The Inimitable Tiff

In a few weeks I head for Europe for a bit, specifically Barcelona, Carcassonne, Tuscany then moseying from Venice to München to Prague. It’s my first serious vacation in nearly three years (goddamn work) and my first return to Europe since 2004’s Oktoberfest.

In the interim, technology has changed quite a bit. I hope to use it well for this trip. I have two questions I’d like to ask to my pals on Twitter and Tumblr. I’m seeking recommendations for:

1. Stuff to do
2. International SIM cards with data

Regarding the first, rest assured plans already include most of the must-see tourist goals, along with rare book shopping, local alcoholic specialities, museums (historical and artistic), architectural antiquity and even Tuscan cooking class.

I’d love more suggestions, please, if you have a moment.

Regarding the second…sad to say, the internet isn’t helping much. Calling rates, yes; data-rates v. roaming, not so much. My modded Android phone is primarily going to be an eReader—I’m taking along a small library of digital books so I have space to acquire more *physical* books. Yet I hope to access maps, my geocaching app and email when wifi’s unavailable. The clearest candidate is TruPhone but I haven’t found many posted reviews. A bunch of similar services are available, but they emphasize calls not data.

I hope a few of you have a moment to respond! Thanks very much.