Five locations offering the convenience of free WiF
Emily Mead - March 12th, 2008While sitting at the computer, avoiding homework, the laptop cursor is suddenly attracted to the Internet shortcut conveniently located on the screen’s desktop and the frame unexpectedly freezes and a window pops up explaining an Internet failure at the worst possible time.
In an effort to end this battle, here are five places, listed in no specific order, located close to campus that offer the much appreciated and oh-so-prized possession of free wireless Internet.
Macy’s European Coffeehouse, Bakery & Vegetarian Restaurant
This café, located at 14 S. Beaver St., is a perfect stop for a quiet neighborhood place to study. The Internet access was easy and simple to connect, and there were outlets located conveniently around the room for plugging in laptops. Though it took a little time locating the Internet connection, once found, it was fast and reliable service.
The quiet and seclusive areas in the coffee shop made for an ideal atmosphere if cramming for a test.
Open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. everyday, there really is no excuse not to hit up this wireless hot-spot.
Late for the Train
With three different locations in Flagstaff, Late for the Train offers free wireless Internet with an almost perfect connection at all locations. However, most conveniently placed near campus is their location at 2080 S. Milton Rd.
The brightly-colored walls and soft folk music that plays in the background creates the perfect calming mood. Open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Late for the Train gives the opportunity to do some last-minute Web research in the morning right before a dreaded 8 a.m. class.
The free wireless is no big loss to the workers at Late for the Train. Amoreena Johnson, manager of the Milton location, said they have a give-take relationship with the customers of the coffee shop.
“Free is a huge thing, and it’s brought a lot of customers in,” Johnson said. “There’s not a big problem with people taking advantage of [the free wireless Internet]; they don’t necessarily have to buy anything in order to use it, but most people do.”
The other stores are located at 107 N. San Francisco St., and 1800 N. Fort Valley Rd. All in all, when looking for a small quiet place to spend time on the Internet, Late for the Train will end the search.
NiMarco’s Pizza
The study munchies come after long hours of studying with little time to stop for a lunch break. If that is the case then NiMarco’s Pizza, located at 101 S. Beaver St., with its dependable and free wireless Internet is the best bet for studying.
Though the computer doesn’t automatically connect to their wireless, once found it was easy to connect to and when finally using the Web it was fast and dependable.
The dimmed lights and homey atmosphere also provide a great area to study in and the store’s hours, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., allow for late night Internet time. But make sure the laptop is fully charged as there are only a few outlets available scattered around at certain booths.
Though it’s hard to resist the temptation of a good pizza, in truth, there is no purchase necessary for this reliable Internet connection.
Campus Coffee Bean
Campus Coffee Bean is the perfect group-friendly environment. Don’t worry about agreeing on a time to meet; the Bean is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., allowing unfailing Internet access at almost anytime. Between the many easily accessed outlets and the newly changed Internet provider, there is no chance of losing a valuable connection to the Internet even with a battery-failing laptop.
Located at 1800 S. Milton Rd., Campus Coffee Bean is within walking distance of campus, weather permitting.
The free WiFi is not only there for any one’s convenience, but the friendly management feels it is also your right to have the free access.
“Roger, the owner of the Coffee Bean…felt if anyone was coming in and purchasing from us, it was almost an injustice to charge them [for the Internet]. He wanted it to be more of a perk when coming in and buying a drink,” said Traci Melton, the night manager of Campus Coffee Bean.
Not only is the dependable access available to students and citizens alike, but it does not hurt the coffee shop’s reputation either.
“I think customers really appreciate it. I have a lot of customers come in asking if we have wireless…when I tell them it’s free they are stoked about it. I think more people are inclined to come back because they are appreciative more than anything,” Melton said.
This friendly atmosphere and good coffee keeps focus on the task at hand—diligently surfs the net, it is definitely a must-try WiFi hot-spot.
Bookman’s
This small, quaint bookstore creates a comforting atmosphere.
Located on 1520 S. Riordan Ranch St. right next-door to Joann’s, Bookman’s offers a quite place to relax and explore what the Internet has to offer. The couches strategically placed throughout the store offer an old rustic library-like feel.
Open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., being crunched for time isn’t an issue while using the connection, however it may take a while to connect and stay patient because once the computer is fully connected, the Internet is slightly sluggish.
There are only a few outlets available in the small café area, so charge the laptop ahead of time as well. Overall Bookman’s is a cozy place with Internet access that’s readily available.