FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes's topics - tribe.net

I need to buy a new laptop

2007-10-16T05:27:06Z

I need to buy a new laptop. Anyone have a suggestion. i cant spend too much, but i do want it to be a decent one. Someone told me to check craigslist.

Any suggestions?

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Libraries that rock with cool connections

2007-10-12T19:04:52Z

Libraies are great, as many of you already know. but I have found some very sweet gems with sweet internect connections. i have only been to a few county libraries and the connections were pretty bad, so i have yet to find one that i would say CHECK THIS OUT.

However, on the other hand I have found some awesome LA Public Libraries with great views and awesome connections. The Central Library in Downtown LA is one. This place is just awesome and it is MASSIVE. So much to do, so much to see and such an awesome connection for wireless.

Santa Monica Main Library. I love this place. I grew up in Santa Monica, so I know what the old library was like. DARK and YUCKY, the new one is BEAUTIFUL and bright. The connection did have some problems and they have worked very hard to change this and it seems to be getting better each time i visit it. This Library has a ton of public computers and there are plenty of place to sit near windows and use your laptop.

Since I am hoemless I use Libraies A LOT. I am now staying with two frineds in the valley while i look for work and try to find housing. So I have found to libraies here that are awesome as well. the Valley Plaza Libray seems to be fair new. it isnt too big, but ot too smal either. Not much seating and it all seems to be located in one area, but the view of the park is awesome. bet it is even better on a rainly day. The connection here is great too.

Bevery Hills. WOW. i havent been to this Library in a while. BEAUTIFUL and the connection is awesome. I havent sat anywhere other other then back area, but i am told that the connections are great everywhere throught this cool place. they have a snack shop as well.

In close, i would say that for someone like me, who uses my laptop all the time, libraies are the best way to go for wireless.They are free and have places to plug up and if you have some extra cash, you can also get a bite to eat in many of them that have cafes. I know Santa Monica and Central allow you to eat inside.

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A cool place to blog..FREE WIFI in a park?

2007-08-27T20:15:29Z

Today I have a day of Dr's appointments. I am happy that most of my Dr's offer free wifi within the office. But it is so nice out and I really wanted to be outside inbetween waiting to see the next Dr. and getting my blood work and things like this done.

I took a chance and walked over to the park at the La Brea Tar Pits. Guess what? I was able to pick up 6 different open networks. All of which had really clear signals and get connections.

This is a very cool find because the park has great areas to sit on the grass and there are park benches right near the bathrooms.

I wasnt able to get a good connection in the center of the park, but the benches right near the restrooms were awesome. There were plenty of people eating and using their laptops. The only draw back was not having a place to plug up. But hey sitting in the park and using you laptop in the cool Califonia sun. How AWESOME is this?

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 3 replies

City or County?

2007-08-23T00:21:11Z

For those of you who don’t know it, LA has both city and county libraries and they are both very different. Just like night and day when it comes to wifi.

LA City libraries all use a wifi connection though ethoscreem. The connection is most time very strong and seems to work great. The LA COUNTRY libraries use a totally different service that never seems to work at all and their staff never seem to have any clear reasons why the service doesn’t work.

The staff is also like night and day. They are both rude, but the LA County staff take the cake at that party. Many of them are old and just like the buildings they work in are in need of a facelift.

So as far as WIFI goes City Libraries are a few steps ahead.

My favorite libraries to visit in the LA system are the Central Library in Downtown LA. WOW, what an awesome place with some many cool places to bring your laptop and chill. The Tom Bradley Wing is awesome. This place has lots of cool gardens and sweet places to study too.

Now the city of Santa Monica now has the awesome new library that is really spectacular. The café in the center of the courtyard is a bit speendy, so make sure you bring your own food or visit 3rd street while you are there. They have private study rooms with white boards. Seating is great too. Most of all the internet connection is now finally working great.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

The Venice Grind ROCKS

2007-08-06T03:31:25Z

The last time I was at this spot was back in April. It was very cool. I love the vibe and the music was awesome. I ordered a coffee and hung out for a bit. The service was great and the people behind the counter were awesome too.

The connection was SWEET. I was really happy to be able to get some work done and even had time to blog while I was there. Overall this spot was very cool and I am glad I had the chance to check it out. I’ve been there a total of three times and each time it was great.

Be sure to check out the Venice Grind at www.venicegrind.com They are located at 12224 Venice Boulevard right near the Mar Vista Bowl.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 1 reply

City libraries offer free wifi. Good or Bad?

2007-08-03T23:07:25Z

Wifi @ Libraries can sometimes be a real pain on the butt. While most cities now offer free wifi to people using the library some cities require that you also have a city library card to use the “free wifi” I really don’t think this is a huge problem, but one could collect a great number of library cards. For example, Santa Monica doesn’t require you to have a library card to use the free wifi network, however Long Beach does require that you have a card. I have been to two different branches in Long Beach and at both branches the signal was very bad and places to plug your laptop was even worse.

