My son & I want to be able to stay in touch with each other while we're in Italy. We won' t be together all the time. I've gone to different websites which advertise cell phones for use while we're there but I have no idea which option is the best. Any advice???
Posted by
Los Angeles, CA, USA
1449 posts
If you have US cell phones that use the GSM network (eg. AT&T or T-Mobile) and are unlocked, buy SIM chips when in Italy and call each other all you want for about 5-10 cents/minute
Posted by
Vicenza, Italy
319 posts
If your USA phone isn't unlocked, buy a cheap cell at a phone store once you get here. You can get them for 60 euro or so. They are all pay as you go phones.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8058 posts
To add to Mike's comment, if you have ATT or another phone with international coverage, and you are not planning on much use, then consider International Roaming, I pay about a $1 a minute, but for the few minutes I might use it over a couple weeks, it is cheaper and easier than getting a SIM card or buying a phone.
Posted by
Slidell, LA
570 posts
Consider email an prearranged times. Cyber cafes on EVERY corner and cheap.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8058 posts
Also wanted to note, if you do have an ATT or T-Mobile phone, and it is locked, all you need do is call them and ask that it be unlocked. Explain that you are travelling, they are required to unlock it at your request.
Posted by
Reseda, CA, USA
196 posts
T-Mobile has international roaming at no additional cost to enroll. It's about a buck a minute to make calls and I think about .35 cents to text. Otherwise you might consider cellular abroad for renting or buying cellphones or sim chips depending on your needs:
http://www.cellularabroad.com/
Posted by
San Diego, CA, United States
864 posts
We have Cingular and never have a problem making/receiving calls from our sons overseas. Mostly we text (cheaper) but with an elderly mother I need to have the option to call. I also load in the overseas #'s for B&Bs, hotel etc. in case we are delayed on the road (we drive mostly). Also use text msg to meet up at a resturant etc. Over a month long trip it probably puts us out $50 on average. And, no hassle learning a new phone etc. Make sure your phone is unlocked a full month before you leave. Different carriers have weird rules and it's just easier this way.
Posted by
Stillwater, NY
94 posts
Our phones are Verizon and would not work in Italy. We found a company in Connecticut called Call in Europe. At the time, I was able to get a free phone and a SIM card for Italy from them for a minimal charge. It worked out well for us. callineurope.com