Toronto is unequivocally the business center of Canada and among the economic centers of north America. A business travel to the city known infamously as “The Six” is likely to land in your schedule sooner rather than later. So to make sure you’re on the up and up about what to expect, here are 5 business travel insights for Toronto. From “do’s” and “dont’s” to “when” and “wheres”, follow this guide and your business trip will be an absolute breeze.
Business Travel Insights Toronto #1: Pack Properly
Start off with packing your luggage with your suit in mind. Many people are opposed to wearing their Sunday finest onto a plane. For one thing, it can be a cause of discomfort depending on how long your flight is. But suiting up to, and in Toronto, goes a long way to setting yourself apart from the crowds of non-business people that populate the city. It’s seen as a distinct division of the world you operate in. If however, you would much rather pack your suit into your carry on, there are a plethora of YouTube HOW TO videos to set your mind at ease. And finding a dry cleaner in Toronto is a breeze.
Business Travel Insights Toronto #2: Know Your Airports
Okay here’s the thing, Toronto has not one, but TWO airports. So here’s a crash course on what you need to know to distinguish each one. First up is the main airport of Toronto, Pearson International (YYZ). This airport is roughly 30-40 minutes away by car from Toronto’s downtown core and your CorporateStays apartment. The second is the Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ). Much smaller and about 15-20 minutes away from where you’ll likely be staying. Important to know before and during your stay!
Business Travel Insights Toronto #3: Orientation
Getting around Toronto can be a bit of a chore if you’re not from the area. And while we live in an age of smartphones, Google Maps, and Ubers, familiarizing yourself with the basics when it comes to the names of areas and how the locals refer to them is essential to getting around comfortably. Avenue and Lawrence caters, to the more affluent of Torontonians, are where you’ll find a selection of gourmet restaurants in North Toronto. Bloorcourt is home to an eclectic set of options of vintage boutiques and cafes. Dundas West is where locals and tourists alike go for the ultimate destination in shopping, and Yonge (pronounced “young”) Street, Toronto’s main north–south divide, will be your main point of navigation on the day to day.
Business Travel Insights Toronto #4: Be Aware of Your Surroundings
You might be in Toronto for a few weeks or a few months. Regardless, it’s important to know about the local hours of operation to be better prepared for a business emergency. Post offices are closed weekends, but you’ll find post-office service counters in drugstores throughout the city usually open on Sundays. When it comes to wine and the like, the LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) are always open except on holidays. Banks are usually open from Mondays to Fridays from 10 am to 5 pm. All banks are closed on national holidays so read up on Canadian holidays!
Business Travel Insights Toronto #5: Be Where The Action Is
CorporateStays apartments are always located near convenient areas for getting around, business meetings, and the thriving heart of a city’s center. Our Toronto locations are no different! Take a moment and explore our excellent selection of premium furnished apartments and make sure your time in Toronto is at its maximum level of comfort, price, and efficiency!