"Laptop Hobo-Friendly" Criteria

What Makes a Laptop Hobo-Friendly Location?

When one contemplates travel accommodations, they are usually looking for great locations, comfortable and clean rooms, and great prices. Laptop Hobos, however, have more to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Location is key. If you are planning an extended stay, think like a native. What is the cost of living in your destination? What kind of public transport is available? What area will ease your day to day life the most while giving you the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding area most?
   
2. Cleanliness and Comfort. Just like at “home”, most of us do not enjoy cockroaches or lumpy mattresses. And what about the noise and/or odor factor? Is your accommodation over a nightclub or next to a stable—or a Thai restaurant (where the cooking of garlic and chilies can subdue a small army?)
   
3. What is the Internet availability in the place you are staying or in the surrounding area? If it is available in your accommodation, is it free or is it fee-based? Be sure to ask. Many accommodations boast Wi-Fi in each room only to find that it costs $10.00 US per day. This can really add up. If Internet access is not available in your accommodation, how close and available is one away from the accommodation? Will this Internet service (café or other service provider) allow you to connect your laptop directly to their cable or to their router box?
   
4. What access do you have to telephones? Can you use the phone in the accommodation you are renting for long distance? If not, is there public service (such as a public telephone room or Internet café that offers telephony service) available in that area? Can international calling cards be purchased for reasonable prices in the area? How difficult is it to obtain your own mobile telephone number (sim card) for use in your tri-ban mobile (cell) telephone? Is telephony service (such as Skype) dependable and clear?
   
5. What are the safety issues? Will you feel comfortable walking in the surrounding neighborhood with your laptop on your back, or leaving it in the accommodation while you are gone? Does your accommodation have a lockbox, locker, or other secured area for your valuables? If not, think twice about that location.
   
6. Does your accommodation have an adequate work space? A desk (or vanity that can be used as one) or a table is often very important since working off your lap can be quite wearisome. Does your accommodation have electrical outlets? (Many budget guesthouses/bungalows in developing countries do not provide them.)
   
7. How prevalent are power surges/spikes in the area you are considering? Are the electrical outlets in your accommodation grounded? (This is more of a concern for those whose laptops have a three-pronged plug.) Will you have access to a UPS (uninterrupted power supply) box? (A UPS can serve as a very dependable surge protector.)
   
8. Will someone be available if you have questions? If you are renting a house or apartment, is there a management office to consult with for daily issues or will you be completely on your own?

Generally, Laptop Hobos have found that renting houses or apartments where native people live is preferred over hotels or other institutions geared towards tourists. Having access to a kitchen, laundry, and other useful amenities greatly eases your travel experience and saves money. In addition, your neighbors will be experts in the area, unlike being surrounded by other tourists who know as little as you. Many websites exist now for apartment and house rental in other countries. Take a look!