- Current Events
- Travel Tips
- Supplier News
- Regional
- International
- Government/Legislation
- Technology
- Industry Trends/Innovation
- Supplier Spotlight
International
-
Understanding international cell phone coverage, charges
When planning to travel internationally for business, travelers should determine whether their cell phone will work at their destination. They should begin by consulting directly with their cell phone provider, as different companies have varying areas of coverage. And, keep in mind that even if a cell phone will work at the international destination, expensive international roaming charges may be incurred.
An option to consider is a temporary Subscriber Identify Modules (SIM) card – which is compatible with the phones of 82 percent of the world’s cell phone users. These users’ phones are part of the Global System for Mobile Communications, or GSM. Cingular Wireless and T-Mobile both use GSM technology. By replacing the SIM card that already exists in a GSM cell phone with one from the destination country (thus, giving the phone a local number), travelers can reduce the cost of calls.
Sprint and Verizon both use Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) technology, which is popular in North America but is not as common in other parts of the world. Persons with CDMA cell phones who travel internationally may be able to rent or buy GSM phones from their providers. Rental costs and airtime charges vary by phone and by destination, so specific information should be obtained from the provider.
Regardless of cell phone provider, North Americans who travel abroad should also be sure their phone chargers can be plugged in at their destination.
Sources: The New York Times, CNN.com
