Temporary Internet Solutions in UK ?

[Nottslad]

We are coming back to the UK in mid May, for 3 or 4 weeks break from the sun :)

We'll be staying at my Mum's place and she doesn't have internet. Since we left three years ago I'm no longer up to date with the latest forms of internet access back home.

Are there any temporary solutions to connect my wireless laptop to the 'net without searching out wifi hotspots or blagging a neighbours unsecured connection? Any kind of plug in cards you can buy?

Not too worried about the price (within reason) but obviously any kind of subscription service wont be worth it.

[mOBSCENE]

This (http://www.misco.co.uk/applications/searchtools/item-Details.asp?EdpNo=253868&sourceid=2020) might work :crown:

[dvtimes]

most laptops have a modem built in.

as such dial up is still available.

[dvtimes]

One thought I would sugest, is unless your mum is elderly, why not get broadband for her.

it would pay for itself quick too as she could email or phone you free (skype) any time she wanted.

[neilrbowen]

T-mobile 3g cards are rather handy :)

[katyrefer]

T-mobile 3g cards are rather handy :)

I agree but I wouldn't go with T-mobile unless they have improved their service in the last year. When I got a T-mobile phone a while ago it would lose signal in the shadow of a lamppost. I had an Orange 3g card, but I am pretty sure O2 would be best. I think each provider has a COVERAGE map on its website for its 3g services so you can compare to your mums location.

[katyrefer]

I agree but I wouldn't go with T-mobile unless they have improved their service in the last year. When I got a T-mobile phone a while ago it would lose signal in the shadow of a lamppost. I had an Orange 3g card, but I am pretty sure O2 would be best. I think each provider has a COVERAGE map on its website for its 3g services so you can compare to your mums location.

Ignore everything I just said... you'll have to sign up to a years contract on that minimum so would be wasted for 3-4 weeks. I will try to read properly in future :banghead:

[Greenie]

T-mobile 3g cards are rather handy :)


I have a T-Mobile data card and use it whenever i am away from the office.

It's pretty awesome and for £44 on an 18 month business contract it's unlimited use subject to a fair use policy. (whatever that is)

There is a cheaper one at £29.00 but that has a max of 2GB of download.

I got mine from carphone warehouse.



:cheers2:

[Nottslad]

Thanks all I'll look into this 3G thing at the different providers. Does anyone know off hand if they do a pay as you go card, or one that lasts for say a month? I dont want to pay for a contract if I only use it for a few weeks.

My laptop does have a conventional modem I think (I've only ever used it with wireless broadband) so plan b will either have to be dial up using one of those free month trial cd's if they still do them, or looking for a free wireless connection.

DVT - I did set up my Mum with Internet before we left. She's not that old yet but it's still a bit beyond her. She finally got the hang of email but ended up receiving some spam and it scared her.

[dvtimes]

car phone wherhouse offers (or did) a service where you can rent short term.

[Nottslad]

car phone wherhouse offers (or did) a service where you can rent short term.

Thanks, couldnt find anything on their website but I'll look into that when we get there.

[Greenie]

Vodafone do a PAYG mobile connect card, but it is extremely expensive at £7.50 per mb. Not recommended, i tried it before getting one on a contract.

You could always go and park up at your local mcdonalds, chicago rock cafe or local pub and connect to BT Openzone i guess £40 inc vat
for 30 days. (info on bt.com)



:cheers2:

[SGS]

Starbucks or any hotel foyer?

[Greenie]

Starbucks or any hotel foyer?


I can't afford Starbucks or Hotel Foyers. I think those types of places are
meant for the wealthy peeps amongst us.



:cheers2:

[SGS]

I can't afford Starbucks or Hotel Foyers. I think those types of places are
meant for the wealthy peeps amongst us.



:cheers2:

If you are in this business as long as you have been and you can't afford those it's time to pull your trousers back up mate and get a job. ;)

[gawdi]

Depends where your coming too.....
Norwich City Centre is a free Wifi zone now
just read today that the city of London has become one too......
As SGS pointed out most good hotels have free wifi in their lobbies now......

[gawdi]

Starbucks or any hotel foyer?

I've never ever been in a starbucks...... :gold:

[Greenie]

I've never ever been in a starbucks...... :gold:


PMSL, see i'm not alone, told ya it was for the wealthy.

On a serious note think i frequented the one at Gatwick Airport
on route to Florida once, and Chelmsford High Street i paid about a tenner for 2 frothy coffee thingies with a couple of scones :)



:cheers2:

[Geezer]

Why not just take the time off and have fun

[Nottslad]

Why not just take the time off and have fun

Yes, I intend too :) I wont be working on building any new stuff, just want to check my email a couple of times a day and deal with anything that might arise.