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Cell phone w/ voice & email capabilities in Dublin

Posted by (Chicago, IL) on

Hi.

I'm looking for some advice regarding a cell phone with the ability to check my gmail for an upcoming trip Dublin.

I looked into adding International coverage for both voice & data to my AT&T Blackberry, but unfortunately they now require you to sign a 1-year contract on the service. An additional $65/month is just ridiculous to pay.

Does anyone have feedback/recommendations for companies that rent/sell phones online or something I can purchase when I arrive? I know there are options for voice, but what about checking email? Any feedback will be greatly appreciated.

(Before you respond with "you're on vacation, you don't need to be tied down to a phone & email", let me just add that for various reasons, I need to have access to a cell & email while away.)

Thanks!!!!

Posted by
32351 posts

Susan,

As you discovered, the reality of having the convenience of voice and data when roaming comes at a cost.

You might check the websites for the cell network providers in Ireland (Hutchison 3G, Meteor, O2 and Vodaphone) to see whether they have any PAYG data & voice plans that might be "cost effective" for you? Using that option would require that your Blackberry is unlocked, and more importantly that your Blackberry is equipped with the 2100 mHZ network frequency required for 3G in Europe (that's possibly where the data bands are grouped?).

Since you "need to have access to a cell & email" while you're travelling, your best option might be to use your Blackberry for voice and text while in Ireland and use net Cafes to pick up E-mail. Also, many Hotels these days have an Internet Computer in the lobby, so it may be very easy to access the net. If you do decide to take your Blackberry, make sure the data portion is turned off (if possible). Since you'll be roaming, your messages will be "pushed" to you automatically, which may incur roaming charges?

Good luck and happy travels!!!

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