Then here in Los Angeles it gets even a bit trickier. I had no idea that there were both City and County Libraries here in LA. Both on two very different networks. The City libraries do not require that you have a library card, however the county does. Of the 7 City libraries I have been to, the connection are good and places to plug up are good as well. I cant say the same for county libraries. The two that I have been to were very old and they had no places to plug up.

The West Hollywood Library is a county library and is in bad need of a major overhaul. The connection is great, but the staff is rude. If you need to plug up, then you will have to sit right at the computer terminals.

The City libraries really seem to have this wifi thing down to a science. The libraries that I like to use the most when I have time are the Central Library in Downtown Los Angeles and the Abott Kinney Branch in Venice. All City of Los Angeles Libraries are on the same network and the staff seem to do a great job at keeping current with all issues with the network.

SANTA MONICA

Santa Monica Libraries are awesome. I like using them as well. The new main branch is great. The café in the courtyard is cool, but you are welcome to get food from other areas. The wifi connection has gotten a great deal better, but they still have problems with it. The City of Santa Monica is currently working on ways to bring free wifi to the entire city, but they have no real date as to when this will take place.

Right now the city offers free wifi at all libraries a few parks and in most city buildings. I have even been able to pick up a “city wifi” connection on the beach near the pier. 3rd Street and the Santa Monica Place Mall also have “city wifi” connection. Mall security however will ask you not to plug in your laptop. They will also ask you to leave after you have been there for more then two hours.

For someone like me who always has their laptop with them, things like not having a place to plug up can make a huge difference in getting people to come in and use services.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

wifi in Venice, Mar Vista and Santa Monica

2007-07-27T17:33:49Z

Hello All, Just joined tribe, please check out my page and send me an addy!
Some free wifi spots I've been to: (tell them Janet from jagmedia.net sent you)

Mar Vista: Venice Grind 12224 VENICE BLVD 90066 between Centinela and Grand Ave
good coffee, laid back atmosphere, patio in back, plus good art openings there's one Saturday night, July 28

Venice: Meditrina Cafe 1029 Abbot Kinney Blvd 90291 at west end of Abbot Kinney near Lilly's; Front Room only has free wifi; a bit slow, great food! call first, i haven't been there in awhile 310-396-5000

Santa Monica: Velocity Cafe 2127 Lincoln Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90405, nice atmosphere ok food and coffee, free live music

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 1 reply

We doesnt anyone post?

2007-06-27T19:37:00Z

Or at least reply to a posting? Why did you guys join this tribe?

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 1 reply

Cafe Marco in West Hollywood, lousy service great wifi

2007-06-18T18:03:43Z

I don’t like going to West Hollywood. Just not my thing, but yesterday I was with a friend and I needed to find a free wifi spot that was a coffee house as well. SOOOOOOOOO. We found this place in WEHO.

If you guys read my blog, then you know how much I love to take my laptop with me everywhere I go. Finding places that offer free Wifi in a cool chill place seems to be very hard to do here in LA. You either have to deal with HIGH PRICES, RUDE STAFF and on top of this crappy wifi.

Cafe Marco only has one thing going for it. Great WIFI. The service was lousy. In fact the guy behind the bar was more interested in flirting with male customers rather then doing what he is paid to do. He skipped over Christina and I three times before the lady behind the counter finally helped us. She was no better. RUDE and NASTY and then to top it off she had to be told how to make a drink that is on their menu. As a chef and former cafe owner, I know people have many choices when it comes to food service. SO I make it my business to make certain that people ALL PEOPLE feel welcome. This is the case here at Cafe Marco. It would seem you must be GAY as can be and WHITE as can be.

While we sat there this black guy told them that the bathroom was dirty and they told him if he didn’t like it that he could leave. Once he left the store the black jokes began. This was when I knew it was time for me to leave. I asked for a card and left. To tell the truth, the bathroom was nasty and they did need to clean it. Hell the bathroom down at the gas station was cleaner.

The bake goods are store purchased. I just don’t understand why people who own shops don’t just hire a baker to make their place a bit different for all the rest who buy their goods at Costco and Smart and Final. Furthermore, hire a staff that is nice to ALL your customers. Not just their buddies or gay men they want to flirt with. This is my 3rd time in this place and each time the service was lousy and the counter help was rude.

