1

With short stays in most of the countries, I wouldn't waste any time in getting yourself connected using a local simcard. In my experience it takes 2-3 days to get the hang of it, with full understanding of the tarif plans described in a different languages. If connected don't expect fast internet - if within reach - since coverage isn't like the "western" world.

If really desperate for a cellphone connection, roam the cellphone provider landscape before going in - know what to buy and where to get it - with print-outs of the stuff you need in local language. It will save you a massive amount of time. Specially stuff like APN, UN, PW is pretty hard to explain in a different language.

In Nepal there are a few cellphone providers for data connections - works mostly in Kathmandu, Pokara and a few other areas with population. Expect blackouts, access to electricity and water is swapped through city areas with a load shedding schedule.

Good luck!

2

Maybe you can ask in the related location branches and do some google research?

Even for short stays roaming can be pretty expensive. You say Skype that's data. If I took my NZ phone to China it probably cost $10 or $25 per MB depending on which telco I am with. With those rates, take any tariff rates is still better.

3

Nepal is easy ... you can get a Sim card at the airport in about 5-10 minutes. Very cheap. They speak fluent English ... have a bunch of easy to understand plans - 3G data ... and tether your laptop to your phone. Works well in the cities such as KTM and Pokhara. Results will vary in other locations ... but it's pretty decent coverage. Most any decent hotel at $20 and up will have a generator ... so power isn't that much of an issue. Lots of hotels & restaurants also have free Internet/wi-fi ... that also run on battery systems when the generators are being switched on.

Take a few extra passport sized photos ...quite often you are required to provide one to get a Sim in some countries ...

4

Joegoozy thanks for the tip on the passport sized photos, have been doing heaps of research on this and had not seen that yet. Thanks!

5

Thanks all... more info appreciated...