Grab your iPhone and make sure you have these apps before heading off on your adventure! Just key in the name of the app in iTunes. Some of them work offline, others you will need WIFI. Actually the 1st 6 are recommended for all travellers, the last 2 for birders only.
1. TRIP IT – You need to set up an account first on their main website, then forward all your e-tickets and hotel confirmations. You can add other things like birding tours and eco-lodges manually. The nice thing about this app is that it works offline if you need your flight times or confirmation numbers.
2. FLYER TALK – I like to check at least MilesBuzz for promos and the forums for the airline I am flying on for potential issues (strike, delays).
3. TRIP ADVISOR – Go online with wifi to see if there is anything new happening at your destination or check their maps for nearby attractions.
4. SKYPE – If there are any problems with your tickets, you will be glad you have a means to call their toll-free number in the USA for free. If you anticipate needing to call another country, stock up on credit.
5. XE CURRENCY EXCHANGE – drag the currency of the country you are in to the top and have your home currency underneath to see how much an item will cost in your money. Also good for communicating with vendors who may quote you in local currency or USD.
6. GOOGLE TRANSLATE – “Berapa banyak taksi untuk Arfak”? If you want to go somewhere off the beaten track, you will need transport that doesn’t necessarily cater to tourists or have English speakers on hand.
7. BIRDLOG (BIRDSEYE) – Easy way to log those bird sightings. This one normally costs $20 but was on sale recently for half price. They have one international version and several regional ones.
8. LOCAL BIRD FIELD GUIDE – It’s always worth a try to search your destination then “birding” or “bird field guide”. For example key in “birding australia” and you will see 4 apps, one of which is a free “lite” version, the others are paid. YMMV depending on country.
Do you have a favourite app? Please comment!