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8 Things to Do with the Family or Solo Over the Holidays in Toronto

December 13, 2023
things to do in Toronto this holiday season

The holidays in Toronto are always full of excitement and adventure. Whether planning a family get-together or just looking for something to do yourself, there is no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained throughout the season. 

From exciting outdoor activities to cozy indoor moments, here’s our list of the top 8 things to do in Toronto this holiday season.

1. Enjoy a Home-Cooked Meal at the Dining Table

Enjoy a Home-Cooked Meal at the Dining Table

From 300 Front St. West 2 Bedroom Suite

With the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s hard for us to make time for a sit-down meal, let alone a home-cooked one. The holidays are the perfect time to slow down and savour cooking a favourite old recipe or trying something new. 

Whether roasted turkey, festive desserts, or a favourite side dish, there’s no better way to spend quality time with loved ones than around the dining table. Make sure the whole family is there, invite friends, or enjoy the fruits of your labour yourself. However you choose to enjoy it, there’s nothing cozier than home cooking and staying in.

2. Catch a Hockey Game

Catch a Hockey Game

Source: Pexels

If you’re a fan of the great Canadian game, then catching a Toronto Maple Leaf hockey match is an absolute must during the holidays. The atmosphere inside Scotiabank Arena is always electric. Not only will you be able to experience some exciting, live hockey action, but you may just catch a glimpse of Santa Claus himself as he makes his rounds through the stadium! 

There’s no better way to get yourself into the holiday spirit than by cheering on your favourite team with thousands of dedicated fans. While it’s a great event to take the whole family to, it’s always fun to go solo and find new friends through the camaraderie the game brings.

3. Have a Holiday Movie Night

Have a Holiday Movie Night

From Ten York’s Building Amenities

What could be more cozy and festive than a holiday movie night? Toronto is home to plenty of movie theatres that show classic films like It’s A Wonderful Life or Home Alone. Or, if you don’t want to leave the house on a cold winter night, there are plenty of streaming services that offer up an array of holiday movies for your viewing pleasure. 

Some buildings, like DelSuites’ Ten York property, even have movie theatres included in their amenities, as you can see in the picture above. While Braveheart may not be your top choice for this time of year, there are plenty of other movies you can see from the comfort of your building to get you in the holiday spirit.

4. Try Ice Skating

Try Ice Skating

Source: Pexels

Ice skating is one of the most popular winter activities in Toronto. With multiple outdoor rinks, like Nathan Phillips Square, and several indoor arenas, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to getting your skates on. Most rinks either offer a free skating period or are open to the public most of the day, so check online to be sure when you can go.

You don’t have to be an experienced figure skater or hockey pro to enjoy the sport. Even if you’ve never stepped foot on ice before, it’s an activity that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or skill level. Just be prepared to fall a few times as you learn the ropes.

5. Host a Family Game Night

Host a Family Game Night

From the Games Room at The Livmore

Make competitive spirits and holiday spirits bright with a night of fun and games. No matter who you invite, you’re sure to feel like a family by the end of the night. Toronto has plenty of great board game cafes, where you can rent games and snacks to keep everyone entertained. Classic games like Monopoly even have holiday-themed editions to take your gaming to the next level.

If you’d rather stay in, you can always have a video game tournament or ask your guests to bring their favourite board games and snacks to share. The Livmore and buildings like it have game rooms that are perfect for gatherings like these, complete with additional game options.

6. Shop at a Holiday Market

Shop at a Holiday Market

Source: Pexels

One of the best experiences during the holidays is to visit one of Toronto’s many holiday markets. You can find unique gifts, decorations, and even handmade items from local artisans. It’s a great way to do some last-minute holiday shopping for yourself and others.

The St Lawrence Market is a great place to start, as it has been open since 1803 and offers an array of seasonal treats for all ages. Other popular holiday markets in the city include the Distillery District Holiday Market, Evergreen Brick Works Winter Village, and Union Station’s Christmas Market.

