The choices are becoming overwhelming for me, so I'm looking for some guidance.
In the past I have always traveled with just my phone (hard to believe that years ago I actually traveled without being connected at all!) and assumed I would get wifi if needed. Two years ago when visiting Italy we signed up for the AT&T plan for $30/month for some calling and limited data, and hardly used it.
This trip there will be four of us and we will be staying in at least one place without wifi.
So, I am seriously considering the mobile wifi route as it will solve the connection problem for all of us at once, and we can use it wherever we go. See Rick's blog post where he tried one and it seemed to be very useful: http://blog.ricksteves.com/blog/ricks-consumer-report-on-a-wi-fi-hotspot-rental/
However, I know that doesn't handle calls or texting. Which would be really only for emergencies.
I admit to being totally clueless about SIM cards and why I would need/want one.
I also realize that this is probably a lengthy topic, so if anyone just wants to point me to some articles or reference material where I can figure it all out, that would be most appreciated.
Thanks in advance for input!