Mary-am Suites Blog

Mary-am Suites is proud to exhibit at the 2018 Global Business Travel Association Conference (GBTA) next week in Toronto. The conference takes place from April 16th to 18th at the Toronto Metro Convention Centre located in downtown Toronto, in the former Railway Lands along Front Street West. It will bring together hundreds of business travel organizations and industry leaders to introduce new products, share insights, and review current trends taking place in the industry.

About GBTA Toronto 2018

Mary-am Suites will join Air Canada, American Express, Egencia Business Travel, Skyteam, and over 80 other exhibitors from around the globe. The 2018 GBTA Conference will connect these exhibitors with over 700 worldwide guests to participate in exclusive networking, cutting-edge educational opportunities, and the chance to have a first look at exciting new products and services throughout the 3-day event.

Visit Mary-am Suites at GBTA 2018 for Prize-Winning Opportunities

Mary-am Suites looks forward to welcoming all guests at the 2018 GBTA at booth #315 to share and provide helpful information on travel accommodation solutions. Guests at booth #315 will have a chance to win an iPad Mini 4 while benefiting from information on serviced accommodation options customized to business travelers.

In order to win, guests will simply need to enter the draw at booth #315, and will be given a code following registration. The registered winner will be announced at the end of the conference on April 18th. 

Packing for business trips can be easily overlooked, especially when having to prepare important details like scheduling meetings or practising speeches for a conference. Instead of tossing the essentials into your luggage at the last minute, a little planning can save you time, hassle, and even money. Once you’re better organized with your packing, it will be a much simpler ordeal when it comes time to repack and rush to the airport. Below are some tips on how you can efficiently pack for business trips for more convenient travel.

Try Sticking to Carry-On Baggage Only 

Whether your business trip is for a weekend, week, or a month, travelling with only a carry-on is much more efficient than having to deal with the hassles of checking your luggage. This way, you’ll be able to skip crowded lines (at both check-in and baggage claim) and you won’t have to worry about airlines misplacing your valuable items. It’s much more comforting to have your items with you during the flight so you can arrive at your destination with ease. Some airlines also allow you to take a personal item in which you can opt for a small laptop bag to help sort out your technology.

St. Valentine’s Day is approaching quickly, but just in time for us to forget about the subzero temperatures and embrace a night of warm festivities to commemorate the day. Toronto may look like a winter wonderland now, but on February 14th the city aims to warm you and your hearts with an array of exciting and memorable activities to share with your significant other. Here are some of our favourites that are sure to impress your date with an entertaining evening.

The Ultimate Date at the Ripley’s Aquarium

Toronto’s Ripley’s Aquarium is known for being a beautiful date idea lending you spectacular backdrops and engaging surroundings, but things are about to get much more exciting. On February 14th, Ripley’s Aquarium hosts their annual St. Valentine’s Day event, inviting couples to experience an intimate 3-course dinner in one of their immersive galleries. What’s best is you won’t have to travel too far for your evening of romance. The Ripley’s Aquarium sits just across the street from fully-furnished Mary-am Suites at 300 Front Street making it easy to plan the perfect date.

Attain a Healthy Weight

Let’s start with one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions: being fit.  There are a number of misconceptions about losing and maintaining a healthy weight. These misconceptions along with trends and fads truly make it hard to accomplish this tricky resolution. While you may be able to start your year off by dropping a few pounds, maintaining that weight is usually harder than shedding them.

Once you have a goal, you’ll need to set attainable checkpoints. This doesn’t mean you’ll have to commit to an expensive gym, or sacrifice hours getting there everyday. Furnished rentals at Mary-am Suites offer on-site fitness facilities making it easy to pick a convenient time and exercise that works for you and your schedule.

Keep a Healthy Diet

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn’t mean that you have to cut all your favourites out of your life, you’ll just need to adjust your menu. Start with easy changes like swapping your white rice for brown, and leaving sugar out of your coffee. It’s also beneficial to add whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins to your meal. This will keep you fuller for longer.

Remember, it’s never a good idea to skip a meal. Skipping meals can harm your body and actually contribute to weight gain. If you’re away from your usual home, there’s no excuse as all furnished apartments at Mary-am Suites have fully equipped kitchens so you can easily whip up healthier meals that will assist in maintaining a healthy diet, weight, and lifestyle.

