Hello there blog readers!
As I have now been at Lund for more than a month, it makes sense that I should talk about the technology that I am using while here. In fact it is hard to imagine how I would manage without my smartphone and laptop in a completely foreign country.
One of the first things I did after my arrival in Sweden was buy a pre-paid SIM card with data, calling, and texting capabilities. Because I am here temporarily, I do not have a Swedish personal number (something that only Swedish citizens can get) and therefore it was not possible for me to get a monthly cellular plan. Instead, I have bought a pre-paid SIM card to put in my phone, and when I use up the data on that phone I can go to any number of convenience stores and buy a refill data package. I highly suggest using WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger for messaging with friends and family back home (both of these apps allow for calling as well), and I was surprised that almost all of my friends use these apps everyday here. Having apps that allow you to message or call anyone with internet connection means that you don’t need to worry about getting a SIM card with texting or calling capabilities. Another nice thing about Sweden is that you can reliably find Wifi wherever you go, and this cuts back on the amount of data that you have to use when you leave your apartment.
Along with finding the right smartphone plan while you are abroad, another thing to worry about as a student is purchasing flights and finding the best prices. While Google Flights is easy to use and displays all available flight options, I would recommend looking at the a website called STA Travel. This site also puts together lots of different flights, and provides discounts on some flights for college students.
