communication (9)

There is nothing worse than having to navigate through some of the world's busiest airports whilst lugging around a heavy laptop as well. Enter EeePC from Asus. This low cost (USD300-700) computer allows you to surf the web (wi-fi), review documents and send emails. Not only does this little gem compete with normal laptops on price, the small dimensions (22.5cm (W), 17cm (D) and 2-3.38cm (H) and 1kg weight make it ideal for the business traveller. The latest model (EeePC 900) features an 8.9 inch screen, 12-20GB hard disk and built in webcam. Great for keeping in touch with the office or home. Whilst it certainly won't replace your laptop for long business trips (the keyboard is slightly small) and lacks the power for full scale presentations, it is ideal for the short business trip or using whilst commuting.

Hong Kong benefits from one of the world's most competitive mobile telephone markets. Whilst handsets are generally more expensive than elsewhere, sim cards are exceptionally good value.

A GBP10 sim card should provide you with more than enough credit for a short stay in Hong Kong and allows you to keep in touch with locals and fellow travellers. Sim cards are available at local convenience stores and are easy to use with dual-language instructions.

Japan's mobile phone system is not compatible with most non-Japanese phones. This includes Blackberrys and tri-region phones. Make sure you don't get caught short by checking to see if your phone gives you a signal when you get off the plane. If not, you are able to rent a phone at the airport (it's easier here as you can return it just before you head home and the language barrier is not an issue).

1. Take out a Backgammon set and ask your next door neighbour if they know how to play it.
2. If they say yes, say "Let's play."
3. If they say no, say "I'll show you."

In Hong Kong, like elsewhere in Asia, business cards are treated with unusual respect. Always present and receive a business card with two hands. When presenting your card, ensure your name reads 'right way up' to the receiver. Upon receiving a business card, look at it first rather than immediately stashing it away - and it is always helpful to show some kind of excitement at seeing whatever is written thereon. After this, the business card may be put away, but never in your back trouser pocket!

Use this mobile phone translation service whilst in China and connect to a team of operators who will be able to translate for you when you pass your mobile phone to the Chinese person with whom you need to communicate. So useful in lots of situations in a country where so few people speak English. The service can be used for business communication, travel around the country, hotel reservations and so much more.

Mobile phone coverage is very good in Hong Kong. You can even use your mobile on the underground – the hugely efficient Mass Transit Railway. If you are going to be making lots of local calls it may be worth buying a pre-paid sim card from 3G or SmarTone Vodafone, as this will save you a fortune in the long-run.

Your spangly, super-intelligent mobile phone won’t work in Japan. The clever bods at Nokia and RIM have worked out how to make European phones work in the US, but there’s no way of doing the same for Japan.

You can get a Japanese mobile at Narita airport, but communicating with some Vodafone Japanese dude minutes after a 12 hour flight can be excruciating (though less excruciating than forgetting to give it back on the way home). The second, infinitely preferable, way is to contact your mobile operator before you head to north Asia. They’ll give you a phone, clear operating instructions and a favourable contract.

If you also like to be able to connect with your laptop while also on the move, Vodafone and other mobile operators have invented an ingenious device: the 3G Data Card. This small memory-stick-like device attaches to your computer and delivers a cybernetic connection almost as speedy as broadband at home. Remarkable little thing – you’ll never again need to search in vain for a wireless connection to send a hefty attachment. They are available at most London mobile phone shops (e.g. Carphone Warehouse).