{"as_of":"2026-11-11","countries":[{"slug":"china","name":"China (Mainland)","region":"East Asia","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china","summary":"Mainland China operates behind the Great Firewall and relies almost entirely on Alipay and WeChat Pay QR codes for daily payments, transit, and menus.","quick_take":"Install a Singapore- or Hong Kong-routed travel eSIM (Airalo or Nomad) and link a foreign Visa/Mastercard inside Alipay and WeChat Pay before you board your flight.","as_of":"2026-11-11","matrix":[{"service":"Foreign Travel eSIMs (Airalo, Holafly, Nomad)","category":"connectivity","status":"works","summary":"Bypasses the Great Firewall automatically via Hong Kong or Singapore roaming exits, but the eSIM profile must be installed before landing.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/esim"},{"service":"Consumer VPN Apps on Hotel Wi-Fi","category":"vpn","status":"workaround_required","summary":"Standard WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols are blocked on Chinese Wi-Fi; only obfuscated TLS/Stealth protocols or roaming cellular data work reliably.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/vpn"},{"service":"Alipay with Foreign Visa / Mastercard","category":"payments","status":"conditional","summary":"Works at 95%+ of merchants; fee-free up to 200 CNY per transaction, 3% international card fee above 200 CNY, and passport verification required above $2,000/yr.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/alipay"},{"service":"WeChat Pay with Foreign Credit Cards","category":"payments","status":"conditional","summary":"Works for merchant QR payments and Mini Programs once identity is verified, but cannot send peer-to-peer red packets or transfers to personal accounts.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/wechat-pay"},{"service":"Google Maps, Gmail & WhatsApp","category":"maps","status":"blocked","summary":"Blocked on local Wi-Fi and domestic SIMs; furthermore, Google Maps road data in mainland China is offset by 100–600m (GCJ-02)—use Apple Maps or Amap.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/google-maps"},{"service":"ChatGPT, Claude & Gemini","category":"ai","status":"workaround_required","summary":"Blocked on Chinese IPs AND Hong Kong exit IPs; requires a Singapore-, Japan-, or US-routed eSIM or VPN exit node.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/chatgpt"}],"guides":[{"path":"/china/alipay","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/alipay","title":"Can Foreigners Use Alipay in China with a Visa or Mastercard?","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"payments","status":"conditional","verdict":"Yes. Foreigners can link international Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club, and Discover cards directly to the standard Alipay app. Transactions up to 200 CNY (~$28) are fee-free; payments above 200 CNY incur a 3% international card processing fee.","as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/chatgpt","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/chatgpt","title":"Does ChatGPT Work in China, and How to Access It Safely?","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"ai","status":"workaround_required","verdict":"ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini are double-blocked in China: blocked by the Great Firewall AND geo-blocked by OpenAI/Anthropic on both mainland Chinese and Hong Kong IPs. To use ChatGPT in China without a VPN, you must use an eSIM whose exit node is in Singapore (such as Airalo Chinacom), not Hong Kong.","as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/esim","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/esim","title":"Does an eSIM Work in China, and Does It Bypass the Great Firewall?","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"works","verdict":"Yes. International roaming eSIMs connect to China Unicom, China Mobile, or China Telecom towers but tunnel traffic through Singapore or Hong Kong, so Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, and Instagram work immediately—provided you install the eSIM before departure.","as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/google-maps","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/google-maps","title":"Do Google Maps, Gmail, and WhatsApp Work in China?","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"maps","status":"blocked","verdict":"Even with a roaming eSIM or VPN that unblocks Google servers, do NOT use Google Maps for navigation in mainland China: its map data is years out of date and shifted by 100–600 meters due to China's GCJ-02 coordinate system. Use Apple Maps (on iPhone) or Amap (Gaode Maps, now with English UI).","as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/vpn","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/vpn","title":"Which VPNs Actually Work in China in 2026?","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"vpn","status":"workaround_required","verdict":"Do not rely on a single consumer VPN in mainland China. Standard WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols are blocked within minutes; use a roaming eSIM as your primary bypass and keep an obfuscated VPN (Proton VPN Stealth or ExpressVPN Lightway) installed before departure for hotel Wi-Fi.","as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/wechat-pay","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/wechat-pay","title":"Does WeChat Pay Work with Foreign Credit Cards in China?","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"payments","status":"conditional","verdict":"Yes, once you complete passport verification inside WeChat. While Alipay is more forgiving for metro turnstiles and English mini-programs, you still need WeChat Pay because many Chinese cafes and restaurants use WeChat Mini Program table QR codes for ordering.","as_of":"2026-11-11"}],"top_providers":[{"id":"airalo","name":"Airalo","domain":"airalo.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"summary":"Fixed-data travel eSIM marketplace covering 200+ destinations; mainland China Chinacom and Asialink packs route via Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall without a separate VPN.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"nomad","name":"Nomad eSIM","domain":"getnomad.app","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"summary":"Strong Asia-Pacific eSIM provider partnering with dual local networks in Japan (IIJ/KDDI), China (China Unicom/Telecom via HK exit), and Southeast Asia, with unrestricted hotspot sharing on fixed-GB plans.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"holafly","name":"Holafly","domain":"esim.holafly.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$6.90 / 1 day unlimited","notes":"Unlimited data by day count (1 to 90 days); hotspot tethering capped at 500 MB–1 GB/day on most plans."},"summary":"Day-based unlimited travel eSIMs with built-in roaming tunnel for China and Asia; convenient for single-device travelers, though carrier fair-use policies throttle heavy sustained video or hotspot use.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/holafly?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"wise","name":"Wise","domain":"wise.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"summary":"Multi-currency account and Visa/Mastercard debit card converting at the real mid-market exchange rate with no weekend FX markup; works reliably with Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Apple Pay IC cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"trip","name":"Trip.com","domain":"trip.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"China High-Speed Rail & hotels with foreign card checkout","notes":"English interface synced directly with China Railway 12306."},"summary":"Essential booking app for mainland China: lets foreigners book 12306 high-speed rail tickets, domestic flights, and foreign-friendly hotels in English using international credit cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/trip?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"expressvpn","name":"ExpressVPN","domain":"expressvpn.com","category":"vpn","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$6.67 / mo (annual) or $12.95 / 1 month","notes":"Automatic obfuscation on Lightway protocol; 30-day refund window."},"summary":"Travel VPN with automatic protocol obfuscation on all servers and a router/Aircove app, frequently used as a backup alongside roaming eSIMs.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/expressvpn?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"}]},{"slug":"europe","name":"Europe (EU, UK & Switzerland)","region":"Europe","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/europe","summary":"One regional eSIM covers 30–39 European countries, contactless Apple Pay / Google Pay works almost everywhere, and dynamic currency conversion (DCC) on card terminals is the main tourist trap.","quick_take":"Ensure your European regional eSIM explicitly includes Switzerland and the UK (non-EU), and always choose to pay in EUR/GBP/CHF—never USD—on card terminals.","as_of":"2026-11-11","matrix":[{"service":"Regional Europe eSIMs (EU + UK + Switzerland)","category":"connectivity","status":"works","summary":"Regional eSIMs (Airalo Eurolink, Saily Europe, Maya Europe, SimOptions Orange Holiday) roam seamlessly across EU borders plus the UK and Switzerland.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/compare/airalo-vs-holafly-vs-saily"},{"service":"Wise & Revolut Multi-Currency Cards","category":"payments","status":"works","summary":"Contactless tap-to-pay is accepted for metro gates, bakeries, and restrooms across Europe; decline terminal currency conversion to avoid 4%–8% DCC markups.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/compare/wise-vs-revolut-abroad"},{"service":"Google Maps, Citymapper & Rail Planners","category":"maps","status":"works","summary":"Works across all European networks with live transit delays.","guide_url":null}],"guides":[],"top_providers":[{"id":"saily","name":"Saily","domain":"saily.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.99 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Single eSIM profile reusable across 190+ destinations."},"summary":"Travel eSIM service built by Nord Security using a single installable eSIM profile for all trips, with optional virtual location routing and ad-blocking features.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/saily?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"airalo","name":"Airalo","domain":"airalo.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"summary":"Fixed-data travel eSIM marketplace covering 200+ destinations; mainland China Chinacom and Asialink packs route via Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall without a separate VPN.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"maya","name":"Maya Mobile","domain":"maya.net","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$5.00 / 3 GB (30 days)","notes":"30-day validity even on entry-level data tiers; hotspot enabled."},"summary":"Travel eSIM provider focused on 30-day validity windows and transparent hotspot rules across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/maya?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"simoptions","name":"SimOptions","domain":"simoptions.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.90 / 1 GB","notes":"Resells official Orange Holiday Europe, AIS Thailand, and Three UK eSIMs."},"summary":"Marketplace for official carrier-issued prepaid eSIMs (including Orange Holiday Europe with a French phone number and Thailand AIS tourist eSIMs).","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/simoptions?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"wise","name":"Wise","domain":"wise.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"summary":"Multi-currency account and Visa/Mastercard debit card converting at the real mid-market exchange rate with no weekend FX markup; works reliably with Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Apple Pay IC cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"revolut","name":"Revolut","domain":"revolut.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free Standard plan; 1% weekend FX fee unless pre-exchanged","notes":"Disposable single-use virtual cards and instant freeze controls in app."},"summary":"Travel banking app with multi-currency pockets, disposable virtual cards, and weekday interbank FX rates; exchange currencies before Friday 5pm ET to avoid the 1% weekend markup.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/revolut?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"}]},{"slug":"hong-kong","name":"Hong Kong","region":"East Asia","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/hong-kong","summary":"Hong Kong has open access to Google, WhatsApp, and social media, but enforces mandatory eSIM real-name registration for local numbers and is geo-blocked by OpenAI and Anthropic.","quick_take":"Google and WhatsApp work without a VPN, but ChatGPT and Claude block Hong Kong IPs—use a VPN or a Singapore-routed eSIM to access AI tools.","as_of":"2026-11-11","matrix":[{"service":"ChatGPT, Claude & OpenAI API","category":"ai","status":"workaround_required","summary":"OpenAI and Anthropic geo-block Hong Kong IP addresses; connect via a VPN server in Singapore, Japan, or Taiwan, or use a Singapore-routed eSIM.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/hong-kong/chatgpt"},{"service":"Travel eSIMs & Real-Name Registration","category":"connectivity","status":"conditional","summary":"Local Hong Kong SIMs and 3HK plans require passport real-name registration (RNR) before activation; foreign data-only roaming eSIMs often skip HK RNR.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/hong-kong/esim-real-name"},{"service":"Google Maps, Gmail, YouTube & WhatsApp","category":"maps","status":"works","summary":"Works at full speed on all Hong Kong Wi-Fi networks and mobile carriers with accurate GPS coordinates.","guide_url":null},{"service":"Octopus Card & Contactless Visa / Mastercard on MTR","category":"transit","status":"works","summary":"MTR turnstiles, buses, and Star Ferry now accept foreign contactless Visa/Mastercard directly alongside the Octopus for Tourists iPhone app.","guide_url":null}],"guides":[{"path":"/hong-kong/chatgpt","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/hong-kong/chatgpt","title":"Does ChatGPT Work in Hong Kong, or Do You Need a Non-HK eSIM / VPN?","country":"hong-kong","kind":"guide","topic":"ai","status":"workaround_required","verdict":"No, ChatGPT and Claude do not work on local Hong Kong Wi-Fi or local Hong Kong SIM cards because OpenAI and Anthropic do not include Hong Kong in their supported territories. However, because Hong Kong does not block VPNs, any standard VPN (NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN) or a Singapore-routed eSIM fixes this instantly.","as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/hong-kong/esim-real-name","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/hong-kong/esim-real-name","title":"Do eSIMs in Hong Kong Require Real-Name Passport Registration?","country":"hong-kong","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"conditional","verdict":"Local Hong Kong SIMs and Hong Kong-issued eSIMs require mandatory passport real-name registration (RNR) before data will activate. Many international roaming eSIMs (Airalo Hkmobile, Saily, Nomad) either handle KYC in-app before departure or roam via foreign carrier agreements.","as_of":"2026-11-11"}],"top_providers":[{"id":"saily","name":"Saily","domain":"saily.