The do have a great internet connection. But that wont get me to go back.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Get it right the first time

2007-06-12T03:40:21Z

It seems to me that none can get this whole wireless thing right. For example, the city of Santa Monica announced that it was going to have a FREE WIFI for the entire city by February, then March and now they don’t seem to know when it will happen. There are several places within Santa Monica that you can get free WIFI connections libraries, most city park and most public buildings. However getting connected to it is something entirely different altogether. Most times the network is down or the speeds are so slow that you can walk an instant message to your friend in New York and it is still faster then the connection Santa Monica offers. No one at the city seems to know why a city with so much power and resources can’t seem to get something as basic as WIFI done right.

Then we have Hermosa Beach. The rolled out this huge campaign about how great there WIFI connection was going to be. They even bragged about how it would be available at the beaches. Well I saw the towers and all the wires right where they reported they would be, but just like Santa Monica there is no connection.

Downtown LA has what would seem to be a very smart place to off offer wifi service. Service in this area is lousy as well. There are some open networks, but the signals can be hit and miss. Pershing Square has free wireless, but only during certain hours and your time using the network is limited

Back to Santa Monica. You are able to get a connection on 3rd Street Promenade, but make sure you have a full battery. Some of the staff at Barnes and Nobles will ask you to unplug your laptop and other portable devices. One manager told me that it was company policy not to allow people to simply plug up. Security at the Santa Monica Mall will call the Santa Monica Police if they see you plug up or they will ask you to leave it you sit for more then 1 hour using your laptop. Santa Monica Police will write you a ticket for theft of utility if you are caught plugging in your wireless device

So with all this new technology and the different way you should be able to use your portable devices, why aren’t cities keeping pace? Why do cities claim to have something like wifi when they don’t? Last, will someone please tell me what ‘theft of utility” is and who is the brain who came up with the law in the first place?

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Wifi a tthe beach?

2007-05-22T17:11:31Z

So Santa Monica has this plan to offer city wide wifi for free. It already works in some parks and in all libraries. Although the connection is sometime very hard to reach, the overall connnection has gotten a little bit better.

Well last night while walking doing my evening outreach i found two really awesome spots along the bech in Santa Monica. They both about 7 open networks even the Santa Monica network was listed, but I was unable to connect to it. However there were to connections that I was able to connect to and they were great.

I have noticed that Santa Monica has now spots where you can see their wireless signal but you cant connect to it.

Now that my foundation is located down in Venice it would be great to find some places down here to offer free wifi.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

wifi in san francisco

2007-04-13T06:38:13Z

I'm new to the world of laptops (at least since they've had wireless) and would be interested if anyone knows spots in san francisco. I know the city is talking about citywide wifi, wouldn't that be nice!

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 6 replies

If any NY'ers wanna put some cool coffe/tea/whatever spots...please do...

2007-04-03T15:25:47Z

Title said it all...
Not sure if this tribe is ABSOLUTELY exclusively for SoCal.....

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 3 replies

Santa Monica and WiFi

2007-04-03T15:24:29Z

Santa Monica has long been a city to embrace things that are great for the city, it residents and visitors. However sometimes they should spend a bit more time doing some ground work. For example. WiFi at the Los Angeles Library is awesome. it has it's moments, but they can and do fix it very fast. Not so with Santa Monica. The Santa Monica Public Library uses something called CITY WIFI. Most city buildings have it. This means it doesnt work. I called the maker of my computer to yell at themn for a crappy modem, but that wasnt it. So I called Windows and yelled at them for just being crappy all the way around. LOL, Hey!!! They needed that call. I didnt call them last month.

Anyway, so now I hear that Santa Monica has plans tomove forward with having the entire city get a free WIFI connection. WOW, the whole city with free wifi. LOL Now there a laugh. It doesnt work now guys. GUESS WHAT? It wont work then

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 5 replies

Santa Monica "doing the right things right"

2007-03-15T16:09:29Z

The is a complete joke. Whoever came up with this slogan really needs to be fired. This is Santa Monica's slogan for what they do.

Wifi here sucks ass. The city offers free wifi but you can never or hardly ever get on it. It says your connected but then no pages load. I've been told by many city officals that they are working on the problem. One person even told me it would be fixed a month ago. When I told him it still wasnt working, he hasnt even bothered to get back to me. This is supposed tobe a world class city, but they cant even get wifi right. WHy in the workd would you have the cities WIFI service connected to cable modems? Then have them be on three different networks? How STUPID is this. The they claim that they cant fix it because verizon wants to charge them way more money. Well screw them FIND someone will will provide the service. This city has the problem of stsrting things they have no idea about, then half way into it the just trash the whole idea.

WIFI here sucks ass at the WIFI from the city of santa monica. They even have plans to make the entire city WIFI fro free. They cant even get it right in areas like parks and libraries or city buildings. how in the hell will they get it right all over the city?

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

What's wifi Service like in your area?

