Tag: travel

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Mobile Syrup

Roaming rates keep rising – can eSIMs ease pressure on wallets?

Canadian carriers hiking prices aren’t anything new, but telcos have been in the news lately for increases to already pricey roaming rates. Thankfully, there might be a solution for Canadians willing to jump through a few hoops — eSIMs.

Bell and Telus both upped the cost of their roaming plans by a dollar or two, which might not sound like much, but the companies charge daily for roaming. Telus and its flanker brand Koodo charge (at least, at the time of writing — it might have gone up again) $14/day for U.S. roaming and $16/day for international roaming. Bell and its flanker brand Virgin charge $13/day for the U.S. and $16/day for international. Rogers and Fido didn’t participate in this round of increases but still charge $12/day for U.S. and $15/day for international roaming.

These daily rates add up fast, though the carriers generously cap you at several hundred dollars per billing cycle (Rogers, the cheapest of the three, will charge for a maximum of 20 days per billing cycle, or $240 per bill for U.S. roaming and $300 per bill for international roaming). And it’s clear these roaming rates are good business for Canadian telcos, with Rogers reporting Q1 2023 revenues were up in part due to increased travel, boosting roaming use. Even the CRTC is investigating (though I don’t hold hope it’ll do much).

Canadian eSIM companies might have a solution

During the roaming price hikes, two Canadian companies that offer travel data packages over eSIM reached out to me, pitching their products as the solution to ridiculous roaming rates. Airalo, whose founders are based in Toronto, and Ottawa-based AloSIM both offer the ability for people to purchase data packages to use in a variety of countries. The data packages are delivered via eSIM, which means they should work in the smartphone you already have.

Of course, Airalo and AloSIM aren’t the only companies out there offering eSIM travel packages like this. KnowRoaming lives on with an eSIM option, and there are others like Truphone, Nomad eSIM, YeSIM and more. But much of what I address below will apply to other services as well.

I ended up testing eSIMs from Airalo and AloSIM in my Pixel 7 and iPhone XS, respectively, with the aim of getting a feel for how the eSIM setup process works on both Android and iOS. You can use these services with any unlocked device that supports eSIM — on the iPhone side, that should be everything including the iPhone XS and newer. On the Android side, it will vary by manufacturer, but most smartphones released in the last few years should have it. If you’re not sure, just Google your phone model and “eSIM” to see. Per CRTC rules, smartphones sold since 2017 should be unlocked, but in the event that you have a locked phone, your carrier has to unlock it for free.

With all that out of the way, let’s dive into how it all works and how well it works, followed by a cost analysis.

How to set up an eSIM on your phone

Before you can get started loading an eSIM, you’ll need to make an account with Airalo or AloSIM and buy a package. You can browse prices at both before getting an account, so I’d recommend shopping around for the best price and then going from there. Also, somewhat frustratingly for Canadian companies, both charge in USD, so keep that in mind when looking at the prices.

There are a ton of supported countries and several packages available with a range of data options. Depending on the country and carrier the package works on, you can get 4G, LTE or even 5G data, though speeds will vary based on location and other factors (as they do anywhere). One major caveat is you need an internet connection to set up the eSIM. Because the packages have expiries — usually 7, 15 or 30 days — you’ll want to do the setup either right before leaving Canada or immediately after arriving at your destination (if you can find free Wi-Fi to do it).

It’s also handy to keep the apps on your device since you can use them to monitor how much of your data you’ve used and to top up your eSIM if you need it.

iOS

On iOS, it’s as simple as tapping ‘Install now’ with AloSIM and Airalo.

Both Airalo and AloSIM offer detailed setup instructions for loading the eSIM onto your device once you’ve purchased it. For iPhone owners, the process is incredibly simple and can be done from each company’s respective app. All you need to do is tap the button to install the eSIM in the app and then tap through the iOS dialogues and wait for your iPhone to finish installing the eSIM.

Don’t forget to turn on roaming for your eSIM.

Once it’s done, iOS will ask you to pick which SIM to use for calls, texts, iMessage and data. Per the instructions, you’ll want to pick the new eSIM as your default for data use and leave calls and texts for your primary SIM — this is because the plans on offer only have data and no calling or texting. You’ll also need to make sure roaming is turned on for the eSIM to work properly.

Android

Unfortunately, you can’t add eSIMs with a tap on Android.

On the Android side, things are a bit more complicated. Unfortunately, there’s no option to directly install an eSIM from the Airalo or AloSIM app. Instead, you’ll have to either scan a QR code with your phone or manually enter the information. Of the two, the QR code is easier if you’ve got a second screen around, like a laptop or tablet. Simply open up the Airalo or AloSIM website, scan the QR code for that eSIM, and follow the steps on your device to install it. To scan it, you’ll need to head into the ‘Network & Internet’ menu, tap ‘SIMs’ and then add a SIM. From there, follow the steps to scan the QR code.

