Monday, July 15, 2013

Different Options when Making International Call to the Philippines

Learn more about the various ways of placing international call to the Philippines, including tips on international roaming and prepaid cell phone features. 

When making international calls to Philippines, you are no longer limited to using phone cards or looking for a phone booth. Nowadays, you can easily get in touch with family and friends while traveling abroad. You can use VoIP applications on your computer or laptop, rent a SIM card or use your current mobile phone.

While it may not be the cheapest option on a per-call basis, purchasing a calling card is very popular among international travelers, as it has fixed prices. Though it is definitely less convenient than using a cell phone, calling cards are easy to budget since they can work anywhere provided you have an access to a phone. Also, people cannot disturb by calling during your precious vacation.

Another option is to bring your cellular phone. This is perhaps the most convenient option when traveling abroad. If you bring a GSM phone, you will be able to use it wherever you go, however, take note that you will likely get expensive roaming fee by your carrier.

Aside from the additional fees, the major requirements include having a GSM phone that must meet the right frequency or band. For frequent international travelers, it is best to bring a tri- or quad-band phone to ensure compatibility. However, remember that only selected phone models have this feature.

If you have a phone that satisfies the requirement above, then you can skip the roaming fees from your local provider by renting a SIM card for your phone to call to the Philippines. This option is usually cheaper than using your current carrier's international rates. However, it requires your tri- or quad-band GSM phone to be unlocked.

If you can rent a SIM card to make international calls to Philippines, you may also choose to rent a cell phone. While costlier than renting a SIM card, renting a cell phone, specifically a GSM phone that functions at your destination makes you reachable anytime. Furthermore, GSM phone rentals are available in more than 150 countries.

The last option is by using Internet-based call services such as Skype or Google Voice. This option can be the cheapest when making international calls--sometimes even free if you are connecting under a free Wifi hotspot. You may use VoIP on your computer via prepaid international broadband, but this option is more expensive and may eat up your credit balance.

If you are traveling abroad and you cannot imagine leaving your cell phone, then don't despair as you can take it with you. After knowing the different options for making international calls, there are some things you ought to know before leaving on your trip. If you choose international roaming, make sure you call the service provider to find out if your cell phone is compatible with foreign networks.

In addition, allow them to activate your phone for international use. Also, ask if your provider offers special deals and promotions for international roaming. Once your international roaming card gets activated, it will function as soon as you arrive at your destination.

If you bring a mobile phone while traveling abroad, you can consider getting a prepaid cell phone the moment you reach your destination. Since most countries have a number of competing wireless provider, make sure you choose a prepaid plan that provide the lowest rates to call to the Philippines. Some even provide free incoming calls. 

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