How to make International phone calls abroad
By Nick June 19, 2008
Making phone calls home when traveling abroad is usually not an option for many; instead, it is mandatory, as declared by their mothers or other loved ones. The age of using international phone cards is still alive, but using phone cards to call home from abroad is no longer the only option for international travelers, especially for those on a budget.
Once again, thanks to innovative techies we have some better options. Below are all the options to make international phone calls available to those traveling abroad.
Skype
Skype is by far the most popular new medium for phone calls between people across borders. If you haven’t heard of it, Skype is a free service that allows people to make free calls to each other from computer to computer. With just a microphone or cheap handset, using skype abroad is one of your best options. Also, if you don’t want to bother your non-technologically inclined mother or friend with having to figure out it on a computer, you can make calls to landlines and cell phones for very good rates.
Talkster
Talkster is Skype’s new competitor, and it offers completely free international phone calls for its users by assigning local numbers to the users through your mobile phone or computer. While the service is completely free and legit, I warn you that the service really is somewhat complicated. How so?
Well… The process involves obtaining local numbers online, and then calling the person, and then them hanging up while you are on the line, and then the other person calling back at your new assigned local number. Sounds foolish? Definitely does, and maybe because I explained it wrong. (See how it works for yourself).
But if you follow the instructions, Talkster will work, and it will work free and well, which can save you some valuable money when you’re conversations with ole mother get a little extended.
Pincity
Pincity is a very popular online service for making international phone calls. It’s basically the same thing as a phone card, but the calling process does not involve typing in a pin - therefore it’s simplified quite a bit. It is also a virtual prepaid calling card, so refilling the card is easy. It’s basically a phone card without the hassles associated with the conventional, store bought cards.
Conventional Phone cards
While any of the above services are probably better, conventional phone cards still work fine. Figuring them out can be a bit tricky for a few minutes, but they’re not impossible by any means if you can read the instructions. The rates for conventional cards trend to be higher, but they are still a solid, reliable option if you don’t want to figure out the cheaper (or free-er) options listed above.
Topics: Budget Travel Tips |
2 Responses to “How to make International phone calls abroad”
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Thanks for covering this Nick! Check out voxofon.com. It's new, and I really like it! They have so many different ways to call home. I've been using it this week as I've been back and forth from Glasgow to the US. Very iPhone friendly. I've used lots of services, but these rates seem to be the cheapest.