I ran into a handful of issues when setting up an Airalo eSIM on my Pixel 7, though part of it was related to me running the Android 14 beta. Still, it was a more confusing process than on iPhone. Airalo, thankfully, has detailed setup instructions, and I was able to resolve my issues and get connected, but I can see the process being stressful if you’re trying to get it done on top of travelling.

I ended up needing to add access point name (APN) details and then reboot my Pixel 7 to get data working over the Airalo SIM, though the latter part was related to Android 14 beta issues. If you’re running stable Android, you likely won’t run into as many issues. Either way, it might be worth reading through the setup instructions first to make sure it’s something you’re comfortable (and capable of) doing — you can find Airalo instructions here and AloSIM instructions here.

How well do eSIMs work?

The short answer is pretty well, but there are a variety of factors at play. The eSIM process itself works fine and should be more or less the same in terms of setting it up and accessing the network.

As for how well the service works, it depends on the country, network, phone and more. I did my testing in Canada, in part because I’m not travelling anywhere anytime soon and because performance will vary based on which carrier your eSIM connects to.

Fido LTE speeds (left) versus Airalo speeds (right).

My Airalo eSIM says it connects to Bell, Telus and SaskTel networks and uses LTE data. Before swapping over, I ran a speed test on my physical Fido SIM in my Pixel 7 just to see what it was like — Fido scored 66.8Mbps down and 2.58Mbps up, while Airalo running on the Telus network scored 112Mbps down and 16.4Mbps up. Not bad!

I did the same test on my iPhone with the physical Fido SIM and then the AloSIM running on Rogers. Fido scored 39.5Mbps down and 4.09Mbps up, while the Rogers-based AloSIM hit 71.3Mbps down and 6.64Mbps up.

Fido LTE speeds (left) versus AloSIM speeds (right)

Again, it’s important to remember that actual network performance will vary based on a variety of factors. The main takeaway here is that you’re not getting cut-rate service from Airalo or AloSIM.

Beyond straight speed tests, I spent some time doing basic tasks while running on the eSIMs. That included scrolling social media, messaging, and watching some videos and TikToks. Everything went smoothly and worked well. I briefly encountered some connectivity issues on my iPhone with the AloSIM, but it was because I forgot to turn on roaming for the eSIM — once it was on, it worked fine for the rest of my testing.

Are eSIMs worth it?

Ultimately, the crux of all this is whether it’s worthwhile to rock an eSIM over using your carrier’s roaming package. To figure that out, there are a few things to consider.

The first is cost. As mentioned up top, you’re looking at $12 or $14/day in the U.S., and $15 or $16/day internationally, depending on your Canadian carrier. Since costs vary from country to country with the eSIM options, we’ll focus on the U.S. to make the comparison easier.

For the U.S., Airalo and AloSIM both offer a range of plans from $4.50 USD (about $6.12 CAD) for 1GB up to $42 USD (roughly $57.13 CAD) for 20GB.

Depending on how long you’ll be visiting the U.S. and how much data you use, you could potentially cover the cost of roaming for your entire trip with an eSIM for less than it would cost for one day with a Canadian carrier.

However, this brings us to the next question — what is your usage like? If you only need a few gigabytes of data, then the eSIMs definitely offer a more affordable option. But heavy data users, or people who do a lot of calling or texting, have more to consider.

Canadian carriers’ roaming options include calls and texts with the daily rate, and data use is capped at whatever allotment you have in Canada — i.e. if you have 15GB of data per month in Canada, your usage while roaming counts against that monthly cap. Ultimately, it’s still cheaper to go with eSIMs — $57 CAD will get you 20GB for 30 days in the U.S., way less than $240 for access to the data in your Canadian plan (probably around 20GB anyway) for 20 days — usage beyond the 20th day is free until your bill resets.

Calling and texting will be the main hitch for most. You can get around it with internet-based messaging and calling platforms like WhatsApp, but not having a phone number to make calls is a major drawback.

Ultimately, Airalo and AloSIM both seem like great options I’ll be considering next time I travel outside Canada. While not perfect, the lower cost makes both options appealing. You can learn more about Airalo here and about AloSIM here.

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Mobile Syrup

Koodo offering up to 40 percent off hotels through Booking.com for some customers

Telus flanker brand Koodo sent out emails to customers offering up to 40 percent off their next stay through Booking.com, although with several conditions.

When you click through the link to Booking.com and click the option to view the promotion details, the website lists the following conditions:

Booking.com details for Koodo promotion.

  • “Koodo savings feature prices from Rocket Travel that are lower than the crossed-out public rates available on Booking.com regardless of room category and cancellation policy.”
  • “Koodo savings are available only at select properties with Rocket Travel inventory.”
  • “All aspects of eligible Koodo savings bookings are handled by our trusted partner Rocket Travel.”

