Mile 12: Travel Apps

One of the interesting things about Semester at Sea is that our internet connections and data will be virtually non-existent. There will be some wi-fi, but very choppy and not reliable I've been told. We will have more access on land, but then the dreaded question strikes you, Do I spend time looking for an internet connection or go have an extra pint of Guinness in Dublin? Decisions.

So, I found some useful travel apps to combat the internet/lack of data problem. Here goes:

1.Viber, What's App, and Tango - These three apps let you call, and often text, with others who have the app for absolutely free. You and your friends/family download the apps on your phones. Open the app when you have good wifi on the ship or port and dial away (remember to put YOUR phone on Airplane mode before hand of course). The connection will entirely depend on the strength of the wifi you have but I've used a few of these before and they work pretty reliably with decent wifi. I'm trying out Viber for the first time since it actually alerts your phone when you have calls and texts - so nice!

*Friends and Family, download Viber now!*

2. Skype App - You can use your wifi to make calls through the Skype app as well, but this one will cost you a little. But for this kind of communication, only YOU have to download the skype app and sign up (and pre-pay for phone calls). Then, you can call any number or land line, I believe, directly from your phone's Skype app (again, make sure your phone is on plane mode and the wifi is on).

3. CityMaps2Go or Maps.Me - Navigating new locations every few days might be a challenge if you aim to travel outside of the Semester at Sea programs so these apps provide you with very valuable maps that you can use on your phone for free. Download these apps, and then download the maps of the cities or countries you will be visiting. Once they are on your phone, you can access them without the internet. Some even come with tips for restaurants and things, which will make my Pirosky buying much easier.

4. Free Wifi Finder - Ok, maybe this app should have been listed first on the list since we won't really be able to do anything without wifi. But, this app is key in locating wifi in ports when you need to use the internet. (Another suggestion for this is J Wire).

5. Google Translate - With our travels leading us from Germany to Brazil, sometimes your Dankas will get mixed up with your si'l vous plaits. This app makes translation a snap since you can speak into it in English (instead of typing) and then you can listen to the translation to get the accent just right! No longer will gracias sound like grassy-ass.

6. Oanda Currency converter - There are many currency converter apps and you could always do the math in your head (well, I shouldn't really), but this app is especially super duper because it also helps you calculate international or ATM charges along with your conversion if you need it. Again, free as a bird as well. (XE Currency converter is also good I hear).

Although I'll be using these apps to make travel easy, I'm also ready for some internet detox! What are your favorite international travel apps?? Comment your recommendations!