As a global business executive, I know firsthand the demands of travel. I spend more than 120 days a year on the road and have supported client workforces that travel every day. So how do I stay connected? Here are my thoughts on the best Android smartphone apps – an essential tool to help me stay in touch and on top of things while on the go.
“Like most people, I use my smartphone as a communication tool and mini-computer while traveling or on the go. My Apple iPhone is my primary device, because I like its comprehensive selection of apps. However, for For those times when I need to travel with a second phone (to save on data roaming costs or to access local networks), I use my Android-powered phone, which also offers a wide variety of apps.
I am constantly testing and sampling new applications to meet both my own requirements and those of our customers. Below is a list of my favorite travel apps, the ones I find essential in helping me stay engaged even as I cross time zones. I selected them based on three criteria:
1. Provision of knowledge or data that I do not possess
2. Backed by experience and a richer version of web-based content
3. Ease, speed and functionality of the application version
Here are the key travel apps I would recommend for Android OS users:
Oanda Currency Converter
When you travel a lot, or it’s your first time traveling, it’s important to stay up to date on the latest currency conversion rates. I like Oanda’s currency converter because it’s quick and easy to use for single or multiple trips.
Wi-Fi Finder: Connectivity and communications remain a constant concern for business travelers, even in developing countries. Therefore, I would like to know of any free or paid Wi-Fi hotspots near my accommodation or current location in case I need to access information or send reception files. Wi-Fi Finder is a great tool for pre-planning and ongoing travel information regarding Wi-Fi hotspots.
Talk To Me Classic: If you’re traveling to places where you don’t speak or understand the local language or script, it’s vitally important to be able to communicate, even if it’s just the basics. Háblame gives you the option to translate your native language into a variety of written and spoken languages so you can share and communicate more effectively. This is a great opportunity to talk to hotel staff and taxi drivers.
Places Directory: Whether you are a newbie or even a frequent traveler, Places Directory can always provide you with hints, tips and guidance on the nearest ATM, restaurant, entertainment center or even just shopping. This app is constantly updated and I find it great for getting my bearings and reducing the amount of time I spend looking for a place to eat in life while traveling.
Call Log Calendar – Easily track phone calls and conversations when you’re on the go or focused on other business tasks. This app allows you to export all your phone log information to your calendar so you can keep track of times, dates, conversations for follow-up, or even information for billing purposes.
Kayak Hotel and Flight Search – Again, I like to spend some time planning before committing or confirming any trips. The kayak app gives you great data and information for budget planning, hotel/flight selection, and other travel management requirements quickly and efficiently from a phone. Not only do I use this as part of my pre-planning regiment, but it’s also great on the go or when plans change.
My Tracks – While this app is primarily aimed at the fitness and exercise market, it’s also a great tool for business travelers. I use it if I’m traveling to a new location or following directions that aren’t clear, so I know where I’ve been and where I’m going. It is also an excellent tool for planners when considering emergency/evacuation routes or simply the shortest route between two points.
Footprints (HTC) – HTC’s Android device comes preloaded with HTC Footprints, which allows people to permanently chronicle their chosen location and events by capturing a digital postcard on their phone. Once captured, Footprints provide the ability to take notes and an audio clip of that favorite restaurant or special place while pinpointing its specific geographic location. In addition to identifying each postcard with its specific GPS coordinates, Footprints also automatically names each postcard with its location or general area. This one is great for revisiting or remembering client locations, accommodations, or places to eat.
WaveSecure Mobile Security: Mobile phones are attractive items and are easily lost when traveling. Therefore, it is important to protect both your own personal information and any relevant information related to your business or job function. The WaveSecure Mobile Security app allows you to remotely lock your device and generally keep the information you want to protect. You can also be notified if someone tries to install another SIM card.
PdaNet-It seems that there is always an urgent requirement to communicate. This app is great for communicating with your laptop and other devices through your mobile phone. It allows you to connect one or more devices to send and receive emails or access cloud computing sites. I always keep cost in mind when doing this, but it’s a great alternative that provides immediate and easy access at airports, hotels, or even customer locations.