Beyond that, it’s a matter of sifting through Booking.com listings to actually find properties with Rocket Travel inventory. I did a few cursory checks (I’m not exactly looking to travel anytime soon) but when you do a search, Booking.com seems to highlight properties with special offers attached, including Rocket Travel stuff.

Screenshot of the Koodo x Booking.com email.

Humorously, Koodo uses the rest of the email to remind customers to use its ridiculously expensive Easy Roam feature while they travel and also plugs Telus Health MyCare, which is included free with Easy Roam while travelling in the U.S. (usually valued at $45 per call).

Anyway, if you’re a Koodo customer looking to travel, keep an eye out for the offer in your inbox.

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Cottage Life

What to do and what to eat in Summerside, P.E.I.

Photo by Vadim.Petrov/Shutterstock

Conveniently situated in P.E.I’s western region (and only about 20 minutes from the Confederation Bridge), you’ll find the second largest city on the island. Summerside is home to great food, fun activities, and shopping for cottage visitors, residents, and tourists.

Before planning your next P.E.I. adventure, here are some places to eat, play, and shop when you visit Summerside.

Where to eat in Summerside

Summerside boasts many delicious opportunities, and it’s not hard to find local Island fare or a tasty treat when you are in the area.

For your next meal, stop at Deckhouse Pub and Eatery for a lobster roll or visit Brothers 2, a restaurant that has been serving Islanders for 50 years.

Coffee and tea lovers will be able to spend time at Samuel’s Coffee House sipping on their favourite beverage or enjoying a bite to eat.

If you are looking for a treat, Holman’s Ice Cream won’t disappoint with homemade flavours galore, or stop by Kool Breeze Ice Cream Barn for a sundae or cone.

If you are taking food back home or to your cottage, Water Street Bakery and Deli has sandwiches and pizza, as well as baked goods such as donuts, date squares, and pies. Be sure to stock up before you head out of town.

Where to shop

There are many local shops to check out, including Spinnakers’ Landing. Conveniently located right along the shore, this boardwalk-style shopping area is filled with local shops and places to eat, and from time-to-time, live music and entertainment.

Another great place to shop is the Summerside Farmers’ Market (seasonally, on Saturdays) for local food, produce, meat, cheese, and hand-crafted items.

What to do in Summerside

The city is home to historic sites and buildings with museums to visit and daily tours to take.

You can also visit the P.E.I. Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, a celebration of P.E.I.’s sports history and achievements.

One of the newer additions to Summerside is The Knot Beach Bar and Rentals. Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards for some on-the-water adventuring or rent their bikes to tour around. Afterwards, sit on their patio for a cold beverage by the beach front.

Get your tickets for the Harbourfront Theatre and one of their many upcoming musical shows, comedy acts, or special performances.

Categories
Mobile Syrup

Government says it fixed ArriveCAN bug that told iPhone users to quarantine

The federal government acknowledged that an ArriveCAN app glitch told fully vaccinated travellers they needed to quarantine last week. However, the government says it fixed the bug.

As reported by Global News, ArriveCAN told fully vaccinated travellers who showed no signs of having COVID-19 that they had to quarantine. The mistaken warning was reportedly delivered to roughly three percent of travellers and it appears to have only gone out to those using Apple devices.

A spokesperson for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) told Global that the CBSA and public health officials determine whether someone needs to quarantine, “not the app.”

However, the glitch has boosted growing concerns about ArriveCAN. The government introduced ArriveCAN during the pandemic, but unlike other pandemic-related tech (looking at you, COVID Alert), the government doesn’t plan to do away with ArriveCAN.

Instead, the government wants to modernize the border by getting people to use ArriveCAN to do pre-customs screening in an effort to speed up processing times at the border. So far, that hasn’t gone well. ArriveCAN is one of many factors contributing to chaos and delays at airports (although far from the biggest one), while some 40 percent of travellers at the Windsor border crossing aren’t using it. It’s created a situation where border service officers are just helping people fill out information in the app.

Moreover, others have pointed to issues with the app’s mandatory nature and data collection, highlighting privacy concerns. Bianca Wylie, a partner at Digital Public and co-founder of Tech Reset Canada, has written and tweeted extensively about issues with ArriveCAN.

The mandatory nature of ArriveCAN is especially concerning given the app’s various reliability issues. Mistaken warnings, bugs and other problems could be more easily forgiven if travellers didn’t need to use the app.

Header image: Shutterstock

Source: Global News

Categories
Cottage Life

Five tips for travelling with your dog

It’s true that bringing Fido requires extra packing, planning and training, but having pets along offers some benefits, too. Dogs can create some of the best memories on a holiday.

While I dream of buying the perfect vacation property in the future, the perks of exploring various rentals have given me the chance to test out features and amenities without a significant financial commitment. 

After travelling across Canada with two husky mixes since they were adolescent puppies, I’ve learned a few things about how to make the most of our trips. Cottages and cabins are my preferred style of rental with dogs, because they offer more privacy, soundproofing and easy exits for those late night potty breaks.

