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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, Cafes to get work done in Torontothe 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.

Cafes to get work done in Toronto

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 BarCafes to get work done in Toronto

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.

Announcements, Business Travel, Corporate Housing, Relocation

DelSuites: Back and Better at the GBTA Trade Show 2024

April 10, 2024
DelSuites at GBTA 2024

A hearty hello from all of us here at DelSuites! Spring is in the air, but the excitement is just beginning for us. As we enjoy the unfolding beauty of the season in Toronto, we’re also gearing up for another key event on our calendar: The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Canada Conference 2024. 

An international gathering like no other, this prestigious assembly brings together professionals from all corners of the business travel world. As you can tell, we’re all aflutter about meeting again, sharing insights, networking, and catching up with them.

Each year, the event is set to take place in our very own city, making it all the more special. Without a doubt, you can expect the finest of Toronto’s hospitality and multicultural charm to flavour the conference. Stick with us as we journey towards this much-anticipated event.

A Brief Glance: The GBTA Defined

The Global Business Travel Association, GBTA, is more than an organization. It’s a powerful voice representing the business travel industry worldwide. By uniting people from different corners of the globe, GBTA forges a platform where members can learn, be inspired, develop, and advocate for shared interests.

Headquartered near Washington D.C., GBTA’s influence spans six continents. Its mission, fuelled by a global community, benefits from the following stats:

  • It has over 8,000 members
  • It embodies a booming $1.35 trillion global business travel and meetings industry.
  • It extends its reach to an impressive network of 28,000 travel professionals and 125,000 active contacts.
  • It boasts a portfolio of world-class education, events, research, advocacy, and media.

GBTA is a powerhouse of resources and connections invaluable to every business travel professional. 

Why We’re Excited to Return to This Year’s GBTA Conference

There’s always a sense of unparalleled buzz and exhilaration that accompanies our return to the GBTA conference – and this time, it’s no different. According to the conference’s website, GBTA is all about creating and nurturing valuable relationships while generosity exploring new opportunities, something we at DelSuites truly resonate with.

Speaking of DelSuites, let us shed a little light on what we’re bringing to the conference. Serving a discerning “Fortune 500” clientele, DelSuites has emerged as a prominent player in the Greater Toronto Area.

Our impeccable Tridel brand condominiums, loaded with top-notch facilities and extensive convenient services, set us apart.

Setting foot in a DelSuites accommodation is an experience like no other – personalized service, prime locations, and seamless maintenance speak volumes about our dedication to our clients. This is the essence and value we’re excited to share at the GBTA Conference 2024!

What Does It Mean to Be a GBTA Member?

While we’re all excited about the conference, we’re also proud to say that we’re members of the GBTA. But what exactly does that entail? 

Being a GBTA member signifies our commitment to innovation, professionalism, and the highest standards in global business travel management. That’s why we are happy to be part of this community; an association that promotes strategic interaction and knowledge sharing, thus enabling us to serve our clientele better.

Last Year’s Data

Reflecting on our previous rendezvous at the GBTA Conference in 2023 brings back some fond memories and terrific milestones. As highlighted on the official GBTA website, the event demonstrated that it was a thriving marketplace and a gold mine of industry expertise. 

To grasp the magnitude of the strides we made last year, here are a few key figures:

  • A whopping 88% of buyers intended to establish connections with at least one new supplier they interacted with on the 2023 expo floor.
  • A majority of the attendees, 69% to be precise, had a significant industry experience of over 10 years, with almost half of that number holding a minimum of 20 years under their belt.
  • The conference was a global affair, with 65% of the companies coming from outside Canada. An additional 20% represented multinational corporations, and 15% were Canadian businesses.

The exhibitor lineup predominantly consisted of hotel franchises, airlines, and transportation firms. As you can see, there are lots of possibilities, plenty of potential connections and more lessons to learn!

What to Expect This Year 

Mark your calendar for three electrifying days of exhilarating experiences at the GBTA conference! This year’s schedule spans from April 22nd until the 24th and includes a perfect blend of main stages, expos, and education sessions, offering an enriching and broad spectrum of activities.

Let’s delve into what each day looks like based on what the GBTA has announced by far:

Day 1  

  • Start with the Connect First Orientation to get all the insights about the conference, enabling you to fully optimize this grand event.
  • Step into the Opening Main Stage, where we would convene with like-minded professionals and industry leaders.
  • Complete the day by exploring the innovative Opening Expo, where you’ll encounter the newest trends and solutions in the business travel industry, including us!

