[hdtran]

We're going to Mexico for a vacation. We don't want to pay inflated hotel prices for making phone calls from the hotel. We do have some calling cards, which allow int'l long distance (i.e. back to the US), but we'd have to use a pay phone (inflated hotel surcharge for a toll-free #...)

In theory, there are three options with cell phones:

(a) we can ask our provider to upgrade our plan to international calling. Presumably, if our existing network is compatible (GSM 1900 MHz), we would then be able to originate and receive calls while in Mexico. The downside is that any international airtime is extra (e.g. not part of the monthly minutes).

(b) I found some companies which advertise SIM cards that have "prepaid Mexico airtime." You (temporarily) replace the SIM card in your phone with the Mexico one while you're there. Downside: You can't be certain that the service works until you're there. (Most of what I found was aimed for travelers to Mexico City).

(c) When we were there last year, I met a diver who said that he bought a "prepaid phone". Basically, a "disposable" cell phone, which he bought after he'd arrived.

Any comments on options (a-c)? Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks a bunch!