and Barre to intense MetCon sessions, Equinox has it all spread across three floors.

Members enjoy access to meticulously designed classes developed by industry experts and led by talented instructors who push boundaries and inspire results. And with advance booking and complimentary classes for members, your fitness journey is seamless and personalized.

Don’t miss out on the cycling studio and spa, complete with luxurious Kiehl’s products for added convenience. Get ready to unleash your potential at Equinox and experience fitness at its finest.

Group Sound Bathing in Kikospace

Getting there: 2104 Dundas St W, Toronto

Discover the transformative power of sound bath meditations at Kikospace, a tranquil oasis tucked away in Toronto’s Westside.

During a group sound bath session, you’ll lie comfortably on a mat, enveloped in darkness and cozied up with a blanket. Guided breathing exercises set the stage for an hour of immersive listening as Kiko plays an array of crystal bowls and chimes, creating soothing melodies that wash over you like gentle waves.

Kiko also has an impressive selection of sound healing instruments to choose from, including Alchemy Crystal Tones Bowls and Biosonics Tuning Forks, which ensure a deeply relaxing experience wherever you go.

Explore the healing potential of sound at Kikospace and enter a new level of tranquillity.

Infrared-Heated Yoga Studio at Sweat and Tonic

Getting there: 225 Yonge St. The Well – 486 Front St. W, Toronto

Nearby DelSuites Furnished Rental: 300 Front Street West (6-minute walk; 2-minute drive)

Sweat & Tonic is the holistic destination for wellness enthusiasts seeking a life-changing workout. With a new location at The Well, this sprawling facility offers a diverse range of classes, from running and boxing to weight training and yoga.

But what sets Sweat and Tonic apart is its state-of-the-art infrared-heated Yoga Studio – Canada’s first of its kind. Immerse yourself in a captivating audio-visual journey powered by a 445-inch projection screen and cutting-edge light and sound systems.

From Vinyasa yoga to candlelit meditation, each class offers a unique opportunity to sweat, connect, and restore amid breathtaking city skyline views. Prepare to elevate your yoga practice to new heights at Sweat and Tonic.

Float Therapy at Float Toronto

Getting there: 1159 Queen Street West, Toronto

The practice of float therapy at Float Toronto invites you to experience relaxation and rejuvenation. Step into a specially designed float tank filled with body-temperature Epsom salt water and let gravity melt away as you float effortlessly.

Known as Floatation Therapy or Sensory Deprivation, this immersive session induces a state of deep relaxation, relieving stress, anxiety, and physical tension. With insulated tanks that block out external stimuli and create a weightless environment, your mind is free to wander, your body to rest, and your senses to unwind.

Discover the healing power of floating at Float Toronto and embark on a journey of profound relaxation and renewal.

Hot and Cold Treatments at Othership

Getting there: 110 Bloor St W, Toronto

Nearby DelSuites Furnished Rental: The Livmore (21-minute walk; 6-minute drive)

Othership invites you to experience emotional and mental wellness through the invigorating practice of hot and cold therapy.

Guided classes lead you through a series of therapeutic sessions, alternating between the dry sauna and ice baths kept at a brisk 0 to 4 degrees Celsius. Whether you prefer structured classes or a more relaxed approach, Othership offers options to suit your preferences.

Don’t miss their social events featuring music, performances, and access to all the studio’s hot and cold experiences. With the calming scent of essential oils infusing the sauna and the soothing effects of hot and cold therapy, Othership provides a unique opportunity to unwind, recharge, and connect with others in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Source: DelSuites

Wrapping Up

There are a wealth of fitness and wellness options available to business travellers in Toronto, ensuring that you can prioritize your health and well-being during your stay. From innovative workout classes to immersive relaxation experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and benefit from.

But your journey doesn’t end there. During your time in Toronto, you’ll need a comfortable and convenient place to call home. You can count on DelSuites for quality serviced apartments within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

We offer a range of accommodations that ensure not only an enjoyable stay but also one customized to meet your specific needs. With our commitment to excellence and attention to detail, we’re here to make your stay in Toronto a seamless and memorable experience.

Discover the best of fitness, wellness, and hospitality across Toronto with DelSuites.

Business Travel, Downtown Toronto, Fitness and Health, Food & Recipes, Lifestyle talk

The Top Vegan Restaurants Toronto

April 20, 2024

Sometimes vegans can find it difficult to discover a great place to eat, as their options are usually quite limited. However, in the city of Toronto, animal-free living is becoming more popular and more and more excellent vegan restaurants in Toronto are springing up. Many great establishments serve food so delicious that you won’t even notice anything missing. Here are a few of the best vegan restaurants that Toronto has to offer:

The Hogtown Vegan

If you miss those classic meaty comfort food staples, this is the best spot to enjoy satisfying dishes such as vegan chicken and waffles and mac and cheese. They taste just as good as the original but no animals were harmed in the making of these nostalgic and filling dishes.

Khao San Road

One of the best Thai food restaurants in Toronto, this spot has a dedicated vegan menu that is complete with curries, garlic tofu, squash fritters and vegan pad Thai. The food is fresh, fragrant, spicy, flavourful and exciting, bringing you the authentic flavours of Thai cuisine.