Day 2 

  • Attend two Main Stages that host groundbreaking dialogues and discussions led by illustrious speakers.
  • Be a part of two Education Sessions (three choices to choose from in the morning and afternoon) touching on a range of industry topics: offer and order management, marketing, technology and AI, and buyer relationships.
  • Spend more time on the 2nd day of the Expo, uncovering a wealth of opportunities.
  • Unwind in the evening at the Big Night Out, a 5-hour event promised to be full of fun, networking and relaxation. The theme is yet to be announced.

Day 3

  • Choose between four additional Education Sessions designed to provide insights on bidder proposals, security and safety, stakeholder relations, and the Duty of Care legislation.
  • Take one last tour of the expo to cement new partnerships and relations.
  • Saying goodbye doesn’t have to be sad! Join us one last time at the Closing Main Stage to wrap up your experience with key takeaways and memorable moments.

As GBTA 2024 is shaping up to be a highly enriching event, we hope you’re as excited as we are!

Join Us in Toronto 

Toronto is all set to welcome you. This year’s GBTA conference will unfold at the fantastic Beanfield Centre, making it a truly special occasion. Excitement is in the air, so why wait? Secure your spot today, make plans for your GBTA journey, and explore boundless opportunities. 

We at DelSuites would be delighted to chat with you, so feel free to reach out if you’re just as thrilled as we are. It’s time to make some memorable professional strides together.

 

Business Travel, Corporate Housing, Relocation

Making it Easy – HR to Relocate Employees

March 2, 2024

One of the main roles of an HR professional is to take care of the company’s employees, ensuring that they have everything they need to achieve success in their new role. When you send out key players to a new location, one of the best ways to support them and relocate employees is to set them up with a great place to stay.

Where Do Employees Stay When They Relocate?

Let’s say you are relocating an employee to Toronto on a short-term assignment or project. You can either doom them to a stay in a cramped hotel room where they will have to get work done on a tiny table in the corner and eat dinner in bed, or you can set them up with a full apartment so they can live comfortably. This is especially important when these employees are relocating for work with family and partners, as they will require more space and amenities.

When you offer high quality, comfortable and convenient accommodation for your employees, this will have a positive effect on your bottom line in the way of improved employee satisfaction and better retention. Plus, when employees have a comfortable place to live they will arrive at work happy, healthy, well-rested and ready to perform their best.

Relocate Employees

Advantages for HR to Relocate Employees into DelSuites Furnished Apartments

When you are relocating employees into furnished apartments in Toronto, they will be more comfortable than in a hotel room. Here are some of the features that a DelSuites fully furnished rental suite offers:

  • 24-hour customer service, secured parking and housekeeping.
  • A fully equipped kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, allowing for convenient self-catering.
  • A spacious living area with a separate dining and sleeping area.
  • Convenient locations close to the most important neighborhoods and transit in Toronto, so that employees don’t have to spend a lot of time commuting.
  • High-speed internet and free local and long-distance phone calls.
  • Underground, assigned parking with 24-hour building security.
  • En-suite laundry facilities.
  • Many of our properties are pet friendly so that employees can bring their beloved animal companions when they relocate.
  • A friendly team of experienced staff who will welcome all guests in a professional, helpful way.

These apartments allow employees to have a residential experience while remaining close to the office. Also, they will be able to have a social life, as this style of accommodation enables them to invite family or friends over to visit.  Plus, long-term corporate apartment rentals are much more cost-effective than daily hotel rates. When factoring in the benefits of amenities, there are significant savings.

These apartments are the ideal way to bridge the gap between onboarding and a permanent relocation. With comfortable surroundings such as these, employees can ease into their new environment when arriving for a position.

To find out more about our corporate furnished apartments in Toronto for human resources, click here to learn more about Employee Relocation.

Business Travel, Lifestyle talk, Toronto Family Travel, toronto toursim

Work Hard, Play Harder: The Rise of Bleisure Travel

February 28, 2024
bleisure travel

The clock is always ticking in business; time is a precious commodity. Annually, corporate travellers find themselves spending an average of 22 days on the move, crisscrossing the globe for meetings, sealing deals, and attending conferences.

Perhaps you’re on the verge of closing a pivotal deal with a major international client. In the most critical of meetings, the knight in shining armour is often none other than business travel.

