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Business Travel, Toronto Condos, Toronto Family Travel, Vacation Travel

7 COVID-19 Measures You Should Know About Before Visiting Canada

April 29, 2021
covid 19 measures canada

Travel over the past year has been a whirlwind. Changing restrictions and new safety measures have made international travel a difficult maze of new rules depending on the airport or country you arrive in. Luckily, for travelers coming into Canada, there is some clarity. 

COVID-19 definitely disrupted many plans in 2020, but after a year of dealing with this novel virus, Canadian governments and travel institutions can now offer better guidelines for international travel. 

Here are seven measures you should know when visiting Canada as we deal with the COVID-19 global pandemic. 

1. Masks and Face Coverings

This is the big one. 

To help reduce the spread of COVID-19, travelers entering Canada through major ports, including airports, transit stations, etc., must wear masks/face coverings at all times. 

At Pearson Airport in Toronto, this includes the pre-and post-security screening areas of the terminals, parking facilities, people mover train, sidewalks/curbs outside the terminals, and other outdoor public areas.

There are several special exceptions to this rule in effect. If you have a medical condition that prevents you from wearing a mask, you are exempt from the rule provided you have a note from a medical doctor that certifies that you are unable to wear a mask for medical reasons. 

2. COVID-19 Testing Before and Upon Arrival

As of February 21, 2021, air travelers will be required to take a COVID-19 molecular test upon landing in Canada.  This testing can occur at the airport or later during their mandatory quarantine period in either a designated quarantine facility or at a suitable place of quarantine.

Before leaving the airport, travelers will also receive a COVID-19 test kit or instructions for taking their test later during their mandatory 14-day quarantine period.

3. Mandatory Quarantine Period 

When first coming to Canada, there is a mandatory 14-day self-isolation period for international travelers and social distancing precautions for everyone. 

For those coming from specific international hot spots, travelers are to go to a pre-booked hotel while they await the results of their arrival test.

If the test is negative, travelers will continue their quarantine in their home, short-term rental, or designated residence and complete their test kit as instructed.

However, if positive, travelers will be relocated to a designated quarantine facility or other suitable places of quarantine until medically released. 

4. Social Distancing Measures 

Apart from wearing masks and constant hand-washing, maintaining social distancing when possible is how we can help combat this pandemic. 

Many stores, public venues, and restaurants will have limited sitting or restrictions to how many patrons they can accommodate at a time. Keep this in mind when making plans for outings as there might be longer than usual waiting times or queues for shopping. 

At DelSuites, your short-term rental allows you to maintain social distancing and have a home away from home. Guests can enjoy premium amenities like a personal kitchen and high-speed internet, so their stay is comfortable and stress-free. 

5. Pre-Booked Hotel Upon Arrival 

Before departure to Canada, air travelers will need to reserve a 3-night stay in a government-authorized hotel. These new measures are in addition to existing mandatory pre-boarding and health requirements for air travelers with limited exemptions. 

Also, the Government of Canada has announced new travel restrictions, including a suspension of flights to Mexico and the Caribbean from January 31, 2021, to April 30, 2021.  New testing and quarantine requirements are also evolving with developments in the pandemic on public health. 

6. Restrictions for Meeters and Greeters at the Airport

Are you heading back home? Make sure to say your goodbyes before reaching the airport.

To maintain social distancing and limit high-volume traffic, many major airports have limited terminal access to passengers traveling on the same day and airport employees on duty. Meeters and greeters or those dropping friends and loved ones off at the airport won’t be able to enter the terminals. 

7. Stay-At-Home Orders 

In some COVID-19 hotspots, government bodies have implemented more strict social distancing measures to curb the spread of the virus and its newly emerging variants. 

Depending on the city you are traveling to, make sure to be prepared and informed of possible stay-at-home orders. This preparation can dramatically alter your trip and how you can spend your time in the country. 

8. Providing a Safe, Secure, and Cozy Home Away From Home 

Traveling to any country can be stressful, especially during COVID-19. With so many restrictions, it can be hard to fully enjoy your trip.  However, having a temporary home with DelSuites’ short-term rentals can make all the difference. 

When it comes to travel security and safety, you can be confident you are in good hands. Protecting our guests and associates is our number one priority. Along with abiding by government public health guidelines, we ensure that we are keeping on top of standards of cleanliness and hygiene to keep everyone safe, no matter where you are traveling from. 

Right from check-in, you can enjoy fully furnished living spaces and round-the-clock reliable and high-quality customer service. Despite this new normal, our strong in-house maintenance team and trusted security make it their mission to take care of you and your well-being so you can focus on getting the most out of your stay in Toronto and surrounding GTA.