Of course, we’ve had some ups and downs. It is undoubtedly more work to bring two fluffy squirrel chasers into the wilderness, but I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything. The enthusiasm dogs show for the outdoors is infectious, and through them I am inspired to visit places beyond my comfort zone.

Here are my top 5 tips for travelling with dogs:

Dog proof the space (as best you can)

When I first check into a rental property, the huskies wait in their kennels until I do a thorough sweep of all tempting items that would be costly to replace. As they’ve gotten older and wiser, this has become less important, but my rascals used to nibble remote controls and still love to counter surf. If there are any welcome goodies, I put them away and out of paw’s reach. If there is a fenced yard, check it for gaps a dog might be able to fit through, especially if their recall isn’t the best.

My little escape artist once popped out of a tiny gap in the gate to chase after deer, bouncing through the forest after them as if she were one herself. That was an invigorating chase, but not one I would care to repeat (especially for the deer’s sake). The lesson: bring tie down stakes and a mallet, in case the fence just can’t be trusted.

Keep up the training

My dogs are rescues, and our travels have offered many training opportunities for new and novel experiences. That being said, a holiday isn’t the best time to work on the basics. When you travel with dogs, kennel training is your ally. Not only does it keep them safe and out of trouble, but it helps with potty training, too. Wiping up messes indoors isn’t exactly how I love to spend my vacation.

Know the local wildlife

Part of the appeal of a cabin or cottage is, of course, the location. Whether the property is deep in the woods, on an island, a lake, or up in the mountains, it’s important to be conscious of what else you and your dogs are sharing the environment with. Family pets can even attract coyotes, bears, and cougars, who might be tempted to approach if they think they have a chance at food. Predators are part of the outdoors, and we are sharing their space when we visit, so don’t leave your pets unattended. A bell fastened to your pup’s collar can help keep from catching  larger critters by surprise, but I also carry a deterrent horn if needed. 

Have an emergency kit

It’s great to get away into the wilderness and enjoy the peace of secluded locations. Your dog will thank you! However, the downside to places, both for humans and our furry friends, is the limited access to emergency services and healthcare.

I bought a generic first aid kit for dogs years ago, but here are some extra additions you don’t normally find in them that I added to mine:

  • Dog safe allergy medication (for bee stings)
  • A carry sling in case your pup injures themselves away from the car
  • Activated charcoal as a backup home remedy in case Fido eats a toxin
  • Pain medication
  • Anxiety treats

Sometimes, a kit isn’t going to cut it, and you may need to rush your dog to the vet. Once you have your stays booked, check ahead of time to find out where the closest vets are and keep their phone number, address, and hours of operation at the ready, in case cell service and wifi aren’t available.

Prepare for messes

Accidents happen, even to the best of dogs. An upset stomach can lead to all kinds of unpleasant substances inside your cabin. I always bring my own additional supplies, because sometimes the ones provided are not enough for the mess. I learned that in a less-than-fun way. So, do yourself the favour of packing extra towels, cleanup fluids, and gloves. 

Dogs like to bring the outdoors in on their paws and coat. A penalty cleaning bill is always a damper on the travel budget. Not to mention, I would want anyone using my property to respect it, and I take my guest ratings seriously. Both me and my dogs get 5+ reviews from hosts, which makes booking a breeze.

Pack smart with these hacks

I swear by packing cubes! They come in all kinds of shapes and sizes and work to tame the chaos in your cargo. Waterproof cubes are perfect to store food, treats, toys, blankets, a first aid kit, those cleaning supplies, and any extra gear. My other trick is bringing compact roll-up dog beds. They preserve cargo space while giving your special furry friends a place to sleep after a long fun day of adventures with you.

Happy travels!

Categories
Mobile Syrup

Top tech tips for travelling

Travelling has always been a stressful affair, there’s no arguing that. Most of us may travel once per year, minus the frequent business travellers. So, of course, COVID-19 forced many of us to take a two to three-year break from ever stepping foot inside an airport.

You’ve almost certainly heard the horror stories of delayed flights and massive backlogs at airports. Factor in children, masks, vaccination status, and constantly changing requirements; travelling now can feel overwhelming.

To help ease some of that post-pandemic travel anxiety, here are some of my favourite apps, accessories, and tips for travelling and navigating airports.

Section 1: Apps

As the old Apple ad goes, there’s an app for that. Travelling is no different, representing one of the largest app categories. Before COVID-19, people loved to travel, and as the world continues to open back up, more and more people are venturing to new places. So here are four awesome travel apps that will help make your airport experience more manageable and help you track your valuable travel memories.

ArriveCAN

Regardless of whether you’re Canadian, the Canadian Federal Government requires all travellers to check in using the ArriveCAN mobile app up to 72 hours before entering the country. This app was initially pushed as a way to submit mandatory health information as Canada re-opened itself to international travel during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, recent updates now also support custom declarations and immigration questions.