In the wake of the business world’s recovery from the pandemic, the business travel industry has seen a resurgence, signalling its enduring importance. However, this resurrection is more than a return to the past. This calls for a new era.

Enter “bleisure travel.” No longer confined to boardrooms and hotel rooms, bleisure seamlessly integrates work and leisure. The focus on bleisure is about creating an experience that is not only productive but also rejuvenating, offering a more stress-free short-term stay for those who find themselves on the road.

Discover how the business travel landscape is undergoing a transformation, creating an environment that fosters success without sacrificing the joys of relaxation.

What is Bleisure Travel?

As the term implies, “bleisure” is the clever blending of business and leisure travel. This turns what might be a conventional business trip into an opportunity to add a dash of exploration and relaxation. 

This emerging trend is gaining traction, with almost 42% of business travellers now preferring to infuse their work-related journeys with a bit of leisure time.

The concept of bleisure travel is extending business trips on either end to explore new destinations. It’s not just about the solo business traveller, either. This can also be done by bringing friends and family along for the journey, adding shared experiences that enrich the business travel experience.

The rise of bleisure travel is closely tied to the changing dynamics of work in the wake of the pandemic. With more people embracing remote work, individuals find themselves untethered from a fixed office location.

While digital nomads might choose to work from various destinations, bleisure travellers are motivated primarily by the business aspect of their trip. However, the desire to explore new places, reduce environmental impact, or simply savour the joys of a change of scenery drives them to extend their trips.

Source: Pexels

Factors Driving the Bleisure Trend

The rise of bleisure travel is a breath of fresh air. It’s a response to the changing dynamics of work and the quest for a more balanced lifestyle. The factors driving this trend reflect a collective desire to redefine the traditional boundaries of business trips.

Changing Attitudes of Business Travellers

The conventional perception of business travel often brings to mind images of packed schedules, back-to-back meetings, and minimal time for personal exploration. However, the tide is turning, and business travellers are adopting a more holistic approach.

Whether it’s extending a stay to explore local attractions, immerse in cultural experiences, or simply unwind in a new environment, the changing attitudes reflect a conscious effort to blend the lines between work and leisure.

Influence of Work-Life Balance Considerations

Work-life balance has become a cornerstone in discussions surrounding modern employment. Work-life balance is already important to 94% of employees.

The traditional notion of segregating work and personal life is gradually giving way to a more integrated approach. This cultural shift is especially pronounced in business travel, where professionals are seeking ways to infuse a sense of leisure into their work-related journeys.

The purpose of leisure travel is to break free from the monotony of conventional work models, allowing professionals to inject moments of relaxation and exploration into their busy schedules. Work-life balance considerations are driving the bleisure trend, which reflects a societal shift towards prioritizing well-being, both at work and at home.

Impact of Technological Advancements on Remote Work

Professionals are liberated from the constraints of mundane office setups thanks to advancements in technology. The advent of remote work, coupled with advanced communication tools, has redefined the very nature of work. 

This major shift in the way work is conducted has a direct impact on the trends in business travel as well. Professionals now have the flexibility to seamlessly conduct business from anywhere, be it a bustling city or a serene coastal town. 

It’s clear that bleisure travel is not just a shift in travel preferences, but a shift in mindset. The journey is no longer a linear progression from point A to point B. This type of travel offers a hybrid experience, combining work and leisure to enrich both professional and personal lives.

What Bleisure Travellers Look For

So, what exactly are bleisure travellers looking for? Some notable considerations include:

  • Work-Life Balance: Bleisure travellers seek destinations that offer a blend of business amenities and leisure activities, allowing them to transition from boardrooms to local attractions seamlessly.
  • Convenient Connectivity: Accessible airports, efficient public transportation, and reliable Wi-Fi are non-negotiables. These individuals want to stay connected to work while also being able to explore their surroundings hassle-free.
  • Flexible Accommodations: Bleisure travellers have shifted away from standard hotels in favour of short-term rentals that cater to both work and relaxation. Short-term rentals offer well-equipped business centers, ergonomic workspaces, and comfortable lounging areas, making them highly appealing.
  • Local Experiences: One of the main draws for bleisure travellers is the opportunity to experience the local culture. They seek destinations that offer unique attractions, dining experiences, and cultural insights.
  • Networking Opportunities: Business doesn’t always stop after office hours. Bleisure travellers value destinations where networking opportunities extend beyond formal meetings. A vibrant business community and networking events contribute to the overall appeal of a location.
  • Time Efficiency: Bleisure travellers are time-conscious. They appreciate destinations where they can efficiently manage their work obligations without spending excessive time in transit.
  • Health and Wellness Options: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a priority for many bleisure travellers. Access to fitness facilities, wellness programs, and healthy dining options contribute to the overall appeal of a destination.
  • Tech-Friendly Environment: Destinations that embrace technological advancements, from efficient transportation systems to smart hotel features, are likely to attract these tech-savvy travellers.