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.99 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Single eSIM profile reusable across 190+ destinations."},"summary":"Travel eSIM service built by Nord Security using a single installable eSIM profile for all trips, with optional virtual location routing and ad-blocking features.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/saily?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"nordvpn","name":"NordVPN","domain":"nordvpn.com","category":"vpn","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.09 / mo (2-year plan) or $12.99 / 1 month","notes":"30-day money-back guarantee; 10 simultaneous devices."},"summary":"High-speed WireGuard (NordLynx) VPN for Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong (for ChatGPT access) and Europe; unreliable inside mainland China without manual obfuscated setup.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nordvpn?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"surfshark","name":"Surfshark","domain":"surfshark.com","category":"vpn","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$2.19 / mo (2-year plan)","notes":"Unlimited simultaneous devices on one account; NoBorders mode."},"summary":"Unlimited-device VPN ideal for families and multi-device travelers accessing geo-fenced banking, streaming, and AI tools from Hong Kong, Japan, and Europe.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/surfshark?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"airalo","name":"Airalo","domain":"airalo.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"summary":"Fixed-data travel eSIM marketplace covering 200+ destinations; mainland China Chinacom and Asialink packs route via Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall without a separate VPN.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"wise","name":"Wise","domain":"wise.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"summary":"Multi-currency account and Visa/Mastercard debit card converting at the real mid-market exchange rate with no weekend FX markup; works reliably with Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Apple Pay IC cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"klook","name":"Klook","domain":"klook.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"summary":"Asia-focused booking platform for airport physical SIM pickup, Ninja WiFi / Japan Pocket Wi-Fi counters, Shinkansen tickets, and Hong Kong Airport Express passes.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"}]},{"slug":"japan","name":"Japan","region":"East Asia","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan","summary":"Japan has fast 5G/LTE networks and unrestricted internet, but 3D Secure 2.0 rules frequently reject foreign Visa cards on Japanese transit and Shinkansen booking sites.","quick_take":"Add a Suica or PASMO directly in Apple Wallet before arrival, and pick a low-latency eSIM (Ubigi or Nomad) instead of carrying a bulky Pocket Wi-Fi.","as_of":"2026-11-11","matrix":[{"service":"Travel eSIMs (Ubigi, Airalo, Saily, Nomad)","category":"connectivity","status":"works","summary":"Works nationwide on NTT Docomo, KDDI (au), and SoftBank; Ubigi and IIJ-backed plans have local Japanese exit nodes with sub-30ms latency.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan/esim"},{"service":"Pocket Wi-Fi vs. eSIM for Groups","category":"connectivity","status":"conditional","summary":"Pocket Wi-Fi requires airport counter pickup/return and daily charging, and throttles after 3–10 GB/day on many plans.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan/pocket-wifi-vs-esim"},{"service":"Apple Wallet Suica & PASMO with Foreign Cards","category":"payments","status":"conditional","summary":"Works smoothly with Mastercard, Amex, and Wise Visa debit cards; some US bank-issued Visa credit cards fail during 2:00–4:00 AM JST maintenance.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan/suica-pasmo-foreign-card"},{"service":"Google Maps & Transit Platform Routing","category":"maps","status":"works","summary":"Accurate down to the exact train car number, station exit letter, and fare calculation across JR, Tokyo Metro, and private railways.","guide_url":null}],"guides":[{"path":"/japan/esim","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan/esim","title":"Best eSIM for Japan: Coverage, Latency, and Fair-Use Throttling Compared","country":"japan","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"works","verdict":"Travel eSIMs work reliably across Japan on NTT Docomo, KDDI (au), and SoftBank. For the lowest latency and 5G access in congested Tokyo stations, pick Ubigi (an NTT subsidiary with local Japanese IP breakout) or Nomad.","as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/japan/pocket-wifi-vs-esim","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan/pocket-wifi-vs-esim","title":"Japan Pocket Wi-Fi vs. eSIM: Cost, Battery Drain, and Multi-Device Math","country":"japan","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"conditional","verdict":"For solo travelers and couples, individual eSIMs ($10–$20 total per person) are cheaper and far more convenient than Pocket Wi-Fi ($60–$95 for 14 days), and let two people split up in Tokyo without losing connection. Rent a Pocket Wi-Fi only if you have locked phones or 4+ devices traveling together at all times.","as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/japan/suica-pasmo-foreign-card","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan/suica-pasmo-foreign-card","title":"How to Load Apple Wallet Suica, PASMO & ICOCA with a Foreign Card","country":"japan","kind":"guide","topic":"payments","status":"conditional","verdict":"Adding a digital Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA directly inside iPhone Apple Wallet works in 30 seconds and eliminates buying paper subway tickets. If a US-issued Visa credit card fails 3D Secure, top up using a Mastercard, Amex, or Wise Visa debit card outside the 02:00–04:00 JST maintenance window.","as_of":"2026-11-11"}],"top_providers":[{"id":"ubigi","name":"Ubigi","domain":"cellulardata.ubigi.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB","notes":"Direct NTT Docomo / Transatel subsidiary; top-rated 5G latency in Japan."},"summary":"Transatel (NTT Group) eSIM service with direct NTT Docomo and KDDI 5G routing in Japan—lower latency than third-party roaming eSIMs that tunnel back to Europe.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/ubigi?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"nomad","name":"Nomad eSIM","domain":"getnomad.app","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"summary":"Strong Asia-Pacific eSIM provider partnering with dual local networks in Japan (IIJ/KDDI), China (China Unicom/Telecom via HK exit), and Southeast Asia, with unrestricted hotspot sharing on fixed-GB plans.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"airalo","name":"Airalo","domain":"airalo.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"summary":"Fixed-data travel eSIM marketplace covering 200+ destinations; mainland China Chinacom and Asialink packs route via Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall without a separate VPN.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"saily","name":"Saily","domain":"saily.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.99 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Single eSIM profile reusable across 190+ destinations."},"summary":"Travel eSIM service built by Nord Security using a single installable eSIM profile for all trips, with optional virtual location routing and ad-blocking features.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/saily?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"wise","name":"Wise","domain":"wise.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"summary":"Multi-currency account and Visa/Mastercard debit card converting at the real mid-market exchange rate with no weekend FX markup; works reliably with Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Apple Pay IC cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"klook","name":"Klook","domain":"klook.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"summary":"Asia-focused booking platform for airport physical SIM pickup, Ninja WiFi / Japan Pocket Wi-Fi counters, Shinkansen tickets, and Hong Kong Airport Express passes.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"}]},{"slug":"south-korea","name":"South Korea","region":"East Asia","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/south-korea","summary":"South Korea has ultra-fast 5G and widespread credit card acceptance, but national security laws restrict Google Maps from offering walking or driving turn-by-turn directions.","quick_take":"Google Maps cannot give walking or driving directions in South Korea—install Naver Map or KakaoMap in English mode before landing, and bring a physical chip card for T-money.","as_of":"2026-11-11","matrix":[{"service":"Google Maps Walking & Driving Navigation","category":"maps","status":"workaround_required","summary":"Only basic public transit routing works on Google Maps; walking and driving navigation are disabled by Korean map export laws—use Naver Map or KakaoMap.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/south-korea/maps-navigation"},{"service":"Travel eSIMs on SK Telecom / KT / LG U+","category":"connectivity","status":"works","summary":"Data eSIMs work immediately upon landing; if you need a Korean 010 phone number for restaurant waitlists (CatchTable), book an airport eSIM with voice/SMS.","guide_url":null},{"service":"Foreign Credit Cards & Apple Pay","category":"payments","status":"conditional","summary":"Physical Visa/Mastercard chip cards work at 99% of stores and restaurants; Apple Pay works only at NFC-upgraded chains, and subway T-money reloads still require cash in KRW.","guide_url":null}],"guides":[{"path":"/south-korea/maps-navigation","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/south-korea/maps-navigation","title":"Does Google Maps Work in South Korea? Naver Map vs. KakaoMap Setup","country":"south-korea","kind":"guide","topic":"maps","status":"workaround_required","verdict":"Google Maps is crippled in South Korea: walking and driving directions do not work at all due to South Korean geospatial data export laws, and only basic subway/bus transit routing functions. Install Naver Map (set to English) before landing.","as_of":"2026-11-11"}],"top_providers":[{"id":"nomad","name":"Nomad eSIM","domain":"getnomad.app","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"summary":"Strong Asia-Pacific eSIM provider partnering with dual local networks in Japan (IIJ/KDDI), China (China Unicom/Telecom via HK exit), and Southeast Asia, with unrestricted hotspot sharing on fixed-GB plans.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"airalo","name":"Airalo","domain":"airalo.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"summary":"Fixed-data travel eSIM marketplace covering 200+ destinations; mainland China Chinacom and Asialink packs route via Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall without a separate VPN.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"klook","name":"Klook","domain":"klook.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"summary":"Asia-focused booking platform for airport physical SIM pickup, Ninja WiFi / Japan Pocket Wi-Fi counters, Shinkansen tickets, and Hong Kong Airport Express passes.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"wise","name":"Wise","domain":"wise.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"summary":"Multi-currency account and Visa/Mastercard debit card converting at the real mid-market exchange rate with no weekend FX markup; works reliably with Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Apple Pay IC cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"saily","name":"Saily","domain":"saily.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.99 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Single eSIM profile reusable across 190+ destinations."},"summary":"Travel eSIM service built by Nord Security using a single installable eSIM profile for all trips, with optional virtual location routing and ad-blocking features.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/saily?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"}]},{"slug":"taiwan","name":"Taiwan","region":"East Asia","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/taiwan","summary":"Taiwan has open internet access (Google, WhatsApp, ChatGPT all work natively), Chunghwa Telecom 5G coverage, and EasyCard transit payments.","quick_take":"Taiwan enforces NCC real-name registration on domestic carrier eSIMs; use a foreign roaming eSIM or pre-book a Chunghwa Telecom airport pickup pass on Klook.","as_of":"2026-11-11","matrix":[{"service":"Travel eSIMs & NCC Real-Name Rules","category":"connectivity","status":"conditional","summary":"Some Taiwan eSIMs require online passport upload before activation due to NCC anti-fraud rules; check your provider's KYC prompt before flying.","guide_url":null},{"service":"ChatGPT, Claude, Google Maps & Line","category":"ai","status":"works","summary":"All Western apps and AI assistants work without restrictions on Taiwan IPs; Line is the primary local messaging app for restaurant and hotel bookings.","guide_url":null},{"service":"EasyCard & Contactless Visa on Taipei/Kaohsiung MRT","category":"transit","status":"works","summary":"Taoyuan Airport MRT and Kaohsiung MRT accept contactless Visa/Mastercard at gates; Taipei Metro buses and convenience stores use EasyCard.","guide_url":null}],"guides":[],"top_providers":[{"id":"nomad","name":"Nomad eSIM","domain":"getnomad.app","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"summary":"Strong Asia-Pacific eSIM provider partnering with dual local networks in Japan (IIJ/KDDI), China (China Unicom/Telecom via HK exit), and Southeast Asia, with unrestricted hotspot sharing on fixed-GB plans.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"airalo","name":"Airalo","domain":"airalo.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"summary":"Fixed-data travel eSIM marketplace covering 200+ destinations; mainland China Chinacom and Asialink packs route via Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall without a separate VPN.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"saily","name":"Saily","domain":"saily.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.99 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Single eSIM profile reusable across 190+ destinations."