airbnb alternative

Sometimes life puts you in between chapters. Maybe plans have changed, or the people and places you once relied on have become unfamiliar. Toronto can seem difficult to find your footing in, considering the bustle of the streets and the constant movement of the city. Yet, its diversity and opportunities make it a place full of possibilities.

Most don’t immediately think of change as the beginning of a reset, especially when life feels unsettled. However, with some room to breathe, that same change can start to feel like the start of something new.

We’ll walk you through some practical ways to move forward, and go over how having your own space can give you the privacy and freedom to adjust to life at your own pace. 

Settle Into a New Space

Finding a place that feels like yours can give you a safe space to regroup and figure out your next steps. No matter your situation, the support of a stay that offers privacy and comfort can help you feel supported as you enter this next chapter. While hotels and Airbnb rentals are popular options, they don’t always give you the sense of home you need. Daily routines can be hard to maintain in hotels, while Airbnbs may have unpredictable rules and may not accommodate extended stays.

Short-term apartment rentals, by contrast, come with fully furnished suites and the flexibility to stay as long as you need. A CTV News report from 2022 found that the gap in price between staying at an Airbnb and a traditional hotel has narrowed significantly, making a short-term rental a much more lucrative option.

Some temporary apartment stays include cleaning services, fully equipped workspaces and kitchens, secure Wi-Fi, security features, and other perks and amenities to make settling in easier. Once you’ve found a place to call your own, you can go on to build social and personal stability.

Try a New Hobby or Class

Starting over is also a chance to find out what brings you joy. Perhaps you’ve been wanting to try glassblowing or pick up a new instrument. There’s no time like the present to do so. Trying something different that you find interesting can provide the sense of personal satisfaction and accomplishment you’re searching for. Hobbies can act as simple and personal ways to take ownership of your time. Creative or physical ones, like dancing or painting, let your brain focus on the present and reduce stress. 

Make New Connections

Toronto knows how to foster community, whether it’s hosting a big neighbourhood event or arranging meetups for like-minded people to mingle. Connecting with others around shared hobbies or goals can open doors to friendships and mentorships, and remind you that you’re not alone in this transition. Consider a fitness class, an art workshop, or even a volunteer opportunity as ways to create a support network. Even casual spaces like local libraries and coffee shops can be great places to meet others.

Prioritize Your Health and Daily Routine

When you get taken out of your usual rhythm, it’s easy for routines to fall apart and for health to become an afterthought. However, maintaining these habits is one of the best ways to create stability during uncertain times. Simple actions, such as going for a short morning walk or getting consistent sleep, can go a long way toward supporting your well-being.

In Toronto, you can access neighbourhood parks and free city-run community centre gyms that make it easier to nurture those healthy habits. Looking after yourself helps you feel ready to tackle whatever lies ahead when things feel up in the air.

Explore a Neighbourhood You’ve Never Visited

Finding a change of scenery is a powerful way to recharge, and Toronto’s distinct neighbourhoods make it easy to turn a regular day into a little adventure.

Cultural areas like Little Italy, Little India, Chinatown, and Greektown let you explore different flavours, environments, and unique characters. The Distillery District’s cobblestone walking streets and many boutiques and art galleries feature the perfect environment to slow down. If you’re looking to soak up some energy, Queen Street West and Trinity Bellwoods are full of lively streets and local shops to explore. Or for something more laid-back, the Beaches boasts miles of boardwalk and a sandy beach for a picnic.

Exploring a new part of town can help you see Toronto through a different lens and remind you of the beauty in the everyday.

Want to find out more about Toronto’s various neighbourhoods?

• City of Toronto Neighbourhoods and Communities
• BlogTO Toronto Neighbourhoods
• Toronto BIAs

Set Personal Goals for the Months Ahead

When looking ahead, the key is to make your future milestones simple and achievable. Setting small, realistic goals can give you something to commit to and work toward, providing the direction you need to take action. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind as you establish your priorities:

• Give yourself room to adjust goals as needed
• Break down bigger goals into manageable steps
• Focus on what feels important and meaningful to you
• Balance daily routine and personal growth
• Recognize and celebrate small wins

Let DelSuites Support Your Fresh Start

DelSuites @ The Livmore

DelSuites provides welcoming, fully furnished suites in some of the GTA’s best residential communities.

Life’s transitions can be challenging. We offer spaces backed by decades of property management expertise, complemented by exceptional in-suite and recreational facilities. With thoughtful touches and the peace of mind knowing you’ve chosen a secure and reputable accommodation, you can better focus on what comes next.

Explore our furnished short-term apartment rentals or contact us for more information.