Travel Tips Archives - Page 2 of 2 - Delsuites' Blog
Browsing Tag

Travel Tips

Vacation Travel

Things to Know Before You Travel to Canada

November 26, 2019
travel to canada

Oh, Canada! The second largest country in the world is packed with so many great things to see and do. It’s home to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world, from the dramatic cliffs and stormy seas of the Maritimes to the vast prairies and the snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes of the Rocky Mountains.

Plus, Canada also boasts world-class cities that are alive with excellent nightlife, superb museums and galleries, delicious and diverse cuisine and fascinating history. No matter what you’re into, you’ll find something to love in Canada. Plus, you’ll also find plenty of friendly and welcoming people.

So, what should you know when visiting Canada? Keep reading for some important information you’ll want to be aware of before you embark on a trip to the True North Strong and Free.
travel to canada

Tips for Traveling to Canada

  • ➤ In Canadian airports, you’ll hear all announcements repeated in both official languages – French and English. So, if you don’t understand the announcement don’t panic – it will cycle back around to English again.
  • ➤ Be aware of how cold it can be in the winter. In the prairie provinces, it is not uncommon for the temperature to dip down to -30 degrees Celsius (-22 Fahrenheit) during the depths of winter. Dress appropriately and don’t plan to spend long hours outdoors.
  • ➤ Speaking of what to wear, layers is the best option when travelling to Canada. You can adjust to your comfort when walking outside or entering a building. Also, don’t forget a scarf, gloves and a hat (known locally as a toque).
  • ➤ The tipping culture in Canada is similar to that of the USA. Generally, the accepted range is between 15-20% of the final bill.
  • ➤ When you visit Canada you’ll notice right away that there is a federal sales tax added to all goods and services. Plus, in addition to this many of the provinces have their own tax. So, keep this in mind if your bill comes to more than you were expecting – even when shopping in a store.
  • ➤ Canada is a huge country and the distances between destinations are vast. Be realistic about how much you can cover during your trip. For example, don’t plan to visit Vancouver one day and then Calgary the next. There is over 10 hours of driving in between these two cities (even though they look relatively close on a map!)
  • ➤ If you are not a U.S. citizen, you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization if you are visiting Canada by air. It costs $7 and is valid for five years.

    • travel to canada

    Entering Canada: Travel to Canada from the US

    Wondering what you need to know about US citizen travel to Canada?

    If you are visiting Canada from the United States, you’ll definitely need to bring your passport to cross the border – or a “passport equivalent.” This can be an enhanced driver’s licence, or a NEXUS card. Ever since 9/11, visitors from the USA are no longer allowed to cross the border into Canada with a simple driver’s license.

    A tourist visa is not required for stays under 180 days. Children under the age of 16 may only need to present proof of U.S. citizenship – which can be a birth certificate.

    It’s also important to know what you can bring with you when you cross the border. For example, if you have proper documentation you can bring your pet with you. However, you should never take fresh fruit with you across the border, and there are limits on how much liquor and cigarettes you can bring.

    The good news is that your US driving license is still valid when you cross the border into Canada. However, be aware that the speed limits will be displayed in kilometers, not miles. So, figure out the conversion rate and don’t drive too fast!

    Some towns on the border will accept American dollars. However, you’ll want to change your money into Canadian currency as soon as you can. Also, keep an eye on your mobile phone settings. Your U.S. cellphone will work in Canada, but your carrier may apply roaming charges that can really add up quickly.

    It’s also important to know that although Canada has a wonderful universal healthcare system – it’s only for Canadians. As a visitor, you’ll want to get travel insurance coverage in case you hurt yourself or become ill during your stay. (That is, unless your U.S. health provider covers you outside of the USA.)

    Any questions about visiting Canada?

    If you’re going to Canada, feel free to reach out to us and ask any questions you might have about what to expect. Also, if you’re coming to Toronto, check out our furnished suites – ideal for families or couples who want the comforts of home plus a convenient location in the heart of the city.

    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!