The long awaited holiday season comes but once a year so it’s only right that you take advantage of the festive and seasonal activities that come along with it. During the holiday season the city comes alive with displays, events, and attractions to explore that will put even the grinchiest in a joyous mood. Below are some of Toronto’s most magical events that are a must-see while visiting the city during the holidays.

Toronto Christmas Market

(close to Maple Leaf Square furnished apartments)

Is the holidays even the holidays without a visit to Toronto’s Christmas Market? This annual event turns the cobblestoned streets of Toronto’s charming distillery district into a European-style winter wonderland from November 16 to December 23. No matter your style or flavour, you’ll be able to find an array of merry treats and trinkets amongst the glittery decorated vendors, food stations, and crafts shops waiting for you to explore. Once you’ve paid Santa a visit, guests can enjoy seasonal cocktails and beers at the Christmas Market Beer Garden, before singing along to traditional Christmas carols with cheery musicians. Embrace the magical holiday celebrations for free from Tuesday to Friday or for a $6.00 admission fee on weekends.

Natrel Rink at the Harbourfront Centre

(steps from Maple Leaf Square furnished apartments and 300 Front St west suites)

It will be hard to ignore the city’s most scenic rink this holiday season at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre. Set along Lake Ontario, this rink’s inviting festive atmosphere is not to be missed either by day or by night. The Natrel Rink is open daily, offering free admission and reasonably priced skate and helmet rentals. Heated indoor change rooms make it easy and comfortable to partake in the holiday action, while the Boxcar Social rink-side restaurant offers a changing list of coffees and creative seasonal menu items to keep you warm. For a more musical experience, head down to the harbourfront for one of their Saturday DJ Skate Nights.

When thinking of a combination of rolling hills, skyscrapers, and historical homes, these thoughts would probably lead to the city of Markham, Ontario. Markham is a bustling city in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area) where heritage meets modern living. When visiting the neighbourhood, it will be easy to find activities to please everyone in a family.

1.Visit Old Railway Stations

Markham GO Station dates back to 1871 making it one of the oldest stations in the city. This is apparent due to its classic design and architecture. While now a community centre, when looking for more of the classic railway and Gothic styled buildings, head to Unionville Go Station. Locust Hill Station is now fittingly apart of the Markham Museum and dates back to 1936 making this a must-see along any journey.

2.Visit the Local Museum

If the railway tour has led to the Markham Museum, it will be worth it to stay a while and learn about the city’s history and culture. The museum is an open-air museum made up of around 30 buildings with gardens to explore. The museum includes permanent and temporary exhibitions including Markham artifacts dating back to 1968.

The world is full of grand hotels, and Toronto seems to have more than its fair share. This is the financial centre of Canada, after all, so travelers can expect to find plenty of properties offering top notch services for business travelers. These business class hotels offer standardized levels of exceptional quality and service as well as a full range of the expected amenities.

But for travelers who want to experience a little more in the way of hospitality, design, and delight, there are also the many wonderful boutique hotels that dot the city like sparkling gems. And for travelers who really wish to venture into the heartbeat of Toronto, there are lots of beautifully furnished apartments to explore all around the city.

How do you know which is better for you?

Here’s your mini-guide for where to stay in Toronto. It’s presented in the form of questions, so get ready to think about your traveling preferences and needs. By the time you’ve read this, you’ll have a fairly good idea of which option will enable the perfect visit to Toronto for you. ..->

Are you new to the Toronto area and staying here temporarily for work? Do you have important meetings and must report to a corporate office during your stay? Navigating around in an urban city like Toronto can be overwhelming and confusing at first. Here are a few helpful tips for a hassle-free stay:

Learn About the Surrounding Neighbourhood

In the weeks leading up to your departure, take the time to learn about the Toronto neighbourhood where you will be staying. This will reduce any stress or confusion when you need to commute to different areas. Once you arrive to your furnished suite, we also recommend exploring the neighbourhood on foot to get a sense of your interests and likes in the surrounding area. Perhaps you’ll find a delicious nearby eatery perfect for quick meals on the go... ->

Whether you are in between houses or in town for business, an extended stay in Toronto can be your ideal home away from home. From afar, you may not be convinced that a furnished apartment can replicate the setup of your actual home. You may have doubts that your furnished apartment won’t be cozy or provide the comforts of your own home. Fortunately, there are many pointers to keep in mind to help ensure you have a pleasant and comfortable stay.

