Cell Phones
For those of you that want to stay connected on the Camino, but don't want to spend a fortune on U.S. phone bills, look at this option:
1. I purchased an inexpensive "Unlocked GSM" phone on Ebay for around $55 (you can sell the phone on Ebay when you get back or use it as a "burner".)
2. Upon arrival in Spain, purchased a SIM card that allowed me to have local phone, cellular data and texting. This cost was 15Euros and lasted a whole month. You can recharge online or at any local cellular store.
3. Check with your cell phone provider in the US and see if you can "unlock" your phone. If not, most have international plans.
4. T-Mobile does not charge for international usage.
These are the 4 main providers with their own network:
Movistar (dominant operator with 65% of market, part of Telefónica)
Vodafone (bought Airtel in 2002 and is aggressively trying to expand market share)
Orange (known as Amena until 2005)
Yoigo (originates from the carrier Xfera)
1. I purchased an inexpensive "Unlocked GSM" phone on Ebay for around $55 (you can sell the phone on Ebay when you get back or use it as a "burner".)
2. Upon arrival in Spain, purchased a SIM card that allowed me to have local phone, cellular data and texting. This cost was 15Euros and lasted a whole month. You can recharge online or at any local cellular store.
3. Check with your cell phone provider in the US and see if you can "unlock" your phone. If not, most have international plans.
4. T-Mobile does not charge for international usage.
These are the 4 main providers with their own network:
Movistar (dominant operator with 65% of market, part of Telefónica)
Vodafone (bought Airtel in 2002 and is aggressively trying to expand market share)
Orange (known as Amena until 2005)
Yoigo (originates from the carrier Xfera)