Latest news with #Airalo
Times
23-07-2025
- Times
10 ways to extend that summer holiday feeling
From staying in a converted post office to giving luggage a first-class upgrade – travel inspiration to feed your wanderlust There's something transformative about travel, no matter which season you choose to embark in. If you've still got the travel bug after returning from a summer sojourn or are already an all-year round voyager, here are some fantastic recommendations. Read on to be inspired by the timeless glamour of Miami Beach, the raw natural drama of Central Asia or the stillness of a European river at sunset. Elsewhere, new technology like Airalo's eSim makes staying connected across borders effortless, while luxury luggage from Moncrief ensures you'll travel with elegance. Whether unwinding at a villa under Corfu's sunny skies or boarding a steam train in Sussex, these experiences are worthy of even the most seasoned adventurer. Be it wild, refined or somewhere in between, the world is your oyster. Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. These Central Asian nations – known as the Three Stans – were once vital stops along the ancient Silk Road. Today they offer breathtaking views, from the soaring Tian Shan mountains to the vast Kazakh Steppe and the intricate Islamic architecture of Samarkand and Bukhara. Join one of Steppes Travel's group tours, dedicated to unlocking the Three Stans. Running from August 23 to September 6, the 15-day Central Asia Tour will take in the deep history, culture and sweeping landscapes of all three countries. Your guide for the trip will be Central Asia expert Diana Driscoll, who provides insight about the sites of both ancient and modern history, many of which are Unesco recognised. Whether you're overnighting in a traditional yurt on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, exploring bustling bazaars or wandering centuries-old caravanserais, this immersive journey promises both discovery and perspective. Places are £3,950 per person (excluding international flights) with a single supplement of £595. Stitch your story into the Silk Road. Find out more at and speak to a Steppes Travel expert to reserve your place Travel should provide an opportunity to relax and unwind, but from the minute you touch down and connect your phone to a mobile provider or public wi-fi, stress levels can hit the roof. Am I likely to be stung by huge roaming fees? Will I be hacked via an insecure wi-fi service? Do I have to queue for a new local Sim card at every destination? eSims from Airalo remove all this stress, offering a way to connect to a mobile network without needing to buy a physical Sim card. As the world's first eSim travel app, Airalo gives travellers instant access to mobile data, calls and texts in more than 200 destinations worldwide. Ideal for digital nomads, family holidays and business travellers, Airalo lets you download an eSim in minutes and then top up anytime via its app. Connecting users to local mobile networks around the globe, it takes away the need to buy and swap countless local Sims on arrival, offering fast and safe connectivity whether you're working on a beach or at the top of a mountain. Find out more at and use code TIMES15 for 15 per cent off your first eSIM Known the world over for its sun, sea and sand, Florida's coastal resort city of Miami Beach should be on your radar if you want to step into a world of timeless glamour and vibrant design. With exclusive hotel offers at properties such as Hotel Victor South Beach and Faena Miami Beach, visitors can take time to explore the area's bold architecture and lose themselves in luxurious experiences and curated fashion moments. From ocean-front dining at the former Versace mansion to art-infused afternoons at Faena Bazaar, every detail here is a tribute to creativity and culture. And the chic vibes continue at design-driven destinations like The Standard and the stylishly reimagined Monterrey Bar, where wellness and retro-modern aesthetics meet. Shop the latest runway-inspired collections at The Webster and discover hidden gems at Sunset Harbour and Lincoln Road mall. Don't miss the new 100 Years of Art Deco exhibition too – celebrating the design movement that put Miami Beach on the global style map. Visit to find out more and check out @experiencemiamibeach on Instagram for stylish stay inspiration. Download the EXP Miami Beach Tours app to start planning a getaway The island of Corfu, located off the northwest coast of Greece, is a haven of sun-drenched beaches, Venetian charm and olive grove-covered hills. It's the perfect holiday setting and Prestige Villas is more than equipped to provide a dream base for your next Greek adventure. A trusted family-run business and a proud member of ABTA, Prestige Villas provides peace of mind from booking to arrival, as well as a 24/7 concierge service as standard. Across more than 100 villas in Nissaki, Kassiopi and beyond, you can take your pick of stays from a luxury waterfront with private moorings to a mountain retreat. Whether you seek a family experience, a car-free holiday or just pure indulgence, Prestige Villas