Mobile Phones & Wi-Fi
Check with you mobile carrier for fees associated to roaming. I have Verizon and the calls would cost me about $1.25 per minutes... very expensive. Sending and receiving text messages are only $0.05. Check to see how your internet/data will work. There are very few spots where you can get free Wi-Fi. In nice restaurant like The Sound Cup in Garden City you can access internet for free.
For $60 you can buy a monthly Vodafone device and carry Wi-Fi with you. The device is small enough to fix in your pocket, just charge it overnight and go about your day.
The international phone Apps that are used to make calls for free are WhatsApp and Viber from the Apple store. These apps allow you to call freely as long as you have Wi-Fi. You have to add +1 in front of the phone number you are trying to call in the USA. I also used my free Google Voice number to make free calls from Google Hangout on my phone. I can explain further should you need a more detailed instructions. It’s Easy!
While I was in Kampala, the Vodafone device was perfect. What's even better is that several computers and other devices can simultaneously connect to it. The connection may slow down the more devices are logged into it.
The most popular local mobile companies are MTN and Airtel. If you have an unlocked international phone, you can buy a sim card(phone number) for less than $5.00. Ask me about this should you want to know how to be fully prepared.
Language
Most people in Ugandaunderstand and speak English. The only complaint I got on why some people couldn't understand me was because I was talking fast to fast. Not only that, they speak proper English and well I guess I don't pronounce my words out. (its "photos" with a T not an R sound).
The local Kampala language is Luganda. I will have a cheatsheet ready with common saying that will come in handy should you want to speak like the locals. It's fun whe you try because they laugh at you for trying.
To charge your devices you will need to purchase an
adapter for the electrical sockets (outlets).
Uganda usually supplies electricity at between
220 and 240 volts AC
This page last updated on 11/16/2015
This is what the Vodaphone devices looks like.
I have one myself already. So when you are around me you are free to use my service.
Topics to Review (At-A-Glance)
Preparation & Travel Details
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