While Canadians are not legally required to use the app, if they do not, they may be required to take one or more COVID tests, self-isolate for up to 14 days, and face fines. Non-Canadians may be denied entry into the country entirely. Of course, the primary benefit of using ArriveCAN is avoiding additional screening at customs. Using ArriveCAN helps for a more seamless airport experience when entering Canada.

ArriveCAN is free to download on iOS and Android.

CATSA – Breeze through Security

Breeze through Security is a simple mobile app that primarily allows users to check security wait times at screening checkpoints at major airports across Canada. However, Breeze through Security also provides resources that cover what’s permitted in a carry-on and the ability to create a travel checklist that helps ensure your carry-on complies with security requirements. Family travellers, seniors, or those with special needs can also use this app to help clear security quicker. You can read more about CATSA – Breeze through Security on their website.

CATSA – Breeze through Security is available on iOS and Android for free.

Polarsteps – Travel Planner & Tracker

If you’re a frequent traveller, you likely want some way to track all of the places you’ve visited and activities you’ve taken part in. Polarsteps is an iOS and Android app that allows travellers to easily plan, track, share and relive their travel experiences.

The app offers guides and itinerary planning features when mapping your next trip. Polarsteps can automatically track your travels using location data from your mobile phone. You can even add photos, videos, and thoughts to make your travel memories even more special.

Polarsteps features a community function where you can share tips and advice with other Polarsteps users. Then, of course, the app makes sharing your journey with your family and friends easy. Lastly, Polarsteps makes reliving your past travels vivid by combining your previously added photos, videos, and written thoughts.

Polarsteps is free to download on both iOS and Android.

Flighty (iOS only)

Flighty is a popular iOS app that tracks flights. Flighty collects pilot-grade data to provide users with highly accurate flight traffic and delay information. So whether you’re following a flight for yourself or monitoring a flight’s arrival to pick up a friend, Flighty can provide FAA advisories, warnings, and delays. In addition, flight enthusiasts can use the app to see actual flight routes and tail numbers.

Flighty is free with in-app purchases for their Flight Pro subscription.

Section 2: Accessories

As a MobileSyrup reader, you probably enjoy hearing about a new piece of tech gear here and there. But, if you’re like me, you use an upcoming trip as an excuse to buy a new accessory or two. These five accessory categories are meant to keep your devices charged, luggage tracked, and keep you entertained no matter where you are in the world (or held up in an airport due to delays).

Battery Pack

While running around an airport, sitting on a plane, or roaming about your destination, you may not always be near a plug to charge your device. Nor would you want to stop for too long to recharge anyways. So I recommend picking up an external battery pack to keep your device charged before setting off for the airport.

iPhone 12 and above owners should consider a MagSafe battery pack that magnetically connects to your iPhone and charges it wireless. It looks similar to a backpack for your iPhone. Both Apple and Anker make great options here. Apple being Apple, makes an ecstatically pleasing white pack that’s 1,460mAh, translating to about 40 to 70 percent extra battery depending on your iPhone. Anker’s MagGo is a grey-colour pack that’s a bit larger than Apple’s but features a much larger 5000mAh battery capacity.

If you don’t have an iPhone 12 or above or are looking to charge multiple devices, consider grabbing a portable battery bank like the EGOWAY. The EGOWAY features a 20000mAh battery, two USB-A ports, and a 74W USB-C port to even charge a laptop while on the go.

You can purchase the Apple MagSafe Battery Pack for $119 directly from Apple. The Anker MagSafe Battery Pack is $89.99, and the EGOWAY is $92.99, both available on Amazon.

Travel Adapter

No one wants to have their device die in a foreign country only to realize they didn’t pack an international adapter.

As an Apple user, I’ve found a lot of value in my Apple World Traveler Adapter Kit. The Apple World Traveler Adapter Kit provides replacement AC plugs for North America, Japan, China, the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, Korea, Australia, Hong Kong and Brazil. These are different from a standard travel adapter because they only replace the AC plug on Apple’s power bricks (except for their 5W, 20W, and one of their new dual 35W USB-C adapters).

Non-Apple users should consider ordering something like a World Wide All in One Power Adapter before leaving for their international destination. This accessory adapts our North America plug (among others) to work in 179+ countries and features an AC outlet plus four USB-A ports.

The Apple World Traveler Adapter Kit is $39 from Apple, and the All in One World Wide Power Adapter is $29.99 on Amazon.

Multi Charger

Many of us travel with multiple devices, whether within North America or internationally. For example, I had my iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods, and iPad during my last trip. You often don’t know how many or how accessible outlets will be at your destination. Hence, I recommend grabbing a multi-charger before heading off.

Suppose you use an iPhone 12 or newer and have an Apple Watch and wireless charging AirPods. In that case, I recommend grabbing Mophie’s 3-in-1 travel charger with MagSafe. As the name implies, the 3-in-1 charger supports MagSafe iPhones, wireless charging AirPods and all Apple Watch models. The best part about this charger is how it folds into a small compact pouch, making it ideal for travelling.