2007-02-19T20:41:00Z

I live in Santa Monica. The city has plans to make the entire city wifi friendly, but they are having major problems with the places they already have in place. The main problem is that it just doesnt work. another problem is that "City WI-Fi" is split up. The libray, 3rd street and then the city. DUMB

Santa Monic has this new push on how they do things right, but they cant even get a Wi-FI service that works.

What's Wi-Fi in your area and is it free? Santa Monica is planning to offer two types of city Wi-Fi. Free and Fee based. Just another example of how Santa Monica "does it wrong"

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 3 replies

Los Angeles expands public Wi-Fi network

2007-01-22T19:00:51Z

Yesterday, the Board of Commissioners of the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles (CRA/LA), the public agency charged with revitalizing the city’s downtown, announced $225,000 in contract extensions and enhancements to build out the network to four additional city districts. The service currently provides access in Pershing Square. Plans call for extending it to the financial district and historic core, Bunker Hill and Little Tokyo.

The expansion provides for the installation of additional Wi-Fi equipment through the districts and for enhancing cultural content on the experienceLA.com web site. The web site, launched in 2003, provides information on cultural and entertainment events around Los Angeles, along with information about how to get to them via public transit. It has been recognized as one of the best city guides in the nation,

JoVoGo Communications, which installed equipment for the initial deployment in Pership Square, will buy and install the new WiFi equipment under a $165,000 contract renewal. In addition to enabling Internet access in the districts, the contract calls for the installation of Wi-Fi security cameras in areas of Little Tokyo and Angels Knoll Interim Park.

The network is part of CRA/LA’s efforts to redevelop areas of the city’s downtown and attract new visitors and businesses. According to a CRA/LA press release, the organization expects the expansion of public Wi-Fi to enable new partnerships with the Los Angeles Police Department, the Downtown Business Improvement District, the Historic Core Business Improvement District, and possibly the city’s Department of Transportation.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 1 reply

Politics of San Francisco WiFi Project

2007-01-21T18:11:37Z

The push for citywide wireless coverage (not to be confused with municipal wireless), while exciting, exposes the difficulty in bringing together technology and politics. To complicate matters, it involves San Francisco politics, which can be sordid and cattier than the very best of day time soaps. Google’s plans to offer WiFi in San Francisco for free has surely created some problems for other players. However, they might not be prepared for the quagmire that is San Francisco politics. The wireless project ties into San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom’s national political ambitions, but could run aground on anti-corporate public sentiment.

Gavin has been mentioned as a potential Senator3, Governor or even President4 (rather optimistically). Nationally, he’s known for his move to legalize same-sex marriage, but locally his bread-and-butter issue is homelessness — an undeniable problem in San Francisco that grew under the reign of his mentor Willie Brown. The “Care Not Cash 5” proposition he floated as a supervisor was largely considered an effort to get his mayoral campaign — and fundraising — off to an early start. Since taking office, he’s given money and time to Project Homeless Connect 6, a volunteer non-profit meant to help ease access to city services for the indigent. One effort Homeless Connect lead was to collect and distribute used computers7. So it comes as no surprise that his latest efforts on large-scale wireless are being hailed as “Project Tech Connect.” At all the publicity events, it’s been stressed that this effort is to empower folks in San Francisco’s minority communities.

It might not be smooth sailing for the mayor, who lacks legislative majority to rule by executive fiat. Progressive candidate Tom Ammiano (who first proposed a municipal broadband network8) who lost to former mayor Brown in a close race, has helped his progressive party get more traction in the local politics. 9In the last election, progressives put their weight behind Matt Gonzalez, but lost 10another tight election10. They still managed to get more traction in the district elections11, though Gavin enjoys more popular support than Brown did.

The planning of any big project in San Francisco will become a political war by proxy. After a recent speech by Lawrence Lessig12 about the need for “network neutrality” on the internet, and a panelist from Project Tech Connect repeated talking points from Gavin’s announcement, Ross Mirkarimi made an unannounced visit to lobby for The City to “municipalize all our networks” — an allusion to the fight against Pacific Gas and Electric over municipal power and other privitization of city services.

So what are the responses to the RFI/C like? Some of them are vague, some have been heavily redacted, some are downright scary — and those are the responses with a ‘commercial interest.’ An email and postcard campaign organized by Media Alliance (who put the Lessig presentation together) netted over two hundred responses from citizens interested in a bare-bones, open infrastructure network akin to city streets and highways or the power grid. A captive-portal, proprietary network, they argue, would cripple innovation (such as consumer WiFi hardware like VOIP phones) and lead to potential abuses in privacy protection, security and competition for services.

