Communicating While Abroad
General
- Research options to add international service to your smartphone, such as an e-SIM card. For long-term stays abroad, consider buying an inexpensive local mobile phone.
- Have multiple communication platforms, including more than one messaging service, to connect with people locally and back home.
- Inform friends and family at home about the frequency you will be communicating with them while you are abroad (and remind them of the time difference).
- If traveling to a remote location for a long period of time, consider buying a
- Google’s Gmail is blocked in China; Zoom and Duo are banned in Iran and Cuba.
Apps
- is the most popular communication tool outside of the U.S., but it does require a Wi-Fi connection. Before you depart, ensure contacts are saved.
- / and are also free and widely accessible
- and are useful ways to stay connected with friends.
- is encrypted, which allows for more privacy protections.
- Some Apps that are common in specific countries include:
- Japan:
- China: (WhatsApp is blocked in China)
- Korea: