Vacation Travel Archives - Page 9 of 16

Must Know Tips for Solo Travel

September 24, 2019

Traveling solo is incredibly rewarding. It is empowering, liberating and gives you a chance to truly explore the world at your own pace.
However, it can also be challenging. Making your way through the world on your own solo vacations comes with its own set of struggles and obstacles to overcome. Here are some important things to know before you set off on your solo travel adventure or singles vacations.

Solo Travel Tips

Research in Advance

Knowledge is your best weapon when it comes to traveling alone. The more you know before you arrive somewhere, the better you’ll be able to navigate when you’re there. Look up important information on your destination, such how to get around, things to do, how much to tip, whether or not to haggle, etc.
Also, it’s important to research the common scams in your destination before you go. That way, you’ll know what to avoid when you get there. Your best advantage for solo travel is knowledge.

Stay on Your Guard

When you’re traveling on your own, you’ll need to be wary of potential threats and look out for your own safety. This means being cautious and trusting your instincts.
Also, it means following simple common-sense advice to protect yourself. For example, don’t flash a lot of expensive jewellery or electronics as you walk down the street. Don’t walk alone late at night in an isolated neighbourhood. Don’t leave your valuables unattended. It’s alright to have a drink, but try to keep your wits about you.

But Don’t Be Afraid to Open Up

Of course, there’s a difference between being safe and sensible while you travel, and not interacting with anyone out of fear. You’ll want to meet people and make connections on your trip, as these can be some of the best memories of your travels. Consider staying in a hostel, so that you’ll naturally have the opportunity to chat with others during your trip. Or, you can take vacations for singles that will help you meet people.

Pack Light

One of the typical mistakes first-time solo travellers make is packing too much stuff. Lugging around too much heavy oversized luggage is incredibly hard on your back. But, it also means that you have more stuff to worry about getting stolen. Plus, you’ll really struggle if you have to take a flight of stairs, or run for a train.

Join a Walking Tour

One of the best activities you can do when you are traveling solo is to join a walking tour of your destination. There are great tours available in every major tourist city in the world. They will take you to the top highlights of the city and show you some of the most interesting attractions. These types of tours are great for a couple reasons. First of all, they are a safe and easy way to explore without having to worry about getting lost. Secondly, they can be a simple way to meet other travelers and make connections.

Limit Your Social Media Access

Of course, you’ll probably want to post some amazing photos of your adventures on your Facebook and Instagram. However, avoid spending your entire trip looking at your phone! Try your best to put down your phone for most of the day when you are traveling solo. You’ll pay more attention to what’s happening around you and it will help you immerse yourself in your destination.

Solo Travel Destinations: The Best Places to Travel Alone

Some of the best places to travel alone in the US are large cities, because there’s always something to do. But what are some of the best international locations in the world for solo travel?

The United Kingdom: Friendly, safe and with an extensive public transport network, the UK is a very easy and enjoyable place to travel alone. From world class museums to peaceful countryside villages, there’s a lot to explore.
Thailand: One of the best countries in Southeast Asia for first-time solo travellers, Thailand is warm, friendly, beautiful and easy to get around. You can enjoy the bustling city life of Bangkok, or find a quiet island to relax for a while.
New Zealand: A very popular destination with solo backpackers, New Zealand has gorgeous scenery, exciting outdoor adventures and culture-rich cities to explore. It’s one of the best places for solo travel.
Peru: Whether you’re marvelling at the stunning ruins of Machu Picchu or shopping for locally made textiles in Cusco, Peru is a fun, safe and exciting place to travel on your own. Plus, it’s very affordable if you are on a small budget.
Georgia: The country of Georgia, not the US state, that is. Explore the stunning Caucasus Mountains, quiet Medieval villages and the vibrant cultural scene of Tbilisi. The locals are incredibly welcoming and are always happy to help a solo traveler enjoy their stay.

Family Vacations in Toronto, Toronto Condos, Vacation Travel

Toronto – A Pet-Friendly City

September 20, 2019

Although Toronto is one of the largest, busiest and densest cities in Canada – it is surprisingly pet-friendly.

In fact, Torontonians love their animal friends. According to city planning staff, there are three to five dogs per floor in Toronto condos. There’s a growing number of dog-friendly establishments in the downtown area, and the general attitude to canine companions is a welcoming one.

In fact, Toronto condos are beginning to build in pet-friendly features to attract a clientele with canine companions – such as dog grooming services, dog parks, pet shops and pet-friendly cafes.

The Livmore is a great example. On the fifth floor of this chic, stylish downtown Toronto apartment building you will find a convenient dog-friendly area – which is home to a pet spa and an outdoor play area known as the “Bark Park.” This area, lined with artificial turf, features fire hydrants, benches and even a mini obstacle course for dogs to play on.

The pet-friendly aspects of the Livmore are just one of the many examples of how Toronto offers our furry friends a warm welcome.

What Makes Toronto Pet-Friendly?

Let’s take a look at some of the other aspects of the city that make Toronto a great place to hang out with your canine companion.

Welcoming Shops

Many of the boutiques and shops between Bathurst and Gladstone are dog friendly and won’t mind if you bring your pooch in with you while you look around. They might even offer water and treats for your furry friend.

Laid Back Breweries

If you want to enjoy a local beer, there are many places where you can bring your four-legged companion. For example, at local craft brewery Henderson Brewing, they host monthly dog friendly events and dogs are always welcome whenever you stop in for a tasting.

Green Spaces

There are many great parks and wilderness areas scattered throughout the city where you and your dog can get some exercise and fresh air. For example, downtown Toronto borders Lake Ontario to the South, so you can head down to the waterfront to take a stroll along the boardwalk.

There’s also Trinity Bellwoods park, which features a Dog Bowl off-leash area, where you and your pooch can hang out with many other dogs of Toronto and their owners.

Pet-Friendly Transport

Dogs are allowed on the Toronto transport system of buses, streetcars and subways – as long as it is outside of rush hour. So, you can bring your pooch on public transport and explore the city with them!

Canine-Loving Eateries

While most cafes and restaurants in Toronto will not allow your dog inside due to health and safety laws, there are still plenty of dog-friendly places to eat. For example, at Lick It Gelato on Queens Quay West, your pooch is welcome and they even sell a “doggie gelato” that is dairy and sugar free.

Planning a trip to Toronto with Man’s Best Friend?

If you are heading to Toronto and are looking for a convenient and pet-friendly place to stay, the Livmore is an ideal option. For more info, contact us today.

Business Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation Travel

Tips for Packing Your Bags Without Stress

September 6, 2019

Packing your bags with everything you need for a trip, without bringing too much, can be a challenge.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of saying, “I’ll bring this along, just in case.” Before you know it, you have a suitcase that is overflowing with “just in case” items and is impossible to carry. Bringing an over-packed bag with you can actually make your vacation more stressful. You’ll struggle to drag it around and you’ll have to pay more in excess baggage fees.

However, with a few tips you can reduce the amount of stuff you bring with you and make packing a lot less stressful. Here are our helpful tips for packing your bags:

Packing Your Bags, The Smart Way

– Buy a smaller bag. We have a tendency to fill whichever bag or backpack we bring with us, so choosing a smaller bag will force you to be more minimal.
– Packing cubes are your best friend. They will allow you to organize your clothes according to category (pants, shirts, underwear, etc.) Then, you can bring out only the cube you need rather than having to unpack your entire bag.
– Choose clothing from lightweight but high-performance fabrics like merino wool, which will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
– When traveling in an unpredictable climate, bring multiple layers rather than one large coat. Bring your bulkiest coat on the plane so you don’t have to squeeze it into your luggage.
– Make sure that everything mixes and matches. All your tops should be able to be worn with all your bottoms. If not, it’s not worth bringing.
– Bring along items that do double duty. For example, a sarong can be used as a shawl, a swimsuit cover-up, a towel, a scarf and a blanket. A pair of dressy flip flops can be worn to the beach as well as out to a restaurant in the evening.

Packing cubes are your best friend!

– Stick with neutral colours so that everything will match, then add visual interest with scarves and accessories.
– You only need to pack enough clothes for 7 days, even if you are traveling for months at a time. You’ll simply need to wash them at your accommodation (if you’re in a furnished apartment with laundry) or find a laundromat once per week.
– Roll your clothing rather than folding it. Your clothes will take up less room and will look less wrinkled when you unpack them.
– Roll your socks and underwear into balls and place them inside your shoes. Why waste the space within the shoes?
– Don’t bother bringing toiletries you know your hotel or apartment will offer, or that you will be able to buy cheaply in your destination.
– Pack the heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, as this will make it easier to roll your bag. Also, it will be less likely to tip over.

Last but not least, consider making a list of everything you packed and actually used on your trip. Next time you travel, you’ll be able to refer to your list and pack only the items you’ll need and nothing else.

Food & Recipes, Toronto Entertainment, Vacation Travel

5 Top Restaurants to Dine At in Downtown Toronto

August 16, 2019

One of the delights of visiting Toronto is the opportunity to partake in its incredibly diverse and high quality food scene.

With such a multicultural population, there is a varied culinary landscape – you can take a trip around the world every time you go out to eat. Toronto’s pubs and bars have also been elevating their menus, in order to attract drinkers with a discerning palate. In other words, there’s something for every appetite and taste in this great city.

Here are a few great restaurants in downtown Toronto to check out during your stay at the Livmore:

Hokkaido Ramen Santouka

10 minute walk from the Livmore

When you are craving a big, steaming, satisfying bowl of noodles – this is the place to go. This restaurant originated in Japan in the 1980s, when founder Hitoshi Hatanaka made a goal to create delicious ramen and dedicated himself to perfecting the recipe via trial and error. Santouka serves up rich, fatty broth with fresh, springy noodles and delicious pork cheek that just melts in your mouth.

Richmond Station

13 minute walk from the Livmore

This unique restaurant only buys whole animals, so the kitchen is always coming out with creative uses for the variety of off-cut meats. They are committed to local ingredients and they also make most things by hand. They do all of their butchery, curing, aging, fermenting and baking in house.

This means that everything they serve is delightfully fresh and expertly made. Stop by for lunch on a Saturday or Sunday and you can enjoy the Slow Roast – a mouth-watering joint that the team has left in the oven overnight.

Eggspectation

8 minute walk from the Livmore

After you’ve enjoyed the Toronto nightlife, you’re going to want to treat yourself to a delicious late brunch the next morning. Head to this stylish chain which serves classic American breakfast fare.

It’s a great way to start your day off right – with hand-squeezed juices and real-fruit smoothies and a mouthwatering selection of breakfast dishes. Their menu includes Breakfast Poutine with smoked bacon, homemade gravy and cheese curds, Maritime Lobster eggs benedict and more. Or, why not try a Montreal bagel with cream cheese and wild salmon?

Kathmandu Restaurant

21 minute walk from the Livmore

Treat yourself to flavourful and spicy Nepalese and Indian cuisine at this local favourite. They have a Tandoor oven that gives the meat that irresistible smoky, oven-baked taste. Try the Goat Curry – cooked with ginger, garlic, tomatoes and hot spices. Or, share an “Everest Feast’ with your friends. This is a huge platter that includes everything from Chicken Tikka to Tandoori Prawn to Naan, Basmati Rice and Dessert. It’s perfect for parties.

The Elm Tree

3 minute walk from the Livmore

This family-run modern Mediterranean restaurant prepares classic pasta and meat dishes with fresh and high quality ingredients. It’s also known for its cocktails and craft brews.

The Elm Tree is one of the most highly ranked restaurants in Toronto on TripAdvisor and it has a Certificate of Excellence. If you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a special meal – it’s a good bet.

What are your favourite restaurants in downtown Toronto?

Let us know in the comments below – we always love getting new recommendations!

Toronto Entertainment, Vacation Travel

Guide to Shopping In North York, Toronto

August 9, 2019

Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift, a place to eat, a new outfit, or you just want to escape the cold weather, Toronto’s shopping malls are a great way to spend a few hours.

If you are based in North York, you’ll have plenty of great shopping malls and retail centres to choose from, each offering a diverse selection of brands. Here is a quick guide to shopping in North York, Toronto.

Sheridan Mall

Another great place to shop in North York is Sheridan Mall. It’s home to the major department stores – Winners and Walmart – which are great for finding the basics at a cheap price. There’s also plenty of mall favourite brands including Blossom, Ardene, Sirens, Payless Shoes, New York Connection and Urban Closet.

Plus, if you work up an appetite from all that shopping, there’s a diverse food court with cuisine from Japan, the Caribbean, Greece and more to choose from.

Yorkdale Shopping Centre

Located next to the Yorkdale subway station, Yorkdale is the fourth largest mall in the country and contains over 250 retail shops where you can stock up on everything you need. Many companies opened up their first Canadian store here, including Apple, Crate & Barrel, Bath & Body Works and J.Crew.

Grab a new book at Indigo Books and Music, then chill out at Michel’s Bakery Cafe while you read it. There’s also a lot of luxury brands here, such as Chanel, Versace, Prada and Gucci – so it’s a great place to treat yourself to something a little bit special.

By Oxford Properties – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=12235649

CF Fairview Mall

This is not the biggest shopping mall in Toronto, but it does pack a great selection of retailers into a compact space. That means you can find a lot of great stuff, without having to spend hours walking around.

With the CF Fairview Mall you’ll find everything from toys to fashion to small appliances to books and more. Some of the shops here include Aldo Shoes, American Eagle Outfitters, Forever 21, Guess and Hot Topic.

Bayview Village

Fashion-lovers make regular visits to Bayview Village, a stylish mall that is home to more than 110 luxury retailers. This mall has a very “glam” vibe about it. You can valet park your car, drop off your dry cleaning, get a mani-pedi and get your hair done, as well as shop for elegant designer clothes.

The mall even offers a personal shopping service. The personal shopper will help you find that perfect item you need and the $50 fee will be given back to you in the form of a BV gift card at the end of your appointment.

The Shops at Don Mills

With 72 retail stores to choose from, this is another great place to shop in North York. You can find many of the big name stores here, including Guess and Calvin Klein.

It has the feel of a European piazza, with a central courtyard and great dining options. This means that the mall is a lot more fun in the summertime, but it does have a pretty spectacular Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in the winter as well.

To learn more about our short term rentals in North York, click here.

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