SBC wrote to tout their new 3G service rollout, and The Pacific Research Institute, a conservative think-tank that receives money from SBC, “believe that proposals for government-controlled wireless broadband networks are based on flawed concepts that would harm communities if implemented.” On the other hand, the aptly named SNAFU (San Francisco Neighborhood Antenna-Free Union) is also pissed, and point out that they’ve won 12 of 15 appeals over new cellular antennas going up — even though the 1996 Telecommunications Act prohibits them from arguing about potential health risks. In the unlicensed 2.8 and 5.6 bands, though, the Telecommunications act doesn’t apply, and this could provide political ammunition for the Board of Supervisors if they aren’t happy with the deal.

SFLan, backed by the Internet Archive, filed probably the most progressive response for building out the network, and believe that the capital for the project should be raised through bond measures and built out in stages, using commodity hardware and open standards. On the other side, Motorola’s proposal suggests that the city pitch the project as a public safety issue, and capitalize on grants from government organizations such as the Department of Homeland Security. They suggest that the network would help law enforcement by enabling the SFPD to put wireless cameras across the city cheaply, and that the signal from a particular camera could be routed wirelessly to officers in their cars as they approached the scene. In a particularly frightening scenario for San Franciscans, Alvarion’s response even floated the prospect of super-efficient wireless parking meters.

While Earthlink has more experience in civic WiFi projects 13than any of the other companies responding, their response, heavily redacted, says costs for residential access would be “less than $20″ for 1 mbps service. Google’s is the most vague14 of the responses for a turnkey system at no cost to The City, and it looks like Google would build a captive-portal system supported by advertisers. While their newly amended privacy policy15 doesn’t raise too many red flags for users of their services, the provisions for tracking a users clicks, for instance, would be ominous if they were also tracking location (even in the aggregate).

Most of the proposals are for specific services or address specific issues. One of the many things that Google’s response didn’t address would be the handling of traffic backhaul, fiber and wireless point to multipoint redundancy and whether they would use a distribute mesh network design — they only say that San Diego network engineers WFI16 will be responsible for the design and installation of the network. Most of the companies angling for contracts to build portions of the system argue against a single-provider, turnkey solution. Feeva, who already partner with The City, sent in the laziest of the responses (asking that their software be licensed by whomever ends up being the provider), actually leaving telling changes in their Word document highlighted.

An ambitious politician would be smart to become an ally of Google, and Gavin has shown panache in taking popular progressive causes (such as municipal broadband and same-sex marriage) and making them his own. However, expect neighborhood representatives on the Board of Supervisors to oppose any move to let a company monopolize more critical infrastructure. The battles over Comcast, SBC and PG&E’s monopolies are second only to real estate issues when it comes to rough-and-tumble local politics. The Board of Supervisors, San Francisco community activists and open network advocates will fight tenaciously to make sure that their concerns are addressed. While Gavin and Google have made splashy promises of rapid deployment, don’t hold your breath — the fight in San Francisco City Hall has just begun. (The San Francisco WiFi Players17!)

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Anchor Free Zones in San Francisco

2007-01-19T23:00:04Z

I have heard about these, but done know much about them. I was told my a buddy that you have to join and find the zones in your area. They are free WiFi spots though. But I think they are powered by Anchor Free.

Cow Hollow along Union Street between Filmore. Also Castro Street Between Market and 19th.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 1 reply

OK was I smokin when I started this tribe?

2007-01-09T02:23:42Z

I am looking at the top of this page and it says "Fiwi"
How funny is that? Why didnt anyone tell me?

LOL

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 3 replies

Internet Cafe

2006-12-26T20:26:43Z

Cool little place in Santa Monica near the mall. Right near the corners of 2nd and Broadway.

The two owners can be a little RUDE, but IGNORE them. Menu is kinda spendy for what they offer, the internect connection is cool. The pass code is the phone number BTW.

SO if they get too rude, just sit on the bench out side and use the connection for free.

LOL

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Welcome New members

2006-11-20T00:15:50Z

I wanna say WELCOME to all my new members. Please feel to make post and comments. if you have places that you think are cool places for free WIFI then post them. You can even post your thoughts and comments on new wireless services. This tribe is about collecting and sharing information. Have fun

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Metropolis Coffee in Denver

2006-09-27T06:47:42Z

This place was cool. Since I am in Denver for a wedding I am catering this weekdend I thought I would find some time to check out some cool spots for free wifi. The lady at the hotel told me about this place.
The staff were very cool and relly went out of their way to help me.
The WIFI works great. I had no problem with it the hour I was there.

Cool Spot, great find
Check them out next time you're in Denver

http://www.metcoffee.net/

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Welcome aboard everyone!!!

2006-09-18T08:11:51Z

Hey I just wanna give some shouts to all of you for joining this TRIBE. BIG UPS to those of you who have posted comments and Much love to those who have posted places to get free internet service at some funky places.

As I start my fall catering season. I already see I am going to be on the road a whole lot. I have gigs all over the place. I even get to leave the country three times to cook some YUMMY food. YAY!!!!

