iPhone Data and Wi-Fi in the BVI ?

[fbchristo]

We will be chartering in the BVI’s the first 17 days of August and as much as I would love to stay disconnected from work I do need to check my email daily. Last trip I had a Black Berry and no problems but this time I have an iPhone and talk of international data roaming rates have gotten my attention. Anyone out there have any experience with using their iPhone for data in the BVI? I know it’s free in the USVI and I will spend some time over there but not that much. If not an iPhone, any suggestions on temporary Wi-Fi provider and I will schlep my laptop with me.
Thanks

[Rubikoop]

Many of the bars offer free WiFi so no need to utilize data roaming. If you do a search on TravelTalkonline dot com forum there should be a list of all the free WiFi locations.

[Curmudgeon]

Somewhere, over the rainbow, we will have worldwide broadband wi-fi at a reasonable price. The satellites are up and the technology is there. One of the providers (e.g. Inmarsat) simply has to figure out that it will make more money selling to the masses than to the rich.

[fbchristo]

Thanks Rubikoop and Curmudgeon you are right-on. You would think that folks would study the Wal-Mart model and realize volume will sustain profitability in the long run over exclusiveness, but as i tell my wife, if they would just listen to me everything would be allright; well at least for me-

[nautical62]

I just returned from 2 weeks in the BVIs and had my Iphone with me.

I could get a At&T signal via St. John's USVI from the Jost Van Dyke area, through Soper's Hole and to Norman's, though some of the bays blocked the signal.

I got free WIFI at the Moorings in Road Harbour and in Spanish Town. I'm sure there are other hot spots as well.

With that much free availability, you may not feel you need to purchase a service - or maybe just a 24 hour purchase once or twice.

Just be sure your digital roaming is off. Oh - and sometimes the BVI signal will come up as the default but if you go to settings, you will often find the AT&T is available if you select it.

[Jetexas]

You can just add International calling/data to your plan for the month. It's not too expensive and you won't have to worry about the roaming rates or finding wifi.

[jackdale]

TMM provides free Wifi on their boats.