Another excellent multi-charger option is the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C charger which features three USB-C ports and a single USB-A port. This charger can output up to 100W, meaning it can charge any MacBook or fast charge multiple smaller devices simultaneously.

The Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger with MagSafe is $189.95 from Apple and the UGreen Nexode 100W USB-C Charger is $84.99 on Amazon.

Luggage Trackers

Airlines losing luggage is nothing new. When travelling, my biggest fear is having my luggage misplaced by the airline. What’s worse is sometimes it feels like the airline doesn’t even care that they ruined your whole trip with their carelessness. Luckily, both Apple and Tile offer some handy item trackers that can hopefully help you get your luggage back should it go missing.

iPhone users should absolutely buy an AirTag to slip into the luggage. AirTags take advantage of Apple’s Find My Network, meaning they can anonymously and securely ping their location via the one billion plus Apple devices out in the world.

Tile’s Tile Mate doesn’t have access to an item tracking network as vast as Apple’s AirTags. However, Tile is undoubtedly the broadest third-party item tracking network making them an excellent option for Android users.

Both the AirTag and Tile Mate feature water-and-dust-resistance and a speaker.

You can purchase a single AirTag from Apple for $39 or a 4-pack for $129. A single Tile Mate is $34.99 on Amazon or $64.99 for a 2-pack.

Noise Cancelling Headphones

Whether it’s the hustle and bustle of an airport or the hum of a jet engine, you must deal with a lot of noise pollution while travelling. Noise-cancelling headphones are a popular way to block unnecessary noise. There are many fantastic noise-cancelling headphones on the market for various price points. But, here are four of my favourites.

If you’re an Apple user, I’m a huge fan of Apple’s AirPods Pro for in-ear earbuds and AirPods Max for over-ear headphones. Both offer Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode and spatial audio. In addition, AirPods Pro is sweat-and-water-resistant, with 4.5 hours of battery on a single charge. Their accompanying case gives them up to 24 hours of battery. AirPods Max offers up to 20 hours of battery on a single charge.

If you’re an Android user or looking to save a little money consider the Beats Studio Buds. They are an in-ear earbud option that, unlike AirPods, charge via USB-C and offer up to 8 hours of battery on a single charge or up to 24 hours with their charging case. Bose QuietComfort 45 is an over-ear option with 24 hours of battery life and USB-C charging.

You can purchase AirPods Pro for $329, AirPods Max for $779, and Beats Studio Buds for $179.95, all from Apple. Bose Quiet Comforts 45 are available on Amazon for $449.

Section 3: Tips

Now that your apps are downloaded, and your accessories are bought, let’s go over six helpful tips that can make your technology an asset while travelling and not a liability.

Disable biometrics

Regardless of your operating system, and if it’s a face scan or a fingerprint, border security agents have the right to require you to unlock a device using a biometric. However, they are not allowed to force you to provide a password. Note that this isn’t legal advice and may change anytime based on current and local laws.

Before stepping into the airport, turn off biometrics such as FaceID or TouchID on all your devices, including but not limited to your smartphone, laptop, and tablet. This helps ensures that your digital privacy remains protected while crossing international borders. Once on the plane or at your arrival destination, feel free to turn the feature back on.

Use your digital wallet

Both Android devices and iPhones feature a digital wallet where you can store boarding passes and credit/debit cards. So make sure when checking into your flight that you add your boarding pass to your mobile phone and add your credit or debit card while you’re at it.

The idea here is you’re likely to always have your phone in your hand regardless. So keep your wallet and other items safe in your bag or carry-on and use your phone to board the flight, pass through Security, and pay for things while waiting for your flight.

Double-check your roaming plan

No one enjoys getting hit with big bills. Some carriers like Halifax-based Eastlink have limitations on services that can be used within Canada off of their local network, just like larger carriers charge fees for international roaming. Whether you’re travelling domestically or internationally, double check with your carrier or via their app to ensure your cellphone plan includes roaming to wherever you’re going. If roaming is included, know what your limits are. If roaming isn’t included, get a plan that meets your travel needs or remember to not re-enable airplane mode once you land at your destination.

Download your content for offline viewing

So many people forget to download their content locally to their mobile devices before they head off. We’re so used to streaming and getting our content on-demand that no one can blame you for forgetting. However, if you want to avoid being disappointed when you can’t access the Netflix series you’re binging or avoid some grumpy kids without cartoons. Make sure to set a reminder to download your Netflix, Apple TV+, music, podcasts, or whatever entertainment you’d like to access while in the air or waiting around at the airport.

Check Travel Advisories

The Federal government has a great website to check international travel advisories. By visiting travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories, you can search for any country around the globe and know what safety risks the Federal government would like you to be aware of. This could be anything ranging from natural disasters or local crime to terrorism. The site’s goal is to inform Canadians if there is anything they should be concerned about while abroad or if they should reschedule their trip altogether.