So, hey. Keep posting and please ask you friends to join. I just might be emailing you guys when I get to your town. So get those spots ready for me.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

New Orleans Area FREE WiFi

2006-09-18T07:52:56Z

Ok, here's a few off the top of my head. It's 2:30 in the morning. ANY CC's Coffee House, which is owned by Community Coffee, a New orlans tradition, offers free wireless AND wired internet service. There are locations on Royal St. in The French Quarter, One on Veterans in Metairie, another on Metairie Rd. in Metairie, one on Esplanade Ave in New Orleans, 2 on Magazine St. in New Orleans.... that's just a few. Also, the Bourbon Pub/Parade, in the French Quarter, (a gay bar) has free WiFi also. As I think if more, I'll be sure to post.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 1 reply

Rules Of Engagement

2006-09-16T20:44:19Z

As many of you know. I like to go to cool coffee houses to work, chill out and blog. I guess I shoul dhave poted this at first, since I see that many people just dont know that coffee houses ARENT their homes. PEOPLE stop taking up all the space at tables that are inteneded for six people.

I am going to the USC Football game today at 5pm, but I wanted to get some work done for next week and work on my blog spot. Hot Java is pretty packed. there are only two tables that seat more then three people. The are like a dining room table. The one that I like is right by the window. Two ladies were already sitting here. HOWEVER a table that can sit7 only has room for 3. ALL THEIR SHIT is all over the place. HOW FUCKIN RUDE. I dont mind people bringing, back packs and books and things, but take a look around and notice when the place is getting cramped and DOWNSIZE your fuckin area or go the fuck home. These two LADIES (for lack of a better word) have all their books out three laptops, LUNCH that they brung from another place, notes, Ibods and all kinds of other shit.

Twice people have walked up to the table to sit down and they just look at them like "I cant move my shit"
What kills me is that these two ladies are LESBIANS and were just saying how rude people can be towards gays and lesbians. i guess its ok for them to just be RUDE to ANYONE.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Baja Cantina

2006-09-16T18:17:02Z

Ok, this is very cool. This was were I had my first drink as an adult. WOW. Talk about blast from the past. I was just in there yesturday and I had my laptop with. OH YEAH BABY!!! FREE WIFI. Lovin it!!!!

The food here is awesome and the staff is great. They are open 7 days a week and serve food late as well. BEST OF ALL. The WIFI BABY. They have free WiFi.

The next time your in the Marina be sure to check them out http://www.bajacantinavenice.com/

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

San Pedro Brewing Company

2006-09-16T18:11:10Z

I've never been here, but I keep hearing great things about it. I know two people that have been there a lot and they say the place is cool and the beers are great. They also say the food is good to.

Hey, you get to eat, drink, use your laptop (for free) and have a great time. What else do you want?

check them out http://sanpedrobrewing.com/

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Top 25 Wireless Tips and Tricks

2006-09-16T17:32:58Z

Want a better Wi-Fi experience on the road? The two keys are a long-range Wi-Fi card and a Wi-Fi travel router. With a long-range card, you can connect to even the weakest hotspot signals, and maximize throughput. With a travel router, you can unwire your hotel room, or even set up a temporary Wi-Fi net at your parents' house during the holidays. Read on for our top five tips for the wireless traveler.

1. Finding Hotspots on the Road (too bad it doesnt just list the FREE SPOTS)

Question: How can I find a hotspot when I can't get online to search for one?

Answer: While JiWire's online hotspot locator is the most powerful way to search for worldwide hotspots, there are several ways to take it with you, as well. The Portable Hotspot Locator comes in PC, Mac and AvantGo versions. You can also search for hotspots on your browser-enabled cell phone, at wap.jiwire.com.

Whichever way you go, you can filter the Hotspot Locator for free sites, as well as for a number of other useful parameters, such as service provider and location type (airport, hotel, cafe, etc.). JiWire's provider comparison page shows rates for all major Wi-Fi service providers.

Finally, frequent flyers won't want to miss our airport Wi-Fi guide, which includes a complete listing of major US and Canadian terminals with Wi-Fi.

2. How to Get Connected at a Wi-Fi Hotspot

Question: I'm new to Wi-Fi. I can use my laptop at home with no problems, but when I go to a free Wi-Fi location, I can't get onto the Internet. My PC tells me that I have a good connection, but when I try to access the Internet, I get "Page Not Found" and can't log into my work email. What am I doing wrong?

Answer: It's not what you're doing wrong, but what you're NOT doing that is the problem. There is one key difference between home and office Wi-Fi, and public hotspots. With home and office Wi-Fi, usually all you need to do is select the right access point from the list of SSIDs, and you'll be connected. Public hotspots are different. Even if your Wi-Fi card shows that you are attached to a hotspot's access point, you may not yet be connected to the Internet. The key secret to remember about getting connected at a public hotspot, whether free or paid, is that you need to open a NEW browser window first, before using email, IM chat, or other Internet functions. This browser window will usually pop up a screen for you to log in, or at least click "Okay" to whatever terms and conditions the hotspot imposes.