7. Visit Winter-Loving Friends at the Zoo

Visit Winter-Loving Friends at the Zoo

Source: Pexels

The Toronto Zoo is the perfect place to spend a winter day. With its cozy indoor spaces and outdoor animal enclosures, it’s an ideal spot for families or solo adventurers alike. And there are plenty of animals to visit and learn about who love the cold weather, like caribou and polar bears.

During the holidays, visitors can enjoy special events such as carousel rides, festive crafts, and holiday lights displays. The zoo also offers a variety of interactive educational activities which are sure to engage kids of all ages.

8. Venture Through Snow-Covered Trails 

Venture Through Snow-Covered Trails

Source: Pexels

Toronto is home to some of the most beautiful snow-covered trails in the world. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or an intense cross-country skiing session, there are plenty of trails available for exploration. With gorgeous scenery and crisp air, exploring these trails is the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature and feel holiday magic in the air.

The Scarborough Bluffs provide stunning views from their 2 km loop trail and are perfect for those looking to take in nature at its finest. For something more strenuous, head over to Don Valley where you can find miles upon miles of paths that wind through forested areas. 

Entertainment, Events, Fitness and Health, Holiday Events, Lifestyle talk

How to Stay Healthy Over the Holidays

December 2, 2022

Staying healthy over the holidays can be a challenge. The weather outside is cold and we spend most of our day indoors, breathing in recycled air and possible germs. The abundance of alcohol and sugary treats over the holiday season reduces our immune systems, making us more susceptible to illness. The stress and pressure of preparing for New Years’ events can decrease your health even more – making you a target for flu bugs, colds and much more.

However, there are a number of ways that you can keep yourself healthy over the holidays.

Keep Up Your Exercise Routine

It’s tempting to ditch your workouts and let your days fill up with parties, errands and holiday preparations. However, it is important to keep your exercise routine as much as possible. Staying active will give you more energy, help you deal with added stress, boost your immune system and help you manage your weight during the holiday season. Squeeze in a visit to the gym whenever you can and try to enjoy active holiday activities such as going for a walk in the snow with your family. When staying in your furnished rental in Toronto, you can utilize the gym in the downtown Toronto apartments which is included in your rate, so you dont have to pay extra to work out.

Reduce Your Alcohol Consumption

Healthy Over the HolidaysThe holidays bring with them a number of situations where alcohol is consumed, from a mug of mulled wine to cocktails and drinks at the New Years’ party. It’s fine to have a few festive drinks but be careful not to go overboard. When you drink too much it will reduce your immune system function, put a strain on your liver, raise your blood pressure and add a lot of empty calories. Try to alternate your alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic ones at a party or an event so that you can cut back and stay healthy over the holidays.

Fill Up on Healthy Food

If you are going to a holiday get-together where you know there will be a lot of sweets, cookies, candies and other unhealthy treats, make sure that you eat a full meal of healthy, nourishing food first. Then, you will be less likely to eat as many unhealthy treats.

Take Time to De-Stress

The holidays can be a stressful time. There are a lot of commitments to friends and family, a lot of events to attend and plan for as well as the financial stress of gifts. You might find yourself being stretched thin and feeling stressed. Make sure that you give yourself time to take a break and recharge. Allow time for yourself to enjoy activities that reduce stress, such as going for a walk, practicing yoga or listeniHealthy over the holidaysng to some calming music.

Stay Warm

When the weather outside is frightful, make sure that you keep yourself warm and bundled up. A warm coat is important, as well as a hat and gloves to reduce heat loss through your head and hands where you lose the most heat.

Keep these tips in mind so that you can stay healthy and make the most of this holiday season.

Looking for a 30+ day furnished rental in downtown Toronto for your travel program?

Start your search for furnished apartments in downtown Toronto today with DelSuites.

Business Travel, Fitness and Health, Holiday Events

Safer Holiday Gathering Tips for the Season

December 21, 2021
Safer holiday photo by Maxime on Unsplash

With omicron variant cases rising, safer holiday gathering plans are on everyone’s mind. How can we spend warm, nourishing time with our loved ones—and not pass COVID on as well?