Visiting Canada? Find Your Next Short-Term Rental With DelSuites

Don’t let COVID-19 get you down.  Even with some limited activities, Toronto always finds a way to entertain whenever you are here. And whatever you choose, you can be confident you have a comfortable and safe place to call home at the end of the day with DelSuites. Visit our website to find your perfect short-term rental in Toronto today.

Toronto Family Travel, Vacation Travel

Things for Families to Do in Scarborough

January 17, 2020

Scarborough is a very family friendly area of Toronto. With several great museums, parks, community centres and recreational facilities – there’s always something to do to keep the kids busy and occupied.

If you’re planning to head out and explore, here are some ideas for a great day out with the family in Scarborough.

Scarborough Museum

Learn about the past of the community at this museum, set within historical buildings in a 19th century garden in Thomson Memorial Park. This area was once the farm fields where Scarborough’s first settlers lived and the museum tells the story of Scarborough from the first founding to its growth into a major suburb.

While you are there, you can also explore the beautiful walking trails of Thomson Memorial Park with your family.

East Point Park

Take a hike with your children in East Point Park, a beautiful bird sanctuary where hundreds of migratory birds make their home. One of the largest parkland areas in Toronto, there are over 178 species of birds here – as well as monarch butterflies.

Your little ones can learn about birds and watch them from the weathered steel pavilion bird blinds. You can also get down to the natural beach by walking from the end of Beechgrove and Copperfield Road.

Kidstown Water Park

On a hot summer’s day, Kidstown Water Park is the perfect place for young kids to play. It’s one of the most well-loved Toronto outdoor water facilities for grade school and preschool children and it offers an exciting collection of water features, including spray rings, a tipping bucket, squirting aquatic animals and more.

There’s also a lovely picnic area, where you can relax and keep an eye on your children while you have a picnic in the sunshine. The park is open from late June to early September.
things for families to do in Scarborough

Agincourt Recreation Centre & Leisure Pool

One of only two leisure pools in Scarborough, Agincourt Recreation Centre provides lessons, swims and other activities for families. It’s also home to a tennis club and two indoor rinks for skating.

The centre also features the “Snoezelen Room” for children with disabilities. It features soft textures, soothing music and colours designed to be comforting for children with sensory processing issues. Regular sessions in the room have shown to improve relaxation, increase attention span and help with behaviour issues.

Hit the Beach

Scarborough is home to two beaches where you can picnic, hike, sunbathe and swim. Bluffer’s Park is located near the southern part of Brimley Road and it is surrounded by great nature trails. Even in the cooler months when swimming isn’t possible, it’s a spectacular place for a walk.

There’s also Rouge Beach. It’s part of Rouge Beach Park, which is located along the eastern edge of the city. Both of these beaches have great facilities including changing rooms and it’s one of the best things for families to do in Scarborough.

Check out our short term furnished apartment rentals in Scarborough and contact us if you have any questions.

Toronto Family Travel, Vacation Travel

Ideas for Your Next Weekend Getaway

November 19, 2019
weekend getaway

Travel doesn’t always have to be a long voyage. Sometimes all you need is to take a quick trip to relax and recharge. That’s why a weekend vacation can be such a great idea. You don’t have to book extra time off work to enjoy this short but sweet travel experience. 

 

So, if you’re planning a weekend trip, where should you go and what should you do? Whether you’re looking for ideas for fun weekend getaways for couples, weekend trips with the family or a solo adventure – there’s plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas for your next weekend trip. 

The Best Weekend Getaways: 

weekend getaway

3 Day Vacation Ideas

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

If you’re based near Toronto, Niagara Falls is the perfect option for long weekend getaways. It’s easy to get to from the city – with multiple options for trains and buses. Once you are there, you’ll want to marvel at impressive volume of the spectacular falls. However, that’s not the only things you can do in Niagara Falls. You can take a stroll through Niagara Falls State Park, taking the pedestrian bridge over to Goat Island and admiring the view of Horseshoe Falls from Terrapin Point. You could also book a wine tour out to Niagara on the Lake to taste some of the delicious vintages from the area. 

Bahia Honda State Park, Big Pine Key, Florida, USA

If you’re looking for a beautiful sandy beach to spend a sunny long weekend – consider this beautiful park in Big Pine Key. It’s a great spot to experience the Florida Keys on a budget. You could hop on a boat to go snorkeling at the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, or rent a kayak for your own adventure. There are many options for where to stay – from simple campsites to cabins to luxurious resorts. 

San Antonio, Texas, USA

This vibrant Texas city is an affordable place to visit – packed with a great dining and nightlife scene, historical significance and lots of great things to do. You can visit the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park or visit the Alamo for free – both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then, take a stroll down the famous San Antonio River Walk. The banks of the river are lined with bustling waterfront restaurants, unique boutiques, cute shops and so much more. 

