Can't travel without phone

This is one section of my Europe travel summary — be sure to check out the full guide!

hortus quaerens

My Real TravelSummary!

Welcome! You've uncovered this hidden private guide — nice job! Get essential tips and insights to make your travels smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re hitting the road, flying, or exploring local gems, this guide has you covered. Click through to dive into all the details! BONUS 5+1 free guides: the five sections of"My Real TravelSummary", & "Markets are distant lives". THANKS After the five parts of this full guide, you are fully prepared! My guides on places are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to save, purchase them, and subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! Find me on Youtube for the destination vibe previews and recommendations: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

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📶 Mobile Data

Staying connected while traveling abroad is essential, whether it’s for navigating unfamiliar streets, staying in touch with loved ones, or managing your itinerary. 

Here’s some ways to use cellular data efficiently while avoiding expensive roaming fees.

1. Check Your Mobile Carrier’s International Plans

Before you travel, contact your mobile carrier to ask about their international data plans.

Many providers offer temporary international packages or add-ons at a flat rate, which may include data, calls, and texts.

While convenient, they can sometimes be costly or limited in terms of data usage.

Pros:

- Easy to activate.

- No SIM card swapping.

Cons:

- Can be expensive.

- May have limited data coverage or slow speeds.

2. Use Local SIM Cards

One of the most affordable and reliable options for using data abroad is purchasing a local SIM card in your destination country. These SIM cards are often available at airports, mobile phone stores, or kiosks.

You’ll need an unlocked phone to use this option.

How to Use:

- Buy a local SIM card with a data package.

- Insert the SIM card and follow activation instructions.

- Enjoy local data rates!

Pros:

- Cost-effective.

- Better data speeds with local networks.

Cons:

- Requires an unlocked phone.

- You’ll have a new phone number.

3. eSIM Technology

An increasingly popular option is using an eSIM, which allows you to download a digital SIM profile onto your phone without swapping physical SIM cards.

eSIM Services offer global or regional eSIMs, perfect for travel across multiple countries.

How to Use:

- Check if your phone supports eSIM.

- Download the eSIM via the provider’s app or website.

- Choose a data plan and activate it.

Pros:

- No physical SIM required.

- Seamless across multiple countries.

- Keep your original number active for calls.

Cons:

- Only works on eSIM-compatible devices.

- Data-only (no local calling).

Airalo's eSIM is one of the most popular and reliable one across Europe.

You can easily purchase, install, and use it all through the Airalo app on your smartphone.

Use my code HORTUS4433 to get $3.00 off on your first purchase and you can use cellular around 39 countries of Europe!

5 GB Europe eSIM valid for 30 Days · AiraloStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStar_Assets/Icons/ic_facebook_social/Dark & Light ModeBCBDB423-C0F7-418B-9926-AA48F46F9BBCFooter-Paypal-svg

airalo.pxf.io

10 GB Europe eSIM valid for 30 Days · AiraloStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStarStar_Assets/Icons/ic_facebook_social/Dark & Light ModeBCBDB423-C0F7-418B-9926-AA48F46F9BBCFooter-Paypal-svg

airalo.pxf.io

If you are traveling to just one country, Saily is a more affordable eSIM service provider.

Use my code HORTUS2072 you'll get $3.00 off on your first purchase: 

4. Portable Wi-Fi Devices (Pocket Wi-Fi)

Renting or purchasing a portable Wi-Fi device (also known as Pocket Wi-Fi) is a great option for travelers who need internet access on multiple devices or for a group.

These devices connect to the local network and provide a Wi-Fi hotspot wherever you go.

Pros:

- Multiple devices can connect.

- Unlimited data plans available.

Cons:

- Requires carrying an extra device.

- May require renting and returning.

5. Use Free Wi-Fi Smartly

Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, hotels, and public spaces worldwide. While it’s not as reliable as cellular data for navigation or immediate access, it can help you save data.

Tips:

- Download offline maps and apps before you leave.

- Use a VPN to secure your connection when using public Wi-Fi.

Pros:

- No cost.

- Available in many places.

Cons:

- Can be unreliable or insecure.

- Limited to Wi-Fi zones.

6. Turn Off Data Roaming (and Use Wi-Fi)

If you want to avoid any chance of roaming charges, simply turn off data roaming in your phone settings. You can then rely on free Wi-Fi and offline maps to stay connected without risking extra fees.

Which Option is Best for You?

The best option depends on your travel needs: 

For frequent travellers or long-term trips, local SIM cards or eSIMs offer affordable and flexible solutions.