Planta Queen

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, Planta Queen is not just a restaurant; it’s a revolution in the vegan culinary world. This upscale eatery is famous for its innovative approach to vegan cooking, making it a favourite among both vegans and non-vegans. The ambiance is chic and welcoming, with a décor that balances modern aesthetics with cozy touches.

What sets Planta Queen apart is its menu, which features a stunning variety of Asian-inspired vegan dishes. The chef uses ethically sourced ingredients to create masterpieces such as Udon noodles with truffle almond cream and the crowd-favourite, General Lee’s cauliflower. The sushi options, like the Ahi Watermelon Nigiri, are also a unique twist on traditional sushi, providing a refreshing and flavorful experience.

Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar

With several locations across Toronto, Fresh on Front is renowned for its robust menu that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. This restaurant is perfect for casual lunches or relaxed dinners, where the vibe is laid-back yet energetic. The interior is bright and airy, with natural wood and green plants adding to its earthy feel.

The menu at Fresh on Front is a delight, featuring everything from nourishing bowls and salads to heartier entrees like the Squash Tacos and the infamous Buffalo Cauliflower. Their smoothies and desserts are equally impressive, ensuring that your meal is satisfying from start to finish. For those who enjoy a good brunch, their weekend offerings are a blend of classic comfort and innovative plant-based cooking.

The Vegan Duchess

The Vegan Duchess is a charming small restaurant located in the quieter, uptown area of Toronto. It offers a more intimate dining experience, ideal for those looking to escape the bustling city life. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with a focus on sustainable and organic dining practices.

At The Vegan Duchess, the menu is crafted with a focus on whole foods, which means you’re not only getting meals that are good for you but also kind to the planet. Popular dishes include the Quinoa and Sweet Potato Burger and the Raw Pad Thai, made with zucchini noodles and a tangy tamarind sauce. The desserts here, particularly the raw cheesecakes, are a must-try, offering a guilt-free way to indulge.

Live Organic Food Bar

Live is an all-raw vegan restaurant that serves up food that is animal-product-free and totally fresh and uncooked. For example, one of the most popular dishes is the Live It Up Lasagne which is made with raw zucchini noodles, basil pesto, cashew ricotta cheese, garden veggies, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes and marinara sauce. Check it out for meals that are as healthy as they are delicious.

Enjoy Different Cuisines All Over Toronto

These are just a few examples of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto, so you can enjoy a delicious meat-free meal. With the vegan lifestyle becoming even more popular there is no doubt that Toronto will have even more great vegan and vegetarian food options available in the future.

Stay With DelSuites and Enjoy A Culinary Adventure

Book a 30+ night stay with us in Toronto and have some of the best vegan meals the city has to offer. Enjoy different food spots, restaurants, bars and nightlife as you explore one of the most diverse cities in the world. Stay in Downtown Toronto with us at one of our fully furnished suites.

Business Travel, Downtown Toronto, Lifestyle talk

The Best Cafes to Get Work Done in Toronto

April 10, 2024

Perhaps you are visiting Toronto on business and want to get work done during your stay – or maybe you are looking for a cozy place where you can write on your blog or work on your novel. No matter what you are working on – a comfortable and welcoming café can be a great place to use as an office on the go. You’ll have an endless supply of coffee, a pleasant environment to work in and a strong and steady Wi-Fi connection.

The great thing is that it offers a great selection of coffee shops and cafes to get work done in Toronto. Here are a few of the best options:

Dark Horse Espresso Bar

The interior of the Dark Horse Espresso Bar is sleek and modern and the long tables are ideal for group projects. The Wifi is strong, the coffee is great and you can find a spot to settle all day long with your computer and a latte so that you can get plenty of work done.

Red Rocket

Working at Red Rocket feels like you are hanging out in the living room of your cool best friend. Awesome music is playing, the seats are comfy and the snacks are delicious. Try the Nutella sandwich cookie – which will keep you going through all of the work you need to do while you are staying in Toronto.

Dineen Coffee

If you want to get some work done early in the morning, head to this welcoming café that serves up delicious brews in aesthetic and convenient locations all over the city. Dineen Coffee is the perfect morning person’s retreat, with fast Wi-Fi and spacious and chic surroundings.

Balzac’s Coffee

This fantastic café has many locations throughout the city and is fantastic for getting work done. It is a popular place for students to do their project meetings and emergency cramming for exams.

5 Elements Espresso Bar

This coffee shop has an excellent location in the heart of Yorkville, with several lovely comfortable couches and cushions. The cozy space is perfect for curling up by the fireplace with a latte and a good book or setting up your laptop and getting some work done.

These are just a few of the best cafes to get work done in Toronto so that you can type away on your laptop in peace and comfort and keep your brain energized with delicious coffee.

In addition, why not check out some of our other favourite top Coffee Shops in Toronto?

Experience A Digital Nomad Lifestyle

Looking to work remotely, try living in Toronto or staying for the coffee culture in the Greater Toronto Area? DelSuites offers 30-day minimum suites that are fully furnished with all if not more amenities than at home. We have suites everywhere from Markham to Etobicoke and everywhere in between. Explore our available suites today in Toronto.

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