Marco
Caprez
The Most Important Apps
Apps are now indispensable. There's an app for everything to make your life easier, but finding the right one isn't always easy. Here, I'll share my experiences with the respective apps and the ones I use myself.
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Listing by categories
Means of transport
- 12GO train, bus, ferries and taxis
- Grab taxis, delivery service (similar to Uber)
- Bolt Taxis, E-Scooters (similar to Uber)
12Go
Ist eine super simple und einfach zu bedienende App, in kürzester Zeit, ist das nächste Taxi, Minibus, Zug, Bus oder Fähre zum nächsten Aufenthaltsort gebucht. Ich nutze die App seit Jahren und kann sie nur empfählen. Einsatzgebiet; Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesien, Kambodscha, Laos, Singapur, Myanmar und auf den Philippinen.
grave
I use Grab regularly; it's very easy, reliable, and very affordable. The app lets you check availability, taxi class, and current location/arrival time. The app also offers other options like food delivery and mobile payments. It can be used in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, and the Philippines.
Bolt
For me, Bolt is a complement because, for example, in Thailand, Grab or Bolt is represented depending on the region, so one or the other app is required depending on where you are. Bolt is active in 45 countries, including many in Europe and some in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, such as Estonia, Poland, Portugal, South Africa, Ghana, Saudi Arabia, and Kazakhstan.
Flights
- Booking
- Swoodoo
Booking
Booking is also strong in the flight sector, so it's often possible to book combinations, as the site offers hotels, rental cars, and flights. My experience so far has been very good, including with customer service. I've even postponed my flight to another date very spontaneously and easily for a small additional charge.
Swoodoo
I use Grab regularly; it's very easy, reliable, and very affordable. The app lets you check availability, taxi class, and current location/arrival time. The app also offers other options.
Google Flights
Google Flights is my go-to app when I want to check flights quickly and easily—super fast, super clear. What's really nice is that you can immediately see when it's cheapest to fly, easily compare prices, and set price alerts.
Hotels/Apartments
- Booking
- Agoda
- Trivago
- Airbnb
- Facebook (groups)
Booking
The app is easy to navigate and probably has the largest selection of accommodations available if you need quick and easy accommodation—whether it's a hotel, hostel, or apartment. You can often cancel for free and see what others think of the accommodation. If you create an account, you can benefit from refunds based on bookings, which is a nice perk. Perfect for spontaneous trips or longer journeys.
Agoda
It's a complement to Booking.com; you can often find good deals there. Many accommodations offer extra discounts for mobile bookings, and some even let you pay later. I use the app occasionally and have always been satisfied. Important: Agoda shows gross prices, so you can change the amount when booking, always comparing the actual costs.
Trivago
Trivago is perfect if you don't feel like browsing through dozens of sites individually – it simply compares prices from various booking platforms for you. This makes it easy to find the best deal for your hotel. Especially when you're in a hurry or want to save money, Trivago is really useful. Prices from different providers can vary considerably, so Trivago provides a good initial overview.
Airbnb
If you want something different than a hotel—for example, a cool apartment, a beach house, or a room with locals. You often get more space, a kitchen, and a bit more of a "home away from home" feeling. It's definitely worth it, especially for longer stays or trips with friends. Important! Always contact the landlord personally to get an idea (regarding fraud).
Facebook is truly invaluable for apartment hunting abroad. People are constantly posting vacant rooms, apartments, or roommate requests in local groups. You can message people directly, often without the need for a real estate agent or extra fees. And best of all, you get a feel for what the area is like right away.
Route planner
- Google Maps
Google Maps
Google Maps is a lifesaver when you're on the go—whether you're looking for the nearest ATM, a good restaurant, or your way back to your accommodation. You can even save maps offline in case you lose signal. And with reviews and photos, you'll know right away. It's simply indispensable, no matter where in the world you're traveling, whether by bike, motorcycle, or car.
translator
- Google Translate
Google Translate
The language barriers aren't always easy, so Google Translate helps. It's a bit more sophisticated in some languages than in others, and still has a few errors, but at least basic communication is almost always possible. I've often been glad to have it, whether for a quick purchase or for translating the menu.
Payments
- Wise
- Revolut
Wise
I wouldn't want to be without Wiese anymore. Exchanging money whenever the exchange rate is attractive and making transfers in real time are a luxury. Being able to pay with physical and digital cards anytime, anywhere completes the possibilities. I describe Wiese in the Payment Methods section; you can go directly to the report by clicking on the app icon.
Revolut
Unlike Wise, Revolut is a bank, not a financial institution. You can also pay worldwide at the real exchange rate without incurring nasty fees. Everything is handled easily via the app; you have full control over your money and can even manage your account on the go. Compared to a regular bank, you simply feel much more flexible and modern, and you also have the option to buy cryptocurrencies.
communication
- Line (Asian WhatsApp)
Anyone who isn't familiar with WhatsApp is always in use, even abroad, whether for calling or writing to family or friends. Even in the workplace, many countries prefer communication channels like WhatsApp or similar to traditional email.
Line
Line is very similar to WhatsApp and is preferred in Asia.
Delivery services
- Grave
- Foodpanda
grave
In Southeast Asia, it's something like the Swiss Army knife of apps – you can use it to book rides, order food, have things delivered, or even pay. Grab is extremely popular and incredibly convenient, especially in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. What really sets it apart: Everything is handled easily via an app, and you always know the cost in advance – no haggling, no stress.
Foodpanda
Foodpanda is the go-to app if you're craving delicious food abroad but don't feel like going out – simply order and have it delivered. Foodpanda has a particularly strong presence in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. What's cool is that the selection is huge, from street food to sushi, and you can easily pay via the app and follow everything live.
Daiting
- Thai Friendly
- Bumble
- Badoo
- Tinder
Thai Friendly
A dating app that's especially popular in Thailand—perfect if you want to meet people locally, whether for friendship, dates, or more. The app is easy to use, and you can quickly strike up a conversation with locals. Besides Thailand, it's also used in neighboring countries like Laos, Cambodia, and parts of the Philippines, making it ideal if you're traveling in the region. Get the premium subscription, which costs about CHF/EUR 20 per month (cancellable monthly), but it's worth it.
Bumble
Bumble is like Tinder—only cooler, because women make the first move. Not only can you date, but you can also find new friends or network professionally, all in one app. The app is available worldwide, whether in Thailand, Germany, the US, or Mexico—so it's perfect if you're on the go and want to meet people.
Badoo
Badoo is a dating app that makes it super easy to meet new people in your area – whether for dating, chatting, or just going out. What makes Badoo special: You can see who's liked you, discover people nearby, and even filter by common interests. The app is available worldwide – from Brazil to Spain to Thailand – making it perfect if you're traveling and don't want to be alone.
Tinder
Almost everyone knows Tinder – it's super simple: swipe right if you like someone and start chatting if you find a match. The app is perfect for spontaneously meeting new people on the go, whether for a date, a drink, or an adventure. It works worldwide – whether in Thailand, Mexico, Germany, or the USA – making it ideal for travelers who are open to new acquaintances.
