I don’t know about you, but I love any place that offers free Wi-Fi. In fact, right this moment, I am sitting at our local library enjoying the benefits of their free wireless internet. The nice thing about going to our library is that I am not required to buy anything and there are no strings attached with me sitting here. I have no sales person hounding me and no one waiting to take my table here.
More and more retailers are beginning to see the benefits of offering free wireless internet access though. Patrons may take up tables longer, but they also tend to place bigger orders while doing their business on the internet.
There are many national retailers that are offering free wireless including Apple Stores, Panera Bread, Caribou Coffee, most McDonald’s, Office Depot, CompUSA, Schlotzsky’s Deli, and many hotels and even some airports.
How do you find local places that offer free wireless? You can search under this directory, utilizing your zip code or state, and find a spot in your town or even a town that you are visiting. I was amazed to see all of the great places, in our area, that are offering free wireless that I didn’t even know about.
How about when traveling? Here are some listings that might come in handy:
National Hotels That Offer Free Wi-Fi
RV Parks & Campgrounds That Offer Free Wi-Fi
Airports That Offer Free Wi-Fi
Just how secure are wireless internet connections though? This is something that has always made me nervous, as I do worry that someone could hack into our private information. Back in January, a New York Times columnist explored this by performing a test in his local coffee shop. You can read his surprising experience and how you can protect yourself from this happening to you.
Sound Off: Do you look for places that offer free wireless internet? Do you have a favorite spot that you like to visit?
I love curling up at Panera with my laptop and some iced tea, especially when traveling. It’s a predictable, quiet haven while on the road- and a change of scenery when at home!
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Ok, not that I really want to spend any more time at this place, BUT the hospital I delivered my 2nd baby at had free wi-fi and it was awesome! I blogged and posted pictures and sent emails to family and friends announcing his arrival!
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