Offering the right combination of work amenities and leisure opportunities can help destinations position themselves as ideal choices for travellers seeking a seamless integration of work and relaxation.

Source: Pexels

Tips for a Successful Bleisure Trip

Embarking on a bleisure trip? Here are some quick tips to ensure your business-meets-leisure journey goes off without a hitch. 

  • Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible: Start by outlining your work commitments and key deadlines. Plan your leisure activities around these, but leave some flexibility. Unexpected work issues can arise, so having a bit of wiggle room in your schedule can be a lifesaver.
  • Choose Your Accommodations Wisely: Opt for furnished rentals that offer comfortable workspaces, reliable Wi-Fi, and amenities that cater to both business and leisure needs.
  • Stay Connected on the Go: Having the right technology can enhance both your work and leisure experiences. Ensure you have the necessary tech tools to stay connected while on the move.
  • Know Your Company’s Policies: Understand any limitations or guidelines to avoid any hiccups during your trip. Clear communication with your employer ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.
  • Explore Transportation Options: Consider factors like proximity to your accommodations, convenience, and the opportunity to explore the destination during your commute.
  • Prioritize Self-Care: Get enough rest, stay hydrated, and consider incorporating wellness activities into your itinerary. A balanced approach to your well-being contributes to a more enjoyable trip overall.
  • Network Strategically: Leverage the networking opportunities your destination offers. Attend industry events, conferences, or local meetups to expand your professional circle.

The key to a successful and enriching bleisure trip is to combine thoughtful planning with a flexible mindset.

In Conclusion

A bleisure travel approach to business travel lets you view your next trip not just as a business trip but also as an opportunity for combining work and play. 

Now, if you’re on the lookout for the perfect bleisure stay within the vibrant Greater Toronto Area (GTA), DelSuites is the perfect choice. Every stay with us is personalized, and the Canadian skyline outside your window becomes the backdrop to your unforgettable adventure.

So, whether you’re extending your business trip for leisure or seeking the perfect blend of work and travel, DelSuites leads you to a more fulfilling, balanced, and engaging travel experience.

Your journey across GTA awaits – redefine it with DelSuites!

 

Business Travel, Toronto Family Travel, Vacation Travel

Passport to Tomorrow: A Glimpse into 2024 Travel Predictions

February 14, 2024
2024 travel predictions

Travel enthusiasts, rejoice! The world is once again opening its doors, and the wanderlust that was momentarily restrained is now flourishing with renewed vigour.

Despite the obstacles thrown by the pandemic, the travel industry is bouncing back, and the statistics tell an intriguing tale. In pre-pandemic 2019, an impressive 1.461 billion international arrivals were recorded, only to plummet by 74% to 381 million in 2020. There is an alarming possibility that without adequate preparation, businesses may fail.

That said, it doesn’t matter which year it is; the industry always adjusts to the ever-changing travel needs. 

The great news is that the demand for travel is at a new high, and this year promises to be an exhilarating one for those who yearn for exploration. Even business travel, often considered the pulse of global commerce, is also making a robust comeback.

Before you head on to your 2024 travel bucket list, make sure you’re armed with the collective knowledge and expertise gained in the years past. Without further ado, let’s uncover the travel predictions that will shape our experiences in the year ahead.

Source: Pexels

The Power of AI in Travel

The year 2024 is poised to be an important one where artificial intelligence (AI) in travel exerts its influence over the industry even further. 

We anticipate significant strides in the implementation of generative AI, particularly in areas such as itinerary planning for travel agents online, the rise of AI-driven travel assistants, and customer support within the hospitality sector.

The marriage of digital transformation, AI, and data analytics is set to redefine the landscape of travel, making it smarter and more tailored to individual preferences.

