"PHONING EUROPE" Page 1, 2

Using a phone card

If you're dialing with an international calling card, or phone card, the procedure for placing a call may be different from what I've just described. Depending on where you are and the type of card you're using, you may need to dial an access number--usually toll-free--and follow the step-by-step voice instructions. (Typically, you'll be asked to enter your card's number, sometimes with a PIN or personal identification number). See the back of your card for directions on how to use it.

Note: In Europe, "smart" phone cards with embedded microchips are commonplace; these are just beginning to appear in the United States. Such cards work like debit cards with advanced pay phones. (You just insert the card in the phone, and the cost of each call is deducted automatically from the balance stored in the card's microchip.)

Web links

International Dialing Codes
Look up international direct-dial prefixes, country codes, and other dialing information for countries throughout the world at Steve Kropla's Help for World Travelers.

Gorilla Mobile
Before signing up for this USA-to-overseas calling service, read CellularAbroad's description of how it works and how to avoid the usual $5.95 setup fee.

Star69.net
This online vendor offers a variety of international calling cards. Use the search tool to get listings that show rates per minute, connect fees, and prices for typical calls.

Tips for Pre-Paid Phone Cards
The New York Attorney General's office tells what to look for when buying phone cards--and what to avoid, such as cards that round up calls to the next six-minute increment.

Related article

Phoning Home from Europe europeforvisitors.com
Like E.T., you may need to call home during your trip. Here's how to do it without spending a fortune.

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