Expats need their technology and I am here to tell you why. These thoughts came about as I was sitting in a little coffee shop/bookstore/dvd rental place in Laranjeiras. While I was waiting for my friend to show up, I pulled out my kindle to read.
It seems a bit wrong to be reading on my kindle while in a bookstore. It's kind of like pulling out a microwave at a campsite, just doesn't fit. But I needed it. I'm sorry, but reading at this point in my life is a recreational activity. It's not for mental exercise therefore I am not reading in Portuguese.
Thus the Kindle. American literature, and wannabe literature, all at the press of a button.
It got me thinking, if money wasn't an issue what else would I buy? What kind of travel technology do I need?
For starters, I'd have to get an ipad. No, it's not for what you think. I would get an ipad to read my American magazines. I can see all the tech maniacs rolling their eyes. Screw you dude! You don't have to buy wired for R$40 or more, if you can find it! I would love to be able to browse my magazines in a semi-normal page flipping manner. I get tingles in my nether regions just thinking of US Weekly on an ipad. I'm cultured like that.
Next I'd like to get an Iphone, and this from someone who isn't a huge apple fan. There are MANY reasons for an Iphone. Obviously the direct connection to the social media crack called Facebook and Twitter is a plus. I also like the touch screen because it makes me feel like a God pushing things around. Not to mention I'd be in photo upload heaven with that bad boy. But the real reason would be for portable skype access. I could be in the most horrible Rio de Janeiro public bathroom and skype my Mom just to show her the conditions. That's technology for you and I want it.
Then there's just the practicle stuff like a LED-LCD flatscreen tv with USB port. Obiously I'd use the USB to connect my camera. I'd never use it to watch my American series and movies found online. That'd be illegal.
Then there's the Slingbox. I still can't even begin to understand it's perfection in bringing an expat their tv shows legally and from their country. I don't pretend to get it but I want it!
Lastly, I'd get a taser. From what I heard they are illegal here but what isn't?! I'm a woman cruising Rio and I need my protection, especially after the whole street kid incident. A taser would save my delicate body from having to do any actual work and would make my assailant piss and crap their pants. Sold!
And now it's your turn! If money wasn't an issue, what technology would you buy? Which gadgets, electronics, and/or technology would make living abroad that much easier?
