Lost without data for my phone

 

Among the very first things I do when arriving in a new country is to purchase a local SIM card and data plan for my phone. I would be, quite literally, lost without it. Above is my "lucky" SIM I bought my first morning in Bangkok, replacing those I used in Vietnam and the Philippines.

While I use my phone for many things while I travel (camera, hotspot for my laptop*, e-book reader, repository of reservation confirmations, etc.), I value the mapping feature the most. While I use it to find and get to stores, tourist sites, my hotel, and restaurants, I also rely on GoogleMaps for helping me find my way on early morning walks.

As a creature of habit, I enjoy my 3-5 mile jaunts wherever I am staying, not just while I am at home. Over the last two days here in Bangkok, I visited Lumpini Park and the Khlong Toei Market early in the morning. Paper maps (remember those), would have of course, gotten me there and back, but GoogleMaps plots good walking routes and keeps one oriented when confused. And you don't have to figure out street signs that may not use the Roman alphabet.

I don't know how many people are aware of it, but GoogleMaps is also a great tool for using any public transportation systems like buses, trains, subways, or light rail. A teacher in Tokyo once showed me how to use the feature when I struggled with his city's dual and confusing mass transit systems.

I bring an old iPhone with me on international travels. The SIMs pop in and out easily and in most countries, the SIMS and about as much data as one needs, can be purchased for about $20. If you want to use your US phone to do this, make sure your provider unlocks it before you leave. While they are available in do-it-yourself packets at many convenience stores, I always go to mobile phone store in a shopping mall to purchase the SIM and have it installed and activated.

Happy travels!

* I found my 3G connection is often stronger and faster than hotel or airport wifi.