We’ve gotten used to a world where everything works at a tap — ordering a taxi, booking a coffee, finding a hotel, opening maps, making a video call. It feels like second nature. But the moment you land in another country, that “normal” can disappear in seconds.

You activate your eSIM — it connects. But Google Maps won’t load. WhatsApp keeps spinning “connecting,” and the card machine won’t process your payment.This isn’t a rare glitch — it’s the daily reality for thousands of travelers.

The core issue? The illusion of global digital access.

We forget that every country has different laws, networks, tech standards, and digital limitations. What “always works” at home might not work at all abroad.

Take the UAE, China, or Iran, for example — video and voice calls via messengers are blocked. Even with working internet, you can’t call on WhatsApp, Telegram, or FaceTime. And if you didn’t install a VPN before your trip, it might be too late to do so once you arrive.

Other destinations like Turkey, Indonesia, Egypt, or India offer full internet access — but with weak or inconsistent service, especially if you're using an international eSIM. These SIMs often connect to partner networks with limited speeds and lower priority, especially in busy areas or remote locations.

Then comes the issue of hotspot restrictions. Some eSIM providers don’t allow you to share your data connection. That means no internet on your laptop, tablet, or even a second phone — even if you have gigabytes of data.

Let’s not forget missing local services you might rely on at home:– Uber doesn’t work in Turkey — and local taxi apps require a Turkish phone number;– some debit or credit cards don’t work in small shops, guesthouses, or markets;– certain hotels send SMS confirmations, which never reach your foreign number.

💡 Bottom line: vacation is no place for digital surprises.

To avoid common issues:

• Always install a VPN before you travel, especially to countries with internet restrictions.• Check which ride apps and payment methods work locally.• Download offline maps and translation apps ahead of time.• Carry some local cash, especially where card terminals are unreliable.• Confirm that your eSIM allows tethering and works with strong local networks.• Save important documents and addresses offline, just in case.