As we head into the holiday season, here are a few tips on how to adjust our plans to stay safe.

Keep it smaller

Canada’s public health officials are asking us to keep our holiday celebrations smaller and more intimate this year.

The recommendations for the most people you should have at an indoor gathering are different in every region. And after two years of COVID waves, it’s not easy to decide we’re not going to see someone this year. But taking a moment to think about what the most sensible number of guests might be—not so small as to leave you missing loved ones, but not so large as to risk them—is definitely worthwhile.

Think about your guests’ real needs

As public health officials have been saying, there’s “no magic number of people that makes a gathering safe.” Instead, think about the real people you’re gathering with this holiday season—and plan around their real needs.

If your friends or loved ones are older, immunocompromised, pregnant, or higher-risk, it’s worth planning your gathering around their safety threshold, rather than yours. Even if there’s a level of safety you’re personally comfortable with—an indoor dinner instead of an outdoor meetup, or mixing vaccinated and unvaccinated guests—it’s just good hosting to talk with the most at-risk person on your list first, and find out what makes them comfortable.

The greatest gift we can give this year is the chance to be with loved ones without fear of COVID exposure—or arguments about it. With a little footwork, everyone will be safer—and happier.

Book your vaccines

Toronto’s shown a great commitment to getting our vaccines. But now that they’ve been approved for kids and higher-risk adults are getting booster shots, it’s important to keep on top of our shots.

The more people who are vaccinated, the less chance we have of getting sick—and making others sick.

Wear a good mask

While omicron may be daunting, the difference between this year’s holidays and last year is our tools. We have much more effective tools against COVID this time around—and one of them is a good-quality, good-fitting medical-grade mask.

High-quality masks have never been easier to get. They’re available from office supply stores, pharmacies, and even vending machines at Toronto Pearson Airport, Union Station, and major Toronto subway stations.

If you’re visiting Toronto for longer, you can plan ahead and have your mask supply waiting. Ontario mask manufacturers Canadian Shield offer express shipping on masks, face shields, respirators, and rapid tests. Order a few days before your travel date, and you can have a Health Canada-certified mask supply waiting for you when you arrive—enough for you and your guests.

Use rapid tests to make sure you’re safe

Rapid tests are a part of the COVID safety puzzle that’s never quite clicked in Ontario—but they can be vital in keeping your holiday gathering safe.

Rapid tests are available from some pharmacies and online suppliers: either over the counter or shipped to your door. They’re easy, convenient COVID tests you can do at home, giving you a result in 15 minutes. Get a negative, and you’re likely safe; get a positive, and it’s time to confirm that with a formal PCR test.

Having your guests each test themselves before your holiday gathering is a great way to make sure nobody’s carrying an asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic case of COVID. And it means you’ll be able to relax into spending time with loved ones, instead of worrying about the air you breathe.

Have a backup plan

Our situation’s changing fast, and it’s smart to have a backup plan, whether big or small.

On the simple end, a holiday backup plan can mean sending invites for a virtual Zoom holiday party in case gathering recommendations change—and your guest list ends up being too large.

If you have to travel across borders, knowing where to get a PCR test so you can make your flight home on time can save you trouble later. In the most serious scenario, it might be worthwhile to line up somewhere to stay in case borders close entirely.

Safer holiday gatherings are the holiday spirit

Either way, be prepared to be flexible as the situation develops: and get your friends and family to help out. Planning a group gathering that keeps everyone safe is much easier when we’re all on board—or when we divide tasks like testing and planning equally to make it easy on the host.

Even though COVID’s affecting our holiday plans, the holiday spirit’s unchanged: that we’ll always do better when we lean on each other, talk with each other, and work together.

Happy holidays!

Holiday Events, Toronto Family Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation Travel

The Best Spring Break Destinations

October 29, 2019

When the weather starts to get a bit warmer and school takes a break, it’s time to travel somewhere and celebrate the coming of spring. Spring break is also known as Easter vacation, mid-term break, study week and reading week. But let’s face it – you may not be doing much studying, you’ll probably be busy traveling instead.

