wifi or ?

If you want access to cellular networks in Europe you'll need an AT&T IPad. That's because AT&T uses "GSM" technology, as do virtually all European carriers. Verizon uses "CDMA" technology, which is not compatible with GSM. But consider this: if you're willing to rely on wi-fi connections alone while in Europe, either IPad will work fine. And just like in the US, wi-fi is becoming more and more widespread in Europe.

Thanks Tom.
Does any one who lives in Maryland and uses AT&T service on their I Pad have any problems with connections or otherwise? Dorothea

I use my iPad in Europe on free wifi. Most places we stay have it. If you want to use the 3G feature to connect, ask very carefully about data packages and the price ( specifically for Europe). My understanding is that it is pretty expensive.

Dorothea, Could you clarify whether you require internet connectivity via cellular data OR only via Wi-Fi, either at home or when you're travelling? It could be somewhat challenging to find a wireless provider for cellular data while in Europe. They are available in some countries, but might be hard to find in others. If you only require internet access via Wi-Fi, both when travelling and at home, you can save some money by purchasing one of the Wi-Fi only models. Regarding the issue of whether to travel with an AT&T or Verizon version of the iPad, according to the Apple specifications, it shouldn't matter. Both versions appear to include GSM / UMTS / HSDPA with all the appropriate frequency bands. HOWEVER, each version of the iPad may be configured with specific settings for each network, so in that sense the AT&T version may be more suitable for travels in Europe. You may wish to speak with your cellular network provider for information on which iPad versions would be most suitable for your circumstances. Happy travels!

In 2010 we traveled for 2 months in Europe with 2 iPhones and an iPad. We purchased the AT&T data plan for two months -- something like $50 for a VERY limited amount of data. That said, we ended up using little of the data allowance over the two months so the $50 ended up being more of a protection for 'emergency' use when WiFi was not available. WiFi was generally adequate and I would imagine that the WiFi situation improves each year. I see that AT&T has increased the amount of data in their monthly traveler plan: http://techcrunch.com/2011/07/12/att-international-data-plans/ but it still runs $25 a month. Here are the countries AT&T covers:
http://www.wireless.att.com/learn/international/dataconnect-global.jsp

Ken is more up to date than I am. The new IPad which just debuted will connect with both CDMA and GSM networks, regardless of whether it's an AT&T or a Verizon model. You can also pop in a SIM card when you're traveling if you want a local connection. The older IPads didn't have this versatility.

Thanks to all for the inf. Vernon i will not need cellular connection. I only want to check my e-mails at home and e-mail my kids. I have Verizon at home with windows. In my research of this i am told that the new I Pad with Verizon has a built in Sym card so you can not change cards. AT&T has removal sym cards which then aloud you to buy cards as you travel which i am told is cheaper. I though it would be good to have the 3G service so i could use when ever i wanted . Of course i would use wi-fi most of the time so would go with the smaller plan with my server. I will be driving through different countries and though it would be nice to count on having access all the time. Also i was thinking about the future not knowing what i will use it for as this is all new to me. Also i read that AT&T is faster on the new i pad but i worry that i will not get good pick up in my area as Verizon has been the best for cellular service here at least in the past.
Dorothea

Dorothea, I don't have any information on whether the SIM cards with Verizon versions of the iPad are removable or not? Hopefully, Paul or someone else in the U.S. can clarify that point. I believe it's likely that the AT&T iPad models DO HAVE removable SIM cards. AFAIK, iPad's with AT&T are supplied "unlocked", which means users are able to use any SIM cards. However as I mentioned in my last reply, while it may be easy to buy SIM cards for data plans in some countries, it may not be as easy in other countries. You might be able to buy one of the Verizon iPad models and use "roaming" while you're travelling. However, I just tried setting up a sample profile using their "Trip Planner" tool and that indicates that none of their iPad models will work in Europe (despite the fact the devices have the necessary radios installed)? Perhaps they haven't updated the Trip Planner to include the new iPad??? It would be a good idea to speak with Verizon regarding options for travel, as that may be the best option. If the Verizon version is limited to CDMA technology, you may find that the AT&T version is the only option for travelling in Europe. You might also have a look at some of the "travel phone" firms, as many are offering data plans now. For example, Roam Simple has data plans for Apple products, which could likely be used with an AT&T iPad model (although they don't have the new iPad on the list yet). If I'm reading their website correctly, that option would cost $29 for the SIM card and $99 for a 50MB Global data plan. Good luck!

This is right from Apple's website: " The new iPad offers the most comprehensive support for fast networks around the world. It's designed with two cellular antennas tuned to 12 different bands that access a larger frequency spectrum. That means you can travel almost anywhere in the world and get online. And your connection is always fast. iPad with Wi-Fi + 4G models for AT&T and for Verizon connect to GSM/UMTS networks worldwide. But if you want a local connection when you're traveling, just pop in a local SIM card." The way I read this, all new IPads - but only the new ones - will connect to European (GSM) cell networks and all will accept a SIM card. Doesn't matter if you have the AT&T version or the Verizon version. With the old IPad2, only the AT&T version would accept a SIM card and only the AT&T version had GSM capability. With the new IPad (why didn't they call it the IPad3?), this is no longer the case.

Tom i just got off the phone with Apple as i wanted to be sure after reading your response. Verizon I pad has a built in sym card. You can not remove. AT$T has the removal sym card. At least that is what i am being told for the second time.
Dorothea