Travel Essentials

Cracking the Code:

Cell Phone Compatibility Overseas

Don't assume that your mobile carrier will automatically work in another country. There are several issues you may face when using your cellphone abroad. One of the key requirements is that your phone must be unlocked. This means that it is not restricted to a certain carrier.

How Does Unlocking a Phone Work?

Unlocking a phone allows you to use it with any compatible carrier, giving you the flexibility to choose a local SIM card when traveling. Here are the steps typically involved in unlocking a phone:

Check Eligibility: Ensure that your phone is eligible for unlocking, usually based on the carrier's policies. Reach out to your mobile carrier to request an unlock code. This may require you to meet certain conditions, such as having an account in good standing.

Using E-SIMs for International Travel

You may need to download an e-SIM from providers like Holafly or Airolo to use your phone while traveling. The cost typically ranges from $25 to $30, but it can be well worth the investment for seamless connectivity.

Internet Restrictions in Certain Countries

It's important to note that some countries, such as China, have restricted internet access, often referred to as the Great Firewall. This means you may not be able to access certain websites while in these regions.

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY, MONEY

Currency Converter App

First thing—get a currency converter app on your phone. This will help you when you are traveling, for example, in Singapore, to gauge how much you want to spend at a restaurant.

Example: Thai Baht

For instance, in Thailand, the currency is the Thai Baht. To give you a better understanding of the conversion:

• 300 Thai Baht = about $9

Experience in Chiang Mai

During my trip to Chiang Mai, I had a few memorable experiences with money.

Taxi Fare

I knew I was taking a taxi from the airport to Chiang Mai, so I figured out the tip ahead of time instead of the last minute and then wondering afterwards "Was it too little or did I give way too much?"

Shopping at 7-Eleven

On my last night there, I decided to stop by a 7-Eleven to buy some drinks and snacks. I was taken aback when the total came to 150 THB. It was a moment of panic until I remembered that the conversion rate was about 5 dollars.

What I Bought

• 3 bottles of water

• Orange juice

• Cashews

• Cheesecake

• A big bag of chips

The best advice is to visit your bank and obtain some starter currency for your trip to cover at least the cost of taxis and food on your first day. Your bank will likely need to order the currency, which could take a few days. For my trip to Thailand, I ordered $300 worth of Thai Baht, which was enough for taxi tips, meals, souvenirs, and snacks for the week! While there are ATMs everywhere they'll charge a fee.

Many cities and airports have currency exchanges, but they may not be open 24 hours. The Thai lodge where I stayed only accepted cash, as did the Elephant Nature Park. China, on the other hand, is essentially a cashless society. Apps like AliPay and WeChatPay are used instead of cash.