has it all. Indulge in fresh Mediterranean cuisine, explore quaint seaside villages and unwind in elegant resorts. From centuries of rich history to crystal-clear waters just waiting for you to dive in, Corfu offers a joyful blend of relaxation and adventure for every traveller. Visit or call 0845 594 2980* Summer adventures definitely warrant a few sparkling moments along the way and Bottega Gold is the pinnacle of all things fresh, crisp and bubbly. Distilled from Glera grapes native to hilly terrain in the province of Treviso that's optimal for growing, Bottega Gold Prosecco DOC Brut has links to four centuries of wine-making in that region, balanced with a very modern care for sustainability. Presented in its distinctive gleaming gold bottle, Bottega Gold reveals a fruity and floral bouquet that carries hints of apple, pear, citrus fruit and white flowers. Its versatility is its strength, whether it's paired with food, offered as an aperitif or served as the first drink at a pool party. It's a quintessential summer drink, yet one that is informed by a year-long passion for choosing just the right grapes, all harvested from manually tended vines as part of an artisanal process. Appreciated the world over, Bottega Gold is the perfect taste sensation for the seasoned traveller, bringing a very special corner of Italy straight to you. Shop now at Everyone likes to feel secure and confident on their travels – and this extends to your choice of insurance. Gigasure is an insurance provider with a handy app that travels with you, ready to use if you need it and tucked away when you don't. Through a series of different products including Travel Insurance for Single Trips, Annual Multi-Trips, Backpacker's Insurance, Car Hire Excess for Single Trips and Annual Multi-Trips, coverage is quick and easy to take out. Gigasure is always here to help – the 24/7 Gigasure Assist is available for medical emergencies, while the customer care team can be easily reached through the Gigasure app for any other issues, including flight or baggage delays. Travel insurance policies can be tailored to suit your needs and budget, but the flexibility doesn't stop there. You can quickly upgrade your policy while travelling, to add insurance for spontaneous plans like adventure sports, golf or cruises. Whether you ' re planning ahead or making last-minute decisions, Gigasure makes it simple to stay covered. It just takes a few simple steps to travel in total confidence. Visit or download the Gigasure app today to get a quote and secure your travel insurance in just a few taps Inspiration is a special exhibition train touring Britain as part of the Railway 200 celebrations – marking two centuries since the Stockton and Darlington Railway's first journey. Launched from London Paddington in late June, Inspiration features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. Where better to enjoy Inspiration on its tour than at Bluebell Railway in Sussex? This 11-mile heritage line in West Sussex is an icon of great British rail travel. Inspiration will be stopping at Bluebell's Horsted Keynes station from July 23 to August 2 as part of its tour. There is a Kids for a Quid offer with every accompanying fare-paying adult and the museum's All Day Rover ticket lets you board as many times as you wish, and includes access to the railway's own museum and other attractions. And then, of course, there's the actual Bluebell Railway line itself. The first preserved, standard gauge steam-operated railway in the world to become available for public enjoyment, a trip on board is a must. Visit for more information. Get 10 per cent off advance full-fare adult All Day Rover tickets using the voucher code CHECKLIST25 Code may be applied online to purchases up to and including Sunday November 2, 2025. Does not apply to special events. Standard third-class travel only Moncrief is known for its range of luxury and hand-crafted briefcases, wallets and bags, including its luggage collection – perfect when you want to add a little timeless elegance to your next flight. Inspired by an ancestral legacy tracing back to the Pictish warriors of ancient Britain, Moncrief blends nomadic spirit with modern sophistication. Each piece – handcrafted using the finest leather – is a testament to artisanal mastery. Skins are meticulously stripped and burnished 13 times, resulting in rich textures such as crocodile-embossed, deerskin, buffalo-effect and iguana finishes. Signature creations include the exquisite Alethea Emerald Bag (£2,200), ideal for weekend escapes, alongside refined staples such as the men's wallet (£475), briefcase (£2,995), weekend bag (£4,450) and the luxurious trolley case (£7,495) – all featuring secure stitching and stain-resistant linings. Moncrief offers bespoke customisation, exclusive colour palettes and unmatched durability, setting a high standard in luxury luggage that's designed for the modern traveller. Go to to explore the full collection or visit Moncrief ' s London store at 7 Heath Street, NW3 6TP Located in the heart of the beautiful city of Ghent in Belgium, 1898 The Post is a charming boutique hotel, based in a