What is communications technology like in Thailand?

by Laurie

I am going to be backpacking through Thailand for a month and a half on my own (to my mothers dismay). I would like to carry some means of communication/entertainment with me. I'm a graphic designer/web designer and originally considered carrying my (expensive) laptop and working while I travel but decided that I didn't want to attract any unnecessary attention myself, so I am opting out of that. BUT being the technology junky that I am, what do you suggest bringing instead? Is there enough wifi there to communicate? Will I not have the time, because I'm having to much fun?

iPad? iPod? Laptop? Netbook? None of the above?

Answer: Laurie, Thailand is one of the best-connected places in the world so you'll have no problems logging on anywhere. I think I've only failed to get a signal in the very remotest parts of the country and even there... I have traveled with a laptop and a Blackberry, although iPhones are now popular.

There is plenty of WIFI in Thailand as this directory shows. There are plenty of others - just Google 'Thailand WIFI hotspots' and you'll see how common they are. This list of hotels with WIFI might also be useful, as could this list of Internet cafes.

The other thing you should bear in mind is that comparatively speaking, Thailand is quite safe and crime is low. Of course you won't want to be parading your brand new iPad in front of everyone (Thais OR foreigners) but I lived in Bangkok for two years and used my laptop in coffee shops all over the place with no adventures to recount. If I had to take an expensive laptop, I might opt for a stick on which to put my documents, and Internet cafes along the way...

So don't worry about technology - worry instead about what you plan to do on your trip and what tools you'll need to do it, in comfort.

Have a wonderful trip!

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