},"summary":"Travel eSIM service built by Nord Security using a single installable eSIM profile for all trips, with optional virtual location routing and ad-blocking features.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/saily?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"klook","name":"Klook","domain":"klook.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"summary":"Asia-focused booking platform for airport physical SIM pickup, Ninja WiFi / Japan Pocket Wi-Fi counters, Shinkansen tickets, and Hong Kong Airport Express passes.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"wise","name":"Wise","domain":"wise.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"summary":"Multi-currency account and Visa/Mastercard debit card converting at the real mid-market exchange rate with no weekend FX markup; works reliably with Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Apple Pay IC cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"}]},{"slug":"thailand","name":"Thailand","region":"Southeast Asia","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/thailand","summary":"Thailand offers fast 5G tourist connectivity on AIS and True/DTAC, Grab ride-hailing with foreign cards, and Visa/Mastercard tap-to-pay on Bangkok MRT.","quick_take":"Skip the 220 THB Thai ATM fee by linking a Wise or Revolut card inside Grab and using contactless Visa/Mastercard on Bangkok MRT; install an AIS/DTAC eSIM before arrival.","as_of":"2026-11-11","matrix":[{"service":"Thailand eSIM vs. Airport Tourist SIM","category":"connectivity","status":"works","summary":"Pre-installed eSIMs connect at the gate without waiting at Suvarnabhumi passport registration queues; AIS provides the strongest island coverage.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/thailand/esim-tourist-sim"},{"service":"Grab Ride-Hailing & Food Delivery with Foreign Cards","category":"payments","status":"works","summary":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, and Wise/Revolut debit cards; add your card before departure so 3D Secure SMS verification goes to your home SIM.","guide_url":null},{"service":"Thai PromptPay QR Codes for Tourists","category":"payments","status":"conditional","summary":"Standard Thai bank PromptPay QR codes do not work with Western bank apps; tourists need TAGTHAi Pay&Tour or cash for street stalls.","guide_url":null}],"guides":[{"path":"/thailand/esim-tourist-sim","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/thailand/esim-tourist-sim","title":"Thailand eSIM vs. Airport Tourist SIM: AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove Compared","country":"thailand","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"works","verdict":"Pre-installing a Thailand eSIM (Airalo DTAC, Nomad AIS, or SimOptions) lets you order a Grab immediately upon walking out of customs without waiting in 30-minute passport registration queues at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi.","as_of":"2026-11-11"}],"top_providers":[{"id":"airalo","name":"Airalo","domain":"airalo.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"summary":"Fixed-data travel eSIM marketplace covering 200+ destinations; mainland China Chinacom and Asialink packs route via Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall without a separate VPN.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"nomad","name":"Nomad eSIM","domain":"getnomad.app","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"summary":"Strong Asia-Pacific eSIM provider partnering with dual local networks in Japan (IIJ/KDDI), China (China Unicom/Telecom via HK exit), and Southeast Asia, with unrestricted hotspot sharing on fixed-GB plans.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"simoptions","name":"SimOptions","domain":"simoptions.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.90 / 1 GB","notes":"Resells official Orange Holiday Europe, AIS Thailand, and Three UK eSIMs."},"summary":"Marketplace for official carrier-issued prepaid eSIMs (including Orange Holiday Europe with a French phone number and Thailand AIS tourist eSIMs).","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/simoptions?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"wise","name":"Wise","domain":"wise.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"summary":"Multi-currency account and Visa/Mastercard debit card converting at the real mid-market exchange rate with no weekend FX markup; works reliably with Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Apple Pay IC cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"klook","name":"Klook","domain":"klook.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"summary":"Asia-focused booking platform for airport physical SIM pickup, Ninja WiFi / Japan Pocket Wi-Fi counters, Shinkansen tickets, and Hong Kong Airport Express passes.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"}]},{"slug":"vietnam","name":"Vietnam","region":"Southeast Asia","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/vietnam","summary":"Vietnam relies heavily on Viettel for rural 4G/5G coverage and Grab for urban transport, while third-party airport SIM kiosks frequently sell unverified SIMs that deactivate mid-trip.","quick_take":"Choose a travel eSIM that roams on Viettel (Airalo Xin Chao or Nomad) rather than Vietnamobile, and link your foreign card in the Grab app before leaving home.","as_of":"2026-11-11","matrix":[{"service":"Vietnam eSIMs, Grab & Foreign Card Payments","category":"connectivity","status":"conditional","summary":"eSIMs backed by Viettel or Vinaphone work nationwide; cheap airport SIMs on Vietnamobile lose signal outside Hanoi/HCMC or get deactivated after 3 days due to stricter subscriber ID checks.","guide_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/vietnam/esim-grab-payments"},{"service":"Grab & Be Ride-Hailing","category":"payments","status":"works","summary":"Grab accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, and Wise cards seamlessly; avoids taxi meter scams at Noi Bai (HAN) and Tan Son Nhat (SGN) airports.","guide_url":null},{"service":"Zero-Fee ATM Withdrawals (VPBank & TPBank)","category":"payments","status":"works","summary":"VPBank and TPBank ATMs charge 0 VND local ATM operator fees for foreign Wise and Revolut debit cards.","guide_url":null}],"guides":[{"path":"/vietnam/esim-grab-payments","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/vietnam/esim-grab-payments","title":"Vietnam eSIM, Grab & Card Payments: Why Airport SIMs Get Blocked Mid-Trip","country":"vietnam","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"conditional","verdict":"Avoid unofficial SIM kiosks at Hanoi (HAN) and Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) airports—Vietnam's Ministry of Information and Communications routinely deactivates improperly registered tourist SIMs after 3–5 days. Use a Viettel-backed travel eSIM (Airalo or Nomad) and set up Grab with a Wise card before arrival.","as_of":"2026-11-11"}],"top_providers":[{"id":"airalo","name":"Airalo","domain":"airalo.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"summary":"Fixed-data travel eSIM marketplace covering 200+ destinations; mainland China Chinacom and Asialink packs route via Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall without a separate VPN.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"nomad","name":"Nomad eSIM","domain":"getnomad.app","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"summary":"Strong Asia-Pacific eSIM provider partnering with dual local networks in Japan (IIJ/KDDI), China (China Unicom/Telecom via HK exit), and Southeast Asia, with unrestricted hotspot sharing on fixed-GB plans.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"saily","name":"Saily","domain":"saily.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.99 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Single eSIM profile reusable across 190+ destinations."},"summary":"Travel eSIM service built by Nord Security using a single installable eSIM profile for all trips, with optional virtual location routing and ad-blocking features.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/saily?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"wise","name":"Wise","domain":"wise.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"summary":"Multi-currency account and Visa/Mastercard debit card converting at the real mid-market exchange rate with no weekend FX markup; works reliably with Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Apple Pay IC cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"revolut","name":"Revolut","domain":"revolut.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free Standard plan; 1% weekend FX fee unless pre-exchanged","notes":"Disposable single-use virtual cards and instant freeze controls in app."},"summary":"Travel banking app with multi-currency pockets, disposable virtual cards, and weekday interbank FX rates; exchange currencies before Friday 5pm ET to avoid the 1% weekend markup.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/revolut?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"klook","name":"Klook","domain":"klook.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"summary":"Asia-focused booking platform for airport physical SIM pickup, Ninja WiFi / Japan Pocket Wi-Fi counters, Shinkansen tickets, and Hong Kong Airport Express passes.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"}]}],"guides":[{"path":"/china/alipay","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/alipay","title":"Can Foreigners Use Alipay in China with a Visa or Mastercard?","description":"Complete 2026 guide to linking a foreign Visa, Mastercard, Wise, or Revolut card to Alipay for mainland China: the 200 CNY fee threshold, passport verification limits, and transit QR setup.","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"payments","status":"conditional","verdict":"Yes. Foreigners can link international Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club, and Discover cards directly to the standard Alipay app. Transactions up to 200 CNY (~$28) are fee-free; payments above 200 CNY incur a 3% international card processing fee.","official_claim":"Alipay's International Visitor page states you can sign up with a foreign phone number, link an international bank card, and pay across mainland China.","verified_reality":"Alipay works at 95%+ of mainland Chinese shops, restaurants, vending machines, and DiDi rides. However, three practical rules trip up travelers: (1) any single checkout above 200 CNY adds a 3% Alipay fee on top of your bank's FX rate; (2) unverified accounts cap out at ~$500–$2,000 lifetime spend before freezing until you upload a passport photo; and (3) foreign cards cannot be used for peer-to-peer transfers to personal QR codes.","before_you_fly":["Download the official Alipay app and register using your home mobile number (+1, +44, +61, etc.) while you can easily receive SMS codes.","Go to Account → Bank Cards and add at least two cards (e.g., a Wise Visa/Mastercard debit card and a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card).","Complete real-name passport verification in Account → Settings → Account and Security → Identity Information before departure so your single-transaction limit is raised to $5,000 and annual limit to $50,000.","Open the 'Transport' icon inside Alipay, select your arrival city (Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, etc.), and activate the Metro/Bus QR pass ahead of time."],"limits_and_gotchas":["3% fee above 200 CNY: Transactions of 200.00 CNY or less have 0% Alipay fee. A 201 CNY bill triggers a 3% fee on the full amount. At restaurants or supermarkets, you can ask the cashier to split bills above 200 CNY into two scans.","Personal vs. Merchant QR codes: Most street stalls use Merchant codes (which accept foreign cards), but if a rural taxi driver or market vendor uses a personal balance transfer QR code, Alipay will reject a foreign card.","3D Secure bank blocks: Your home bank may flag your first Chinese QR scan as fraud and ask for SMS or app approval. Using a Wise or Revolut app-verified card avoids SMS roaming failures."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"wise","provider_name":"Wise","role":"Best card to link to Alipay (Mid-market CNY rate)","why":"Wise Visa and Mastercard debit cards link cleanly to Alipay, convert CNY at the mid-market rate (~0.4% fee vs. 2.5%–3% on traditional bank cards), and approve 3D Secure prompts in the Wise app over data.","caveat":"Alipay's own 3% surcharge on single payments over 200 CNY still applies regardless of which foreign card you use.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"revolut","provider_name":"Revolut","role":"Best backup card with instant virtual card controls","why":"Lets you create a dedicated virtual card just for Alipay and WeChat Pay with a custom monthly spending cap.","caveat":"Convert currency on weekdays to avoid Revolut's 1% weekend FX markup.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free Standard plan; 1% weekend FX fee unless pre-exchanged","notes":"Disposable single-use virtual cards and instant freeze controls in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/revolut?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"trip","provider_name":"Trip.com","role":"Best way to avoid the 3% Alipay fee on hotels & trains","why":"Hotel bills and high-speed rail tickets easily exceed 200 CNY; booking them directly on Trip.com in USD/EUR/GBP with a foreign card avoids Alipay's 3% over-200-CNY surcharge.","caveat":"High-speed rail tickets open 14 days before departure.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"China High-Speed Rail & hotels with foreign card checkout","notes":"English interface synced directly with China Railway 12306."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/trip?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Do I still need Alipay TourCard / TourPass in 2026?","a":"No. You no longer need the separate TourCard mini-program (which charged a flat 5% top-up fee). Link your foreign Visa or Mastercard directly in the main Alipay Wallet tab."},{"q":"Can I use Alipay inside China to hail a taxi without speaking Chinese?","a":"Yes. Tap the 'DiDi Travel' mini-program inside Alipay; it displays an English interface, auto-translates driver chat messages, and charges your linked foreign card automatically at the end of the ride."