    Entertainment, Vacation Travel

    East Coast Vacations: Inspiration For Your Next Trip

    November 12, 2019

    An East Coast USA vacation is a classic getaway. After all, this region has everything you could want from a fun break: beautiful beaches, cities packed with culture, quiet pockets of nature and stunning views of the ocean. 

    When it comes to planning the best East Coast vacations (or even an East Coast road trip), there are a lot of great destinations to choose from. From the gorgeous forests of upstate New York to the famous amusement parks of Florida, you can keep coming back to the East Coast again and again. 

    The Best Places to Visit on the East Coast

    If you are looking for some East Coast vacation ideas, (whether for 
    Spring Break or an autumn getaway) these are some of the hottest spots on this side of the country. 

    east coast vacations

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

    Historic Philadelphia is the birthplace of America and a fantastic place for an East Coast trip. It’s very popular with families, but it could also be a wonderful romantic trip or a solo adventure. The city is very walkable and there are countless museums and historic sites to check out. You can taste the delicious food at the Reading Terminal Market, revisit history at the Betsy Ross House and go for a jog up the “Rocky” steps by the 
    Philadelphia Art Museum. Of course, don’t forget to try a big juicy and irresistible Philly cheese steak as well! 

    It’s no wonder this city draws so many visitors for East Coast vacations.
    east coast vacations

    Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusets

    This pretty island is a dreamy getaway, accessible from Cape Cod via a ferry. You’ll fall in love with the charming beaches, quaint lighthouses, gingerbread cottages and sweet hotels. Also, if you love hiking this is a great place for you. There are several stunning national parks where you can explore the great outdoors, including Aquinnah Cliffs and South Beach State Park. It’s one of the most popular East Coast attractions for celebrities, so keep your eyes peeled and you might spot some famous visitors. 

    east coast vacations

    Kennebunkport, Maine

    This lovely and quaint Maine village is filled with chic boutiques, friendly coffee shops and quirky antique shops. The rocky coastline is ideal for capturing those iconic seaside photos, with a scenic lighthouse in the background. There’s plenty to keep you busy here, from kayak tours of Mousam River Estuary to lobstering and much more. At the end of the day, you can relax with a few local brews at the 
    Kennebunkport Brewing Company while you admire the views. 

    east coast vacations

    Washington, D.C. 

    There’s so much to see and do in Washington! If you are a history buff or an art nerd, you’ll love the world-class collection of Smithsonian museums – all of which are free. You can also go for a walk along the National Mall, a stunning space lined with iconic landmarks such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. Take a tour of the White House and the Library of Congress, then stroll through the hip streets of Georgetown and enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants that overlook the water. 

    east coast vacations

    Portsmouth, New Hampshire

    If you’re looking for the quintessential charming New England town, Portsmouth is a pretty great example. It’s just an hour north of Boston but it has a completely different vibe. One of the oldest cities in the USA, it was settled in 1623. This peaceful historic town has excellent museums (such as the USS Albacore Museum) and a lot of stories to tell. Check out the Strawberry Banke Museum, an outdoor exhibition that will show you what life was like when this community was originally settled. Or, you can take a walk along the Portsmouth Harbor Trail, which showcases 70 landmarks and is lined with excellent restaurants, cute artisan boutiques and lovely sidewalk shops. 

    east coast vacations

    St. Augustine, Florida

    St. Augustine is very special – it’s the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in North America. This gives it a completely different feel than most Florida destinations. Founded by Spanish colonialists in 1565, it has more of an Old World ambiance and feels more like Spain than Florida. You can take a stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the 1672 Castillo de San Marcos. Plus, the Plaza de la Constitución is pretty impressive and the city is filled with beautiful Spanish-style architecture. If you venture only minutes away, St. Augustine has more than 40 miles of stunning beaches. 

    east coast vacations

    Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

    If you’re looking to relax on a beach or take the family somewhere chilled out, Myrtle Beach is a delight. Along the beachfront you’ll find an array of attractions, including live entertainment, multiple amusement parks and great restaurants. Every night during the summer there will be live entertainment on the oceanfront boulevard, including stilt walkers, jugglers and bagpipers. There’s even a weekly firework display – making the nights very magical indeed. It’s no wonder this is one of the most popular East Coast vacation spots. 

