cell phone in London

I was concerned about my elderly father when we traveled and likewise had no cell service for overseas. However, almost every hotel we stayed in offered internet access and it was sufficient for me to email daily and check up the next day. Also, internet cafes were easy to locate and the cost for 15 minutes or so of "airtime" was very cheap. Might this be an option for you other than the phone? Now, in order to make some arrangement with hotels etc before leaving, I paid Sprint $4 per month and called London for 6 or 8 cents per minute. I sorta wondered whether that would enable me to call the US from London too. I plan to check but it sounds a little too good to be true now. God only knows how they structure these rate plans ( I think they're in cahoots with the airlines and hotels frankly). Good luck.

thanks for the response Denny-email is a good idea. Traveling and leaving elderly parents home especially when they turn ill certainly is a concern.

I hope all is well for you and your parents, Linda. It turns out I added that Sprint service to my home phone, not the cell..so I will be emailing back home too. If you have reservations and an established itinerary, leave those hotel phone numbers, addresses, and email addresses with family or caregivers. In our case none of it (happily) was necessary, but it will add to your enjoyment of your trip knowing things are set. Have a great time. We are returning to London after 17 years and have fond memories of a super, friendly, and EXPENSIVE city!

Linda,

The short time frame until departure somewhat limits your choices for a "travel" Cell Phone.

It might be possible to obtain a rental from Cellular Abroad if it's sent overnight via Courier. Be sure to review their rates so that you have a clear idea of the costs.

Another option you might consider would be to buy an inexpensive Cell Phone when you arrive in London on a PAYG plan. There are shops on just about every street corner for all the major carriers - O2, Orange, Vodaphone, Virgin, etc.

It would be a good idea to set up a "contact person" back home (someone with a Cell Phone) that can keep you apprised of any events concerning your Mom. When you have the phone, send them a text message or an E-mail with your number. If you use text most of the time, it's very inexpensive. Reserve the voice calls for urgent situations.

One note, you'll have to enter a "+" in front of the number when dialing back to the U.S.

Good luck and happy travels!

Linda
the last time I was there my international cell broke. I just went to a "cellular superstore" (you can't miss them) and got one in London for $50 (23 pounds). They're like the disposable ones you see at Walmart, Target, etc. and you can top off as you need it at any drug store.

I still have my disposable phone and will bring it back next trip, since I still have 5 pounds left on it.

Thanks for the great replys I really appreciate all your help. I explained my situation to someone at work and they had an international phone that I'm going to borrow and just add minutes to it. Thanks again