The evolution of AI in travel is becoming a revolution. Imagine seamless itinerary planning, personalized travel recommendations, and instant assistance at your fingertips.

The possibilities are vast, and as we delve into the year, the travel industry is primed to leverage AI in ways that will enhance the overall travel experience for individuals and businesses alike.

Source: Pexels

Adapting to Agile Transformations

With a focus on efficiency and convenience, modern payment methods and adaptive technologies have become pivotal in reshaping the travel landscape.

The pandemic accelerated the urgency for digital transformation, birthing innovations like QR scanning and facial recognition technology that replaced tedious manual processes.

Agile transformations go beyond improving operational efficiency. They foster adaptability, responsiveness, and a heightened ability to navigate the ever-evolving demands of the travel industry. Today, the industry is redefining how it operates, ensuring a smoother, more responsive travel experience for all.

From booking to boarding, the agile transformation is a testament to the industry’s commitment to embracing change and enhancing the overall journey for travellers.

safety and security

Emphasizing the Value of Authentic Hospitality Experiences

Amidst the digital revolution that propels efficiency in travel, there’s a growing appreciation for the timeless allure of authentic hospitality experiences that reflect the company’s brand.

We’ve rediscovered the joy of tactile moments that surprise and delight. This trend is reflected in the meticulous design and amenities offered by accommodations, emphasizing a personalized experience that goes beyond the digital realm.

In the age of technology, the value of human connection cannot be overstated. Hotels and hospitality services are also recognizing the need to strike a balance between tech-driven efficiency and the warm, personalized touch that defines memorable experiences.

This year, the industry is set to elevate the importance of genuine, human-centric hospitality, ensuring that every traveller is treated to moments that rise above the ordinary.

Identifying Affordable and Sustainable Travel Options

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword that some adopt haphazardly and move on. It’s become a guiding principle for the modern traveller. The emphasis on eco-friendly business travel is gaining momentum, with promotions and initiatives encouraging travellers to make environmentally conscious choices during their stays. 

The significance of sustainable travel lies in the conscious decisions made by travellers – opting for public transportation, reducing waste, and supporting accommodations that prioritize environmental and social responsibility.

Affordability and sustainability are also no longer mutually exclusive. The industry is capitalizing on this opportunity as the desire to travel remains strong, even amidst economic fluctuations.

Gen Z, following in the footsteps of millennials, is keen on exploring the world and finding ways to make it fit into their budgets. The industry’s response shows how budget-friendly and sustainable travel can coexist in the same space with quality travel experiences.

Source: Pexels

Boosting Customer Interaction

In an era dominated by social media, customer engagement has become the cornerstone of the travel industry. In fact, 87% of millennials turn to platforms like Instagram and Facebook for vacation inspiration.

The role of social media in shaping travel trends cannot be overstated. User-generated content, coupled with data-driven targeted marketing, is the driving force behind successful customer interaction strategies.

As we delve deeper into 2024, the industry is poised to leverage the power of customer engagement through innovative social media campaigns, personalized incentives, and strategic use of data.

The goal is to not only meet but exceed the expectations of the modern traveller, creating an immersive and interactive journey that begins long before the boarding pass is issued.

Source: Unsplash

The Rise of Bleisure Travel

In the post-pandemic era, the concept of “bleisure travel” has gained significant traction. Bleisure travel shows the changing attitudes of business travellers who now prioritize well-being even during work-related commitments. 

Business travellers seeking a more personalized and comfortable experience are opting for accommodations that offer the flexibility to transition between work and leisure seamlessly.

This is why the appeal of bleisure travel has given rise to a surge in the popularity of quality and sustainable short-term rentals over traditional hotels, providing a home-like environment that aligns more with the modern business traveller’s needs.

By ensuring a memorable experience that caters to both business and leisure aspects, property managers can create lasting relationships among guests. Satisfied bleisure travellers are more likely to return, resulting in the short-term rental industry’s continued growth.

Wrapping Up

The 2024 travel predictions promise a rainbow of exciting experiences. Travel continues to evolve, providing convenience like never before while ensuring that the hospitality experience is always at the forefront.

If you find yourself yearning for the ideal stay within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), look no further than DelSuites. Our commitment to providing a home away from home, where productivity meets relaxation, guarantees an unforgettable stay.

So, here’s to tomorrow’s adventures – today. Step into the future of business travel with DelSuites, where every moment is an opportunity to discover, unwind, and redefine the way you travel.