For shorter trips, international data plans or portable Wi-Fi devices might be more convenient.

Final Tip:

Always double-check your data usage settings and keep track of how much data you’re consuming. Set up alerts or monitor it through your provider’s app.

By planning ahead, you can stay connected while traveling abroad without breaking the bank!

Last but not least,

Enjoy your time around!

Feel free to check out my other travel experiences! And save my other itineraries and map lists below to book your next trip! 🌹🌹🌹

hortus quaerens

Markets are distant lives

I love visiting markets, whether they are fresh markets or flea markets. It allows me to experience other people’s lives and times past. In this list, I include the markets I’ve been to as well as my personal experiences there. I will also list other markets that I have not been to but plan to visit. (So if you have any unknown gems, please let me know in the comments!) This is a free guide and I will be updating it very slowly. So save it and check it out as soon as you arrive in your new city! BONUS - Another guide: "My Real TravelSummary", based on my personal experience. THANKS Save this guide on your mobile device ahead of time, and you'll find these places under "Your Map" in Thatch app wherever you are! 🗺️📱 My guides are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! Find me on Youtube for the destination vibe previews and recommendations: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

50+ • Accessibility • Backpacker • Car-free • Couples • Digital Nomads • Family • Pets • Female Solo • Groups • Architecture • Art • Boutique • History • People & Culture • Budget • Relaxation • Photography • Foodie • Coffee • Shopping • Slow Travel • Sustainable/Eco • Romantic

Free

Map

hortus quaerens

Sicily East Coast in 5 Days, 4 Nights

Discover the stunning east coastline of Sicily on this 5-day, 4-night adventure, beginning and ending at Catania Airport. It is a point-to-point itinerary that I meticulously planned, implemented, and optimised. During the trip you'll explore the vibrant city centre of Catania, Taormina's charming streets and parks, and the breathtaking Greek theatre at sunset. Consider an extra day in Taormina to soak in its beauty. Visit Syracuse, the Neapolis Archaeological Park, and enjoy an overnight stay on the historic Island of Ortigia. Wander through Ortigia’s enchanting streets, cathedrals, and castle to conclude your journey. This journey let you fully embrace the perfect blend of culture, history, and coastal splendor! My Personal Taste: You may have already known my style, I seek solitude, classical gardens, and also enjoy blending into the hustle and bustle of urban life. I care deeply about aesthetics and experience. Interested? In This Guide, You'll Get: - A point-to-point route that starts and ends at Catania Airport; - Detailed info on more than 50 places; - Crucial tips about currency, transport, moving between villages, and more; - My personal notes on the most impressive places; - A vibe preview of the journey in my short videos, collected in a playlist. BONUS - Two free guides: "My Real TravelSummary", & "Markets are distant lives". - A free Google map with my favourite places, more that those in this guide, right on your phone! THANKS Purchase this guide ahead of time and save them on your mobile device to access it at any time and plan your next destination without worries! 🗺️📱 My guides are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! Find me on Youtube for the destination vibe previews and recommendations: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

Backpacker • Car-free • Couples • Digital Nomads • Family • Groups • Female Solo • History • Outdoors • Relaxation • People & Culture • Photography • Romantic • Slow Travel • Adventure • Architecture • Art • Boutique • Budget • Coffee • Design • Faith • Foodie • Shopping • Sustainable/Eco

$45.00

$50.00

10% off

Itinerary

hortus quaerens

Provence Road Trip in 5 Days, 4 Nights

Welcome to my picturesque 5-day, 4-night road trip through the heart of Provence! It starts and ends at Marseille Airport, this is a point-to-point itinerary that I meticulously planned, implemented, and optimised. Click the route button on map and you can see how I go through all these beautiful places in Provence, Southern France: Your journey includes a drive to Avignon, passing through charming towns. Discover the ancient Pont du Gard and enjoy the historic allure of Arles. Traverse Provencal mountain villages and witness the stunning lavender fields in Valensole at sunset. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the serene Sainte-Croix Lake and vibrant Marseille before returning your car at the airport. Reminder: don't forget to read my small tips of each place, especially when you want to find a parking place in a small village. Enjoy! My Personal Taste: You may have already known my style, I seek solitude, classical gardens, and also enjoy blending into the hustle and bustle of urban life. I care deeply about aesthetics and experience. Interested? In This Guide, You'll Get: - A circular route that starts and ends at Marseille Airport; - Detailed info on more than 60 places, point to point; - Crucial tips about currency, renting a car, finding parking in narrow villages, and more; - My personal notes on the most impressive places; - A vibe preview of the journey in my short videos, collected in a playlist. BONUS - Two free guides: "My Real TravelSummary", & "Markets are distant lives". - A free Google map with my favourite places, more that those in this guide, right on your phone! THANKS Purchase this guide ahead of time and save them on your mobile device to access it at any time and plan your next destination without worries! 🗺️📱 My guides are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! If you'd like a preview of everything wonderful you'll experience on your trip, please don't hesitate to watch my travel vlogs of each day first! Find me on Youtube: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

