Sorry, this is somewhat off topic but I know that I can always find an answer here. Does anyone know of a pre-paid cellular phone that works outside of the United States, in particular Europe?
There are a couple of vendors that sell pre-paid cellular service that operate on the GSM system. You will need a GSM phone as well. I would like into eBay for someone selling these pre-paid cards. If memory serves me right, the company is Swiss based. Another suggestion is Voice Stream, as they do provide internatrional roaming. I am not sure if it is pre-paid or rental. AT&T wireless also has international phones and service available. Hope this helps. Best regards, Mirage
Just call VOICESTREAM, MCI, SPRINT, AT&T...see what they have... I know places like JAPAN have more cell phones per capita than the USA...(don't know about EUROPE)...
I may give them a call. Was looking for pre-paid as, like many here, credit report not in the best shape.
A European cell company doesn't care about your US credit report; however, you will have to have a permanent residence and most likely a work or student visa. If your daughter has these, she should be able to get a phone while there. US and Europe cell phone systems are virtually non-compatible, so although some dual-services have been established, they are crazy crazy expensive. EVERYONE in Europe has cell phones; many don't even have local phones. The system is very good there; you simply need a "SIM" card that can be put into any cell phone. This is a small microchip that enables people to switch easily between phones. However, to get a SIM card through the retail channels you'll have to have a permanent address and/or visa. A company she is working for there would work as well for an address. Alternatively, you might be able to buy a SIM card from someone off of EBay or through people she might know in Europe.
No, she is a student going there for about 10 days. I was thinking that a cell phone, that would work in Europe, would make communication between her and her mother and I easier.
Most airports in Europe have cell phone rental stores or booths that are generally intended for US businessmen whose phones are not compatible. I think that that would be your cheapest option for only 10 days. I'm almost certain you can use a credit card to pay for this. I don't what they hold on your card as a "service deposit." Also, another point about European vs. US cell phones is that you don't pay or it doesn't count against your "minutes" to receive a call in Europe. So you could set it up so that you always call her so that the only charges is the overall phone rental and your international charges from the States. where is she going?
PROBABLY be a deposit of $500 charged on a credit card... Due to billing delays...it may take a few weeks to get a credit of the unused deposit... JUST GUESSING... CALL your local AAA office Monday...
