Two of us are traveling to Florence and Rome in mid-Septmeber. Our US cell phones will not work. I would like some suggestions on the best, cheapest way to keep in touch (phone or maybe text) when we go our separate ways, such as "meet you at the park in 30 minutes" we can communicate. We do not need internet access. We will also have to make a few local phone calls. I looked at Telestial (Passport Light) but was concerned about the reviews. Thanks.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
See Using an Unlocked Phone here: http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/cell-phone-europe.htm
Posted by
roswell, ga, usa
1501 posts
Just go into one of the Tim stores or Vodaphone shops and buy two of their most inexpensive phones. They will put a sim card in that will have eu5 for calling. Find out the charge per minute, and "top off" the card in the store -when you run low you can add minutes at a tobacco shop. This is the least expensive way to keep in touch with a traveling partner. I still have one that Is at least 5 years old, and bring it and put eu20 on it when I get there. Last time I was there they had some cheap phones for around eu40. I know that's not really Cheap -- but it's better than not being in touch. I always ask for no texting.
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16236 posts
you need to to buy an UNLOCKED GSM QUAD PHONE. you should buy preferably before you leave, because buying at a store in Italy is likely more expensive, but also, if it's a cheap one, it might come with Italian language only. You can find plenty online (Amazon.com, Everbuying.com etc.). You are leaving soon, therefore make sure to get a fast delivery option. Or maybe an AT&T store or another brick and mortar cell phone store might have it (likely more expensive than online). Then as soon as your airplane hits the ground in Italy (hopefully not too hard and preferably on a runway) go to a local mobile phone store (TIM, VODAFONE, WIND are the 3 largest providers) buy a local SIM Card with an Italian number.