1. Choose an extended stay with a separate bedroom and living space

Extended furnished apartment stays have a variety of setups. Some apartments are designed like a studio apartment whereas others are similar to a one-bedroom apartment. If you are wanting additional space, looking for a room with separate living and sleeping quarters is a good move. This means you won’t have to worry about the amount of items you pack since you’ll have ample space to spread out your belongings. Further, if you are visiting Toronto for business purposes, this provides a separation between your work and bedroom space...->

Are you unsure about what to do on this upcoming, long Victoria Day weekend? Say no more! We have provided you with a list of different types of activities, festivals, and events happening in the GTA this weekend.  

Fireworks at Wonderland 

Where: Vaughan (9580 Jane St.)

When: May 22, 2016

Website: Fireworks at Wonderland

Enjoy your day at Canada’s Wonderland riding thrilling coasters, watching live entertainment, shopping, dining, and wrap your day up at 10:00PM with an amazing display of fireworks over the Wonder Mountain.  

Regular Park Admission

Victoria Day Weekend HarbourKIDS: Circus –Toronto

Where: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto

When: May 21 - 23, 2016

Website: HarbourKIDS Circus

The comedians, the jugglers, the clowns, and the acrobats are back to Harbourfront Centre with HarbourKIDS! Be entertained all day long and take a tour around the site on the HarbourKIDS express.

Free Admission...->

Are you relocating employees this spring for a temporary or permanent work assignment? We understand that there are many companies to choose from when it comes to corporate housing relocation throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Today we detail the advantages of booking corporate housing accommodations through Mary-am Suites:

Popular Neighbourhoods

Our suites are located in hubs for businesses in Toronto and across the Greater Toronto Area. With Mary-am suites located in North York, midtown, downtown, Markham and Mississauga, there are a myriad of options sure to meet every location requirement.

Each neighbourhood offers a unique spot for our guests. As well, suites are located close to major highways, roads and public transportation lines, including TTC bus, subway and streetcar routes. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free commute for all employees...->

It is often said that the best workout is the workout you’ll actually do. For many, exercising can be boring and monotonous, so why not change up your exercise routine by going for a walk.  Toronto is a beautiful city with many unique neighbourhoods and peaceful parks. We outline some of our choices for the best walking areas in Toronto. 

The Beaches:

A popular escape for Torontonians, The Beaches is a beautiful Toronto neighbourhood known for colourful, cottage-like houses and extensive boardwalk. Take a stroll along the boardwalk which provides a breathtaking view of Lake Ontario. If you enjoy shopping, Queen Street East is close by and features many specialty shops.

High Park:

Toronto’s largest public park, High Park, is an excellent place to go for a walk. There are many hiking trails to enjoy, each featuring beautiful scenery and natural wildlife. If you are walking with the kids, there are a number of playgrounds along the way. High Park also has a zoo, which is free and great fun for the entire family.

While researching Toronto, it’s likely that you’ve heard a lot about the city’s many different neighbourhoods. Each has a unique feel, environment, and are home to multicultural communities. Today we profile specific Toronto neighbourhoods that we recommend checking out during your next stay with Mary-am Suites.

Yorkville

Enter a village of luxury, glam, and socialites. Yorkville is a prestigious Toronto district home to endless designer shops, fine dining, and celebrated bars. This intimate and small village makes it easy to get around and take in all its affluence. Whether you are there to window shop at Hazelton Lanes, sit down to a drink on the patio at Hemingway’s, or enjoy a night out like a celebrity at Amber, there’s always a range of activities to enjoy. Think you’ve seen it all? Take a walk through Yorkville’s hidden pathways that lead to even more gems, whether it be restaurants, more designer shops, or lounges.  

When you visit a new city, there is plenty to see and do during your entire stay. The best place to start is to visit the local tourist information centre, like the Union Station Tourist Information Centre in Toronto. Not only are there local specialists to answer your questions and provide information on local attractions, they also have access to free city tour guides, maps, and other pamphlets to give you more information about various attractions. In most cases, there is no charge, unless you purchase tickets to a paid-attraction, such as a museum or amusement park. 

