Originally Posted by
gonebabygone
This might be an obvious one, but remove the SIM card from your phone. You can then use it for wifi, maps, etc without the risk of receiving incoming text messages.
All recent phones allow you to turn off roaming or turn off cellular altogether which is a far easier way, and means you wont risk losing a small SIM card.
Originally Posted by
gonebabygone
Oh, and always exchange your money in your home country, where you can shop around for the best rate!
Depends entirely on the home country. Getting cash exchanged generally will not provide a great rate, usually it is far better to withdraw from an ATM in the destination country using a low/no FX fee card.