International Cell Phones - who has them?

[Lefta Dissenter]

My son is leaving for Cairo this week (to be there for at least 10 months), and we (duh) finally figured out that we need to get him an international cell phone and international cell-time plan so we can actually reach him.

I've been looking at telestial.com for the international phones and SIM cards.

Does anyone have experience with using these, and therefore some advice as to what to look for/avoid in doing this?

Thank you SO much! :hi:

[lanlady]

1. I've rented them--

for short trips to Europe. In one case, it had a French SIM. The second time I had a global SIM that worked in any country. I've thought about buying one myself because the rentals, though convenient, are costly.

It's a great idea you have to get one for your son. If he's going to be travelling out of Egypt you might consider the global phone.

[peacebird]

2. my T-Mobile phone can be switched to international mode or used here

My plan lets me select the country I will be in and use the phone. But if he will be there any length of time it might be cheaper to start the service there.

mine costs an outrageous dollar a minute to phone the states from europe.

[NewJeffCT]

3. Try a calling card

we get them for 2.2 cents a minute to China, but it's a Chinese exclusive website.

I'm sure they have them for other countries, too.

[Lydia Leftcoast]

4. I never have, because even international cell phones don't work in Japan

Instead, I rent one while I'm there.

Last time, I actually bought a prepaid one for $60 with a month's worth of minutes. It was cheaper than renting for that period of time.

However, it has long since expired, so I'll have to buy or rent a new one next time.