Backpacker • Couples • Family • Groups • Digital Nomads • Photography • Road Trip • Nature • History • Art • Faith • Romantic • People & Culture • Architecture • Wellness • Relaxation • Slow Travel • Budget • Boutique • Luxury • Foodie • Coffee • Design • Outdoors • Sustainable/Eco

$45.00

$50.00

10% off

Itinerary

hortus quaerens

Veneto Road Trip in 5 Days, 4 Nights

"See Venice and die." Pack your bags, rent a car, and experience the charm of Veneto with this 5-day, 4-night road trip! Starting and ending at Venice Airport, this is a point-to-point itinerary that I meticulously planned, implemented, and optimised. The journey will immerse you in Venice's enchanting canals, contemporary architecture, and historic landmarks. You'll also have a quick glance at Padua and Verona, through the heart of northern Italy, with the lush gardens, classical villas, ancient castles and Juliet's balcony. Blending culture, history, and scenic beauty, it's a perfect itinerary for you if you're seeking to capture the essence of Veneto! My Personal Taste: You may have already known my style, I seek solitude, classical gardens, and also enjoy blending into the hustle and bustle of urban life. I care deeply about aesthetics and experience. Interested? In This Guide, You'll Get: - A circular route that starts and ends at Venice Airport; - Detailed info on more than 50 places, point to point; - Crucial tips about currency, renting a car, finding parking in narrow villages, and more; - My personal notes on the most impressive places; - A vibe preview of the journey in my short videos, collected in a playlist. BONUS - Two free guides: "My Real TravelSummary", & "Markets are distant lives". - A free Google map with my favourite places, more that those in this guide, right on your phone! THANKS Purchase this guide ahead of time and save them on your mobile device to access it at any time and plan your next destination without worries! 🗺️📱 My guides are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! Find me on Youtube for the destination vibe previews and recommendations: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

Family • Backpacker • Couples • Groups • Digital Nomads • Art • Architecture • Budget • Design • History • Faith • People & Culture • Photography • Relaxation • Road Trip • Romantic • Slow Travel • Coffee • Boutique • Luxury • Foodie • Outdoors • Sustainable/Eco

$45.00

$50.00

10% off

Itinerary

hortus quaerens

Andalusia Road Trip in 5 Days, 4 Nights

Embark on an enchanting 5-day, 4-night road trip through Andalusia, beginning and ending at Málaga Airport. This is a point-to-point itinerary that I meticulously planned, implemented, and optimised. It takes you from the historic bridges of Ronda to the picturesque white villages and the majestic Alhambra in Granada. Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains at sunset and drive along the stunning coast to the Balcón de Europa and vibrant Málaga. With a blend of cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and charming towns, this itinerary offers a perfect snapshot of Andalusia's diverse and captivating landscapes. Rent a car, and set off on a memorable Spanish adventure! My Personal Taste: You may have already known my style, I seek solitude, classical gardens, and also enjoy blending into the hustle and bustle of urban life. I care deeply about aesthetics and experience. Interested? In This Guide, You'll Get: - A circular route that starts and ends at Málaga Airport; - Detailed info on more than 35 places, point to point; - Crucial tips about currency, renting a car, finding parking in narrow villages, and more; - My personal notes on the most impressive places; - A vibe preview of the journey in my short videos, collected in a playlist. BONUS - Two free guides: "My Real TravelSummary", & "Markets are distant lives". - A free Google map with my favourite places, more that those in this guide, right on your phone! THANKS Purchase this guide ahead of time and save them on your mobile device to access it at any time and plan your next destination without worries! 🗺️📱 My guides are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! Find me on Youtube for the destination vibe previews and recommendations: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

Couples • Groups • Family • Backpacker • Digital Nomads • Architecture • Art • Budget • History • People & Culture • Photography • Relaxation • Road Trip • Romantic • Slow Travel • Sustainable/Eco • Design • Faith • Foodie • Luxury • Coffee • Shopping • Boutique