neo-gothic landmark – a huge former post office. Recognised by the Michelin Guide, it charms guests with romantic 'Harry Potter-like' interiors – think turret views, sloped ceilings and antique details. As you would expect, the experience of staying here is just as grand as the setting. Indulge in a fireside breakfast and enjoy an elegant afternoon tea at The Kitchen. When you have returned from exploring Ghent's charming corners, relax with one of the award-winning cocktails at the hotel's bar, The Cobbler by Jurgen Nobels. Each of the 38 uniquely themed rooms – boasting names such as Stamp or Postcard – pays tribute to the building's previous life. With personalised service and a storybook atmosphere, this is more than a stay – it's a timeless experience in a building that really has to be seen to be believed. Visit and use promo code POST10% to receive 10 per cent off your stay A quality cruise offers the chance to glide along taking in stunning landscapes, explore cultural gems, savour regional cuisine and relax in refined comfort. It's no wonder this method of travel has seen a significant surge in interest over the last few years. Riverside Luxury Cruises is an expert operator offering meticulously designed itineraries for those wishing to explore the Danube, Rhine, Rhône and beyond. Its cruises come with spacious and comfortable suites and a guest-to-crew ratio that promotes personalised attention for all travellers. Impeccable service, gourmet cuisine and all-inclusive indulgence are standard on board, while the array of charming medieval towns to disembark at – plus exclusive shore excursions – allows passengers to enjoy the rich history and culture of destinations along the way. Book within a limited time and enjoy more exclusive offers, including best-in-market pricing and enhanced on-board experiences. Explore its itineraries and start your journey today at This is a commercial article paid for by our advertising partners If you've enjoyed reading this article and are interested in more inspiration in everything from food and drink to luxury living, motoring, health and wellbeing, why not follow Checklist on Facebook, X and Instagram @ChecklistSocial, or sign up to the newsletter? Checklist provides the best free online competitions too – discover amazing new services and products when you visit the website today.
Daily Record
22-07-2025
- Daily Record
Turkish holidaymakers warned not get caught out after sudden 'ban'
Tourists have been told to 'act now' before it's too late. Holidaymakers heading to Turkey this summer are being warned of a new ban which could cause 'serious issues' for Brits. In recent days, the country has introduced a ban on eSIMs, reportedly blocking access to numerous global eSIM platforms including Airalo, Holafly, Saily, Nomad, Instabridge and more. Tourists will now need to purchase local sim cards or incur extortionate roaming fees to use their mobile data, unless they make this important change at the airport. As reported by The Freedom of Expression Association (İFÖD) earlier this month, the move prevents access in Turkey to the websites and apps of the affected eSIM companies. Travel expert at Holafly Juan David Soler, warned British holidaymakers to act fast and make the following changes before heading to Turkey. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. He said: "Turkey's sudden ban on eSIMs has caught many travellers off guard, and it's vital that UK holidaymakers heading there this summer take action before they fly. "eSIMs have become the go-to option for Brits wanting affordable mobile data abroad without the hassle of physical SIMs or costly roaming. But now, travellers will no longer be able to activate a new eSIM once they arrive in Turkey. "To avoid getting caught out, UK travellers should ensure their eSIM is fully downloaded and activated before leaving the UK. This means setting up your digital SIM while still on UK networks, and confirming it's working properly before departure. Otherwise, you could be left without internet access the moment you land, which can be a serious issue if you rely on your phone for maps, transport, or bookings." Tourists will need to make sure they take certain steps before they travel to make sure their eSIM service still works. These include: Buy your eSIM before departure: Your chosen eSIM's online store will not work once you land. Install your eSIM before arrival: Use your QR or manual installation code to set up your eSIM before you travel. You can delay activation by keeping data roaming 'off' until you land. Save your QR code or eSIM installation code locally: This way, you can install your eSIM in Turkey without needing the provider's website or app. Download a secure VPN: Without a VPN, you will not be able to manage your eSIM solution digitally, check for remaining data usage, or contact customer service. eSIMs have become popular in recent years for travelers as it means they no longer have to swap their physical sim card but can still benefit from cheap mobile data. Travellers who use the internet for maps, booking transport and more will be seriously affected by the change.
