Communications Why I use AirSIM for data outside Singapore
My mobile operator, Starhub, used to charge a high rate for roaming data. In my regular travel to Jakarta and Johore, I bought a local SIM card in each country and buy a data package separately when I am in that country.

It was somewhat troublesome to buy the package, as I had to buy it when I am in the country. Their process was also quite troublesome. Still, I tolerated the trouble, as the cost is much lower than roaming data from Starhub.

Later, Starhub introduced the Data Travel package and charge $5 or $15 for 1G or 2G of data. It was expensive, but I accepted the higher cost for the convenience.

I had a few bad experience with Starhub. When the data is fully consumed, Starhub charged me for the excess data at a "robbery rate". I had to pay $20 just for a few MB of data. When I received the notification of the expiry of the package, it was too late to stop the "robbery".

I complained on this issue to Starhub. They refunded the "robbery" charge as a gesture of goodwill. 

Later, I learned about AirSIM, which is a Hong Kong based company. After I register an account, I receive a SIM card from them. This SIM card can be used as a local SIM card in many participating countries. 

With the AirSIM, I do not need to wait in the queue at the airport to buy a local SIM card and a data package. I do not have to hand over my passport to register for the SIM card.

I am able to buy the data package in  advance, before I leave Singapore. I select the country, the starting date and the number of days. 

The data packages are charged at $1.50 to $2 a day with unlimited usage for most countries. I do not face the risk of paying the "robbery" rate for excess data. In some countries, e.g. in South America, the rate can go up to $4.50 a day. 

Although AirSIM said that it is unlimited data, they actually provide only 500 MB of data per day at a fast speed. When this limit is reached, the speed is downgraded to 256 kps. I find it acceptable. I still have data access that is sufficient for me to buy another package for about $2.

I have used AirSIM for my travel to Taipei, Jakarta and Johore. I find the service to be acceptable. I buy the package in advance and the service is activated automatically when I land in the city. It worked well.

I also find the user interface of the AirSIM app to be very easy to use. It is much easier that the apps of most mobile operators in Singapore and other countries. 

I will make AirSIM my preferred provider of data when I travel outside of Singapore.

You can register an account and get a AirSIM card from www.airsim.com.sg.

Tan Kin Lian

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