Internet access/IPad/Tablet use in Europe?
 

Hi,

My friend is traveling to Ireland in a couple weeks and she was asking about mobile internet access.

She wants a small tablet type device that will connect to the internet, not just wi-fi but out in the country too. It has to be compact and light but large enough to be easily visible. It also has to be able to run Google maps/earth and display street view so she can navigate local towns.

I have been told that an IPad would work if she buys a sim card over there and puts it in the device for internet access. She's leery of this because she doesn't want to fool with learning a new GUI in the short amount of time before her trip.

I've also been told of a "4 band tablet computer". I'd like to find out more about this.

Everyone says this should not be a problem but she's non-techno-savvy.

Any ideas? Thanks.

I'm the last person on the planet who knows about these things but perhaps these cowboys in the UK can help?

http://www.phonehouse.co.uk/

Thanks for that. Anyone else? Bueller?

Data roaming can cost you an arm and a leg. The carrier fleece you BIG time. I would not do it with a US SIM card.

The best bet is staying in a hotel with free WiFi or go to the library.

The primary use for this will be navigation and on-the-go local information, streetview, maps, etc...