Use a Travel Focus Mode (iOS Only)

Finally, if you’re a business traveller or someone who just doesn’t want to be bothered while on vacation, consider using a travel focus mode. Focus modes are only available on Apple devices, and I wrote a great piece introducing readers to them. By using a travel focus mode, you can avoid being bothered by non-essential notifications and have your home screen change to showcase your travel-related apps like those I shared at the top of the article.

MobileSyrup utilizes affiliate partnerships. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content, though we may earn a commission on purchases made via these links that helps fund the journalism provided free on our website.

Categories
Cottage Life

Ferry sailings to be cancelled if staffing shortages persist: B.C. Ferries

Photo by B.C. Ferries

For the second weekend in a row, B.C. Ferries cancelled sailings from Vancouver and Victoria due to staffing shortages. Cancellations to sailings may continue throughout the summer if these staffing shortages persist, according to B.C. Ferries.

The corporation cancelled two sailings on Friday, June 17th and another four on Sunday, June 19th. The cancelled trips were exiting from Tsawwassen in Vancouver and Swartz Bay in Victoria. Sailings were also cancelled from the same two stops on Friday and Sunday of the previous weekend.

“We have had a few occasions recently where we have had to cancel some of our service because we knew didn’t have the required crew to operate the vessel,” says Deborah Marshall, a spokesperson for B.C. Ferries. 

She says there’s a chance disruptions to service will continue. “There may be times, sporadically, where we do have to cancel service because we’re not able to fill all the required positions on board,” she says.

Marshall says the company, which performs close to 475 sailings along the coast of British Columbia per day, is actively recruiting new staff to resolve the issue. B.C. Ferries has hired 860 new staff members in recent months, but the company is still having difficulties filling some positions. “Coming out of a pandemic, we found that it is quite a challenging job market. It’s difficult to attract new people,” she explained.

Marshall says some crucial ship-work positions, like chief engineers and captains, are harder to recruit as they require technical training and experience.

B.C. Ferries will work to notify customers in the case of future trip cancellations. All updates on service interruptions can also be found on the B.C. Ferries’ website and on Twitter page. 

Categories
Mobile Syrup

Airbnb to offer Canadians added protection and more search categories as part of global rollout

Canadians looking to book their summer getaways on Airbnb might want to wait until Friday when the company releases a handful of new features.

Called the Summer Release, Airbnb says this is the most significant change they’ve made to the platform in the past decade, following a turbulent two years that changed the way people travel.

The new features include ‘Airbnb Categories,’ ‘Split Stays, ‘ and ‘Aircover.’

Airbnb Categories allow users to search for stays in a new way, making it easier to discover a home in the 100,000 towns and cities Airbnb operates worldwide. The update will present users with 56 categories of homes, organized by style, location, and proximity. Categories relevant to the searched destination will come up.

The Verge reports that Jony Ive, Apple’s former chief designer, collaborated with Airbnb on the updates.

Split Stays allows travellers to split their stay between two homes, giving them options for alternate accommodation if their chosen venue isn’t available for the entirety of their trip.

Nathan Blecharczyk, Airbnb’s co-founder and chief strategy officer, told MobileSyrup Split Stays is inspired by the growing trend of long-term stays the company saw throughout the pandemic.

Stays lasting 28 days or longer more than doubled between Q1 2019 and Q1 2022. These stays now represent one in five nights booked on Airbnb, Blecharczyk said.

“This type of travel has grown over the course of the pandemic. I think what’s driving it is the fact that people have the flexibility to continue to work while they’re travelling. They don’t have to rush back home in time to go into the office on Monday, they can just stay where they are.”

A survey conducted by Airbnb found that 16 percent of respondents who travelled to Canada in 2021 were staying at their chosen location while working remotely.

Split Stays comes up automatically to assist customers with their accommodation needs. Viewing the locations through the map shows the distance between the two stays, and each place is booked one at a time.

Aircover offers travellers a new, expanded set of protections. The company says the change represents the most significant upgrade to customer services in the past decade. The service is always included in the booking and is free.

It includes:

  • Booking protection guarantee: If a host cancels a booking within 30-days of check-in, Airbnb will find a similar or better home or offer a refund.
  • Check-in guarantee: If a customer can’t enter their rented property and the host can’t resolve the issue, Airbnb will find an alternative location or provide a refund.
  • Get-what-you-booked guarantee: If a customer’s stay isn’t as advertised, they have three days to report it and switch to a better home or secure a refund.

The previous time frame for the get-what-you-booked guarantee was 24-hours. The change to 72-hours shows the company’s plans to support customers, Blecharczyk said.

“It’s basically making sure that guests are well supported throughout their trip, and that when changes are necessary, it’s easy to do that in the app [and] you can see what your alternatives are.”

