Time for Coffee?

If you do not already own a suitable computer--or even if you do--it is a very good idea to try and see the Internet in action before you get connected yourself. If you have a relative, friend or neighbour who already uses the Internet, now would be a good time to drop by and ask for a demonstration. But even if you don't know anybody already on the Net, there is still a way of putting a toe in the water: visit a ``CyberCafé''.

Don't be put off by the trendy jargon--it is still just a café. What adds the Cyber is the availability of computers, already connected to the Internet, right by your coffee table. So for a modest extra charge you can find out whether the Net is really everything it is cracked up to be. There will be friendly staff on hand to help you get started and--if you are really lucky--the coffee might be quite nice too!

Alternatively, another innovation just beginning to appear in Irish shopping centres and other public places is the Internet Kiosk. This typically looks somewhat like a telephone box, but with a form of computer terminal instead of a phone. Again, by paying a charge you will get access to the Internet for some specified period of time.

Cybercafés and Internet Kiosks are quickly springing up all over Ireland. Check your local classified telephone directory under ``Internet Services'' or ``Cyber Cafés'' to find one close to you.