I will be in Rome for 8 weeks with my husband and daughter. My husband will be working so I will be alone on normal working days. I would like a phone so I can contact my husband. What is the best way to get a temporary phone in Rome?
Posted by
Frankfurt, Germany
9146 posts
You can just buy a phone when you arrive. They are cheap, probably umder 30 euro. Top up the minutes as needed.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32324 posts
Trisha,
Given your circumstances, there are several choices.
1.) As suggested in the previous reply, you could buy a PAYG phone when you arrive in Rome. This would likely be the least expensive option, as you'd be on a local plan with local rates. Most European cell networks have several different PAYG plans with slightly different rate structures, so hopefully the "sales associate" will be able to provide information to help you choose the best plan for your needs. One note regarding buying a local SIM is that the displays and calling information will likely be in Italian.
2.) You could buy or rent a phone from one of the "travel Phone" firms such as Roam Simple, Call In Europe or Cellular Abroad. For use in one country, these often provide rates that are very close to local rates. As you'll be travelling for 8 weeks, buying would probably be a better option than renting.
3.) You could purchase a quad band, unlocked GSM Phone off E-Bay and then purchase a local SIM card when you arrive in Rome. This would allow you to purchase the type of phone that you're most comfortable with. One caveat is that some of the phones listed on E-Bay may be configured for particular networks, but there are some vendors selling new unlocked phones.
A "basic" phone would be a less expensive option than a "smart" phone such as a Blackberry or IPhone.
Eight weeks in Rome - what a wonderful opportunity!
Cheers!