While you are at the tourist information centre, ask if there is a self-guided walking tour of the city. You would be surprised to learn in many cities there are, and even include a tour book, complete with a map and information on the sights you can see on the tour. A self-guided tour could have a nominal fee for the book and map. 

You’ve arrived to the Greater Toronto Area at a furnished rental and want to make sure all your business affairs run smoothly. During your stay, you have business meetings, professional development courses, and business lunches to attend. Follow our handy tips below to ensure everything goes as planned:

Get your rest

While you may be eager to explore surrounding neighbourhoods, it is important to ensure you are well-rested. Mary-am Suites provide a quiet and comfortable setting to ensure you get the rest you need without interruption. A good night’s sleep will keep you energized and well prepared for the upcoming work day.

Organize your suite space

It sure is one freezing cold winter in the GTA! Consequently, we know our guests are eager to find indoor activities to stay warm and dry. The Greater Toronto Area is home to many esteemed shopping centres that provide a perfect spot during the winter months. Whether window shopping or searching for a specific purchase, the following spots offer a great shopping experience.

Toronto Eaton Centre

Located beside Yonge-Dundas square, Toronto Eaton Centre is easy to locate for newcomers. It consists of over 230 retailers, restaurants and services within a stunning glass galleria. Get prepared for the busy and happening environment of the Toronto Eaton Centre. Whether you plan to visit the Disney Store with children or purchase a new suit at Harry Rosen, there is something for everyone. For complete centre information including amenities, visit Toronto Eaton Centre.

Contrary to popular opinion, furnished apartments aren’t your standard hotel arrangement. In fact, they offer much more than you may have in mind. The next time you’re scheduled to take an extended business trip and your boss suggests booking traditional hotel accommodations, inquire as to whether your company will cover the cost of a furnished apartment. In what follows, we detail four ways you can benefit from furnished apartments in Toronto. In turn, we hope to shed light on this ideal short- and long-term accommodation type.

1. Refrigerator in the apartment

Whether you plan on cooking during your stay or not, an apartment refrigerator allows you to always have food within easy reach. One benefit is that a refrigerator encourages healthy eating since you can cook your own meals. Moreover, keeping groceries at your place is more cost-efficient than spending money on expensive meals. You can benefit from our grocery service, which provides you with groceries stocked up in your fridge in time for your arrival. If you’d like to purchase your own food, there are many grocery stores nearby to the properties.

Toronto has a population of 2.7 Million, and if you take into consideration the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), that number goes up to 6 Million. Even so Toronto has consistently ranked high on all the quality of living indexes. 

Strong and Growing Economy

Being the financial and commercial capital of the country, Toronto has a strong job market. It was included in the top ten list of the “World's most Economically Powerful Cities” by Forbes Magazine, this should say it all. If you have a technologically inclined career, Toronto is where you want to be as it has North America’s third largest concentration of IT companies. The first being San Francisco and the second New york.  While looking for a job you can stay at a temporary but fully furnished apartments which come with all the facilities you need for a successful job hunt.

You may not know a lot about extended stay accommodations in Toronto. Perhaps you are doubtful about whether executive class accommodations are comfortable and what amenities are offered. However, before you conclude that the experience will be less than ideal, consider these three great perks of executive class accommodations in Toronto.

Full kitchen

If you enjoy a home cooked meal a few times a week, you will greatly benefit from furnished apartment rentals. These apartments include a bedroom, a separate living space and a spacious kitchen. Kitchen features include a stove with burners and an array of cooking supplies. This provides you with everything you need to prepare a mouth-watering meal in your furnished apartment.

Anytime you have to travel for business, keeping track of your itineraries, business expenses, reservations, and more are easier with apps for business travelers. All you need is your smartphone or tablet to take care of all your business needs without having to get out your laptop. Plus, many airlines and car rental companies allow you to use e-boarding passes and e-confirmations to board your plane or pick up your rental car, eliminating the need to print and carry paper copies.

• Tripit: Organize your travel itinerary and more with this free app for IOS and Android mobile devices. This app allows you to customize and combine bookings for hotels, airline, car rentals, emails, and more to keep track of confirmation numbers. There are premium versions and monthly pay subscription plans if you want to eliminate ads from the app.
• Google Drive: Manage and edit documents while on the go with this free app. You can update and make changes and collaborate on projects, even while sitting in your hotel, taxi, or the airport.