Quote:
Originally Posted by DLCPhoto
I appreciate this post - I haven't used a cell phone internationally, instead just using a calling card with minutes and local phones when abroad. But I now have a Verizon TP2, and this opens up possibilities.
I will be traveling to Peru at the end of the month. Verizon's roaming rates are ridiculous, so it seems best to purchase a local SIM card. Having never used one (been on Alltel/CDMA for many years), I am not exactly sure how this works:
1. I assume the SIM card I'd purchase in Peru would have a certain number of prepaid minutes, or does this work differently? No plan needed? Activation fees?
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Yes, the carrier will have a ~$10 SIM card kit with like $5 worth of credit already on it. No activation fees, just plug it in and your phone now has a local number.
Quote:
Originally Posted by DLCPhoto
2. Would I have a different number that people could call me on from the US? I seem to recall someone saying that if I Unlock, and use a non-VZW SIM, my regular VZW number would no longer work.
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You would have a local phone number that people would have to make an international phone call to reach. Your VZW number will only be unavailable while the phone is in GSM or Global mode and on a GSM network, but you can switch freely between the two.
Quote:
Originally Posted by DLCPhoto
3. What about data and texting - how does this work? Is this typically available, do I need to get a SIM card specifically that contains this capability, or what? I don't want to accidentally run up huge data charges with VZW or anybody else.
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Verizon has no control over your foreign SIM, thats why they make you agree to additional TOS. Texting will probably work right out of the box and needs no special SIM, just verify what the local operator charges to send and receive them. As for data, it usually needs to be enabled by a TEXT. For example, for my Mobitel pre-paid, when I want to activate data I have to send a text to 1918 that says "Prenos podaktov DA" (DATA transfer YES) Also, you will need to set up a APN and username/password in your data settings for that carrier.
Quote:
Originally Posted by DLCPhoto
On my TP2, I currently have it set to "CDMA Only" - I figure I'm in the US, won't be using GSM, so that seems most appropriate. When I travel to Peru, what is the appropriate setting - Global or GSM Only?
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US - CDMA only, unless you're using a domestic SIM card. Peru - GSM only.
Quote:
Originally Posted by DLCPhoto
Anything else that I'm not thinking of that will also need to be done (other than obviously getting the phone unlocked!).
Thanks!
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That's it. If you buy the SIM card at an actual carrier's store, they'll probably set up your phone for you. Not at like a bodega or something.