    These are just a few of the best places to visit on the East Coast. What are your favorite places for East Coast vacations? Share them with us in the comments! 

    Vacation Travel

    What are the Top Tourist Destinations in the World?

    November 5, 2019

    A lot of travel blog posts are focused on going off the beaten track and finding the most obscure destinations. However, although you might want to avoid the big tourist destinations because “everyone has been there” – there’s a reason why they are so popular. 


    The world’s most popular and best tourist destinations have reached their status for a reason. There’s something appealing about them that draws visitors from all over the world. So, it’s certainly worth visiting these main attractions and you’ll find plenty of great things to enjoy about them. 


    So, what are the most famous places in the world? What is the most visited tourist attraction in the world? Let’s take a look at some of the top destinations, to figure out where everyone is heading on their next getaway.


    Note: This is not an official or complete list of the top tourist destinations. The rankings will fluctuate year on your, but these are a few examples that are always at the top. 

    The Top Tourist Destinations

    tourist destinations

    Bangkok, Thailand

    With more than 20 million visitors in 2018, Mastercard’s annual 
    Global Destination Cities Index named Bangkok as the most visited city in the world. It’s also very likely to be on lists of the top 10 tourist destinations in the world. This comes as no surprise, as it’s often the first destination for travelers making their way around Southeast Asia. Bangkok has a lot to enjoy, from fascinating temples to enormous mega-malls to bustling night markets and more. 

    tourist destinations

    The Great Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

    These iconic pyramids are the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and are more than 3,000 years old – making them a very intriguing tourist attraction. Scientists still don’t really understand how ancient people were able to carve, move and erect this incredible structure, made with more than two million stone blocks. You can take a tour to learn about the history of the pyramids, as well as visit many other fascinating cultural and historic sites around Cairo. 

    tourist destinations

    London, England

    It’s not hard to see why London is always at the top of Top Tourist Destination lists. After all, this massive World City has one of the best collections of art galleries and museums on the planet. Plus, there are huge parks to explore (such as Hyde Park) and fascinating historic attractions (like the famous Tower of London). Not to mention, the West End hosts a dazzling array of fantastic theatrical shows. Add a superb culinary scene, a great selection of tourist attractions and lots of fantastic shopping and you have a great city for a getaway. 

    tourist destinations

    Paris, France

    It comes as no surprise that Paris is one of the most visited destinations in the world. This city has such a romance around it and has inspired countless poems, books, songs, paintings, films and more. Numerous lists and studies have identified Paris as the most visited city in the world – and France as the most visited country in the World. After all, how could you not fall in love with the romance, cuisine, museums and charming elegance of the City of Light? 

    tourist destinations

    Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    With an estimated 
    15,790 million visitors per year, Dubai is one of the most visited cities in the world. As a destination, it boasts enormous glittering skyscrapers, luxury resorts, dazzling shopping malls and a stunning beachside promenade. Plus, from here you can take a day trip out to the desert and experience camel rides and a cookout with Beduoin tribes – for a fully immersive cultural experience.

    tourist destinations

    Macau, China 

    Sometimes referred to as the Las Vegas of Asia, Macau is a glittery metropolis known for its enormous mega-casinos, luxury hotels and shopping malls. Everything is a little over the top here, in a fun and fascinating way. Plus, Macau was once a Portuguese colony, so there’s beautiful European-style colonial architecture in the historic core. Unlike anywhere else in Asia, it’s a one-of-a-kind spot that gets over 17 million visitors per year. 

    tourist destinations

    New York City, USA

    The Big Apple. The Empire State. The Center of the Universe. The City That Never Sleeps. New York is another city that has been featured so much in fiction, music and art that it has achieved legendary status. One of the biggest US tourist attractions, this city is virtually infinite. You could explore it for years and still not experience all the neighborhoods, streets, attractions, restaurants, bars and more. From hipster Brooklyn to stylish Manhattan – it’s definitely worth a visit. 

    Where will you go next? 

    Are there any spots on this list of tourist attractions where you haven’t been? Why not take the chance to check out some of these top tourist destinations from around the world? 

    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!

    Instagram

    Instagram Slider

    Instagram Slider