1. Skype — Hard to argue with this one. Get free Skype-to-Skype calls from any wifi point in the world and low-cost Skype-to-phone and cellphone calls as well.
2. World Nomads Language Guides — While each guide seems to only cover 40-50 phrases, they are free and they certainly give you a taste of what to expect. I’m not very adept at languages and listening to the Thai guide was enough to convince me that I’ll need to start early if I’m going to have any chance.
3. Kayak.com — Another free app, Kayak connects you to their huge search engine for flights, hotels and more.
4. Lonely Planet — LP seems to have taken the lead in providing quality travel content on the iPod. Download chapters of guidebooks, phrasebooks, and city guides.
5. iJourneys Walking Audio Tours — Ok, this is not an app. Covering a dozen European cities, these 90 minute audio tours are priced at $14.95 each and work with any mp3 player.
6. TextPlus — Avoid costly text charges with this free app that allows you to text for free from any wifi hotspot.
7. Twitter — One of the easiest ways to keep friends and family updated on your adventures, there are many twitter apps out there. We’ve had good luck with TweetDeck (though it crashes often) and are looking forward to trying HootSuite on the iPhone.
8. Audio Books — Also not an app, but awfully handy when you’re stuck on a 12 hour flight.
9. White Noise Lite — There are several white and pink noise generators available. This one has the added benefit of being free. Great for blocking out background noise — helping you to relax into sleep, or just stay focused on the task at hand.
10. Currency — Up-to-date currency conversions for over 100 countries. And free. ‘Nuff said.