Time Business News
20-07-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Best eSIM Plans for Travelers in Europe
An eSIM, which stands to represent embedded SIM, is the current alternative to the age-old physical SIM cards. Rather than sliding a plastic card into your phone, an eSIM lets you directly download a mobile plan to your device. This will facilitate a different carrier switch, and it will be more convenient, particularly to travelers who travel often across borders. The development of international routes and the digital world has caused eSIMs to be the popular option among all global users, including those going to Europe. Researching the best available eSIM in Europe, a number of such providers have flexible plans that are suitable for short and long-term travelers. Such popular companies are Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and Truphone. These suppliers provide the data packages that cover various European nations, and this enables you to operate with ease across Europe. Telcavoip also provides the eSIM for Europe as another competitive alternative at a reasonable price, with wide coverage and an easy installation procedure. The considerations that you should use when making your decision to use a certain provider include data limits, validity period, and roaming coverage. To the majority of travelers, buying an eSIM for Europe is a worthwhile investment. It saves the first and foremost time and headaches at airports, no more running around looking for local SIM cards, and overcoming language barriers in mobile shops. Second, a lot of eSIM companies provide beforehand planning and installations, thus you are up and running as you roll off the plane. Moreover, eSIM plans typically have improved regional coverage, at least in the case when they are intended to be used when traveling across Europe. eSIMs offer great value for money given the possibility of switching plans easily and, as a result, depriving oneself of high international roaming charges. There are a variety of benefits to using an eSIM when traveling to Europe. Travelers have the benefit of instant activation, that is, you can organize when you are still at home. The majority of vendors will have clear rates and no additional fees, and in the event that you run out of data, you can make a top-up as desired. Since you do not have to deal with a physical SIM, your gadget remains unaffected and safe. Additionally, certain eSIMs give access to local networks within different countries, and they are applied in case of faster and more reliable data connections in comparison to international roaming. Since there are numerous advantages, the use of an eSIM has a couple of limitations. You also have to ensure that your phone can be compatible with the eSIM, since not every smartphone is compatible with the technology. More than that, after deleting an eSIM profile, it may not be recovered anymore, like it is with an actual SIM, which can be inserted into the phone once again. The same can apply to customer service and technical support offered by the provider, who may be quite slow to respond to your inquiries, especially in case you experience some technical problems on the road. Lastly, not every eSIM plan may provide support to voice calls or SMS because in this case, the plans may be data-only. Perhaps the greatest question that travelers face today is whether or not to ride with physical SIM cards or to upgrade to eSIMs. The usage of traditional SIM cards has not become obsolete yet, and they provide stable performance even by local mobile operators. Nevertheless, using and exchanging SIMs may be troublesome. In comparison to this, eSIMs make the process easier by providing instant activation and having multiple profiles that can be controlled with just one device. The decision is yours, it depends on your travelling style and on the ability of your phone, and use it with eSIM services. I know that some of you might want to use a physical SIM card; you can use travel SIMs by such companies as Orange Holiday Europe and Three UK, which will operate at the European continent level. They are usually paired with large data, voice, and text packages, which are valid in most European countries. Nonetheless, e-sim rises in popularity, especially the esim for Europe, making it a more preferable option among technically advanced travellers. Offering connection to a plethora of local networks and the possibility of immediate setup, eSIMs are more convenient, faster, and affordable than a SIM card. The majority of the European