how to find wifi in the boonies
here are a few conclusions:
- there are unlisted coffee shops. if you see a town, there must be a coffee shop. example: princess anne, somerset county, MD, has petite fleur, which was listed as a gift shop. ask locals.
- look in mainstream places, even if they sound bad. for example, i am now sitting in mcdonalds, which has a horrible smell but quite possibly the most stable internet service around here in crisfield, MD. you can get used to the smell.
- consider all options: libraries, bars, hotel lobbies, local businesses that may have unprotected services. very common password: business phone number which is often posted on the front door.
- plan in advance: call the usual suspects up front and ask about working hours.
- advertised wifi is very often unstable. business owners don't know how to keep their service running properly. always have a backup option.
- router admin access is often unprotected. you can troubleshoot some problems if the responsible party is not around.