$45.00

$50.00

10% off

Itinerary

hortus quaerens

Paris Feast

I'm so addicted to the movable feast of Paris, this is my collected spots after many visits. These places are where I visited and which like so much. I will constantly update this guide! Please save and always check on this map and visit any of the cafes, restaurants, museums or parks when you are in a neighbourhood. And I also add small notes for each place so you can quickly find what I like about this place. Enjoy! BONUS - Two free guides: "My Real TravelSummary", & "Markets are distant lives". THANKS Save this guide on your mobile device ahead of time, and you'll find these places under "Your Map" in Thatch app wherever you are! 🗺️📱 My guides are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! Find me on Youtube for the destination vibe previews and recommendations: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

Car-free • Couples • Female Solo • Pets • Backpacker • Digital Nomads • Family • Groups • Accessibility • 50+ • Art • Architecture • Boutique • Budget • Foodie • History • Shopping • Design • People & Culture • Romantic • Slow Travel • Photography • Coffee • Faith • Luxury • Relaxation

$30.00

$40.00

25% off

Map

hortus quaerens

Barcelona Through Time and Taste

Welcome to my Barcelona travel guide, a curated exploration of this enchanting city where medieval charm and Gaudí's whimsy dance hand in hand. From gothic Cathedral of Barcelona to the surreal beauty of Sagrada Família, each step unveils a story. Dive into the sensory feast of La Boqueria Market, where the vibrant hues of fresh produce beckon. Join me in savoring the diverse flavors of tapas, indulging in the city's culinary tapestry. Let's navigate the labyrinthine streets of Gothic Quarter, discover hidden corners, and bask in the magic of Park Güell. This guide is more than a roadmap; it's a personal narrative of Barcelona's timeless allure and culinary delights. BONUS - Two free guides: "My Real TravelSummary", & "Markets are distant lives". THANKS Save this guide on your mobile device ahead of time, and you'll find these places under "Your Map" in Thatch app wherever you are! 🗺️📱 My guides are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! Find me on Youtube for the destination vibe previews and recommendations: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

Couples • 50+ • Backpacker • Car-free • Family • Digital Nomads • Accessibility • Female Solo • Groups • Architecture • Art • Foodie • History • People & Culture • Photography • Relaxation • Romantic • Shopping • Slow Travel • Coffee • Boutique • Budget • Design • Sustainable/Eco • Faith

$30.00

$40.00

25% off

Map

hortus quaerens

Florentine Holiday

Florence is a city I've missed ever since I visited. And the more times I go there, the more I love it. It’s a walkable town, where every corner invites exploration. Beyond the famous art and holy temples, the charm truly lies in wandering the streets, where you might stumble upon hidden gems—undiscovered Tuscan cuisine, or a lonely but influential museum or church. Please save and always check on this map and visit any of the cafes, restaurants, museums or parks when you are in a neighbourhood. And I also add small notes for each place so you can quickly find what I like about this place. Enjoy! BONUS - Two free guides: "My Real TravelSummary", & "Markets are distant lives". THANKS Save this guide on your mobile device ahead of time, and you'll find these places under "Your Map" in Thatch app wherever you are! 🗺️📱 My guides are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! Find me on Youtube for the destination vibe previews and recommendations: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

Couples • Female Solo • Car-free • Pets • Architecture • Art • Boutique • Coffee • Design • Faith • Foodie • History • People & Culture • Photography • Romantic • Shopping • Slow Travel • Sustainable/Eco

$30.00

$40.00

25% off

Map

hortus quaerens

Lisbon Sojourn

Lisbon surprised me in many ways. Her colors are bright but never garish; she's bustling and crowded, yet still romantic, like a low, elegant fado. I love discovering the unique cafés, meeting talented artisans, and unexpectedly finding stunning views of the city or the ocean around a corner. I’ve truly fallen in love with her. Please save and always check on this map and visit any of the cafes, restaurants, museums or parks when you are in a neighbourhood. And I also add small notes for each place so you can quickly find what I like about this place. Enjoy! BONUS - Two free guides: "My Real TravelSummary", & "Markets are distant lives". THANKS Save this guide on your mobile device ahead of time, and you'll find these places under "Your Map" in Thatch app wherever you are! 🗺️📱 My guides are mainly divided into two types: map lists and itineraries, feel free to subscribe to my Thatch profile for future updates! Find me on Youtube for the destination vibe previews and recommendations: @hortusquaerens 🌹🌹🌹

50+ • Backpacker • Car-free • Couples • Digital Nomads • Family • Groups • Female Solo • Pets • LGBTQ+ • Architecture • Art • Boutique • Budget • Coffee • Design • Faith • Foodie • History • People & Culture • Photography • Relaxation • Romantic • Slow Travel

$30.00

$40.00

25% off

Map

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