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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.

Business Travel, Corporate Housing, Lifestyle talk

Your Guide to Online Professional Development 

June 23, 2020
online learning from short-term rentals in toronto

As Canada begins the deliberate process of reopening the economy, we’re left wondering whether key changes brought on by the pandemic will stick around for good. Will our new normal consist of online schooling, virtual doctor’s appointments, and working from home? Only time will tell.

What we know for sure is that things will never be the same, and even something as basic as short-term rentals in Toronto has been changed forever. And while the employment market has taken a hit, certain sectors have thrived under COVID-19, including areas within tech, supply chain manufacturing, logistics, and shipping. But what about everyone else?    

For employers and employees alike, now is the time to learn new skills while sharpening your existing set. We’ve done the legwork and gathered the best resources for you to build your knowledge and gain a competitive advantage in the post-COVID marketplace—all for free. 

It should be noted that the benefits of professional development extend well beyond the workplace—they empower you in your daily life. Learning improves your health and wellbeing, drives curiosity, and creates unexpected opportunities.

Let’s take a look at what free online learning resources are available to you while staying in a furnished suite in Toronto.  

Professional Development Courses Offered by Canadian Universities 

Canada’s leading universities are providing a wide variety of free online courses in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Participating institutions include: 

  • University of Toronto. UofT is using Coursera to offer online courses across disciplines, including topics such as programming, introductory psychology, and Aboriginal worldviews and education. They’re also providing a course on managing your mental health during COVID-19. 
  • University of British Columbia. UBC Is providing courses through edX on subjects such as coding and software development, novel-writing, climate change, and a wide range of business topics. 

Other well-known institutions, including Harvard and MIT, have followed a similar route. Take a look at what interests you:  

  • Princeton University. Princeton has taken the Coursera route, with 14 courses currently available. Its selection primarily revolves around computer science theory and computer architecture—the standalones include a course called Buddhism and Modern Psychology.  
  • Stanford University. Stanford’s selection is similar to Princeton’s, with 23 courses offered on Coursera. Start dates range from currently available to launching October of this year. Some highlights include Game Theory, Love as a Force for Social Justice, and Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity. 
  • Yale University. Yale is also using Coursera to offer its selection of 30 courses, many of which specialize in American law. Health-related courses include Introduction to Breast Cancer, Essentials of Global Health, and Health Behaviour Change: From Evidence to Action. 

More Resources to Boost Your Potential

A number of well-known organizations are currently offering free online courses and webinars to further your knowledge across a vast range of topics. Check out what’s available: 

  • The Linux Foundation Training. An expanded mentorship program was launched in response to COVID-19, offering free educational content on open source technologies. Check out their 45-page ebook introducing open source strategies and software for enterprises. 
  • CPA Canada. Their blog updates you on the latest podcasts, webinars, and training to expand your skillset. Keep yourself in the loop with a stream of relevant resources and reading material. 
  • LinkedIn Learning. Pick up in-demand skills from real-world professionals with over 14,000 courses to choose from. Free trials last for a month. Not sure where to start? Check out LinkedIn’s course on how to use LinkedIn Learning. 

A Quiet Space to Learn and Work 

short-term rentals in toronto for online learning

For many of us, the lockdown has been far from peaceful. With our usual outlets unavailable, little to no contact with family and friends, and the anxieties of a viral pandemic weighing on us at every turn, what we really need is a break from isolation. But we need to be careful. 

The solution is to find a space away from home (but not too far) where you can relax and focus while staying as safe as possible. Think of it as a temporary wellness retreat or a second home office. So, what’s the answer? 

Short-term rentals in Toronto allow you to work and learn without constant interruptions. In particular, a furnished suite by DelSuites lets you take a breath and unwind while providing you with everything you need to stay exactly where you are, from a fully-stocked kitchen and ensuite laundry to high-speed internet. Our furnished apartments in Toronto offer the luxury, comfort, and safety of a hotel—only without the hefty price tag and high turnover of guests. 

Are you looking for a calm space to rest, rejuvenate, and learn new skills? Book your suite today by visiting our website. Feel free to get in touch with our team if you have any questions. 

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Looking at Short-term Rentals in Toronto? Here’s How You Can Stay Safe

June 10, 2020
short-term rentals in Toronto amenities

Finding the right short-term rentals in Toronto is challenging in a pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live, work, and interact with one another. But most of all, the outbreak has brought health and safety to the forefront of our thoughts. We ask ourselves the same question every time we leave the front door: How do I keep myself and my loved ones safe from a highly infectious and potentially deadly virus?  