eSIM plans have broad coverage and include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The plans go further to Eastern Europe: Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. On selecting a provider, maintain the countries on your itinerary to be reflected on the plan. Numerous providers disclose all available countries, and thus it is a must to visit the coverage map prior to purchasing a product. With Europe being a more and more popular tourist destination, often visited by digital nomads, it is essential to have a stable and reasonably priced mobile connection. eSIMs are an effective and locally innovative alternative to carrying spare SIM cards around and risking the stressful process of purchasing roaming subscriptions. As various providers are providing competitive plans and the coverage of the services is extensive in Europe, travelers do not need to forego high-speed internet and effortless service whenever they travel. The decision to buy the appropriate eSIM to travel to Europe can make your travel experience as well as productive and much more enjoyable. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
The Irish Sun
18-07-2025
- Business
- The Irish Sun
Four simple switches to boost your holiday budget by over €500 this summer
IRISH holidaymakers can boost their holiday budget by over €500 this summer with four simple switches. Holiday costs are rising for Irish 1 Planning holidays often leaves jetsetters going over their budget Due to EU consumer protections like Roam Like at Home and the Single Euro Payments Area, you can travel within Europe without paying extra mobile roaming fees. However, heading to destinations like the United States, Canada or Research from price comparison experts One of the biggest drains on your budget is mobile roaming charges, especially if you frequently use data for maps, music streaming or sharing videos on social media while away. READ MORE IN TRAVEL Irish mobile data passes tend to offer limited data at high prices, with the average cost for a 10GB roaming pass at about €153. Switch to an E-SIM The first tip is to switch to an eSIM which allows you to purchase cheaper data plans from providers like Airalo, Halofly, Nomad or This simple change can save you up to €133, freeing up cash that you can put towards other holiday essentials. Travel insurance is another area where costs can vary and financial experts say it is worthwhile shopping around to find the best deal for the coverage you need. Most read in News Travel SHOP AROUND For example, a couple travelling to the US for two weeks might pay around €100 for a single-trip insurance policy, but prices can differ by as much as €91 between providers. Discounts of around 10 percent are common if you book your policy online and looking at a multi-trip policy could save you even more if you have several Ryanair launches new flights to cheap holiday hotspot Using your debit or credit card abroad also comes with fees and many Irish banks charge around 2 percent per foreign transaction and high fees for ATM withdrawals. TRANSACTION FEES If you use your card multiple times a day over two weeks, these charges can add up to around €56 on transactions and up to €87 on cash withdrawals. Prepaid travel cards from companies like Wise, Revolut or N26 get rid of these fees entirely and offer better exchange rates which helps you to stretch your If you prefer to carry cash, you can also compare exchange rates beforehand because airport currency kiosks usually offer poor rates and higher fees. Up next, flights often end up the biggest single expense on a holiday, but being flexible with your travel plans can lead to major savings for families. FLEXIBLE FLIGHTS For example, a direct return flight to Using websites like Skyscanner to set up price alerts, browsing in incognito mode to avoid dynamic pricing and considering alternative airports or midweek flights can also help reduce costs. He said: 'Holiday costs can spiral quickly, especially outside the EU, but with a few simple switches, you can keep more money in your pocket without cutting back on the holiday fun. 'Whether it's avoiding eye-watering roaming charges with an eSIM, swapping your bank card for a prepaid one, or shopping around for travel insurance, these small changes can add up to big savings. 'A little bit of planning can go a long way, and the more you save on the basics, the more you have to spend on the things that make your holiday memorable."
Time Business News
15-07-2025
- Time Business News
Airalo or Nomad: Which eSIM Is Best for Singapore?