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/chatgpt","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/chatgpt","title":"Does ChatGPT Work in China, and How to Access It Safely?","description":"Why both mainland China and Hong Kong IPs are blocked by OpenAI and Anthropic, and why you must pick a Singapore-routed eSIM (not a 3HK eSIM) to use ChatGPT in China.","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"ai","status":"workaround_required","verdict":"ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini are double-blocked in China: blocked by the Great Firewall AND geo-blocked by OpenAI/Anthropic on both mainland Chinese and Hong Kong IPs. To use ChatGPT in China without a VPN, you must use an eSIM whose exit node is in Singapore (such as Airalo Chinacom), not Hong Kong.","official_claim":"Travel eSIM providers say their China eSIMs 'unblock all Western apps and websites.'","verified_reality":"Many China travel eSIMs route traffic through Hong Kong (3HK or CMLink). While a Hong Kong IP unblocks Google, YouTube, and WhatsApp, OpenAI and Anthropic block Hong Kong IP addresses too! If your China eSIM exits in Hong Kong, opening ChatGPT will return an 'Unsupported Country or Territory' error unless you layer a VPN set to Singapore, Japan, or the US on top of your eSIM.","before_you_fly":["Choose a China or Asia regional eSIM that routes through Singapore (Singtel/StarHub) rather than Hong Kong (3HK).","Install Proton VPN or ExpressVPN before departure so that if your eSIM or hotel connection exits via Hong Kong, you can hop to a Tokyo or Singapore VPN server.","Keep the ChatGPT and Claude iOS/Android apps logged in before boarding; re-authenticating via Cloudflare Turnstile on a flagged IP is much harder than using an existing session."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Using a residential proxy or shared low-reputation VPN IP with Claude or OpenAI can trigger automated account suspension; stick to reputable Singapore eSIM roaming IPs or clean VPN servers.","Apple Intelligence features that rely on OpenAI integration are also unavailable on Hong Kong and mainland China IP addresses."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Best Singapore-routed China eSIM for ChatGPT","why":"Airalo's Chinacom and Asialink plans route via Singtel (Singapore), which is on OpenAI and Anthropic's supported countries list.","caveat":"Verify your IP location at ipinfo.io after landing; if a secondary carrier profile routes via HK, toggle to the Singapore APN/carrier.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"protonvpn","provider_name":"Proton VPN","role":"Best VPN to hop from a Hong Kong exit to Japan/Singapore","why":"If you use a 3HK or Holafly eSIM that exits in Hong Kong, running Proton VPN on top of your cellular data works at full speed because the Hong Kong exit has no Great Firewall blocking the VPN handshake.","caveat":"Connect to Japan or Singapore servers for the lowest latency.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free tier (5 countries); Plus from $4.49 / mo","notes":"Includes Stealth protocol (TLS obfuscation) even on mobile apps."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/protonvpn?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Why does my China eSIM open Google and Instagram, but ChatGPT says 'Unsupported Country'?","a":"Because your eSIM is routing through Hong Kong. Hong Kong has no Great Firewall (so Google works), but OpenAI blocks Hong Kong IP addresses. Turn on any standard VPN set to Singapore or Japan over your eSIM data, and ChatGPT will work immediately."},{"q":"Do normal VPNs work if I run them on top of a Hong Kong-routed China eSIM?","a":"Yes! Because the eSIM already tunnels your traffic past the mainland Great Firewall to Hong Kong, a standard VPN (like NordVPN, Surfshark, or Proton VPN) can connect from Hong Kong to Tokyo or Singapore without interference."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/esim","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/esim","title":"Does an eSIM Work in China, and Does It Bypass the Great Firewall?","description":"Foreign travel eSIMs (Airalo, Nomad, Holafly, Saily) route mainland China mobile traffic through Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall for Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram without a separate VPN.","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"works","verdict":"Yes. International roaming eSIMs connect to China Unicom, China Mobile, or China Telecom towers but tunnel traffic through Singapore or Hong Kong, so Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, and Instagram work immediately—provided you install the eSIM before departure.","official_claim":"Travel eSIM providers state that their China plans provide instant 4G/5G data across mainland China on local partner networks.","verified_reality":"Because international eSIMs use home-routed roaming (typically via Singtel in Singapore or 3HK/CMLink in Hong Kong), your traffic exits outside mainland China. This bypasses the Great Firewall automatically on cellular data. However, eSIM provider apps and QR activation servers are blocked on Chinese airport Wi-Fi, and Hong Kong-routed eSIMs still cannot open ChatGPT without a separate non-HK VPN.","before_you_fly":["Confirm your phone is carrier-unlocked and was not purchased in mainland China (mainland Chinese iPhones lack eSIM hardware entirely).","Purchase and install the eSIM profile on home Wi-Fi 24–48 hours before departure; leave Data Roaming OFF until touchdown so you do not trigger validity early if it is a multi-country pack.","Check the exit IP region: if you need ChatGPT or Claude in China without a VPN, pick a Singapore-routed plan (such as Airalo Chinacom or Nomad China) rather than a Hong Kong-routed plan.","Download offline maps and screenshot your eSIM manual APN settings in case automatic APN provisioning stalls at arrival."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Data-only eSIMs do not give you a mainland Chinese +86 phone number; you cannot use them to register for domestic Chinese Wi-Fi portals or Meituan SMS logins that reject foreign numbers.","When your phone switches to hotel or cafe Wi-Fi in China, you are back behind the Great Firewall and your eSIM roaming tunnel no longer protects that traffic.","Some Chinese mini-programs or domestic railway pages load more slowly on a Singapore-routed eSIM because traffic makes a round trip outside mainland China."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Best fixed-GB China eSIM (Singapore exit)","why":"Airalo's Chinacom and Asialink packages route through Singapore, meaning both Google/WhatsApp and ChatGPT work over cellular data without needing a VPN.","caveat":"The Airalo app cannot be opened on Chinese domestic Wi-Fi to top up unless you are still on cellular data.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"nomad","provider_name":"Nomad eSIM","role":"Best dual-network coverage in China","why":"Supports China Unicom and China Telecom 5G with full mobile hotspot sharing allowed on all fixed-GB plans.","caveat":"Some regional plans exit via Hong Kong, which allows Google and WhatsApp but blocks OpenAI.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"holafly","provider_name":"Holafly","role":"Best for heavy single-device usage","why":"Day-based unlimited data plans with built-in firewall bypass so you do not have to ration map and social video usage.","caveat":"Hotspot sharing is capped at 500 MB per day, and carrier fair-use policies can throttle speeds after heavy sustained downloads.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$6.90 / 1 day unlimited","notes":"Unlimited data by day count (1 to 90 days); hotspot tethering capped at 500 MB–1 GB/day on most plans."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/holafly?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":{"headers":["Provider","Exit Node","Google / WhatsApp","ChatGPT Native","Hotspot Tethering"],"rows":[["Airalo (Chinacom)","Singapore","Works","Works","Unlimited up to plan GB"],["Nomad China","Singapore / HK","Works","Depends on sub-plan exit","Unlimited up to plan GB"],["Holafly China","Hong Kong / SG","Works","Requires VPN if HK exit","Capped at 500 MB/day"],["Local China SIM (+86)","Mainland China","Blocked","Blocked","Allowed"]]},"faqs":[{"q":"Can I buy and activate an eSIM after landing at Beijing or Shanghai airport?","a":"Do not count on it. Airport Wi-Fi in Beijing (PEK/PKX) and Shanghai (PVG) blocks most eSIM provider websites and payment gateways, and requires SMS verification or passport kiosk scanning to get online."},{"q":"Do US iPhones (iPhone 14, 15, 16, 17) work with China eSIMs?","a":"Yes. US iPhones are eSIM-only and work with Airalo, Nomad, Holafly, and Saily in mainland China. Only iPhones sold inside mainland China lack eSIM support."},{"q":"Do travel eSIMs require Chinese real-name passport registration?","a":"Foreign data-only roaming eSIMs for mainland China (like Airalo and Nomad) generally do not require mainland Chinese real-name registration, whereas plans covering Hong Kong or Taiwan may prompt for online passport verification."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/google-maps","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/google-maps","title":"Do Google Maps, Gmail, and WhatsApp Work in China?","description":"Why Google Maps is both blocked AND geographically shifted by 500 meters in mainland China (the GCJ-02 coordinate offset), and why you should use Apple Maps or Amap instead.","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"maps","status":"blocked","verdict":"Even with a roaming eSIM or VPN that unblocks Google servers, do NOT use Google Maps for navigation in mainland China: its map data is years out of date and shifted by 100–600 meters due to China's GCJ-02 coordinate system. Use Apple Maps (on iPhone) or Amap (Gaode Maps, now with English UI).","official_claim":"Travel blogs often claim that once you turn on an eSIM or VPN, all Google apps work normally in China.","verified_reality":"Gmail, Google Search, Google Docs, and WhatsApp work normally over a foreign roaming eSIM or obfuscated VPN. Google Maps, however, suffers from two fatal issues in mainland China: (1) satellite vs. street map coordinates are offset by several blocks (GCJ-02 vs. WGS-84 datum), placing your blue GPS dot in rivers or wrong streets; and (2) metro lines, cafes, and businesses opened in the last 5+ years are missing.","before_you_fly":["If you use an iPhone, keep Apple Maps installed: once your iPhone detects it is physically inside mainland China, Apple Maps automatically switches to AutoNavi (Gaode) data with English labels, accurate subway exits, and zero GPS offset.","If you use Android (or want the most detailed local listings), install Amap (Gaode Maps / 高德地图), which added an official English language interface for foreign travelers in 2025–2026.","Install an eSIM (Airalo or Nomad) so Gmail, Google Calendar, and WhatsApp notifications arrive in real time."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Apple Maps only loads the detailed AutoNavi China map layer when you are physically located inside mainland China; if you look at Shanghai on Apple Maps while still in New York or London, it looks sparse—do not panic, it switches automatically upon landing.","WhatsApp voice and video calls over hotel Wi-Fi are frequently dropped unless you are on your roaming eSIM cellular data."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Best eSIM to keep Gmail & WhatsApp connected","why":"Routes cellular data via Singapore so WhatsApp messages, voice calls, and Gmail attachments work without interruption.","caveat":"Turn off Wi-Fi if WhatsApp media fails to download in your hotel room.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"trip","provider_name":"Trip.com","role":"Best English station & hotel address lookup","why":"Provides exact bilingual Chinese + English hotel addresses and railway station gate numbers you can show to taxi drivers or paste into Apple Maps.","caveat":"Always verify whether your train departs from Beijing South, Beijing West, or Beijing Chaoyang station.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"China High-Speed Rail & hotels with foreign card checkout","notes":"English interface synced directly with China Railway 12306."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/trip?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Why does my GPS dot on Google Maps look 500 meters away from the actual street in China?","a":"Mainland China mandates the GCJ-02 obfuscated coordinate system for domestic street maps while your phone's GPS chip reports raw WGS-84 coordinates. Apple Maps and Amap apply the alignment correction; Google Maps in mainland China often misaligns satellite and street layers."},{"q":"Does WhatsApp work in China without a VPN?","a":"On Chinese Wi-Fi or a local Chinese SIM, WhatsApp is blocked. On a foreign roaming eSIM (such as Airalo, Nomad, or Holafly), WhatsApp works without a separate VPN."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/vpn","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/vpn","title":"Which VPNs Actually Work in China in 2026?","description":"Why standard WireGuard and OpenVPN connections fail on mainland China Wi-Fi, how TLS/Stealth obfuscation performs, and why pairing a VPN with a roaming eSIM is the safest setup.","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"vpn","status":"workaround_required","verdict":"Do not rely on a single consumer VPN in mainland China. Standard WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols are blocked within minutes; use a roaming eSIM as your primary bypass and keep an obfuscated VPN (Proton VPN Stealth or ExpressVPN Lightway) installed before departure for hotel Wi-Fi.","official_claim":"Major VPN vendors advertise 'unrestricted access anywhere in the world' with automatic obfuscation servers.","verified_reality":"The Great Firewall uses active probing and deep packet inspection (DPI) that blocks standard WireGuard (NordLynx), IKEv2, and un-obfuscated OpenVPN handshakes. During political meetings or holidays, even obfuscated consumer VPN endpoints experience packet loss or IP rotation delays. Furthermore, all VPN websites and non-Chinese App Store VPN downloads are blocked inside China.","before_you_fly":["Download and log into at least two VPN apps on every laptop, tablet, and phone before leaving home—you cannot download VPN clients or receive login links once on Chinese Wi-Fi.","Enable obfuscated / stealth protocols in each app's settings before departure (e.g., Proton VPN 'Stealth' protocol or ExpressVPN 'Automatic / Lightway TCP').","Install a backup travel eSIM (Airalo or Nomad) on your phone so you can tether your laptop via cellular hotspot whenever hotel Wi-Fi blocks your VPN.","Save your VPN manual configuration credentials and support email offline."],"limits_and_gotchas":["NordVPN's default NordLynx protocol almost always fails to handshake on mainland China broadband; even Obfuscated Servers require specific manual server selection and frequently drop.","Turning on a VPN while using domestic Chinese apps (Alipay transit codes, DiDi, 12306 Railway, or Meituan) can trigger anti-fraud blocks or break geolocation—use split tunneling or pause the VPN for local Chinese transactions.","Apple App Store accounts set to the China region do not list any VPN apps."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"protonvpn","provider_name":"Proton VPN","role":"Best Stealth TLS protocol on mobile & laptop","why":"Proton VPN's Stealth protocol wraps VPN traffic inside standard TLS 1.3 over port 443, making it much harder for hotel Wi-Fi DPI filters to distinguish from regular HTTPS traffic.","caveat":"Server speeds vary by time of day; test Tokyo, Singapore, and US West Coast nodes.