Taking off Travel blog

What is your computer setup?

I recently wondered whether business travelers dare to unplug in the 21st century. If your answer is a resounding ‘no’ then it’s time to look at what you need to really stay connected today. Here’s a peek at my setup. I hope you’ll share yours in the comments below.

Computer

This almost goes without saying. Over the years, I’ve fluctuated between desktops and laptops. My current set up is a Dell desktop machine for home use with as large a screen as I could afford and a small laptop (Samsung NC-110) for taking on the road.  Tip: Choose a laptop with as big a keyboard as possible; tiny keys can be hard on the hands and wrists.

Other Hardware

One essential item for me is a good headset. Not only does this prevent me from annoying others around me when I play music and videos, it also comes in handy for VOIP software. A webcam is another tool that’s almost essential. When you are talking to and meeting people online, it’s good to be able to see their faces and gauge reactions. Read more »

What business travel gift will be in your stocking this Christmas?

Gadgets - don’t you just love ‘em? One of the great things about the holiday season is all the new gadgets that we’re hoping to get. If if you’re a frequent business traveler, anything that makes your life easier while on the road will be welcome so drop a hint to your nearest and dearest about these great stocking stuffers.

Boingo

The self styled world’s largest wireless network offers you easy access to a WiFi hotspot wherever you are for a reasonable monthly charge. Even better, you only have to remember one login, rather than coping with the intricacies of each hotel’s individual login system. It’s roaming without the high roaming charges and you can find a hotspot almost anywhere, as there are 100,000 to choose from. North American access is currently on special offer at $9.95 for three months, compared with a usual price of $21.95, while mobile access via your smartphone is $7.95 a month. For global access, it’s just $59 s month. Read more »

Traveling on business is not just about booking flights, finding accommodation and locating airport parking at a good price. It’s also important to make those trips a little easier and, let’s face it, have some fun. To help you with that goal, we’ve compiled a list of useful gadgets for the business traveler. See if you agree with our selection.

Lost In Translation?

If you’re traveling abroad, you won’t always speak the language. That might be fine if you’ve got access to interpreters and translators in your meeting, but what if you want to get out and about and do a bit of sightseeing? If you do, then you need a dictionary, phrasebook or pocket translator. These little gizmos contain thousands of useful words and phrases which will ensure that you are never lost in translation. See Ectaco for some examples. Read more »