If you plan on relocating during the COVID-19 pandemic, your first concern should be safety. Whether you’re a frontline healthcare worker determined to self-isolate closer to Toronto’s network of hospitals, or you’re hoping for a brief escape from isolation, we’ve done the legwork and put together a comprehensive guide to staying safe while enjoying your stay in Canada’s most famous city.     

The Latest From the City of Toronto

city of toronto logo

What we know about COVID-19 changes almost daily. The City of Toronto has created a detailed set of coronavirus resources that Toronto residents can use to understand the latest bylaws, suggestions, and more.

Browse Short-Term Rentals in Toronto With Virtual Tours 

So, where’s the safest place to stay in Toronto during a viral pandemic? When it comes to safety, short-term rentals in Toronto must adhere to the rigid disinfection standards that home-sharing platforms like Airbnb have no way of enforcing. At the same time, these suites provide the luxury experience that you get with a hotel room—only without the hefty price tag or high turnover of guests. 

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s the value of preparation. Before deciding on a short-term rental company, check for flexible pricing and cancellation terms. Moreover, what amenities are offered? How close will you be to grocery stores and pharmacies? What do properties look like on the inside? 

DelSuites offers virtual tours with 360-degree interactive panoramas of each room in its properties. A “walk” score assigned to each listing informs you whether errands can be accomplished on foot. “Bike” scores tell you a property’s proximity to bikeable areas. 

Food Delivery 

uber eats delivery covid 19

The best part about short-term rentals in Toronto is the abundance of delivery services available. Whether we’re talking about fresh produce or fresh loaves of bread, Toronto is home to a broad network of grocery delivery services. Have the essentials and more delivered directly to your furnished suite by connecting with the brands we recommend:

  • Instacart. Download the Instacart app or visit their website to find exclusive deals with same-day delivery (or order up to six days in advance). Instacart lets you purchase from well-known brands like Loblaws, Walmart, T&T Supermarket—even Bulk Barn to satisfy your sweet tooth. 
  • Walmart. You can always rely on the world’s largest company in times of need. Keep in mind that Walmart only offers home delivery for orders of $50 or over. 
  • Metro. Metro’s Online Grocery Service has same-day delivery with a fee of $12 plus tax. Just make sure to reserve your time slot before you start shopping. New time slots are added every day to meet increasing demand. 
  • Grocery Gateway. For gourmet groceries and perhaps some adult beverages on the side, check out Longo’s grocery delivery service. Same-day deliveries are made during a 90-minute window. 
  • Fresh City Farms. Shop from local farmers’ markets all year long with Fresh City Farms’ organic and artisanal suppliers. Minimum order values are set at $27, with delivery fees waived at the $75 mark. 

Avoid crowded supermarket aisles by taking advantage of same-day grocery delivery. Plus, DelSuites provides you with everything you need to reignite your love of cooking, from a spacious kitchen area to top-shelf equipment. But what if you’re not in the mood to cook?

Takeout Options

Toronto is famous for its diverse flavour profile—we’ve got something for everyone. The COVID-19 pandemic has seen crowd favourites hop onto third-party apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash to stay in business. 

What are the city’s most treasured food spots, and where can you order from them?

  • TORA. If you’re craving flame-seared aburi oishi, beef tataki salad, or crispy pork gyoza, one of Toronto’s top higher-end sushi spots is available to order from through Uber Eats and Ritual. 
  • Oretta. For fresh pasta, pizza, and salad, look no further than Oretta’s authentic Italian menu. You can find them on Uber Eats and Ritual. 
  • Aba’s Bagels. If you’re in the mood for freshly-baked bagels, check out Aba’s. Plus, their Bagel It Forward program lets you deliver a bagel care package to loved ones, family, and friends. 

Curbside Pickup

Shop for the essentials without ever getting out of your car. So, which brands are offering curbside pickup?

  • Apple. Do you need a new set of Airpods to work from home? Order any Apple product online and pickup in-store or curbside within the next hour—or have them delivered directly to your suite. 
  • Bed Bath and Beyond. To hang a mirror or roll out a rug, stop by Bed Bath and Beyond. If you choose to have items delivered instead, shipping is free for orders over $39. 
  • Best Buy. Are you looking for a new headset for video conferences? Do you need a second monitor for work? Best Buy will hold your items for up to five days.
  • Home Depot. Do you finally have time for that side project? Select the tools you need for the job and have an associate bring them straight to your car. 

Keep Yourself Protected With DelSuites 

DelSuites has a wide selection of short-term rentals in Toronto, making it easy for you to choose the neighborhood you love—complete with all the amenities you need in this new world.

Are you thinking of moving to Toronto for work, school, or for a medium-term stay? Visit our website to book a furnished suite today. 

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

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