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free tier (5 countries); Plus from $4.49 / mo","notes":"Includes Stealth protocol (TLS obfuscation) even on mobile apps."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/protonvpn?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"expressvpn","provider_name":"ExpressVPN","role":"Best automatic obfuscation with 30-day refund","why":"Applies obfuscation automatically without complex manual config files, and updates mirrored connection endpoints frequently.","caveat":"Can still experience multi-hour outages during major Beijing political events; always pair with an eSIM.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$6.67 / mo (annual) or $12.95 / 1 month","notes":"Automatic obfuscation on Lightway protocol; 30-day refund window."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/expressvpn?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Most reliable non-VPN backup (Cellular Roaming Tunnel)","why":"When hotel Wi-Fi blocks every VPN protocol on your laptop, tethering to an Airalo China eSIM gives you an unblocked Singapore exit immediately.","caveat":"Charged per gigabyte ($4.50–$20+), so disable automatic cloud photo backups while tethering.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Does NordVPN work in mainland China?","a":"Rarely out of the box. Standard NordLynx connections are blocked in mainland China. While NordVPN works great in Hong Kong, Japan, and Europe, travelers to mainland China should not rely on NordVPN as their sole connection."},{"q":"Is it legal for foreign tourists to use a roaming eSIM or VPN in China?","a":"Foreign travelers and business visitors routinely use international roaming eSIMs and corporate/personal VPNs to access email and work tools. Avoid distributing VPN software locally or using local Chinese Wi-Fi without encryption."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/china/wechat-pay","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/china/wechat-pay","title":"Does WeChat Pay Work with Foreign Credit Cards in China?","description":"How to activate WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay) with a foreign passport and international Visa/Mastercard, why restaurants use WeChat Mini Programs for ordering, and how it compares to Alipay.","country":"china","kind":"guide","topic":"payments","status":"conditional","verdict":"Yes, once you complete passport verification inside WeChat. While Alipay is more forgiving for metro turnstiles and English mini-programs, you still need WeChat Pay because many Chinese cafes and restaurants use WeChat Mini Program table QR codes for ordering.","official_claim":"Tencent states international users can bind Visa, Mastercard, Amex, JCB, Diners Club, or Discover cards to WeChat Pay for merchant payments across mainland China.","verified_reality":"WeChat Pay works well for merchant payments and table-side QR ordering, and shares the same 200 CNY fee-free threshold (3% fee above 200 CNY) as Alipay. However, new WeChat accounts registered outside China are frequently hit with security verification blocks if you wait until landing in China to enable WeChat Pay.","before_you_fly":["Install WeChat and register your account at least 1–2 weeks before departure so the account ages past new-account anti-spam triggers.","In WeChat, go to Me → Pay and Services → Wallet → Bank Cards, upload your passport photo, and bind your Wise, Revolut, or Visa/Mastercard.","Enable WeChat's built-in translation: go to Me → Settings → General → Language / Translate so Chinese restaurant ordering Mini Programs can be translated on the fly."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Same 200 CNY fee rule as Alipay: 0% WeChat fee up to 200 CNY; 3% fee on single transactions above 200 CNY.","Single transaction cap is typically 6,000 CNY, monthly cumulative limit 50,000 CNY, and annual limit 60,000 CNY for passport-verified foreign cardholders.","Foreign cards cannot send WeChat Red Packets (Hongbao) or peer-to-peer transfers to individuals."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"wise","provider_name":"Wise","role":"Primary multi-currency card for WeChat Pay","why":"Links cleanly with 3D Secure app push approval and transparent mid-market CNY conversion.","caveat":"Keep at least 50 CNY equivalent in your Wise balance before linking so the verification authorization succeeds.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"revolut","provider_name":"Revolut","role":"Backup card for dual-wallet redundancy","why":"Having Wise on Alipay and Revolut on WeChat Pay ensures a single bank fraud lock never leaves you unable to pay for a meal or taxi.","caveat":"Pre-convert on weekdays to avoid the 1% weekend FX fee.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free Standard plan; 1% weekend FX fee unless pre-exchanged","notes":"Disposable single-use virtual cards and instant freeze controls in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/revolut?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Should I set up both Alipay and WeChat Pay for China?","a":"Yes. Use Alipay as your primary wallet for metro transit cards and DiDi English ride-hailing, and keep WeChat Pay ready for restaurants whose table QR codes only open a WeChat ordering Mini Program."},{"q":"What if WeChat asks for a friend verification when I sign up?","a":"Registering while on your home country IP and binding a foreign Visa/Mastercard in the Wallet menu often allows you to bypass the friend-scan requirement via card identity verification."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/compare/airalo-vs-holafly-vs-saily","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/compare/airalo-vs-holafly-vs-saily","title":"Airalo vs. Holafly vs. Saily (2026): Data Caps, Fair-Use Throttling & Hotspot Rules","description":"Side-by-side comparison of Airalo, Holafly, and Saily across China firewall bypass, fair-use speed throttling on 'unlimited' plans, laptop hotspot caps, and reusable eSIM profiles.","country":null,"kind":"compare","topic":"esim","status":"works","verdict":"Pick Airalo or Nomad when you want unthrottled fixed-GB data and unrestricted laptop hotspot tethering; pick Saily when you want a single reusable eSIM profile across 190+ countries; pick Holafly when you want day-based unlimited data on a single phone without counting gigabytes.","official_claim":"All three providers market seamless global eSIM connectivity in 190–200+ destinations with instant QR or in-app installation.","verified_reality":"The core trade-off is Fixed-GB vs. 'Unlimited' Fair Use: (1) Holafly sells day-based Unlimited plans, but local partner carriers apply Fair Usage Policies (FUP) that can throttle speeds after 3–5 GB of heavy single-day usage, and hotspot sharing is capped at 500 MB–1 GB/day; (2) Airalo sells fixed-GB packs (1 GB to 20 GB) with zero daily speed throttling and 100% hotspot allowance; (3) Saily (by Nord Security) uses a single install-once eSIM profile so you never have to delete and reinstall eSIMs between trips.","before_you_fly":["Estimate whether you will tether a laptop: if you work remotely from trains or cafes, choose a fixed-GB plan (Airalo, Saily, or Nomad) rather than a day-pass unlimited plan with a 500 MB hotspot cap.","If traveling to mainland China and you need ChatGPT without a separate VPN, verify that your plan routes through Singapore (Airalo Chinacom / Asialink).","Label your eSIM line clearly in iOS/Android settings (e.g., 'Travel Data') and turn off 'Allow Cellular Data Switching' so your home SIM never racks up $10/day carrier roaming charges."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Airalo creates a new eSIM profile for each country or regional pack you buy (unless you top up the exact same pack), whereas Saily and Jetpac reuse one profile globally.","Holafly's day count runs on 24-hour blocks from activation; activating right before a 14-hour flight wastes your first day."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Best for transparent fixed-GB pricing & China/Asia routing","why":"Full hotspot tethering up to your plan's total GB, Singapore exit routing for China/Asia, and 200+ country/regional packs starting at $4.50.","caveat":"Requires installing a new eSIM profile when switching between unrelated single-country plans.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"saily","provider_name":"Saily","role":"Best single-profile eSIM for multi-country travelers","why":"Install the Saily eSIM once and add new country data plans in the app without scanning another QR code, plus built-in ad/tracker blocking.","caveat":"Data-only; does not include local voice/SMS numbers.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.99 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Single eSIM profile reusable across 190+ destinations."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/saily?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"holafly","provider_name":"Holafly","role":"Best for single-phone travelers who hate watching data meters","why":"Custom day-length plans (1 to 90 days) with no hard data cutoff for maps, social media, and messaging.","caveat":"Hotspot sharing is limited to 500 MB–1 GB per day.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$6.90 / 1 day unlimited","notes":"Unlimited data by day count (1 to 90 days); hotspot tethering capped at 500 MB–1 GB/day on most plans."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/holafly?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"nomad","provider_name":"Nomad eSIM","role":"Best runner-up for Asia-Pacific dual-carrier 5G","why":"Strong multi-carrier partnerships in Japan, South Korea, China, and Southeast Asia with competitive 10–20 GB bundles.","caveat":"App catalog separates Day Plans from Regular Fixed-GB Plans—pick Regular Plans for unrestricted hotspot.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":{"headers":["Feature","Airalo","Saily","Holafly","Nomad"],"rows":[["Pricing Model","Fixed GB ($4.50+)","Fixed GB ($3.99+)","Unlimited by Day ($6.90+)","Fixed GB & Day Plans ($4.00+)"],["Single Reusable eSIM?","Per country/region pack","Yes (1 global profile)","Per destination pack","Per destination pack"],["Hotspot Tethering","100% of plan GB","100% of plan GB","Capped 500 MB–1 GB/day","100% on Fixed-GB plans"],["Daily FUP Speed Throttle?","No (full speed until GB used)","No (full speed until GB used)","Possible after heavy daily use","Only on Day Plans"],["Mainland China Firewall Bypass","Yes (Singapore exit)","Yes (Roaming exit)","Yes (HK/SG exit)","Yes (SG/HK exit)"]]},"faqs":[{"q":"Can I keep two travel eSIMs installed on my iPhone at the same time?","a":"Yes. Modern iPhones can store 8+ eSIM profiles and keep two lines active simultaneously (for example, your home SIM for SMS/iMessage and your travel eSIM for cellular data)."},{"q":"Which eSIM is better if I need to tether my MacBook for Zoom calls?","a":"Airalo, Saily, Nomad, or Ubigi on a fixed-GB plan (10 GB or 20 GB). Avoid day-pass unlimited plans like Holafly for laptop work because their 500 MB/day hotspot cap runs out in a single 30-minute video call."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/compare/wise-vs-revolut-abroad","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/compare/wise-vs-revolut-abroad","title":"Wise vs. Revolut for International Travel (2026): Weekend FX Fees, Alipay & ATM Limits","description":"Real-world comparison of Wise and Revolut debit cards for travelers: Revolut's 1% weekend FX fee vs. Wise's 24/7 mid-market rate, Alipay/WeChat Pay linking, and ATM withdrawal allowances.","country":null,"kind":"compare","topic":"payments","status":"works","verdict":"Carry both if possible—use Wise as your primary card so you never get hit by Revolut's 1% weekend exchange rate surcharge on Friday–Sunday restaurant bills, and keep Revolut in your wallet for a second monthly free ATM withdrawal allowance and disposable virtual cards.","official_claim":"Both Wise and Revolut advertise 'spend abroad like a local at real exchange rates.'","verified_reality":"While both beat traditional bank cards (which charge 2.5%–3.5% foreign transaction fees), their fee structures differ sharply on weekends: Revolut adds a 1% markup on all currency conversions between Friday 17:00 New York time and Sunday 18:00 New York time—the exact window when tourists spend the most! Wise charges the same ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market conversion fee 24/7, including weekends. Both cards link smoothly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica.","before_you_fly":["Order physical cards from both Wise and Revolut at least 2 weeks before your trip (physical chip-and-PIN cards are still required for ATMs and South Korean / European unmanned kiosks; digital virtual cards work immediately in Apple Pay and Google Pay).","If using Revolut on a weekend trip to Japan, Europe, or Thailand, manually exchange your USD/GBP/EUR into JPY/EUR/THB inside the Revolut app on Thursday or Friday morning to dodge the 1% weekend surcharge.","Link Wise as your primary card and Revolut as your backup card inside Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Grab before leaving home."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Free ATM limits are modest on both cards (typically $100–$1,200/month depending on your home country and plan tier before a ~1.75%–2% fee kicks in); carrying both cards doubles your fee-free ATM cash allowance.","Always choose the local currency (JPY, EUR, THB, CNY, KRW) on POS terminals and ATMs; if you tap 'Pay in USD/GBP,' the merchant's Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) overrides Wise/Revolut and charges a 4%–8% markup."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"wise","provider_name":"Wise","role":"Best primary travel card (No weekend FX markup)","why":"Uses the true Reuters mid-market rate 7 days a week with a transparent ~0.4% conversion fee, whether you pre-convert or let Wise auto-convert at checkout.","caveat":"Free ATM withdrawal cap is relatively low ($100–£200/mo depending on issuing country) before a small percentage fee applies.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"revolut","provider_name":"Revolut","role":"Best secondary travel card & disposable virtual cards","why":"Zero-fee weekday FX up to your plan's monthly allowance, single-use disposable virtual cards for unfamiliar booking sites, and an extra ATM withdrawal allowance.","caveat":"1% weekend FX fee applies from Friday 5pm ET to Sunday 6pm ET unless you pre-converted the currency on a weekday.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free Standard plan; 1% weekend FX fee unless pre-exchanged","notes":"Disposable single-use virtual cards and instant freeze controls in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/revolut?