Where should you go on Spring Break? The typical Spring Break trips take place in warm climates with lively party scenes, but the truth is you can go anywhere you like depending on what type of experience you want to have. There’s a spring break trip out there for anyone, whether you love lounging on the beach, hiking through the wilderness or checking out a museum.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular Spring Break destinations, as well as some slightly alternative options.

Where to Go For Spring Break?

Here are some of the best spots for your Spring Break vacations.
spring break destinations

The Bahamas

One of the most popular spring break trip ideas, spending your break in the Caribbean will be a dream come true. There’s more than just pristine soft sugary sand beaches here. You’ll find quiet coves perfect for scuba diving, glamorous resorts and beautiful protected nature preserves to explore. If you want to mix a bit of history into your spring break trip, you can explore ruins from the Arawak and Lucayan Indians on Cat Island and San Salvador.
spring break destinations

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

This beautiful Mexican coastal destination is known for being a great Spring Break destination. It has one of the most glamorous oceanfronts in Mexico, with excellent restaurants, bars and hotels. Plus, the food is fantastic. Local chefs prepare mouth-watering traditional Mexican food in innovative ways. When you’re not enjoying the culinary and nightlife scene, you can book an adventure tour sailing along the coast or hiking in the Sierra Madre Mountains.
spring break destinations

Miami Beach, Florida

Miami Beach just might be one of the most famous Spring Break destinations. The sun shines down on the beach bars during the day and at night, the vibrant nightlife carries on until late. Enjoy some cocktails on a rooftop bar and then dance the night away. Then, sleep all day and do it all again. This is a very popular Spring Break destination for young singles, but it would also be perfect for couples or groups of friends.
spring break destinations

Toronto, Canada

Perhaps you’re not much of a beach person and you’re looking for more of a city break this spring vacation? Toronto is an exciting city to explore, with plenty of farmers markets, festivals, shopping and live music to enjoy during the spring season. You can even take a trip out to Niagara Falls. Check out this list of Things to Do in Toronto in the Spring from Toronto.com for help when planning your trip.
spring break destinations

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Why not spend a beautiful sunny Spring Break on Myrtle Beach? The 1.2 mile-long Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade is a great place to go for a run or a stroll. You can also hang out at the Pavilion Amusement Park, with live music on most evenings. There are even Las Vegas-style casino cruises available if you want to try your luck with some gambling.
spring break destinations

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is a wonderful destination during spring break. It’s a great time to visit. The weather will be warm enough to enjoy the outdoors, but not too blazing yet. There’s a lot to see and do in Palm Springs, from the aerial tram to the Living Desert Museum. Or, you can even go hiking in Joshua Tree National Park. There are several beautiful and luxurious resorts located in and around Palm Springs, with fun activities and family-friendly amenities.
spring break destinations

Zion National Park, Utah

When it comes to the best vacations for kids on Spring Break, you should check out beautiful Zion National Park. While the Grand Canyon is typically a popular destination, you’ll likely find smaller crowds at Zion. This naturally stunning park has hanging gardens and soaring sandstone cliffs that will take your breath away. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes you can enjoy throughout the region, such as the Weeping Rock Trail and the Canyon Overlook Trail.
spring break destinations

Victoria, British Columbia

Why not consider a trip to Vancouver Island for your spring break? The weather will be beautiful – the spring days are warm and the flowers will be blooming. Victoria oozes old-fashioned British charm and the historic streets are lined with cute shops, local galleries and great restaurants. There are also several excellent museums in the city, such as the Royal British Columbia Museum. You can even take a day trip around the island to see the soft sandy beaches of Tofino, or go on a whale watching expedition.

What are your favorite Spring Break destinations?

Have any other Spring Break ideas to suggest? Let us know!

Events, Family Vacations in Toronto, Holiday Events, Vacation Travel

Tips for Better Thanksgiving Travel

October 8, 2019

Canadian Thanksgiving, celebrated on the second Monday in October, will take place on Monday October 14th this year (2019). 

