Amazing Amazon

For the past months, I've had several attempts at getting my own dedicated eBook reader. After weeks of having the "you don't need another gadget" vs "but it doesn't strain my eyes" mental debate, I finally gave in. I explored many different options and finally decided on getting a Kindle over a Kobo or Nook. I'd like to think I'm harmlessly treating my inner bookworm with a good reading doodah.

I spent days sifting through articles about the different Kindle models after finally resolving to getting a Kindle Keyboard 3G. It's not the latest model but I can say that it's the best among Amazon's Kindle family. I wanted to spare myself the disappointment of getting a touchscreen eBook reader because I know I'll end up comparing its responsiveness with my iPad or iPhone. Besides, I opted to get a unit with free global 3G so I can have access to the Internet overseas without the expensive data charges from my network provider. According to Amazon, the experimental browser on the Kindle Touch and Kindle 4 only works over Wi-Fi so there's no way I can use them when I travel.



PLACING MY ORDER
So on the evening of August 30 (Thursday), I fired up my web browser and quickly navigated to the Amazon website. It was the first time I signed up on Amazon so I didn't really know what I was up to. Anyhoo, I placed my order for one unit of Kindle Keyboard with Wi-Fi and Free 3G, opted to get the ad-free version, and paid online via credit card.

Breakdown of Costs and Delivery Charges

I appreciate how Amazon presented the breakdown in a pretty straightforward way. I availed of the Global Priority Shipping which reduced the arduous waiting period to 4-6 business days. The total cost already includes the "Import Fees Deposit" charge which is equivalent to the import tax I'm supposed to pay the Customs department. This is my favorite feature of DHL's International shipping; unlike other forwarders, DHL will handle the customs clearing and import tax payment so you won't have to drop by the post office to claim your package.

SHIPPING PROCESS
Here comes the hard part. So after placing my order online on the evening of August 30th, I received a notification that the actual shipping will be on the next day (August 31) and the estimated delivery date will be some time between September 5-7. After DHL picked up my unit from Amazon, I received an email indicating the package's tracking number which I can use to track the item via DHL's website. I can barely count how many times I launched DHL's website and tried to track the package. Simply put, half of their site's traffic for that week can be accounted to me.

True to their promise of having the item arrive on my doorstep by the first week of September, I got my Kindle September 5th! I decided to come in late for work and wait for the postman to arrive. I think he knew how giddy I was seeing him because he let out a queer "GOOD MORNING MA'AM" when I opened the door.

It's a good morning, indeed! After asking for an ID card, which I already have in hand, he just asked me to sign the delivery sheet. At that point, I can almost hug Mr.Post Man because of so much joy. I guess he figured that one out so he immediately hurried off.

Here are some pictures of my new baby:

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10/29/2012:
Two months after getting this Kindle, I can say my reading life's never the same again. I've been reading books after books and have been more patient especially when it comes to waiting for boarding during my trips just because I have something I can be busy with without arguing with GV about who gets to use the iPad. True enough, this Kindle is the new love of my geeky life <3
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