Today, I went to the property manager's office to complain that our Internet is out. Of the three flashing lights on the cable modem, only the first is blinking. It went out yesterday. Upon our arrival, we were given the password for the second floor apartment. So as long as we walk to the edge of the balcony we can still connect. This is easy enough with my phone or tablet, but the Toshiba laptop is a bit unwieldy for the challenge.
Alas, the office could call to make an appointment for us, but then couldn't call us to confirm the timing. This is because my cell phone is not roaming well here. Even when it does connect to a local provider, I think rates are $3.50 a minute, or something really ridiculous. Yet, I learned from Carlos that one can pick up a SIMM at any OXXO convenience store. These are like a 7/11 and found on every other corner in Puerto Vallarta.
The little packet for a TELCEL SIMM cost just 150 pesos, or a bit over $US 10. I bought one before even considering if it were full-sized or a micro as needed in my Nexus 5. The cashier had already charged my credit card, but did not have the smaller cards. He was very reluctant to reverse the charges. Instead, he pointed down the street to several TELCEL dealers. I must admit that at first I thought he was having me exchange at another OXXO and, of course, they didn't know what I wanted. I visited both dealers but settled on the one who said they could cut the card to make it fit. The result works fine although it cost me another 70 pesos for the procedure.
Now, I be able to receive confirmation from my property manager about an appointment with the Internet guys. As well, I have pay-as-you-go, Mexican cell phone service. I always own unlocked devices. Go ahead give me a call. The following number should be in effect until April:
011 52 (322) 139-7465.
