Staying Connected to Home

Wireless Internet

Most hotels provide wireless internet and I always carry my ipad mini (love the size!). You will need to inquire about the password at the front desk and it is often only accessible from the lobby areas. That being said the strength and speed of the wifi connection will vary by hotel, the time of day and the number of people who are trying to connect to it. The fastest connections are often in the middle of the night.

There may be a fee for the wifi connection. If this is the case you will need to make that transaction at the front desk.  You may also consider seeing if there is a nearby coffee shop which offers free access.

Cell Phones
Using your cell phone varies depending on (1) the type of phone you have and (2) which service provider you use. As an example, I can use my current phone with Verizon in Israel (50 cents per text or $1 per minute for a call), but not in Greece. Therefore it is important that you contact your phone carrier to find out what coverage they have in each country you will be visiting.  You should also inquire about the cost per minute.

Make sure you are cautious with data usage. These fees are very high when traveling and you may not be aware they are occurring.  Again check with your provider. Ask them what the charges are and what activities will trigger data charges. You may choose to purchase a short-term international data plan or if you are not going to use your device for data ask your provider to turn it off during the duration of your journey.  This will save you from accidentally coming home to an astronomical bill. Keeping your phone in airplane mode will also block data from streaming.

Some service providers will loan you an international cell phone that they mail to you prior to your trip.  You will then pay their international roaming and service fees for each call you make or receive.