I like to stay connected to family and our business while we are traveling and I want to check out what attractions are close by and what dining choices I have... And I don't want to run up a huge data bill from my cellphone service provider. (And I'm a typical man so I don't like to ask for directions!)
I applaud those businesses that provide free wifi for their customers. The list is growing. Holiday Inn was the first large chain that advertised free internet access. Most of the hotels and accommodation have followed their lead.
In Ontario, MacDonalds and Tim Hortons have free wifi. Many of the public libraries offer 24 hour access to free wifi. A hint: you can park outside their library building at night and get a signal. The librarian leaves the internet on. Some chambers of commerce offer free access for folks from out of town.
Access is free but I'm finding the speed can be very slow. Less than a MB Down and almost dial up speed going Up. That's why I haven't given up my laptop just yet. The laptop has an ethernet port so I can plug into the LAN of the place I'm staying at. The speeds are much faster since most people are connecting wirelessly. I carry a voice over the internet phone VOIP from NetTalk when I travel. If the speed is slow, then the telephone doesn't work because of too much lag time. It becomes a frustrating conversation.
Voice over the internet is just starting to emerge in rural areas. When the internet speeds get better, you won't have to pay for long distance calling.
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