May the force of Google be with you... always.
How much wild is too wild for a city girl to be in? A weekend trip into the mountains sounds like the perfect digital detox plan, but a complete detox can be too extreme when you still need connection to communicate with your airport transfer staff, GPS to find your way around, finding out where is the only Carl's Junior in the whole of Surabaya, and updating Facebook/Instagram! You know, important stuff. Google has always been within reach 24/7 for whatever questions you may have. Unplugging yourself without any Plan Bs may not just be uncomfortable, but disruptive to your traveling plans. That's why I brought VisonData's pocket wifi along with me on the trip to Mount Bromo, Surabaya. If you are interested in finding out about this fuss-free method of staying connected while being overseas, read more:
Is VisonData pocket wifi available to my travel destination?
VisonData Singapore provides low cost pocket Wifi rental services that covers more than 70 travel destinations. For the full list of destinations, click here.
What is the difference between renting this pocket wifi and buying a local SIM card?
Strong connection: The pocket wifi works just like how it would if you were to get a local SIM card. It will work as long as it is within the coverage of the wifi signal towers. Broadband service speed vary depending on coverage, geographical location, device used, network traffic and the type of data being transmitted. You can't get any better with a local SIM card.
Cheaper: The reason why I would recommend this pocket wifi is how it can support 4-6 users at the same time. We connected 7 people at one go without issues, but Internet speed might be compromised when more than 6 users connect. If you are travelling as a group, you can share the costs of this pocket wifi (varies in different countries) which will make it cheaper than getting a local SIM card.
Saves time: Time is money especially when you are on a short holiday. Getting a local SIM card involves rerouting your itinerary, spending the first few hours after arrival hunting for the local telco store... not ideal. You can rent this pocket wifi before you leave for your holiday and immediately set it up within 3 minutes (right after the plane lands).
Communicate with your airport transfer: SIM cards are not always available at every airport or major train station depending on where and when you are arriving at. The last thing you want is not being able to meet up with your pre-arranged airport transfer due to unforeseen circumstances and unable to communicate with them. Internet connection at the airport with your pocket wifi provides you with a safety net.
How do I use the pocket wifi?
Step 1: Book your pocket wifi on their online form here.
Step 2: If you requested to pick it up, their office is at IMM Building 2, #05-41C, Jurong East St 21.
Step 3: Bring your pocket wifi along in your luggage. It has no issues in the carry-on baggage.
Step 4: Upon arrival, press and hold onto the 'on' button for 5 seconds.
Step 5: Follow the login details on the pocket wifi kit. (Repeat step 5 for other users)
Step 6: Connect and use the wifi.
Step 7: Return the pocket wifi on the pre-arranged date with VisonData to avoid late charges.
I managed to keep my friends and family informed of where I was in Surabaya with the VisonData pocket wifi by posting photos on Facebook and Instagram. Even on Mount Bromo, I could refresh my Facebook newsfeed... that, I am impressed. I was after all, surrounded by mountains... The pocket wifi is also super lightweight and easy to carry around, I tucked it into my jacket pocket and it didn't feel like much weight. You can see the size of the pocket wifi with reference to my Samsung S4.
I will write a more comprehensive detailed travelogue on Mount Bromo and Mount Semeru, but till then, here are some pictures to show you the village nearest to Mount Bromo. I love how peaceful and welcoming the villagers are, especially the little children! It was a semi-challenging hike uphill considering I am the antithesis of athletic, but they really made it so much easier.
VisonData also provides rental for powerbanks at SGD2/day. It came in really handy because I forgot to bring my universal adapter and had to depend on the powerbank for three whole days to charge both my smartphone and the pocket wifi. To which... it only drained from 100% to 54% after three days. The power bank has a capacity of 8400 mAh with two outputs (1.5A/1A) and one input. It also indicates the percentage of battery left once you switch the power bank. For average devices (with battery capacity of 2000 mAh), the power bank can charge the device up to 4-5 times.
This post is powered by VisonData Singapore.
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I share interesting episodes in life revolving around food, lifestyle, travel and inspirational ideas. If you would like to stay in touch, follow me on my Instagram on @spherepiece and Facebook page!
I share interesting episodes in life revolving around food, lifestyle, travel and inspirational ideas. If you would like to stay in touch, follow me on my Instagram on @spherepiece and Facebook page!