One device saved me on travel around the world (Image: Shania King-Soyza)
I've done solo flights 13 hours apart all over the world, but that's not the scary part. There is no Google or social media in the country, and calling charges to the UK are scary, and I'm isolated and troubled until I use my life-changing device.
I was totally unaware of the extent to which mainland China behaves differently from the rest of the world. Maybe it's my baby traveler, but certainly there's Google in the country, right? no. This is due to the great firewall (a legal censorship tool used by the Chinese government) that regulates inbound and outbound internet traffic between China and the world.
Read more I did my first solo trip from home to home without googling
I headed to Shenzhen China, which doesn't have google (Image: Shania King-Soyza)
According to Nord VPN, “This censorship tool scans internet traffic for unwanted keywords and blocks websites with users who don't follow the rules.” Before you judge me, I had done my research and had already installed a VPN on my phone, but just because of my unfortunate luck, it didn't work.
I started panic when I thought I couldn't use Google Maps. Google has brought Google Maps, Google translations or communications back home, unless you risk spending a lot of money on the Roaming package. Luckily, this was a business trip, I kindly handed over a unique device that all worked in one as a mobile hotspot, VPN and portable charger. Numen Air from Glocalme.
“Glocalme is a global innovator of mobile internet and communications solutions, dedicated to keeping people connected. The device taps seamless global access, 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi and even satellite networks.”
Those numen air devices work without a SIM card. Simply download the app and instantly use your national and international data via online payments, without any contracts or hidden roaming fees.
The device “can connect to over 390 networks at over 200 destinations, ensuring uninterrupted mobile data. Glocalme's built-in VPN and firewall protection provides secure and reliable internet access and makes it a reliable tool for professionals working on mobility.”
Glocalme features a 2.4-inch touchscreen that is easy to use and can achieve speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps. If you are planning to travel with family or friends, the device allows you to share Wi-Fi with up to 16 devices and also connect to your computer via USB.
Prices range depending on the country you visit. “The 1GB 30-day package for Europe costs USD 12 (£8.91), while the global cost 1GB 365-day package costs USD 36 (£26.73),” he said.
This device has saved me completely on my trip. My mother almost cried when she was able to make a video call via WhatsApp after struggling to connect her phone through Chinese comparable app Wechat.
Thankfully, I was able to travel deep Shenzhen without fear of getting lost or not being able to communicate with the locals. Google Translation was especially helpful whenever I was in the market and negotiating prices.
Glocalme can also be used as a portable charger (Image: Amazon)
Even when my phone's battery was dead, it was convenient to plug my phone into Glocalme to charge it. I have a Google Pixel phone and the wire provided is Type-C to Type-C. However, this device can also be used as a portable charger for other Android devices and some iPhones.
I don't think I'll travel again without this device, especially during my long vacation to countries outside of Europe. Not only is it convenient when you need cheap and fast WiFi, but its versatility is extremely unique. It can be used as a portable charger at home or overseas, or as a VPN.
Numen Air is currently retailing on Amazon for £254. It has a high price tag, but it is a lifelong investment for those keen to travel around the world. It currently boasts 4.2 stars from over 80 customers on Amazon.
A happy customer said: “It was an absolute lifesaver! I'm always out and setting it up was easy, but I think the instructions could be more user-friendly for people who aren't that comfortable with technology.
“When I first opened the package and had a proper look, I was a little surprised by its size – I was much bigger than I expected. It's because I have to give credit where it will go. The included battery is great for those long trips. The connectivity speed was great and I had no problems connecting my laptop, tablet and mobile at the same time.”
Another comment: “This is great if you tend to leave a lot in remote areas, camping, etc., as it has a very impressive ability and can support all your devices at the same time. This is very easy to use and set up.
“Because we use it for a long weekend, such as a short period of time, we don't personally buy data packages from the company. You can get cheaper by using your own existing SIM card or buying something that's not preloaded.
“It's a very good bit, very solid and robust/well made, so it feels like a good value based on this. If you leave frequently you get a lot of use.”
You can find more information about Glocalme by clicking here. Alternatively, Amazon offers other portable WiFi and VPN devices, such as the TP-Link TL-WR1502X portable router, for £64.99. For more information, please click here.
