If you are a business traveler, a small business owner with more than one location, or taking a working vacation, chances are you're not sitting behind a desk all day. And, without a typical office set up of phone, files and office space, it can be difficult to stay organized. Fortunately, the world is in tune with the business traveler, and there are many ways to stay connected and organized when you are on the road.
Tools of the Trade: The Virtual Reality
Virtual offices and business lounges provide on demand access to support staff, technology and office space, anywhere around the world. These membership programs, where you pay a monthly fee for a package of services, provide high-speed Internet access as well as furnished meeting rooms, executive suites, and onsite business services. Many virtual business lounges offer hotel reservations and discounts, insurance, and business and traveler's information, just like their "real" counterparts.
Why Not Wi-Fi
What to do if you can't find a Starbucks? No problem. You can find free Wi-Fi service at airports, hotels, parks, campgrounds and vacation rental properties at www.wififreespot.com. But be aware, every time you log on at a hotspot, you are transmitting your login name, password, and often credit card information over open airwaves. And you can be sure, the bad guys are watching.
Top Ten Wi-Fi Safety Tips
- Make sure you're connected to a legitimate access point.
- Encrypt files before transferring or emailing them.
- Use a virtual private network (VPN).
- Use a personal firewall.
- Use anti-virus software.
- Update your operating system regularly.
- Be aware of people around you.
- Use Web-based email that employs secure http (https).
- Turn off file sharing.
- Password-protect your computer and important files.
Can You Hear Me Now?
Can you even remember life before cell phones? If you plan to use your U.S. cell phone overseas, there's a good chance you'll be reminded. To get cell phone service in another country you need both a compatible phone and a compatible service account. And despite what we've been led to believe by cell phone providers, there is still a big chunk of the planet that does not receive cell phone service. Before you travel abroad, make sure you check with your carrier to see what their coverage options may be. Often, they have global phone rentals that you can rent for the duration of your trip.
Check Your Balances or Pay Your Bills in Miami or Hawaii
Free Wachovia Online Banking with BillPay makes taking care of your finances while you're on the road easy and secure. You have the ability to check your account activity, view statements online, transfer funds between eligible accounts, view images of paid checks, receive Balance Alerts, and of course, pay bills online.