If you're planning a quick escape to the best country to visit without visa from the Philippines, Singapore tops the list and trust me, staying connected there is half the experience. From blazing-fast MRT routes to finding the best laksa stall on Google Maps, you'll want a reliable eSIM in your pocket from the moment you land. I've tested both Airalo and Nomad across Southeast Asia, and when it comes to Singapore specifically, Airalo's variety-packed, budget-friendly eSIM stands out. But is it really the better option for you ? Let's break it down. Let's kick things off with Airalo, the eSIM giant that's practically a household name among frequent flyers. Airalo's Singapore plans come in all shapes and sizes—whether you're in town for a whirlwind business trip or settling in for a spicy laksa-fueled adventure. Plans start as low as 1GB for 7 days (perfect for WhatsApp warriors), but you'll also find beefier options like 3GB, 5GB, or even 20GB for longer stays or serious streaming. Most plans are powered by Singtel, so you get solid local coverage and speeds that won't make you want to throw your phone out the window. Activating your eSIM is a breeze, too. Just download the Airalo app, pick your plan, scan the QR code, and you're connected—often in under five minutes. Plus, Airalo lets you top up anytime if you run out of data halfway through your Haji Lane Instagram spree. It's travel-friendly, budget-friendly, and—dare we say—kind of fun to use. Nomad isn't just a cool name—it's a strong contender for travelers who like to keep things flexible. Their Singapore eSIM options are straightforward and come with a decent range, from a quick 1GB for 7 days to robust plans that go up to 20GB, with validity periods ranging from 7 to 30 days. Prices are competitive, and reputable networks like StarHub power plans, so you can trust your connection whether you're in the heart of Orchard Road or chasing otters at Marina Bay. The Nomad app is clean and easy to navigate, and activating your plan is as painless as ordering kopi at a hawker centre. You can also manage your data on the fly—handy for spontaneous adventures or surprise TikTok binges. While Nomad's coverage and flexibility are solid, Airalo edges ahead slightly on the sheer variety of plans and the ease of topping up. If you love a good deal (who doesn't?), Airalo makes it easy to keep your wallet happy while staying connected in Singapore. Prices start at just around $4.50 USD for 1GB valid for 7 days—a steal for quick trips or digital detoxers. Feeling data-hungry? Airalo offers larger plans, such as 3GB, 5GB, and 20GB, and the value only improves as you scale up. The 20GB package, for example, clocks in at just $26 USD, making it one of the most affordable ways to stream, swipe, and snack your way across the Lion City. There are no hidden fees, no sneaky catches, and you can top up or switch plans straight from the Airalo app. Plus, you're paying local rates, not inflated roaming charges—your future self (and your bank account) will thank you. In a city where even bottled water can cost a small fortune, Airalo's price transparency feels like a rare travel hack. Nomad's pricing is also budget-friendly, with plans starting at around $5 USD for 1GB over 7 days—just a smidge more than Airalo for the entry-level option. Their larger plans, such as 10GB or 20GB, are competitively priced (around $13–$26 USD), and you'll get a good bang for your buck, especially for more extended stays or data-heavy travelers. Like Airalo, Nomad keeps things straightforward: no activation fees, no contracts, and everything can be handled through the app. While Nomad is affordable and flexible, Airalo edges ahead with its lower starting price and wider plan selection, particularly for light users or those who want to try out Singaporean data. If every dollar counts (or you just want that extra kopi peng), Airalo is a strong pick for stretching your budget a little further. When it comes to security, Airalo ticks all the right boxes—and then some. This isn't some sketchy eSIM outfit operating from a basement; Airalo is globally recognized, works directly with reputable local networks (hello, Singtel!), and processes payments through secure, encrypted gateways. Your data and payment info are protected by standard industry encryption, so you can buy and activate plans with peace of mind—no VPN or tinfoil hat required. Worried about trust? Redditors overwhelmingly vouch for Airalo's legitimacy, with hundreds of travelers and digital nomads sharing positive stories of smooth, safe activations all over the world. If you do hit a snag, Airalo's 24/7 customer support is quick to step in (and usually pretty friendly, too). In the wild west of travel tech, that kind of reliability feels like finding Wi-Fi in a jungle. Nomad is no slouch in the security department either. It partners with well-established networks (StarHub in Singapore, for example), and processes transactions securely through its app. User reviews and Reddit threads also give Nomad a thumbs up on trustworthiness—no horror stories of hacked data or mysterious charges lurking here. That said, Nomad's community is a bit smaller than Airalo's, so while the experiences are largely positive, there's less crowdsourced reassurance if you're the anxious type. Support is generally responsive, but if you want the confidence boost of a widely recognized name and a bigger safety net, Airalo edges