One device saved me on my travels across the world (Image: shania king-soyza)
I took a solo flight 13 hours away across the world, but that’s not the scary part. This country had no Google or social media, and the call fees back to the UK were extortionate, leaving me isolated and in trouble—until I used a life-changing device.
I didn’t know the full extent to which mainland China operates differently from the rest of the world; maybe it is the baby traveller in me, but surely the country has Google, right? No. This is due to the Great Firewall (a legal censorship tool used by the Chinese government), which regulates inbound and outbound Internet traffic between China and the rest of the world.
READ MORE I took my first solo trip 13 hours from home to a country with no Google
I headed to Shenzhen China where there is no Google (Image: shania king-soyza)
According to Nord VPN, “This censorship tool scans internet traffic for undesirable keywords and blocks users and websites that don’t adhere to the rules.” Before you judge me, I did my research and had a VPN already installed on my phone, but just to my unfortunate luck, it didn’t work.
Panic ensued when I thought I couldn’t use Google Maps, Google Translate or communicate with my family back home unless either of us risked splurging big bucks on a roaming package. Fortunately, as this was a business trip, I was kindly handed a unique device that worked as a mobile hotspot, VPN and portable charger all in one; GlocalMe’s Numen Air.
“GlocalMe is a global innovator in mobile internet and telecommunication solutions, dedicated to keeping people connected. This device offers seamless global access, tapping into 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, and even satellite networks,” shared experts at CommunicateMore.
Their Numen Air device works without a SIM card. Simply download the app, and you can use national and international data instantly via an online payment without any contracts or hidden roaming charges.
The device can connect to “over 390 networks in more than 200 destinations, ensuring uninterrupted mobile data. GlocalMe’s built-in VPN and firewall protections provide safe, reliable internet access, making it a trusted tool for professionals working on the move.”
GlocalMe features a 2.4-inch touch screen that’s easy to use and can achieve speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps. If you are planning to travel with your family or friends, the device allows you to share Wi-Fi with up to 16 devices and can also connect to your computer via USB.
Prices range depending on the country you visit. “A one GB 30-day package for Europe costs $12 USD (£8.91), while a one GB 365-day package for Global costs $36 USD (£26.73),” according to GlocalMe.
This device completely saved me on my trip. My mum almost cried when I was able to video call her via WhatsApp after struggling to connect calls via the Chinese equivalent app WeChat.
Thankfully, I was able to travel through Shenzhen without the fear of getting lost or being unable to communicate with locals. Google Translate particularly came in handy when negotiating prices whenever I was in the market.
Glocalme can also be used as a portable charger (Image: Amazon)
Even when my phone’s battery was dying, it was convenient to connect my phone to GlocalMe to charge. I have a Google Pixel phone, and the wire provided is Type-C to Type-C, which worked seamlessly; however, you can also use the device as a portable charger for other Android devices and some iPhones.
I don’t think I would ever travel without this device again, especially on long holidays to countries outside of Europe. Not only is it handy when you need cheap and speedy WiFi, but its versatility is extremely unique. You can use it as a VPN even in your home or abroad, and as a portable charger.
The Numen Air currently retails for £254 on Amazon. It does have a high price tag, but it is a lifetime investment for those eager to travel across the world. It currently boasts 4.2 stars on Amazon from over 80 customers.
One happy customer shared: “It’s been an absolute lifesaver! Setting it up was straightforward since I’m always out and about, though I reckon the instructions could be more user-friendly for those who aren’t quite as comfortable with technology.
“When I first opened the package and had a proper look, I was a bit surprised by its size – rather larger than I’d expected. That said, I’ve got to give credit where it’s due; the included battery has been brilliant for those longer trips. The connectivity speed is fantastic, and I’ve had no trouble at all connecting my laptop, tablet and mobile simultaneously.”
Another commented: “This is great if you tend to go away a lot to remote locations, camping, etc., and in larger groups, as it has very impressive capabilities and can support everyone’s devices at the same time. It’s very easy to use and set up, and the speeds tested here were not only very good but also stayed consistent with no dropouts.
“I wouldn’t personally buy a data package from the company as I will be using it for shorter periods, like long weekends, etc. It will work out cheaper by using your own existing SIM card or buying a pre-loaded/pay-as-you-go one.
“Really good bit of kit though and very solid and robust/well made, so feels like good value based on this and if you go away quite often, you will get a lot of use out of it.”
You can find more about Glocalme by clicking here. Alternatively, Amazon is offering other portable WIfI and VPN devices such as the TP-Link TL-WR1502X Portable Router for £64.99; find out more here.