Staying Connected

One key point in this trip is communication. Letting people know where I am and how things are going. Where is the next bike shop? What is the weather for the next day? How far to the nearest campground ? etc. I did a little research on electronic devices and compared that information with choices made by other bike travellers. Smart phones and Tablets are cool, but I want a keyboard because I'm half-blind and my fingers are clumsy. Also, expense is a factor.  I will pick up a  super cheap, super basic cell phone later. ( for ordering beer and pizza, of coarse !)
So I decided on a 10 inch netbook. I picked out what I was thinking of getting from the NCIX website. A store recommended by my friend Tanya.  So I went down to the Vancouver location to have a look. Not the type of store where I should be purchasing electronics. It's devoid of display items and typical salespeople. A store geared to professionals and mega geeks. I basically went to the counter and showed one of the many clerks my google print out. A little chit - chat and $400.00 later, I was on my way. On my way to the Burnaby location .  (to pick it up.)  Annoying drive and a long wait in a line of zero,  I am handed a box containing my shiny new Device. (my first time buying something sight unseen) Could've got it through Amazon and had it shipped to me for less. Oh well. I belong in 1346.
Anyway, here are some specs on my new companion : ( I hope Highway Cat doesn't get jealous.)

ASUS EeePc 1015 PEM PU17-BK

• Battery - 6 cell, 13 hour
• Microphone, webcam
• Screen - 10.1 inch LED, 1024+600
• VGA, 3 USB 2.0, Memory card reader
• Memory 1 GB (2 available), 
• Bluetooth 3.0, Wi Fi
• 2.79 lbs.
• N550 Atom, 1.50 GHZ, Dual core
• HD 250 GB

So, hopefully I can keep up wth a fair log of my journey to begin mid May 2011. Kizzmitt isn't too sure !