Having had mixed success with the availability of inexpensive internet service in Europe on previous trips, this time we purchased a Globalgig wifi modem. They have coverage in a limited number of countries, but for our travels in France, Italy, Croatia, Greece and Turkey the service was excellent.

Part of that time we were on a cruise ship, and didn’t want to pay their exorbitant rates for on board internet usage. Our Globalgig didn’t work when we were between ports, but once we reached land there was no problem with receiving a 3G connection. As we were at sea mostly through the night, this wasn’t a problem for us.

For our stays on land in France and Italy there were no problems at all, so for anyone looking for reasonable rates and good coverage for mobile phone and internet usage, I suggest investigating this service. For those who may be concerned, we have absolutely no commercial connection with any telecommunication company.

I can see why a lot of people simply go to the nearest MacDonalds to check their mail, etc.

In the UK you can register with The Cloud (for free) and pick up wifi in a ton of cafes. Most major stations have free wifi. Most big department stores. Most hotels.

Also, your mobile provider may offer a package for a couple of quid a day so you can get unlimited downloads via 3G when overseas, for the times you cannot get wireless.

Or 4G with EE

Just wondering how much you paid since I have never had any problem finding free wifi anywhere I go.

Same here! Why pay for internet access when you can get it for free?

Mac Ds is more than burgers and fries..Spain, Portugal and France wewre easy accesses!! Just ask else where and find a spot.

We paid for this service because we like the convenience of having internet access available where we are living, rather than having to go somewhere to find it. DH is not comfortable accessing bank accounts etc in public internet areas.

Now that more and more areas are getting 4G, a data SIM is making more sense, providing the service is available where you are staying, and not just the slower 3G. I would still use free wifi whenever I can, and buy a local data SIM only if necessary. I can't imagine spending €10/day under any circumstances, but maybe it's right for some people.

We had wifi service through Xcom global on our last trip and it was quite convenient and useful (except for the shutdown due to "overuse" in Slovenia which resulted in a refund). The cost was $15/day plus another buck or two for an extra battery which was totally necessary. The comfort of knowing you have a secure connection is important for me as I have to check accounts/files, etc while away. Hotel wifi can be problematic and is never secure. I understand those who choose a different path but this is the way to go for me and the cost is simply part of the vacation.