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":{"headers":["Feature","Wise Card","Revolut (Standard)","Traditional Bank Card"],"rows":[["Weekday FX Fee","~0.35% – 0.65% (mid-market)","0% up to monthly cap","2.5% – 3.5% foreign tx fee"],["Saturday / Sunday FX Fee","Same (~0.35% – 0.65%)","1.0% weekend markup","2.5% – 3.5% foreign tx fee"],["Works with Alipay & WeChat Pay?","Yes (Visa & Mastercard)","Yes (Visa & Mastercard)","Sometimes blocked by 3DS"],["Works with Apple Wallet Suica?","Yes","Yes","Some US Visas fail"],["Monthly Account Fee","$0","$0 (Standard tier)","Varies"]]},"faqs":[{"q":"Do I need to pre-convert currency in Wise before tapping my card abroad?","a":"No. If you only hold USD, EUR, or GBP in your Wise account, Wise's Smart Conversion automatically converts from the balance with the lowest conversion fee at the moment you tap."},{"q":"How do I avoid Revolut's 1% weekend fee?","a":"Open the Revolut app on a weekday (Monday through Friday before 17:00 ET) and convert your expected weekend spending into the destination currency pocket (e.g., JPY or EUR) ahead of time."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/hong-kong/chatgpt","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/hong-kong/chatgpt","title":"Does ChatGPT Work in Hong Kong, or Do You Need a Non-HK eSIM / VPN?","description":"OpenAI, Anthropic (Claude), and Google Gemini block Hong Kong IP addresses. Here is how travelers and remote workers access ChatGPT in Hong Kong using a VPN or Singapore-routed eSIM.","country":"hong-kong","kind":"guide","topic":"ai","status":"workaround_required","verdict":"No, ChatGPT and Claude do not work on local Hong Kong Wi-Fi or local Hong Kong SIM cards because OpenAI and Anthropic do not include Hong Kong in their supported territories. However, because Hong Kong does not block VPNs, any standard VPN (NordVPN, Surfshark, Proton VPN) or a Singapore-routed eSIM fixes this instantly.","official_claim":"Hong Kong has unrestricted internet without mainland China's Great Firewall.","verified_reality":"While the Hong Kong government does not block OpenAI, OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google restrict access from Hong Kong IP addresses at the provider level. Every hotel Wi-Fi, Cathay Pacific lounge, and local CSL/3HK/SmarTone SIM in Hong Kong is assigned a `.hk` IP that triggers an 'OpenAI's services are not available in your country' screen.","before_you_fly":["If you will use hotel, cafe, or coworking Wi-Fi in Hong Kong, install NordVPN, Surfshark, or Proton VPN and connect to Singapore or Taiwan (30–45ms ping from Hong Kong).","If you want ChatGPT to work on mobile data without running a battery-draining VPN on your phone, buy a regional Asia eSIM that routes via Singapore (such as Airalo Asialink or Jetpac).","Avoid buying a local 3HK or CSL tourist SIM if your primary goal is native AI access without a VPN."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Connecting to a VPN server in Hong Kong will NOT unblock ChatGPT—you must pick Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, or the US in your VPN server list.","OpenAI API calls (`api.openai.com`) from a laptop in Hong Kong will also return 403 Unsupported Country unless routed through a non-HK VPN or proxy."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"nordvpn","provider_name":"NordVPN","role":"Fastest WireGuard VPN for Hong Kong Wi-Fi","why":"Unlike mainland China, Hong Kong does not block WireGuard; NordVPN connects to Taipei or Singapore in under 1 second with negligible speed loss.","caveat":"Set your quick-connect country to Taiwan or Singapore, not 'Fastest Server' (which defaults to Hong Kong).","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.09 / mo (2-year plan) or $12.99 / 1 month","notes":"30-day money-back guarantee; 10 simultaneous devices."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nordvpn?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"surfshark","provider_name":"Surfshark","role":"Best for unlimited devices (laptop + phone + tablet)","why":"Covers all your devices on one subscription with fast Singapore and Tokyo servers.","caveat":"Disable 'Auto-connect to fastest location' so it does not pick a Hong Kong node.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$2.19 / mo (2-year plan)","notes":"Unlimited simultaneous devices on one account; NoBorders mode."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/surfshark?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Best Singapore-routed Asia eSIM","why":"Airalo's Asialink regional eSIM routes Hong Kong cellular traffic via Singapore, giving you a Singapore IP on mobile data.","caveat":"Slightly higher ping (~40ms) than a local Hong Kong exit, which is unnoticeable for browsing and AI chat.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Are VPNs blocked in Hong Kong like they are in mainland China?","a":"No. Commercial VPNs (NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, Proton VPN) work at full speed on all Hong Kong Wi-Fi and mobile networks."},{"q":"Which VPN server location gives the fastest speed from Hong Kong for ChatGPT?","a":"Taiwan (Taipei) and Singapore have direct submarine cable links to Hong Kong with 18–38ms latency, followed by Tokyo (~50ms)."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/hong-kong/esim-real-name","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/hong-kong/esim-real-name","title":"Do eSIMs in Hong Kong Require Real-Name Passport Registration?","description":"How Hong Kong's Telecommunications (Registration of SIM Cards) Regulation affects tourist eSIMs, which eSIMs require passport uploads, and how long approval takes.","country":"hong-kong","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"conditional","verdict":"Local Hong Kong SIMs and Hong Kong-issued eSIMs require mandatory passport real-name registration (RNR) before data will activate. Many international roaming eSIMs (Airalo Hkmobile, Saily, Nomad) either handle KYC in-app before departure or roam via foreign carrier agreements.","official_claim":"Hong Kong's OFCA requires real-name registration for all SIM cards issued and used in Hong Kong.","verified_reality":"If you buy a local SIM at 7-Eleven, Hong Kong International Airport, or a 3HK/SoSIM eSIM, your data is completely dead until you open a registration portal, scan your passport photo page, and wait for automated or manual verification. If the OCR scanner rejects glare on your passport bio page, you can be stuck at HKIA without data.","before_you_fly":["If your eSIM provider shows an 'Identity Verification / eKYC' banner in the app (common on Hong Kong single-country plans), complete the passport scan at home before boarding.","If you want to skip Hong Kong RNR paperwork entirely, purchase a multi-country Asia regional eSIM (such as Airalo Asialink or Saily Asia) that operates as an international roaming SIM.","Keep a clear, glare-free photo of your passport bio page on your phone."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Hong Kong residents must register with their HKID card (passports are not accepted for HKID holders); only non-residents can register with a foreign passport.","Each individual passport can register a maximum of 10 prepaid SIM cards per telecom operator in Hong Kong."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"saily","provider_name":"Saily","role":"Easiest single-profile eSIM for Hong Kong","why":"Installs once and activates automatically upon landing at HKIA with clear upfront instructions in the app.","caveat":"Check whether your chosen plan exits in HK or SG if you also need ChatGPT.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.99 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Single eSIM profile reusable across 190+ destinations."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/saily?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Best Asia Regional eSIM (Hong Kong + Mainland China + Macau)","why":"Airalo's Asialink covers Hong Kong, Macau, and Mainland China on one profile without switching SIMs at the West Kowloon high-speed rail border.","caveat":"Costs slightly more per GB than a Hong Kong-only plan.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"klook","provider_name":"Klook","role":"Best if you need a local +852 Hong Kong voice number","why":"Lets you pre-book a CSL or China Mobile HK tourist SIM for counter pickup at HKIA Arrival Hall A, where staff assist with passport registration on the spot.","caveat":"Requires visiting the airport counter during operating hours.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Does one eSIM work across both Hong Kong and Shenzhen / Mainland China?","a":"Only if you buy a Greater China or Asia regional eSIM (or a 3HK Greater Bay Area plan). A Hong Kong-only single-country eSIM will lose signal as soon as your train crosses into Shenzhen."},{"q":"How long does Hong Kong SIM real-name registration take?","a":"Automated OCR passport checks usually finish in 2 to 5 minutes, but if flagged for manual review it can take up to 2 hours."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/japan/esim","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan/esim","title":"Best eSIM for Japan: Coverage, Latency, and Fair-Use Throttling Compared","description":"How Ubigi (NTT Docomo 5G), Nomad, Airalo Moshi Moshi, and Saily perform in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hokkaido—and why local Japanese breakout latency matters.","country":"japan","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"works","verdict":"Travel eSIMs work reliably across Japan on NTT Docomo, KDDI (au), and SoftBank. For the lowest latency and 5G access in congested Tokyo stations, pick Ubigi (an NTT subsidiary with local Japanese IP breakout) or Nomad.","official_claim":"Every travel eSIM vendor claims 'fast 4G/5G coverage across all of Japan.'","verified_reality":"While tower coverage is excellent nationwide, two technical differences separate Japan eSIMs: (1) Local breakout vs. roaming tunnel—Ubigi and IIJ-backed plans exit directly in Tokyo (~20ms ping), whereas cheaper roaming eSIMs tunnel traffic through Singapore or Europe (~110–180ms ping, which makes voice calls and Japanese ticket websites feel sluggish); and (2) MVNO lunchtime throttling between 12:00 and 13:00 JST in crowded business districts.","before_you_fly":["Install your Japan eSIM profile on home Wi-Fi the day before departure.","If using Ubigi or Nomad, check that the custom APN is configured (iOS sets this automatically on most profiles; Android users may need to enter the APN string shown in the app).","Keep your home SIM active for incoming SMS (with Data Roaming turned OFF on your home line) in case your bank sends a 3D Secure code when topping up Suica or booking Shinkansen tickets."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Japanese law prohibits voice-enabled +81 mobile numbers for non-residents without residence cards, except for specific airport voice tourist SIMs (like Mobal); standard travel eSIMs are data-only.","In underground Shinkansen tunnels or crowded Shinjuku/Shibuya rush hour platforms, switching manually between KDDI (au) and NTT Docomo in Network Selection often restores stalled data."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"ubigi","provider_name":"Ubigi","role":"Fastest 5G & lowest latency in Japan (NTT Docomo + KDDI)","why":"Backed by the NTT Group, Ubigi routes directly onto NTT Docomo and KDDI 5G with a local Japanese IP address and sub-25ms latency.","caveat":"The Ubigi app UI is utilitarian compared to Airalo or Saily, so complete account setup before flying.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB","notes":"Direct NTT Docomo / Transatel subsidiary; top-rated 5G latency in Japan."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/ubigi?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"nomad","provider_name":"Nomad eSIM","role":"Best dual-carrier switching (KDDI + SoftBank)","why":"Lets you manually toggle between major Japanese networks if one carrier is congested at a theme park or ski resort.","caveat":"Fixed-GB plans offer better unthrottled speeds than day-pass unlimited plans.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Best budget fixed-data pack (Moshi Moshi)","why":"Roams on both SoftBank and KDDI (au) at low per-GB prices with one-tap top-ups.","caveat":"Routes traffic through Singapore, adding ~70ms latency compared to Ubigi.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":{"headers":["Provider","Japanese Networks","5G Support","IP Exit Location","Hotspot Sharing"],"rows":[["Ubigi","NTT Docomo + KDDI (au)","Yes (5G)","Tokyo, Japan (~20ms)","Yes (unlimited)"],["Nomad","KDDI (au) + SoftBank","Yes (5G)","Tokyo / Singapore","Yes (unlimited)"],["Airalo (Moshi Moshi)","SoftBank + KDDI (au)","LTE / 5G","Singapore (~85ms)","Yes (unlimited)"],["Saily","SoftBank / KDDI","LTE / 5G","Regional hub","Yes (unlimited)"]]},"faqs":[{"q":"Do I need a Japanese phone number (+81) as a tourist in Japan?","a":"Rarely. Unlike mainland China, Japanese public Wi-Fi, Tabelog online reservations, Uber/GO Taxi (which now accepts foreign numbers), and Disneyland/USJ apps work with a data-only eSIM."},{"q":"Which network is best for rural Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps?","a":"NTT Docomo and KDDI (au) have the widest mountain and rural footprint in Japan; Ubigi and Nomad give you access to those networks."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/japan/pocket-wifi-vs-esim","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan/pocket-wifi-vs-esim","title":"Japan Pocket Wi-Fi vs. eSIM: Cost, Battery Drain, and Multi-Device Math","description":"When an eSIM beats renting a Japan Pocket Wi-Fi router at Narita or Haneda—and the exact group/family scenarios where Pocket Wi-Fi still makes sense.","country":"japan","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"conditional","verdict":"For solo travelers and couples, individual eSIMs ($10–$20 total per person) are cheaper and far more convenient than Pocket Wi-Fi ($60–$95 for 14 days), and let two people split up in Tokyo without losing connection. Rent a Pocket Wi-Fi only if you have locked phones or 4+ devices traveling together at all times.","official_claim":"Pocket Wi-Fi rental counters advertise 'Truly Unlimited High-Speed Wi-Fi for up to 10 devices.'","verified_reality":"Pocket Wi-Fi routers add a extra brick to carry and charge every night (8–10 hour battery life), require waiting in line at Narita/Haneda pickup counters after a long flight, and enforce hidden carrier Fair Use Policies (often throttling speeds to 128 kbps–1 Mbps if a group streams video and exceeds 3–10 GB in a single day).","before_you_fly":["Check whether every traveler's phone is carrier-unlocked: if someone is financing a locked AT&T/Verizon/T-Mobile phone that blocks third-party eSIMs, book a Pocket Wi-Fi via Klook for airport pickup.","If everyone has an unlocked phone, install an individual eSIM (Ubigi, Nomad, or Airalo) on each phone so group members can still message each other on WhatsApp if separated in a train station."],"limits_and_gotchas":["If the person carrying the Pocket Wi-Fi router walks 15 meters away in a department store or gets on a different subway car, everyone else in the group immediately loses internet and Google Maps.","Forgetting to drop the Pocket Wi-Fi pouch in the airport return box before passing security incurs $100–$200 replacement fees."