Staying Connected
While Abroad
In our daily lives most
of us are used to being constantly connected to other
people, either via smartphone, text messages, email,
instant messaging, social networking sites, or even video
conferencing. But few expatriates realize that it is
often difficult to take this level of connectivity with
us when we move abroad. Likewise, travel overseas can
require some adjustments. Cell phone frequencies vary
from country to country, and in many countries cell phone
data networks, WiFi access, and high-speed internet are
not as common as in North America, or they may be much
more expensive. To help you stay connected while traveling
or living abroad, we have compiled resources that provide
information about internet and telephone access, as well
as resources to help you find online media. We also provide
overview articles for each of the connectivity modes.—Volker
Poelzl
International
Cellular Phone and Communications Services |
eKit, provides of integrated communications, mobile, VOIP and internet services, designed to keep travelers in touch. The company offers travel communication services including mobile phones, SIM cards, global calling cards, VOIP calling, voicemail, text messaging and online location mapping. The services are accessible worldwide from more than 180 countries.
RebTel provides a service where the recipient calls the number
which appears on their phone to connect back to you while
paying only local charges.
Skype is a service, owned by Microsoft, allowing calls around the world using
headphones connected to your computer. Computer-to-computer
calls are free, while computer to landline calls are relatively
cheap. The software offers many other features, including renting your own number, call forwarding, chat, group chats, etc.
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