Victoria, British Columbia, USA

Take the ferry from Vancouver to Vancouver Island to enjoy one of the best weekend getaways on the West Coast. One of the oldest cities in the Northwest, BC’s capital Victoria was first settled by the British in 1843. It’s a great mix of British charm, historic architecture, beautiful nature and a laid back hippie vibe. Take a stroll through the impressive flower displays at Butchart Gardens and explore the Inner Harbour, where you can see the Parliament Buildings and have afternoon tea at the famous Fairmont Empress Hotel. 

Savannah, Georgia, USA

If you’re looking for weekend trips with historic, magic and charm – Savannah is absolutely oozing with it. This city is known as one of the most romantic destinations in the USA. Take a stroll through the Old Town on a walking tour to hear the ghost stories of the many characters who haunt this town. Dine at one of the delicious Southern BBQ joints, then cap off the night with a swanky cocktail at a sexy, sultry speakeasy. 

Napa Valley, California, USA

If you love wine, there’s no better spot for a weekend getaway than the beautiful Napa Valley. You can spend your weekend relaxing at stunning hillside vineyards, sipping wine near luxury resorts, spas and golf courses. Plus, there are many cool activities to enjoy here from cooking workshops, cycling tours, fishing charters, stand-up paddleboarding and much more. 

weekend getaway

Tips for A Better Weekend Getaway

How can you make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible? Here are some tips that will help you have a great weekend adventure. 

 

  • Stay in an accommodation that will be as close as possible to the things you want to see and do on your trip. A weekend is not a lot of time, so you don’t want to spend too much of it on transport. 
  • Search for “weekend getaway ideas near me” and stay somewhere close by – so you don’t have to spend too much of your weekend in transport. 
  • Keep your luggage as light as possible. It should be easy to do if you’re only going for a couple of nights, and it will make transport a lot easier. Plus, if you’re traveling by air you’ll be able to fly cheaper if you travel with hand luggage only. 
  • Spend some time without your phone, so you can take a break from work emails and social media and live in the moment. You’ll come back feeling happier and recharged. 
  • Do as much as you can on the Saturday, to take the pressure off Sunday. Many attractions will be closed on a Sunday anyway and you don’t want to miss your chance to see them. 

Have fun on your weekend getaway!

Lifestyle talk, Toronto Family Travel

Reasons Why Different Demographics Relocate

November 8, 2019
why different demographics relocate

What are the reasons why people move? What are the life events that might be the catalyst for making the shift to a different city?

The truth is that there is a story behind why each of the different demographics relocate. Everyone has a different motivation for relocating and their situation is unique. Here at Delsuites, we aim to cater to a wide range of visitors and help diverse demographics relocate by offering convenient furnished apartments located in prime areas of Toronto.

Let’s take a look at some of the different demographics we see moving to Toronto.
why different demographics relocate

Young Adults

After they have finished college or university, the most common reason for someone in their 20s to relocate is for their job prospects.

They might be moving from a small town to the big city in order to enjoy more options for employment and a higher salary. Perhaps they might also be moving to a different destination in order to find a job with more interesting responsibilities. They are likely also seeking better benefits, more flexibility or a more suitable work/life balance. Sometimes, a new employer will even provide an apartment as part of a relocation package.

Plus, Toronto offers a great environment for young, ambitious, creative and curious people. The nightlife, art and music scenes are excellent. Plus, there are many great festivals and hobbies to enjoy.

why different demographics relocate

Families With Children

Another life stage when people move to Toronto is when they are starting a family. There are a lot of reasons why this city is great for families: it has parks and green spaces, plenty of libraries and children’s activities and excellent schools. Many parents choose to raise their children here, to enjoy what one of Canada’s most diverse and vibrant cities has to offer.

We also sometimes see families relocating to Toronto due to job transfers or opportunities. Our furnished apartments are an ideal option, as they provide a place to stay that is large enough for the entire family and offers all the conveniences of home.

Of course, a not-so-happy reason to relocate at this stage of life can also be divorce. As difficult as it is to end a relationship (especially if children are involved), relocating can be a chance to start fresh.
why different demographics relocate

Elderly

There’s another stage in life when many people tend to relocate. This is when the grown-up children fly the nest and they don’t need to live in such a big house anymore. During this stage in life, many people choose to renovate and use the space differently (changing a bedroom into a gym or a study). Or, they completely downsize to a smaller home.

Apartment life makes a lot more sense when you are older. There’s no need to mow the lawn on shovel the driveway. All the amenities are close by and your living space is compact, well-organized and easy to clean. Plus, there are so many cafes, shops, restaurants and community activities right on your doorstop.

What’s Your Relocation Story?

Tell us about the stage of life you find yourself in – what does moving to Toronto mean to you?

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!