Helpful Phone Apps

Does anyone have recommendations for helpful Apps while visiting China, Korea and Japan?

I already have currency converters that are user friendly (OANDA Currency Converter, and XE).

Free WIFI in Japan has always been a challenge. There are far fewer places to find it than in most developed countries.

As we get closer to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, all that is slowly changing.

But it is still a challenge.

There are several free APPS available that not only identify the locations of free WIFI in Japan, but allow you to easily and quickly log in; Japan WIFI, TownWIFI, Japan Official Travel App, are just a few of them.

Cruise Port Navigator

We found MapsMe quite useful. Download the maps for the areas you are visiting ahead of time, then you only need GPS on to use the map.

A global smartphone/unlocked iPhone for access to major LTE bands/frequencies used in Japan if you will be using cellular data (5G in SK) ... their WiFi networks are fast, very fast even when it's free in places like airport, enjoy.

We use Google's Project Fi and T-Mobile, well covered and inexpensive - take advantage of free & inexpensive WiFi calling. Google Translate, download language modules ahead for offline use, it can come in handy.

While inside mainland China, Facebook & Google servers cannot be accessed or used, unless you are using a VPN, plan ahead on workaround ... Skype is fine and we use Ooma App for VoiP calling.

TripAdvisor App is good for more than looking up hotels, dining as the destination forum & reviews for popular sightseeing places can be helpful.

For offline maps/navigation, I use Map Navigator, download free (Open Source) city/region/country 2D/3D maps with POI ahead for offline use, updated on a regular basis ... the optional "paid" maps are used by products like Garmin.

Thank you everyone’s!

Purely in the interest of transparency, the app Cruise Port Navigator is owned by Heather Hopkins Clement, the person who has recommended it.

 

The app is well designed and very helpful.

That's precisely why I just posted the name of the app without further comment. :) Just wanted to make people aware of it; they can decide for themselves whether or not it's useful. Feedback is always welcome.