American users will experience the change before their Canadian counterparts, having the updates on Tuesday. The delayed release in Canada has to do with the size of the release and the time it takes to make the changes, Blecharczyk said.

Image credit: Airbnb

Categories
Cottage Life

What to do in historic Amherstburg, Ont.

Photo by Rebecca Stanisic

At one of Canada’s southernmost points, you’ll discover the historic town of Amherstburg, Ont. Set along the Detroit River near the mouth of Lake Erie, the town is home to many shops, places to eat, and attractions to visit. Here’s how to plan your trip to Amherstburg, Ontario. 

Learn about the past and present

Pre-book your visit and tour to the Amherstburg Freedom Museum to explore Black history and the Underground Railroad in Canada. Since 1975, the museum has been telling stories of African-Canadians through artifacts, exhibits, and stories. 

Strategically located on the banks of the Detroit River is the Fort Malden National Historic Site. There is a lot of military history associated with this Parks Canada site, including the War of 1812 and the Rebellions in 1837 to 1838. There are tours, demonstrations, and events throughout the year. 

Don’t be scared of the past—learn more about it with the free, self-guided Olde Amherstburg Ghost Tour. Download the app, and follow along as you learn more about Amherstburg’s haunting history. 

Where to eat and drink

Order your favourite brewed beverage or a bite to eat at Caffeine and Co. to enjoy inside their unique and stylish cafe or on their patio. Eat at one of the local restaurants such as The Salty Dog for perch and chips, wood-fired pizza, or lobster ravioli. Waterfront Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt is the destination for frozen treats and over 50 flavours of ice cream. Fish lovers (especially if you are looking for perch or pickerel) will want to check out The Perch Pit food truck.  

Take a walk along the water and enjoy the outdoors

Stroll along the Detroit River and immerse yourself in the gardens of the King’s Navy Yard Park. These gardens are designated as a War of 1812 Bi-Centennial International Peace Garden. Also in town is a large play park and splash pad area that kids will love.

Plan a shopping trip

Shop for clothing, décor, gardenwares and more at the many local shops. Find a new book at River Books; discover vintage furniture and local artisan items at Pink Pieces; shop for your home, garden, and bath and body at Terra Green.

Categories
Pets Files

Planning a safe and fun dog-friendly vacation

With an increasing number of hotels, resorts, and recreational areas rolling out the welcome mat for four-legged family members, more and more people are taking their pets on the road this summer. But before you book your airline reservations or hit the highway, here are a few things to keep in mind to make your pet traveling experience safe and enjoyable for all.

Flying the dog-friendly skies
Before choosing air travel for your pet, ensure your pet’s physical condition is conducive to flying; an ill, injured, pregnant, very young, or senior pet is at higher risk. Check the latest airline pet policies posted on airline websites.

Hit the road, Jack Russell
Before taking to the open road for an extended trip, ensure your pet is accustomed to being in the car for various lengths of time. To be on the safe side, a seat upholstery protector, such as a pet hammock or waterproof seat cover, can make clean-up easier should your pet get sick or have an accident. Pack a few cleaning supplies including paper or cloth towels and water spray bottle premixed with soap or cleanser to avoid having to search for a store at the last minute.

Buckle-up Buddy
Keep your pet safe and secure inside the vehicle with a soft place to sit and a safety-restraint seatbelt. Just as you wouldn’t think of not wearing your seatbelt, an unrestrained pet can become a projectile in the event of a sudden stop or crash, causing serious injury or death. Never attach a restraining device to a collar; always use a harness.

Kitty cars
Cats should be kept in a secured crate. Never allow your cat to roam freely inside your vehicle, as Kitty could get tangled around the driver’s feet or block the driver’s view.

Exit the vehicle safely 
“Pit stops” are important for you and your pet. Every couple of hours, allow your pet to stretch their legs, walk around, and take a potty break, but never let your pet jump out of the car without a leash – especially around a busy parking lot, highway or street. Your pet may be fearful in unfamiliar surroundings and may want to bolt; being on a leash cuts the risk.

Don’t forget the water
Bring your own supply of drinking water along with bowls. Encourage your pet to consume small amounts of food and water, but don’t allow them to overeat or drink if you still have more driving to do.

Reserve your pet’s main meal for the end of the day, preferably when you have reached your final destination for the night. Be considerate and practice good “petiquette” by cleaning up after your pet. Always keep a supply of pick-up bags with you.

ID Please
A travel tag on a pet’s collar will help someone locate you should you and your pet become separated. The travel tag should contain information about where you are staying locally (while away from home) or a cell phone number you’ll be using on the trip.

Pets welcome here
Some online resources for pet-friendly travel plans include: dogfriendly.com, pet-friendly-hotels.net, petfriendlytravel.com, and petswelcome.com. Whether you plan to travel by land or air, the bottom line is: be prepared.

With a positive attitude and the right preparations, traveling with your furry friend can be fun and rewarding for the whole family.

Photo: FreeDigitalPhotos.net