IT Connectivity, Mobile Phones and ATMs at IRG55

Mobile phones

The GSM mobile phone system is available throughout the USA. Check with your own mobile phone provider for service coverage in this area under your service. Other mobile phone systems such as CDMA service are also used in the US.

SIM cards

Upon arrival in the USA one option is to purchase and have installed a local SIM card for use while in the USA. These cards often include a certain amount of free calling back to your home country, depending on which SIM card provider you choose and which country you are from. SIM cards are available at overseas entry airports in the US, the booths are usually are in close proximity outside the exit from Customs and Immigration. There are many options, prior to leaving for the IRG55 meeting do some research online and find the option that best suits your needs. Then check the availability of that option with respect to your arrival airport in Australia.

Internet and Email access

Free high speed wireless access is available in the Crown Plaza Knoxville Hotel, as well as within the Conference Center. High speed wireless access is also available in most other hotels in Cairns, but be sure to check before making reservations.

Skype and other internet phone access

Given that there is readily available free high speed wireless internet access available to conference attendees, it is recommended that for international attendees they consider setting up a Skype, Google Voice or other internet phone access account, in the unlikely event that they have not already done so, in order to provide themselves more affordable communication with home during the IRG54 meeting.

ATMs

ATM machines for USD cash withdrawals are available at Knoxville Airport and throughout downtown Knoxville.