My 20 year old daughter thought she would not need a cell phone during her 3-week European experience. She is now in London (first day) and wishes she had rented a cell phone. Is it possible to rent a cell phone in Europe? Her flights are in and out of Heathrow so she could return the phone on her last day. She will be meeting up with friends in Paris and Rome. Does she really need a phone or will her calling card suffice? Comments? Suggestions?
Posted by
Richardson, TX, USA
153 posts
She could buy a cheap prepaid cell phone, or get a prepaid phone card and use it at public telephones.
Posted by
OP
Oak Ridge, TN, USA
44 posts
She has a phone card but isn't sure how available public phones will be. In your experience, are public phones easily accessible? Where would she rent/buy a pre-paid cell phone? Are these places all over London as they are all over the US?
Posted by
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
241 posts
Public phones were still common in italy, though, like US, some are being disconnected due to low volume of use. Everybody is going to cell phones.
Posted by
Anaheim, CA, USA
1455 posts
cell phones are so reliable and convenient, its the best thing to have instead of a calling card. Plus if she makes reservations or needs someone to call her ASAP she has a number of her own.
For example In Madrid, restaurants ask for a telephone to hold your table, and also to call you so you don't hang around waiting.
In London she can go to Virgin Mobile, O2, Orange or any cell phone company and get a prepaid one. Its like going to Target, Walmart, etc and getting a prepaid one. Cost range from $60 and up, depending on phone, plan, etc. My sister got hers in Milan for $99.
The prepaid phone is clean, the number is hers to use next time she travels, and is probably cheaper than renting.
Posted by
OP
Oak Ridge, TN, USA
44 posts
Michelle,
Thanks! That's just what I needed to know!