Import error: No module name urllib2

Converting Python 2 to Python 3 code

Python 3 presents many updates, including a different way to handle URL requests. MVP in Python 2, urllib2 has retired, so you need to meet the new players. Use the 2to3 conversion tool, to auto-upgrade your Python 2 code to Python 3, even those import declarations. Now, about decoding the content fetched using urlopen(), in Python 3.3 and later, you might want to:

html.decode('utf-8')  # Decode like a pro!
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to encode things correctly.

Writing code for multiple Python versions

Seeking to provide version compatibility? Use a mix of try-except to import the proper module as per the Python edition:

try:
    # Python 2 enthusiasts, this one's for you!
    import urllib2 as urllib_request
except ImportError:
    # We gotcha, Python 3 users!
    from urllib import request as urllib_request
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Testing your code across Python versions ensures a wider reach for your software.

Adopting Python 3 practices

Switched to Python 3? Great! Now let's refine the process with high-level modules like requests for HTTP operations. It simplifies complexities, providing a more intuitive interface:

import requests
response = requests.get('http://example.com/')
html = response.text  # Get the text, no beating around the bush!
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Validate using:

import sys
print(sys.version)  # Who am I? Python's existential crisis
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This eliminates confusion regarding the Python version used, and the module to import.

Common mistakes while adapting to Python 3

Transitioning to Python 3 can bring its own set of oddities. Let's ensure you're not getting tripped up:

Forgetting byte/str differences

Be mindful, urlopen.read() returns data in bytes, which you want to decode:

html = response.read().decode('utf-8') # byte byte bytes!
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Overlooking advanced scenarios

Dive into urllib.parse and urllib.error for URL manipulation and error handling, so you can boss your requests around.

Missing out on other powerful tools

Explore powerful alternatives like requests, offering robust solutions for web operations.

By avoiding these pitfalls, your Python 3 journey will be much smoother, turning web requests into walk-in-the-park.