This system allows paid hotspots to collect login or credit card information, and free hotspots to put up information screens and responsibility disclaimers. It's just one extra step, and should only take a few seconds at a free hotspot. Some free hotspots ask that you create an account with a password. When you return the next time, logging in will be quick and painless.

What if you've opened a new browser window and still don't see a login screen? Make sure your browser home page is not blank (or it won't trigger the needed port opening), and that you have updated your system with the latest Service Packs (SP2 handles Wi-Fi much better than SP1). You may also need to simply get closer to the access point (your signal may be too weak to connect).

3. Long-Range Wi-Fi Cards

Question: The Wi-Fi reception in my laptop simply isn't good enough to bring in many hotspot signals unless I move very close to the access point. What can I do?

Answer: Many notebooks have rather wimpy Wi-Fi reception, although some newer models with wrap-around antennas pull in very strong signals. If yours is in the first category, the best advice is to add a long-range Wi-FI card.

A card with a high-power or directional antenna can make the connection to the router stronger and faster. Two good ones are the Hawking Hi-Gain Wireless-G Laptop Card and the Netgear RangeMax Wireless PC Card WPN511.

The Hawking card is an plain 802.11g solution, while the Netgear RangeMax card is a "super-G" version that can operate at up to 108Mbps with a matching router. It will extend range even when used with a regular 802.11g router. You will also see so-called "MIMO" or "draft-N" cards on the market. We don't recommend these unless you have a matching router at home, since they are twice as expensive and won't do any better than the Hawking or RangeMax cards at a hotspot.

4. Wi-Fi Travel Routers

Question: Most hotels with broadband access in the room supply Ethernet connections. I'd rather have Wi-Fi so I don't have to sit at the desk. Can I bring my own Wi-Fi router?

Answer: Most definitely! While you can bring along pretty much any standard Wi-Fi router, specialized "travel routers" are also available. These are basically pocket-size versions of regular network routers that let you unwire almost any wired Ethernet jack, such as those in hotels and conference rooms. You can use them to share your connection with colleagues or to simply surf from the comfort of your hotel bed.

Two of our favorite travel routers are Apple's AirPort Express, and Linksys' Travel Router. The palm-sized AirPort Express doubles as a full-fledged Wi-Fi router, with USB printer sharing and wireless iTunes music streaming to a stereo system. Despite the Apple name, the AirPort Express comes with full Windows configuration tools and support as well as Mac, making it great for Windows iPod users as well.

The Linksys Travel Router is another amazing product, the first consumer router of ANY kind that can simultaneously connect to a hotspot and act as an access point for other computers. This ability also makes it a great universal range extender for home Wi-Fi networks suffering from dead spots. Of course it also works with wired broadband connections as well. And it fits in the palm of your hand, with no power adapter to lose. It plugs right into the wall.

But what if you've only got a phone line in your hotel room? The Always On Wireless WiFlyer can unwire both broadband and dial-up connections, for true travel versatility. You can set up a Wi-Fi net anywhere, whether your hotel has broadband or not, for up to 14 users. The WiFlyer also has thousands of US telephone access numbers from major providers built-in, so you don't have to go searching for a number every time you arrive at a new place.

It's also worth noting that the Linksys and WiFlyer both have an extra Ethernet port, supporting a wired client or other device, such as a VoIP adapter. So you can take advantage of free or low-cost Internet-based phone calls too, for the price of a local call, and avoid high hotel long-distance charges.

5. Cellular Data Cards

Question: I can't always stop at a hotspot when I need to get online. I've been thinking about getting a cell data card for my laptop. Which should I choose?

Answer: If you just have to get connected NOW, then cell data is definitely the way to go. You can either get a dedicated card for your laptop, or use your data-capable Bluetooth phone as a modem for occasional connections. The main caveat is that cell data plans are quite expensive, typically $80 per month (less if you also have a voice plan).

That said, the top broadband cell data choices right now are EV-DO from Verizon or Sprint, or HSDPA from Cingular. For more on cell data plans and equipment, see our complete cell data guide.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

My Mission

2006-09-16T17:13:44Z

My mission is to start getting all bars in the world to provide free wi-fi, especially those near ports (air, sea, bus, or rail).

I have worked on a ship and traveled a bit and I know how cool it is to find a great bar, not far from the dock, that has reasonable drink prices, food, and free wi-fi. It is a formula for happiness for the bar/restaurant/wi-fi provider and the computer savvy merchant marine/traveler. I found a few in Alaska and the Caribbean and my favorite was KJ's Raven's Roost in Ketchikan, Alaska.

