Free wifi/internet access in NYC / Greenwich Village ?

[Nilsen]

My dad is going over to visit an old friend that does not have internet in a few weeks. Wish i could go with him this time but I have too much work. Any good and reliable places for him to log on over there? He wont bother taking his lappy over so he will just buy a cheap netbook and then leave it behind when he goes home. A good central place to get a cheap netbook would also be nice.

I could just google for hotspots but if any of you have any practical experience with good places it would be better.

Thx


 

[Dichotomy]

I just took a look on my phone and the area seems to be filthy with them.  I don't think he'll have any problems finding a free one.  I'm going on the assumption that he has a smart phone.  There are apps that will locate free wi fi locations easily. 

Good to see ya as always Nil.

[AAJagerX]

Make sure he has his AV software up to date.  Free hotspots can be like cheap hookers...  "Woo Hoo" at the moment, "Oh crap" after the bug. 

[Nilsen]

Thx fellas

As he will buy the netbook over there there is no way he can get an updated av program until he gets on line first hehe so his first hotspot better be a safe(ish) one. Im thinking places like starbucks and other chains should offer fairly safe wifi and they are all over the place or are they just as dangerous? I dont have any experience with how it works on your side of the puddle.

I dont think he will bring his smartphone because the networks are different and calling with a norwegian operator in the US is very expencive. He is taking a nokia that will work with some of your carriers and will get some sort of prepaid card or something for it so he can make calls locally and send some emails while he is there.

He could always bring his thinkpad and sat phone but he doesnt want to risk it when customs can just take it and keep for as long as they wish and he want to travel as light as possible

[Raptor]

Starbucks

[B2B]

Nils
I would stay away from the small electronics stores in Times Square, Canal Street, etc.. They might offer what looks like a good deal but some of those shops are a bit "shady". Stores like J&R Electronics and PC Richards would be a better bet. They've been in business for awhile and have a pretty good reputation. You can Google them for locations and prices. Their sales staff will be able to assist him with the WiFi part. I'm sure he will have no problem getting on-line in New York City. Too bad you're not making the trip, we could have met for a beer or two. Stay well my friend.
B

[Nilsen]

  Bob

[Shuffler]

Starbucks, McDonalds, many restauarants..... here in Texas have free connection. They may have advanced enugh up there to have that too.