Some time ago, I read an article about a mobile phone that could take two SIM cards. Such a handset would be able to have a card for China and another for Hong Kong, as I understand it. Would that be the best way to cover both China and Hong Kong?
N.N., Mid-Levels
DQ: The good and bad news about this - or, for that matter, almost any new technology - is that things change quickly. It is true that a few months ago a number of such mobile phones were advertised, but the technology has moved on. The mobile service providers have finally recognised the needs of those who want to go to the mainland without having to take two phones and have been working on a solution.
If you pop across the border to Guangzhou or Shenzhen, you could be forgiven for thinking you have entered a world where Batman is a fashion icon. A number of busy-looking people seem to be wearing utility belts that resemble the one worn by the caped crusader. But instead of being loaded with bat-themed gadgets used to fight crime, these belts are festooned with mobile phones, PDAs and even pagers. It's a great look for a teenage boy but hardly suitable for time-poor businessmen.
There are a few ways to achieve the coverage you desire. Not long ago you could buy a subscriber identity module card-cutter and try cutting up a SIM card and putting two into your phone.
I can't imagine many people doing that today. Buying a phone that can take two cards is also passe. Instead you should apply for a special service from your telecommunications company. In Hong Kong, a number of operations - One2Free, 1010 and others - offer services that will get you up to five numbers on one SIM card. Billing is made easier, too.
