Connecting to the internet and using phones in Slovenia
Slovenia is a modern country and is well-connected to the rest of the world through mobile and internet access. Internet connectivity is easy to find, and reception and coverage are strong throughout the country. The developed telecommunications network in Slovenia makes it easy for expats to keep in touch with friends and family back home.
Connect to the internet in Slovenia
If you've just moved to the country, you may wish to set up internet access for your home or business. The major internet supplier and host in the country is the Academic and Research Network of Slovenia (ARNES). They oversee the .si domain names for educational, research, and cultural groups, and they have developed the internet network throughout the country.
The other main providers for internet include T-2, Telekom Slovenije, and Telemach. You can set up a modem or wireless connection, or purchase a pay-as-you-go internet plan. A wireless plan usually requires a minimum time requirement, either for one year or 18 months.
Public wi-fi is available in many cities and larger towns through libraries, restaurants, and cafes. Hotels also often offer wi-fi access to guests, though there will sometimes be an hourly or daily connection charges.
Post offices
Posta Slovenije is the country's national postal service, looking after the post of letters, parcels, and other goods, domestically and internationally. Almost all cities and towns will have a post office, and sometimes English speaking staff is available. They also offer express services, self-service machines, and click-and-collect options for parcel pick-up in larger cities.
Additional private companies may also offer shipping and courier services.
Mobile phones and networks
Mobile phones are easy to find in Slovenia. If your phone is 'unlocked', meaning you can use a SIM card from any carrier, you will be able to use a local SIM.
It's advisable to purchase a local SIM card to have a local number and to make local calls. Otherwise, you can purchase a phone on contract, or a pay-as-you-go option. You will find SIM cards in most retailers, including convenience and grocery stores, and phones can be purchased through specialist retailers and electronic stores.
Mobile phone coverage is strong throughout the country. Many phone plans also include data, allowing you to access the internet when travelling. If you are planning to stay in Slovenia for a long time, it is beneficial to have a local phone, as international roaming and fees can be very expensive from your home mobile carrier.
To make it cheaper to stay in touch with those back home, consider video apps such as Skype or Facetime, which allows connection and video calls at low or no cost ' provided, of course, both parties have internet access.
The major mobile providers include Simobil, Telekom Slovenija, and Tusmobil.
Tips for making calls:
- The country code for Slovenia is 386. To dial Slovenia internationally, you will need to use this code.
- Different landline area codes are used for various regions. For example, Ljubljana area is 01, and Maribor is 02.
- All telephone numbers are nine digits long, starting with an 8.
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