Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Additionally, North America and Europe use different plug configurations (the UK has
their own too). You will need a
plug adapter
to be able to plug your electronics into European
electrical outlets. These adapters will NOT have any impact on voltage—they simply convert
the plug style. Plug adaptors are fairly cheap, so it's smart to bring a few since you'll probably
be traveling with multiple electronic devices.
INTERNET AND WI-FI
Free Wi-Fi
is fairly easy to find throughout Europe but you'll find the most options in me-
dium and large cities. Free Wi-Fi is fairly standard in hostels and in a large number of cafés.
You'll also find free Wi-Fi at McDonald's and Starbucks (but some require you to purchase
something). Most major cities have an Apple Store so you can always stop there to use the In-
ternet on their computers or to connect to their Wi-Fi.
Internet cafés are also scattered throughout most cities but they're starting to disappear, so
it might take a little searching. In addition to accessing the Internet, cyber cafés usually have
printing capabilities that you may require if you book tickets to museums or transportation
online.
LAPTOPS AND TABLETS
The ultimate travel computer is undoubtedly a tablet—they've completely changed the way
people travel. They're ultraportable, lightweight, and easily packable. They're also good for
reading electronic guidebooks, reviewing city maps, basic photo editing, watching movies,
and a huge catalog of travel apps is available.
If you need a little more functionality than a tablet can provide, then you'll want to consider
a laptop. However, laptops do add a lot of extra weight and you'll constantly worry about pro-
tecting it from damage. For that reason, I recommend traveling without a laptop if possible.
If you do feel like you need to bring one, I highly suggest getting the smallest and lightest one
you can afford.
SMARTPHONES, DATA PLANS, AND MOBILE PHONES
Most people already have a smartphone so it's natural you'll want to bring it abroad because
they can truly enhance your travels. If you want to solely use it with Wi-Fi, be certain to turn
off all data and mobile service. You will rack up a huge bill if you use your home mobile and/
or data plan overseas.