I would love it if more bars began to offer free wi-fi. It seems like a very natural next step.

Please to mention it to bartenders in your neighborhood.

Thanks!

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 1 reply

Cacao Coffee House.......Los Angeles

2006-09-11T07:57:55Z

I have friends who love this place. They wont shut up about it. I havent had a chance to get there yet.
I am told the wifi is free and the crowds are cool.

The in are LA on Santa Monica and the cross is Federal Avenue
11609 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles, Ca., 90025
(310) 473 7283

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5th Street Dicks Coffee House........Los Angeles

2006-09-11T07:36:17Z

Ok, This is news to me. 5th street dicks USE to be this really hot JAZZ spot in LA. SO when I heard it was a coffee house. I had to rediscover it.

Dicks is now in the village. 4305 Degnan Avenue. 323 296 0040
You can also email them at: ejkincoffee@yahoo.com

The website I have for them doesnt work so call them.

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 2 replies

MEMBERS!!!!!! Make some posts......

2006-09-11T07:21:52Z

I know you guys most go to some cool places and I am not the only one who carries my laptop around. I know you guys MUST go to places and take your laptops. So tell me about them and what they are like. What they offer and how the connection is?

DO THIS NOW!!!!

SMILE

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Great find on my way to Portfolio Coffee House

2006-09-03T20:12:26Z

Since I spent a long time in New York, I have this LOVE for New York and all the cool Deli's there. Today while walking to Portfolio Coffee House, I walked right by this place called Uncle Morty's New York Style Deli. in a word. AWESOME. The staff were FRIENDLY and the place was CLEAN. There are plenty of tables and there is a openf eel to the place. Plenty of light too. The cool thing is the patio. Since it was nice out as it always is in So Cal I sat there.

GUESS WHAT. I got a wireless connection. While Uncle Morty's doesnt provide a wireless connection I was able to get a really strong signal while I was on the patio.

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Long Beach Library (Main Branch)

2006-08-31T00:01:45Z

Ok. I will say this. If you can find a place and you just need to connect, then this place is for you. It offers NOTHING other then a free wirless connection. If you have some books to return or want to check olut books I would say go some place else.

BAD THING. You MUST have a library card to use the free WIFI. I think this is very silly since I have been to many different libraries all over and as long as your top is wireless you can use the connection. Not so here. YOU MUST have a Long Beach Library Card.

Dont ask for help cause all you will get is pointed to someone else. But like I said, if you really need to use the internet for free then this place will do if you are in a bind. I cant even tell you how good the connection is because I dont have a Long Beach Library card and now I dont want one.

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WiFi @ Central Library

2006-08-30T04:31:09Z

The Los Angeles Central Library is not a beautiful building, it also has free wifi and some very cool areas to blog, chill out, read and study. I like to go to the top floor and sit in the big arm chairs and chill with my laptop.

The grounds of the library are nice. There are some cool places to log on and use yourt wireless connection. If you dont mind homeless people, then the outdoor garden is AWESOME. There is also a very cool place to eat as well.

Be sure to check out the Art in this Library. I cant say enough about this building. AMAZING.

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Coffee Haven

2006-08-29T22:50:21Z

This place has free internet if you have a LAPTOP.
The Chicken Salad Sandwich is good depending on who makes it.
They are open late and this can be a great thing.
This place isnt that big, and doesnt have a ton of seating. Cool place though

Coffee Haven
1708 E Broadway
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 437-3785

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Hot Java

2006-08-29T22:34:30Z

Cool place. I am here checkin it out right now. The internet is free if you have a laptop. YOU DO NEED TO BUY SOMETHING!!!!

Cool big screen and what could be a fire place. The area by the fire place and flat screen seem to be the cool places to chill

Hot Java
2101 E. Broadway
Long Beach, Ca., 90803
562-433-0688

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies

Portfolio Coffee House

2006-08-29T22:26:51Z

This place ROCKS. I found it the other night. I am so happy I did. Much cooler then the other place I was hanging at.

The staff here are friendly and cool. I've had a few things on the menu and they all were good. I tend to drink ICED TEA when I am at a coffee house.

The crowd was way cool. NOT FAKE, very friendly, chill and funky. Music and art were AWESOME.

Plenty of places to chill and a ton of places to plug up your laptop and log on. There is NO CHARGE for the internet if you have a laptop. DONT BE SILLY, YOU DO NEED TO BUY SOMETHING!!!!

This is by far the best and coolest place I have been to in Long Beach.

PORTFOLIO COFFEEHOUSE
2300 East 4th Street (at Junipero)
Long Beach, California 90814
(562) 434-2486
www.portfoliocoffeehouse.com

posted in FREE WiFi@ Coffee Houses and Cafes - 0 replies