Re: Notebook questions
Sue, you can plug your laptop into any power supply anywhere in the world, provided you have the appropriate adaptors - these can be sourced from places like Dick Smith/Tandy etc, or your local computer store. Simply tell them which country you will be in. There is a 'multi adaptor' that will suite almost all countries also, and they are not expensive.
As for internet access in hotels, my comment is as follows: Provide your laptop has internet access you simply let the lobby people of your hotel know of your need and they will sell you an appropriate package of connection time and give you the password that will be applicable for you (this password will cease to exist after the time you have purchased has expired).
Per capita, this is expensive internet, but because you only want an hour or so, rather than a permanent connection, it is a cheap way to access internet internationally - and you can access internet in privacy of your room. Also, you can usually use laptops in 'hot spots' (places where internet is accessible for anyone with a wireless laptop. Public, parks, street benches etc. - don't forget internet cafe's, but be sure to delete online activity if you want to keep you privacy), but you will need to ask locals, travel consultants etc where and about.
If you laptop does not have wireless, it's easy to add, simply purchase a USB dongle (about $40.00), install the software (you only have to do this once) and you will be 'wireless active'.
As for the type of computer - seems to me from your question that a good second hand one might be your best value for money - they are usually very reliable when it comes to hardware (buy it in advance of your trip and use for a few weeks, in case there are faults.)
Be careful of the laptop ads on TV and the specials in store - they are nearly always small in 'grunt' and usefulness, not to mention slow enough to frustrate you after you have been using it for some time/over a period of days or weeks. Initially it will seem good, but later frustrate and you will be looking to speed it up, and this is not as simple as it might be for a desk top. Talk to your local computer store, they will normally help you out and advise you.
There are some questions you should ask yourself first:
1. How much can I spend?
2. What will be my long term requirements from this laptop (i.e. post holiday)?
3. Do I want a wide screen (normally 15.4"), or will I be happy with a 15" square? Remember the bigger the screen etc, the larger and heavier the laptop, thus 'lugging' it around should be considered when choosing weight and size.
4. How can I get the best value for money? Shop around but remember, when it comes to laptops, 'oils aint always oils'. Therefore any comparisons cannot be made on price alone. If you are not sure, ask your local computer shop.
Have good trip.