The week of Thanksgiving can be one of the craziest travel periods of the year, with millions of people flying to visit family and friends for the holiday. This can make things pretty stressful. 

However, traveling during Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Here are some tips for your next Thanksgiving getaways.  

Smart Thanksgiving Travel Tips

  1. Plan ahead and arrive early, think about the rush hour times for each city you have to drive through. Unexpected delays might happen, so it’s a good idea to build in extra time just in case. 

  2. When driving, consider taking the scenic route. Even though the distance may be longer, you won’t end up sitting bumper to bumper so it might be faster. 

  3. Download the Waze app. It allows you to see real-time updates on accidents, traffic, police traps and more. 

  4. If you’re road tripping with kids, make sure you bring along plenty of books, toys and other distractions to keep them happy and entertained while on the journey. 

  5. If you have to travel by plane, save money by flying back on Black Friday. Everyone is too busy shopping and the rates for flights are often much cheaper. 

  6. If the airline gives you the option for text messages with flight updates, take it! Sometimes it’s really useful and can alert you to last minute updates. 

  7. Also, you can use your smartphone to check-in early and have your boarding pass delivered electronically. This will allow you to bypass the line at the check-in kiosk. 

  8. If you can be flexible with your dates, you can usually find last minute deals on Skyscanner. 

  9. If you’re tempted to stay in a hotel rather than sleep in the spare room or sofa, hotels are usually underbooked during Thanksgiving and you may be able to find last minute deals. 

  10. When bringing food, sweet, treats and other goodies with you on the plane, make sure you check with the airline first. For example, gravies, relishes and jams are often considered “liquid” and are not allowed on the plane. 

  11. When it comes to what clothing to pack, the key word is layers. Temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day in the autumn, so make sure you can adjust when things cool down.


thanksgiving travel

Where to Go for Thanksgiving

What if you’re planning to hit the road and enjoy a getaway over the Thanksgiving holiday? There are many different Thanksgiving destinations available throughout Canada and the USA – here are a few great options you might consider. 

  1. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: This family-friendly destination has lots of great festive events around American Thanksgiving. For example, you can enjoy Winterfest, a beautiful celebration of lights.

  2. Toronto, Ontario: Head to the bright lights and big city of Toronto for Thanksgiving. There’s so much to see and do in the city!

  3. Las Vegas, Nevada: Why not go on a Thanksgiving getaway to Sin City and have a bit of fun in the casinos? If you hit the jackpot, you’ll have a lot to be thankful for! 

  4. Montreal, Quebec: This beautiful city is so much fun to explore over Thanksgiving. The autumn leaves look spectacular and the weather is just right. Do some shopping, check out the art galleries and more. (Note: Thanksgiving is known as action de grâce in Quebec and it is celebrated slightly less than in other parts of Canada.)

  5. The Adirondacks, New York: This stunning forested area in New York state looks even more beautiful in the autumn as the leaves begin to change colour. Check out the many award-winning spas, golf courses and restaurants in the region. 

  6. Chicago, Illinois: Why not pair your Thanksgiving turkey with a deep dish pizza while you explore this exciting and culturally rich American city? Check out the famous stand-up comedy scene and go on an architecture tour (skyscrapers were invented here). 

  7. Vancouver Island, British Columbia: Stroll the beaches of Tofino, go on a whale watching tour or take a walking tour of historic downtown Victoria’s turn-of-the-century buildings. 

  8. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee: Explore the great outdoors at one of the most popular National Parks in the USA. With over 150 official hiking trails, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to breathe in the fresh and crisp fall air.

(Keep in mind that if you will be traveling over the border on Thanksgiving long weekend, you should allow for extra time. The border will be busy and you may need to wait in line for quite some time.)

Be Thankful

Last but not least, the most important tip for Thanksgiving travel is to be thankful. Even though your journey may be delayed and crowded, express gratitude for the opportunity to travel with your loved ones and enjoy your holiday. 

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