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"ubigi","provider_name":"Ubigi","role":"Best individual 5G eSIM to replace Pocket Wi-Fi","why":"A 10 GB Japan plan costs ~$17 for 30 days—less than 3 days of airport Pocket Wi-Fi rental—and requires zero extra hardware to charge.","caveat":"Requires an unlocked eSIM-compatible phone.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB","notes":"Direct NTT Docomo / Transatel subsidiary; top-rated 5G latency in Japan."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/ubigi?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"klook","provider_name":"Klook","role":"Best pre-booked Japan Pocket Wi-Fi (if your phone is carrier-locked)","why":"Pre-booking Ninja WiFi or Sakura Mobile through Klook cuts walk-up Narita/Haneda counter prices by 30%–50%.","caveat":"Check the counter's last pickup hour if your flight lands at Haneda or Narita after 21:30.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":{"headers":["Factor","Travel eSIM (Ubigi / Nomad)","Airport Pocket Wi-Fi"],"rows":[["14-Day Cost (2 People)","$22 – $34 total (2 x 10 GB eSIMs)","$65 – $95 + optional insurance"],["Can Travelers Split Up?","Yes, each phone has its own connection","No, everyone must stay within 10 meters"],["Airport Pickup / Return","None (instant on touchdown)","Counter pickup + drop-off before flight"],["Extra Battery to Charge","None","Yes, 1 router + power bank daily"],["Works on Carrier-Locked Phones?","No","Yes (connects via Wi-Fi)"]]},"faqs":[{"q":"Does an eSIM drain my iPhone battery faster than Pocket Wi-Fi?","a":"Running a single eSIM uses normal cellular power; however, running Dual SIM (keeping your home SIM on for SMS while using the Japan eSIM for data) uses roughly 10%–15% more battery per day."},{"q":"How many gigabytes of eSIM data do I need for 2 weeks in Japan?","a":"For Google Maps, Translate, WhatsApp, and web browsing (with hotel Wi-Fi at night), 10 GB is comfortable for 14 days; heavy Instagram/TikTok uploaders should pick 20 GB."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/japan/suica-pasmo-foreign-card","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/japan/suica-pasmo-foreign-card","title":"How to Load Apple Wallet Suica, PASMO & ICOCA with a Foreign Card","description":"Why foreign Visa cards sometimes fail when topping up Apple Wallet Suica in Japan, the 2:00–4:00 AM JST maintenance window, and which cards (Mastercard, Amex, Wise) work every time.","country":"japan","kind":"guide","topic":"payments","status":"conditional","verdict":"Adding a digital Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA directly inside iPhone Apple Wallet works in 30 seconds and eliminates buying paper subway tickets. If a US-issued Visa credit card fails 3D Secure, top up using a Mastercard, Amex, or Wise Visa debit card outside the 02:00–04:00 JST maintenance window.","official_claim":"Apple Support states you can add a Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA card in Wallet and reload it using Apple Pay.","verified_reality":"Physical Welcome Suica and PASMO cards have faced periodic chip shortages at Tokyo airports, making Apple Wallet IC cards the easiest option for iPhone users. While JR East updated its payment gateway to support more foreign Visa cards via 3D Secure 2.0, two issues still cause 'Payment Not Completed' errors: (1) trying to add or reload a card while JR East's servers are offline for daily maintenance (02:00 to 04:00 AM Japan Standard Time—which is midday in the US!), and (2) certain US bank Visa credit cards rejecting non-USD transit merchant codes.","before_you_fly":["On your iPhone, open Apple Wallet → tap '+' → Transit Card → Japan → choose Suica, PASMO, or ICOCA (all three are 100% interchangeable on trains, buses, 7-Eleven, and vending machines across Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Fukuoka).","Do this during daytime in Japan (avoid 02:00–04:00 AM JST, which corresponds to 12:00–14:00 EST / 09:00–11:00 PST).","Ensure Express Transit Mode is enabled ( automatic by default) so you can tap your iPhone or Apple Watch on subway gates without waking the screen or using Face ID."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Android phones purchased outside Japan generally lack the Sony FeliCa (Osaifu-Keitai) license enabled in firmware; non-Japanese Android users cannot use digital Mobile Suica and must buy a physical IC card at the airport or train station.","Maximum balance on a single Suica/PASMO/ICOCA card is 20,000 JPY (~$130), and balances cannot be refunded to a foreign bank account—load 2,000–3,000 JPY at a time and spend any leftover balance at convenience stores or airport duty-free shops."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"wise","provider_name":"Wise","role":"Most reliable multi-currency card for Apple Pay Suica & 7-Eleven ATMs","why":"Lets you hold JPY balance at the mid-market rate, works with Apple Pay IC card top-ups, and withdraws cash at 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) ATMs for restaurants that are cash-only.","caveat":"Order the physical Wise card 2 weeks before your trip if you also want ATM cash withdrawals.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"klook","provider_name":"Klook","role":"Best option for Android users & Shinkansen tickets","why":"Since Suica cannot pay for intercity Shinkansen bullet trains (Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka) without linking to SmartEX, Klook lets you book Shinkansen QR tickets and airport Skyliner/Haruka passes with any foreign card.","caveat":"Oversized luggage (total dimensions 160–250 cm) on the Tokaido Shinkansen requires booking a seat with an oversized baggage area.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Why did my Suica top-up fail when I tested it from home in the afternoon?","a":"Because afternoon in North America is 02:00–04:00 AM in Tokyo! JR East shuts down the Mobile Suica and PASMO top-up servers every night for maintenance. Wait two hours and try again."},{"q":"Is there any difference between Suica, PASMO, and ICOCA for tourists?","a":"In practice, no. All three work on the exact same trains, subways, buses, vending machines, and convenience stores across Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Sapporo."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/south-korea/maps-navigation","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/south-korea/maps-navigation","title":"Does Google Maps Work in South Korea? Naver Map vs. KakaoMap Setup","description":"Why Google Maps cannot give walking or driving directions in Seoul or Busan, and how to configure Naver Map and KakaoMap in English before your trip.","country":"south-korea","kind":"guide","topic":"maps","status":"workaround_required","verdict":"Google Maps is crippled in South Korea: walking and driving directions do not work at all due to South Korean geospatial data export laws, and only basic subway/bus transit routing functions. Install Naver Map (set to English) before landing.","official_claim":"Google Maps displays Seoul streets, restaurants, and public transit schedules.","verified_reality":"Under South Korea's Spatial Data Industry Promotion Act, the government restricts exporting high-precision 1:5,000 map data to foreign servers. As a result, if you tap 'Walking' or 'Driving' between two points 300 meters apart in Seoul on Google Maps, it returns 'Can't find a way there.' Apple Maps is similarly limited outside basic transit.","before_you_fly":["Download Naver Map (iOS / Android); on first launch, it detects your phone's English system language and switches the UI to English automatically.","Download KakaoMap as a secondary option and Kakao T (Kakao Taxi) for hailing taxis in Seoul and Busan (Kakao T accepts foreign credit cards via the 'Pay to Driver' or supported foreign card option, and Uber also operates as UT in Korea).","Save your hotel and key destinations as starred bookmarks inside Naver Map before departure; searching English romanized street names in Korea works much better when you copy the 5-digit Korean postal code or business phone number."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Even in English mode, some small cafes on Naver Map are indexed only by their Korean Hangul name; copy the Hangul name from Google Maps or Instagram and paste it into Naver Map's search bar.","Subway T-money cards cannot be reloaded with a foreign credit card at station machines—you need physical Korean Won (KRW) cash from an ATM to load T-money, though the Climate Card in Seoul now accepts foreign cards at select kiosks."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"nomad","provider_name":"Nomad eSIM","role":"Best South Korea 5G eSIM (SK Telecom / KT)","why":"Naver Map requires an active data connection (it does not support full offline navigation like Google Maps); Nomad's SKT/KT plans keep maps and live bus arrivals working everywhere.","caveat":"Data-only eSIM; does not include a Korean 010 voice number.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"klook","provider_name":"Klook","role":"Best for Incheon Airport SIM + T-Money combo card","why":"Lets you pick up a physical SIM or eSIM bundled with a T-money transit card and a Korean 010 number at Incheon (ICN) or Gimpo (GMP) airport.","caveat":"Pickup counters in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have separate locations.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"wise","provider_name":"Wise","role":"Best card for 99% of Korean retail & KRW ATMs","why":"South Korea is almost entirely cashless for restaurants and shopping; Wise physical chip cards work at Korean POS terminals and Global ATMs.","caveat":"Look for 'Global ATM' stickers at convenience stores or Woori/Shinhan Bank branches when withdrawing KRW cash for T-money.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Does Uber work in South Korea?","a":"Yes! The regular Uber app works in Seoul, Incheon, and Busan (branded locally as Uber Taxi / UT) and charges the foreign credit card already saved in your Uber account."},{"q":"Which is better for English speakers: Naver Map or KakaoMap?","a":"Naver Map has better English POI translations, clearer subway exit numbers, and indoor station navigation."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/thailand/esim-tourist-sim","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/thailand/esim-tourist-sim","title":"Thailand eSIM vs. Airport Tourist SIM: AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove Compared","description":"Whether to install a Thailand travel eSIM before flying or buy an AIS / DTAC tourist SIM at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Phuket (HKT) airport—plus how to avoid the 220 THB ATM fee.","country":"thailand","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"works","verdict":"Pre-installing a Thailand eSIM (Airalo DTAC, Nomad AIS, or SimOptions) lets you order a Grab immediately upon walking out of customs without waiting in 30-minute passport registration queues at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi.","official_claim":"Bangkok and Phuket airports have 24/7 telecom booths selling 'Unlimited Tourist SIMs.'","verified_reality":"Airport booths inside Suvarnabhumi (BKK) baggage claim charge markup tourist prices (typically 599–1,199 THB / $18–$35) and require scanning your passport and taking a photo for NBTC registration. Pre-booking an eSIM online costs $5–$12 for the same DTAC or AIS network and activates while the plane is taxiing.","before_you_fly":["Install your Thailand eSIM before departure so you have data at the airport curb where Grab pickup zones are located.","Download the Grab and Bolt apps at home and link your foreign credit card or Wise card while you can still receive your home bank's 3D Secure SMS.","Bring a contactless Visa or Mastercard to tap directly on the Bangkok MRT (Blue and Purple lines) without queuing for token machines."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Every Thai bank ATM charges a flat 220 THB (~$6.50) foreign card withdrawal fee per transaction; withdraw larger amounts (e.g., 10,000–20,000 THB) at once and always select 'Continue without conversion' on the ATM screen.","Bangkok BTS Skytrain turnstiles still do not accept direct foreign credit card taps at the gate (unlike the underground MRT)—use a Rabbit card or ticket machine."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"nomad","provider_name":"Nomad eSIM","role":"Best Thailand eSIM on AIS 5G (Best for Islands & Krabi/Koh Samui)","why":"AIS has the strongest coastal and island cell tower coverage in southern Thailand; Nomad's Thailand plans connect to AIS 5G.","caveat":"Data-only; use WhatsApp or Line to message boat tour operators.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Best Thailand eSIM with local voice/data options (DTAC / True)","why":"Fast activation in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket with affordable 10–50 GB packages.","caveat":"Check whether your chosen tier is data-only or includes local calls.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"wise","provider_name":"Wise","role":"Best card for Grab Thailand & Bangkok MRT","why":"Eliminates foreign transaction fees on Grab rides, food delivery, malls, and MRT metro taps.","caveat":"Thai ATMs still charge their mandatory 220 THB local operator fee.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Which carrier has the best coverage on Thai islands (Koh Tao, Koh Lanta, Phi Phi)?","a":"AIS consistently ranks first for boat channels and smaller islands, followed closely by the merged TrueMove H / DTAC network."},{"q":"Can I use Apple Pay or foreign credit cards on Bangkok public transit?","a":"On the Bangkok MRT (underground subway) and SRT Red Line, yes—tap any contactless Visa or Mastercard at the gate. On the elevated BTS Skytrain, you still need a Rabbit Card or single-journey ticket."