On Verizon in US - Tips on avoiding crazy international charges when travelling?

[MattV-Dub]

Hi All -

Quick rundown:

Live in NJ. Work in NYC. Heading to London for a month for work.

On Verizon, recently picked up an Incredible 2 (it's got Global capability) so I'll have my own phone while there (work will provide a BBerry on AT&T but I'd rather have my own phone - and they'll pay my phone bill as well).

I've heard all kinds of horror stories about crazy phone bills in these types of scenarios. So far, I know..

- Texts are 50¢ to send, 5¢ to receive.
- I'll purchase a $4.99 "Value Plan" which makes calls a flat 99¢ / minute.
- I'll also get a Data Plan for $25.00 / 100 megabytes.

For general useage, I plan to:

1) Turn OFF Data (Menu.. Settings.. Wireless & Networks.. Mobile Networks.. Data Roaming.. set to "Deny data roaming access").

2) Also in Menu.. Settings... I'll Disable "Enable always-on mobile data".

3) I understand that with these settings turned off, this will effectively disable all apps from sending / receiving data but I can still use the phone for calls / texts / skype. Correct?

4) I'll use wi-fi wherever possible. I have SKYPE set up as well. Can I use this on wi-fi (free)?

5) I was told there are NO roaming charges when travelling internationally.. ONLY when the phone is in use - is this correct?? Are the roaming charges in addition to the 99¢ / minute I'll be paying??

Can anyone offer any other practices or tips for keeping costs down as much as possible?

Any input / advice would be awesome!!

THANKS!!!

- Matty

[MattV-Dub]

As a follow up...

I'm in London now.

I was able to call Verizon Global (800-711-8300) to set up my phone for International service, but what I actually wound up doing is...

I had them unlock my phone (they gave me an unlock code to use), so now I can go to a local provider here and just pick up a local SIM Card. The new card will, obviously, give me a new, local number to use while I'm here and then I'll just replace my old card when I return to New York next month.

I COULD have simply turned my phone on for International Service, but the rates and fees mentioned in my first post would apply.. and I just figured it'd be easier (and MUCH cheaper) to get a local SIM Card instead.


THANKS!!