On Wed, 06 Sep 2006 11:18:28 -0400, Lewis G Rosenthal wrote:
  

Finally, are any of you using Wi-Fi access in large public spaces (shopping centers, marinas, parks, etc.)? If so, how is the service?

All of the above pertain not only to the US, but I'm interested in the market in the UK (especially), as well as continental Europe and Australia.
    

Not sure if this is what you are asking but I'll tell you one story.   While
travelling in England I needed internet access which is not so easy for
the casual user.   So on return to the US I researched this and discovered
the aggregator iPass, who provide access worldwide via dialup, ethernet,
wifi and isdn.  They bill by the second.   You may sign up for $4/mo or a
one-time $40 fee valid for life (what I chose).   It works.   Last time I
used the service, in Boston airport awaiting checkin, I paid 35 cents to
download my mail, rather than the $6 minimum login fee to T-Mobile
(which I refuse to pay on principle).

Anyone interested contact the very good iPass reseller I2ROAM   at
+1 866 811-6209 www.i2roam.com Ask for Per Wihlborg.    He will
charge you double if you mention my name.