ahead. Connectivity in Singapore is generally top-tier, so you'd expect any major eSIM provider to ride that wave. Both Airalo and Nomad deliver solid performance by tapping into SingTel—Singapore's best-known and most widely used network. Whether I was in the middle of Marina Bay or hopping around Tiong Bahru, I had strong, stable 4G. Even 5G popped up a few times when I needed to upload client files or hop on a video call without scrambling for a café with decent Wi-Fi. Now, if we're getting technical, Nomad might offer slightly better latency—pages loaded a beat faster when I compared side by side. But in real-world, day-to-day use, I barely noticed a difference. I could stream, download offline maps, and send giant email attachments on both. If you're gaming or running high-bandwidth tasks 24/7, maybe that millisecond matters. But for most nomads juggling travel planning, WhatsApp, and Google Docs, both options hold up just fine in Singapore's hyper-connected ecosystem. My go-to travel toolkit includes an iPhone, a Pixel, and occasionally a tablet, and both Airalo and Nomad play nicely with every one of them—no weird workarounds required. Whether you're running iOS, Android, or something in between, installation is a breeze. I've never had to reset a device or wrestle with hidden settings, it just… works. Nomad goes one step further by supporting mobile routers, which can be a game-changer for someone like me who sometimes sets up office hubs in beachside cafés or coworking lounges. If I'm juggling a laptop, phone, and tablet simultaneously, Nomad's router-friendly compatibility means I can spread that connection across all devices. As long as your gear isn't stuck in the SIM-card era, you're good to go with either provider. Airalo wins me over every time with their live-chat support—it's fast, responsive, and surprisingly helpful when I'm in a rush between flights. Plus, the app's interface makes topping up or extending data seamless; I've bounced between 1 GB packs and 20 GB plans in mere seconds, even when sitting courtside at a football match. Nomad's ticket-style support is respectable, but it's more of a waiting game. I'd say it's fine for non-urgent questions, though I've personally hit snags when I needed quick troubleshooting during remote work sprints. For nomads who need answers yesterday, especially when hopping between time zones and deadlines, Airalo's support brings that instant reassurance that Nomad's slower pace just can't match. Feature Airalo Nomad Plan Variety Tiered data (daily/monthly) Unlimited only Price (Singapore 1GB/day) ≈ $1–1.50 ≈ $4 Security Strong, transparent policies Basic, less validated Network & Speed 4G/5G via SingTel Slightly lower latency Devices Supported Phones, tablets, laptops + mobile routers Support Live chat & email Ticket-based email only Ease of Use Friendly UI, easy top-ups Simple install, fewer extras Sometimes it's the small stuff that makes a big difference and Airalo doesn't skimp on the details. For digital nomads bouncing between cafés, airports, and co-working spaces, these features matter: Topping up is fast and intuitive – I've added data mid-Grab ride without breaking a sweat. – I've added data mid-Grab ride without breaking a sweat. Usage alerts – You'll get notified before you run out of data. No more sudden disconnections while navigating Chinatown. – You'll get notified before you run out of data. No more sudden disconnections while navigating Chinatown. Hotspot support – Both Airalo and Nomad let you tether, which is great when you need to fire up the laptop and knock out a few client emails. – Both Airalo and Nomad let you tether, which is great when you need to fire up the laptop and knock out a few client emails. Global plan with phone number – Airalo's Discover+ Global eSIM includes an actual phone number (yep, for real), which is incredibly handy for verification texts, bookings, or making that one important call without digging for a SIM swap. Nomad holds its own with hotspotting and unlimited data but if you value flexibility, smooth top-ups, and those little touches that keep your trip running seamlessly, Airalo's the better travel buddy. After testing both eSIMs across Singapore, Airalo's flexibility, value, and ease of use sealed the deal for me. It offers a buffet of data plans to fit any travel style—whether you're in town for a weekend or working remotely for weeks. The pricing? Super friendly, especially for light-to-moderate users. Then add in strong security, reliable 4G/5G coverage, and fast customer support, and you've got a winner. Nomad's unlimited plan sounds great in theory but for most travelers (especially solo adventurers or remote workers with realistic data habits), it's a bit like bringing a fire hose to a garden party. Bottom line? If you're heading to Singapore and want smart, seamless connectivity without overpaying or overcomplicating things—Airalo's your move. Both are data-only, so you won't get a traditional phone number. But you can still make calls using apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime Audio. Yes, and it's especially smooth with Airalo—you can top up in just a few taps through the app. Nomad allows it too, but the process isn't quite as seamless. Airlo offers regional and global plans if you're hopping around Asia or beyond. It gives you more options in terms of destinations and data sizes. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
