Toronto is situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, and it is a dynamic and vibrant metropolis renowned for its diversity, global business influence, and thriving economy.
As the financial and tech capital of Canada, with a thriving core, it is the ideal destination for local and international business professionals.
If your next corporate travel adventure is taking you to the land of maple leaves, Tim Horton’s, and ice hockey, you have come to the right place for advice.
Below are five expert tips for professionals staying in Toronto:
1. Networking Opportunities
Toronto is one of North America’s most progressive business hubs, making it the perfect city for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to expand their networks.
This bustling city offers countless ways for you to connect with peers, collaborators, mentors, and industry leaders.
Toronto hosts multiple professional events, conferences, seminars, and workshops that attract professionals and decision-makers from international shores.
Make time to attend some of the events in your industry to plug directly into a collaborative, career-oriented environment.
2. Balance Work and Wellness
While in Toronto on business, remember to make time for self-care, stress management, and post-trip duvet days.
The city’s fast-paced business landscape can easily have you pulling long hours and back-to-back meetings, especially if you are in the construction industry, but that won’t be doing you or your company any favours.
Toronto offers multiple ways to stay active, and fitness enthusiasts will find endless options across the city in convenient locations.
Wellness extends beyond physical fitness, which is why the city has a thriving wellness culture with spas, massage therapists, yoga classes, and meditation centers to renew your mind and soul.
3. Accommodation
When it comes to business travel in Toronto, as many corporate jet-setters will know, embracing the cultural nuances of the city is essential.
While a stay of a few days can be adequately serviced by a chain hotel, suitable short-term rentals in Toronto for longer than 30 days are better suited to a luxury serviced apartment.
When choosing the perfect accommodation, location is everything. Popular neighbourhoods for professionals include Midtown, Mississauga, and Downtown Toronto.
4. Manage Winters
Depending on what time of year you travel to Toronto, managing the city’s long, freezing winters can be tough.
Starting in late November, the icy grip of winter takes hold and lasts through March and sometimes even into April. Toronto winters are unforgiving if you are not adequately prepared.
Business travellers should dress in layers, including a thermal base, waterproof boots, gloves, and an insulated overcoat.
Lastly, learn to check the forecast before heading out each morning, and pay special attention to the wind-chill factor, which will drastically change your outfit requirements.
5. Optimize Your Commute
Toronto is Canada’s largest and busiest city, and with that comes inevitable congestion, and the hours spent in traffic, especially during peak hours.
Toronto’s rush hours typically run from 7 to 9am and 4 to 6pm. That is when the highways and public transport systems are at their busiest. If you are working downtown, optimize your commute to work around those peak periods, if possible.
If your day allows for flexible scheduling, consider starting earlier or later than the typical 9-5. A staggered schedule can go a long way in helping to beat the rush.
To End
Toronto is a massive city, rich in diversity, but the fast-paced environment can feel overwhelming at first.
By following these five tips above, you can quickly master the right approach and become an expert on all things Toronto.