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"},{"path":"/vietnam/esim-grab-payments","url":"https://doesitworkin.com/vietnam/esim-grab-payments","title":"Vietnam eSIM, Grab & Card Payments: Why Airport SIMs Get Blocked Mid-Trip","description":"Why Vietnam cracked down on unverified airport SIM cards, why Viettel is essential for Ha Long Bay and Ha Giang Loop coverage, and which ATMs in Vietnam charge zero fees.","country":"vietnam","kind":"guide","topic":"esim","status":"conditional","verdict":"Avoid unofficial SIM kiosks at Hanoi (HAN) and Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) airports—Vietnam's Ministry of Information and Communications routinely deactivates improperly registered tourist SIMs after 3–5 days. Use a Viettel-backed travel eSIM (Airalo or Nomad) and set up Grab with a Wise card before arrival.","official_claim":"Airport kiosks offer cheap 'Unlimited 4G SIMs for 30 days' with no paperwork.","verified_reality":"Since Vietnam tightened subscriber registry enforcement against pre-registered 'junk SIMs,' travelers who buy unverified SIMs at airport arrival halls or street stalls frequently wake up on day 4 with 'No Service.' Additionally, cheap tourist plans that run on Vietnamobile have almost zero signal in Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, or the Ha Giang Loop—you need Viettel (military-built national network) or Vinaphone.","before_you_fly":["Purchase an eSIM that explicitly roams on Viettel or Vinaphone (such as Airalo Xin Chao or Nomad Vietnam) and install it before boarding.","Install the Grab app, sign in with your phone number, and add your Wise or Revolut card at home—taxi touts outside Tan Son Nhat (SGN) and Noi Bai (HAN) airports frequently impersonate Grab drivers, so book only inside the app.","Keep your Vietnam e-Visa PDF printed on paper as well as saved offline on your phone; airline check-in desks verify the physical printout before issuing boarding passes."],"limits_and_gotchas":["Many small Vietnamese cafes and street food spots add a 3% surcharge on credit card machines or take cash only—withdraw VND cash at VPBank or TPBank ATMs, which charge 0 VND in local ATM fees for foreign cards.","When entering VND amounts in Grab or inspecting a POS terminal, double-check the zeros (500,000 VND is ~$20 USD)."],"recommendations":[{"provider_id":"airalo","provider_name":"Airalo","role":"Most reliable Vietnam eSIM (Viettel + Vinaphone)","why":"Airalo's Vietnam (Xin Chao) eSIM connects to Viettel and Vinaphone—the top two networks for both Hanoi/HCMC and rural Ha Giang / Ha Long Bay.","caveat":"Data-only eSIM; use WhatsApp or Zalo to communicate with hotels and tour boats.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"nomad","provider_name":"Nomad eSIM","role":"Best alternative Viettel/Mobifone eSIM","why":"Strong 4G/5G speeds across central and northern Vietnam with full hotspot support.","caveat":"Install on home Wi-Fi before flying.","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api"},{"provider_id":"wise","provider_name":"Wise","role":"Best card for Grab Vietnam & zero-fee VPBank/TPBank ATMs","why":"Works inside Grab without foreign transaction fees and pairs with VPBank/TPBank ATMs for fee-free VND cash withdrawals.","caveat":"Avoid Agribank or Vietcombank ATMs if you want to skip the 30,000–55,000 VND per-withdrawal fee.","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api"}],"comparison_table":null,"faqs":[{"q":"Which mobile network works on the Ha Giang Loop and in Ha Long Bay?","a":"Viettel has by far the strongest coverage in mountainous northern Vietnam (Ha Giang, Sapa) and offshore in Ha Long Bay / Lan Ha Bay."},{"q":"Which ATMs in Vietnam are free for foreign Wise and Revolut cards?","a":"VPBank and TPBank ATMs do not charge a local ATM operator fee on foreign Visa or Mastercard debit cards."}],"as_of":"2026-11-11"}],"providers":[{"id":"airalo","name":"Airalo","domain":"airalo.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Fixed-data regional and country packs; top-up in app."},"summary":"Fixed-data travel eSIM marketplace covering 200+ destinations; mainland China Chinacom and Asialink packs route via Singapore or Hong Kong, bypassing the Great Firewall without a separate VPN.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/airalo?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"holafly","name":"Holafly","domain":"esim.holafly.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$6.90 / 1 day unlimited","notes":"Unlimited data by day count (1 to 90 days); hotspot tethering capped at 500 MB–1 GB/day on most plans."},"summary":"Day-based unlimited travel eSIMs with built-in roaming tunnel for China and Asia; convenient for single-device travelers, though carrier fair-use policies throttle heavy sustained video or hotspot use.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/holafly?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"saily","name":"Saily","domain":"saily.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.99 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Single eSIM profile reusable across 190+ destinations."},"summary":"Travel eSIM service built by Nord Security using a single installable eSIM profile for all trips, with optional virtual location routing and ad-blocking features.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/saily?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"nomad","name":"Nomad eSIM","domain":"getnomad.app","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Offers both fixed-GB plans and day-pass plans across Asia-Pacific and Europe."},"summary":"Strong Asia-Pacific eSIM provider partnering with dual local networks in Japan (IIJ/KDDI), China (China Unicom/Telecom via HK exit), and Southeast Asia, with unrestricted hotspot sharing on fixed-GB plans.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nomad?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"yesim","name":"Yesim","domain":"yesim.app","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$8.40 / 3 GB (7 days)","notes":"Supports Pay-as-you-go Ycoins balance and multi-country packs."},"summary":"Swiss-based travel eSIM with global pay-as-you-go balance, fixed data bundles, and virtual phone numbers for OTP verification.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/yesim?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"alosim","name":"aloSIM","domain":"alosim.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.50 / 1 GB (7 days)","notes":"Includes a free Hushed international phone number credit with many plans."},"summary":"Prepaid data eSIM provider that pairs local carrier data packages with optional Hushed voice/SMS numbers for travelers who need both data and calls.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/alosim?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"maya","name":"Maya Mobile","domain":"maya.net","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$5.00 / 3 GB (30 days)","notes":"30-day validity even on entry-level data tiers; hotspot enabled."},"summary":"Travel eSIM provider focused on 30-day validity windows and transparent hotspot rules across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/maya?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"jetpac","name":"Jetpac","domain":"jetpacglobal.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB (4 days)","notes":"Includes complimentary airport lounge access if your registered flight is delayed."},"summary":"Singapore-backed travel eSIM using a single global eSIM profile with dual-network switching in Asia and Europe plus flight-delay lounge perks.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/jetpac?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"bnesim","name":"BNESIM","domain":"bnesim.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.50 / 1 GB (30 days or non-expiring)","notes":"Offers non-expiring data packages alongside 30-day plans."},"summary":"Veteran travel telecom offering non-expiring eSIM data balances, international DID phone numbers, and multi-country roaming packs.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/bnesim?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"mobimatter","name":"MobiMatter","domain":"mobimatter.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.49 / 1 GB","notes":"Aggregator marketplace listing wholesale eSIM packages from 3HK, Sparks, Singtel, and Ubigi."},"summary":"Multi-carrier eSIM marketplace comparing wholesale roaming packages (including 3HK Greater China and Sparks Europe) with explicit routing carrier details.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/mobimatter?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"instabridge","name":"Instabridge","domain":"instabridge.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"$3.00 / 1 GB","notes":"Combines global Wi-Fi map database with pay-as-you-go eSIM data."},"summary":"Travel connectivity app pairing a crowdsourced airport and cafe Wi-Fi map with instant eSIM data packages.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/instabridge?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"simoptions","name":"SimOptions","domain":"simoptions.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.90 / 1 GB","notes":"Resells official Orange Holiday Europe, AIS Thailand, and Three UK eSIMs."},"summary":"Marketplace for official carrier-issued prepaid eSIMs (including Orange Holiday Europe with a French phone number and Thailand AIS tourist eSIMs).","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/simoptions?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"gigsky","name":"GigSky","domain":"gigsky.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free 100 MB trial; plans from $4.99","notes":"Also covers cruise ships, inflight AeroMobile, and offshore routes; Visa cardholder perks in select regions."},"summary":"Apple-partnered eSIM operator offering land, cruise ship, and inflight data plans plus complimentary 100 MB starter trials to verify activation before departure.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/gigsky?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"ubigi","name":"Ubigi","domain":"cellulardata.ubigi.com","category":"esim","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$4.00 / 1 GB","notes":"Direct NTT Docomo / Transatel subsidiary; top-rated 5G latency in Japan."},"summary":"Transatel (NTT Group) eSIM service with direct NTT Docomo and KDDI 5G routing in Japan—lower latency than third-party roaming eSIMs that tunnel back to Europe.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/ubigi?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"nordvpn","name":"NordVPN","domain":"nordvpn.com","category":"vpn","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$3.09 / mo (2-year plan) or $12.99 / 1 month","notes":"30-day money-back guarantee; 10 simultaneous devices."},"summary":"High-speed WireGuard (NordLynx) VPN for Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong (for ChatGPT access) and Europe; unreliable inside mainland China without manual obfuscated setup.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/nordvpn?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"surfshark","name":"Surfshark","domain":"surfshark.com","category":"vpn","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$2.19 / mo (2-year plan)","notes":"Unlimited simultaneous devices on one account; NoBorders mode."},"summary":"Unlimited-device VPN ideal for families and multi-device travelers accessing geo-fenced banking, streaming, and AI tools from Hong Kong, Japan, and Europe.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/surfshark?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"expressvpn","name":"ExpressVPN","domain":"expressvpn.com","category":"vpn","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$6.67 / mo (annual) or $12.95 / 1 month","notes":"Automatic obfuscation on Lightway protocol; 30-day refund window."},"summary":"Travel VPN with automatic protocol obfuscation on all servers and a router/Aircove app, frequently used as a backup alongside roaming eSIMs.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/expressvpn?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"protonvpn","name":"Proton VPN","domain":"protonvpn.com","category":"vpn","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free tier (5 countries); Plus from $4.49 / mo","notes":"Includes Stealth protocol (TLS obfuscation) even on mobile apps."},"summary":"Swiss open-source VPN with a no-data-cap free tier and Stealth TLS-obfuscated protocol that helps bypass restrictive public Wi-Fi and carrier inspection.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/protonvpn?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"wise","name":"Wise","domain":"wise.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free account; ~0.35%–0.65% mid-market FX conversion fee","notes":"Physical Visa/Mastercard debit card + instant virtual cards that link cleanly to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Grab, and Apple Wallet Suica."},"summary":"Multi-currency account and Visa/Mastercard debit card converting at the real mid-market exchange rate with no weekend FX markup; works reliably with Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Apple Pay IC cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/wise?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"revolut","name":"Revolut","domain":"revolut.com","category":"payment","pricing":{"model":"freemium","startingFrom":"Free Standard plan; 1% weekend FX fee unless pre-exchanged","notes":"Disposable single-use virtual cards and instant freeze controls in app."},"summary":"Travel banking app with multi-currency pockets, disposable virtual cards, and weekday interbank FX rates; exchange currencies before Friday 5pm ET to avoid the 1% weekend markup.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/revolut?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"safetywing","name":"SafetyWing","domain":"safetywing.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"$56.28 / 4 weeks (Nomad Insurance)","notes":"Can be purchased after you have already departed your home country."},"summary":"Subscription-style travel medical insurance for nomads and multi-country trips that can be started or paused mid-trip.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/safetywing?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"klook","name":"Klook","domain":"klook.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Airport SIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi & rail passes from $5","notes":"Accepts foreign Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, and PayPal for Asian airport pickup."},"summary":"Asia-focused booking platform for airport physical SIM pickup, Ninja WiFi / Japan Pocket Wi-Fi counters, Shinkansen tickets, and Hong Kong Airport Express passes.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/klook?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"trip","name":"Trip.com","domain":"trip.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"China High-Speed Rail & hotels with foreign card checkout","notes":"English interface synced directly with China Railway 12306."},"summary":"Essential booking app for mainland China: lets foreigners book 12306 high-speed rail tickets, domestic flights, and foreign-friendly hotels in English using international credit cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/trip?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"getyourguide","name":"GetYourGuide","domain":"getyourguide.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Free 24-hour cancellation on most passes and tours"},"summary":"Global attraction ticket and airport transfer platform with mobile QR vouchers and 24-hour cancellation.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/getyourguide?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"},{"id":"viator","name":"Viator","domain":"viator.com","category":"travel","pricing":{"model":"paid","startingFrom":"Reserve now, pay later on eligible transfers and day trips"},"summary":"Tripadvisor-owned tour and private transfer booking platform supporting foreign credit cards where local transit apps reject non-resident cards.","go_url":"https://doesitworkin.com/go/viator?utm_source=api","checked_at":"2026-11-11"}]}