{"id":7388,"date":"2020-09-21T12:00:03","date_gmt":"2020-09-21T16:00:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.delsuites.com\/blog\/?p=7388"},"modified":"2020-09-15T20:27:25","modified_gmt":"2020-09-16T00:27:25","slug":"getting-around-toronto-during-covid-19","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.delsuites.com\/blog\/getting-around-toronto-during-covid-19\/","title":{"rendered":"A Guide to Getting Around Toronto During COVID-19"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you\u2019re planning on visiting Toronto or the surrounding area, you may be in for a little surprise. Even if you\u2019ve visited the city in the past, things have changed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As with most large cities, Toronto has had to make some slight changes to its travel system to ensure people\u2019s safety. While the changes are fairly easy to navigate, it\u2019s important to be prepared for the new rules.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here\u2019s what you need to know about Toronto and the way the city is handling the COVID-19 pandemic.<\/span><\/p>\n

Getting to Canada\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

The biggest changes you\u2019re 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re 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\u2019t 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u2019re classified as an essential worker.<\/span><\/p>\n

Public Transit With the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)<\/span><\/h2>\n

Once you\u2019ve arrived in Toronto (and gone through the necessary 14-day self-isolation period if you\u2019re coming from another country), you\u2019ll probably need to get around the city!<\/span><\/p>\n

The TTC is Toronto\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

Fares can be paid as normal by cash, PRESTO card, or token.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Click here to see the <\/span>latest guidance from the TTC<\/span><\/a> about using public transport safely. You can also visit the TTC website to see a <\/span>full map of the city\u2019s public transport<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Use a Ride-Hailing App<\/span><\/h2>\n

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\u2019s a more convenient and affordable option than regular taxi cabs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As of March 2020, <\/span>all Uber drivers and passengers are required to wear masks while in the car<\/span><\/a>. Drivers now have to verify they are wearing a mask through the app before they are assigned to a ride.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Drivers are also required to sign documentation confirming they:<\/span><\/p>\n