I know this topic has been covered, but my meager search skills did not find the answer, so here goes again:

What are our options with respect to making/receiving cellular calls from the island. My wife has AT&T Cingular service and her phone has a place for a SIM card if needed. Will we need one, or will we be able to use her phone w/o one? I would assume we would have to pay roaming charges if we could.

We don't really want to bring it, but her father is ill and we will need to be able to stay in touch somewhat. Thanks for any info!!

SIM card doesn't affect service. I have cingular and phone works most of the time when I'm there - It's pricey, but can make and receive calls. Also can text and receive texts, and so far for me that has been free.

KC, I have AT & T also... when I was down there in May I was able to pick up a BTL (or something to that effect) tower.. plus I had a full signal.. I didn't want to use it as I'm sure the roaming charges would have killed me. But I'm sure someone can answer you better on that subject.

KC, You can use my BZE cell phone. It'll only cost ya a hug... awe... I'm so freakin' sweet!! :P

KC

You may want to talk to Dita about how they use their phone here.
To my understanding phones need to be unlocked and not analogue. I am not sure exactly how it works with a USA based phone #. When I got my phone off eBay we paid for new sim card and phone # to get it running.

Look at all the chicas so eagerly wanting to reply to your post! WOW, KC! You the man!!!

I am truly blessed!!

Yeah, right KC. Just wait til you cover your bar tab.

I am truly broke!!

E, bring your wallet. There's plenty to go around!

Hey KC, I also utilize AT&T/Cingular for my cell service. I set up to have the service added (I believe it is about $5.00 per month additional) that allows me to connect to the local cell provider BTL while in San Pedro and I can receive calls as I normally would and make calls to local numbers without dialing long distance. I think the only stipulation was that your account be active for over 3 months or something. Worth a phone call. Hope this helps!

I've done it both ways - set up the $5 additional charge, and just used as is - not much difference in price that I could see - but I was never on the phone for more than about 2 minutes. My account doesn't have roaming charges, so that could make a difference. Dita is correct - I'd say call AT&T and get some info from them re: charges.

Also, if your phone is turned off no charge for voice mails left, but if it is turned on, there is a charge. I could never get a good explanation for this from AT&T. There is a charge to check your voice mail, and you have to call a US number to do it.

I do not have AT&T (T-mobile) but had no problem using my phone. I would HIGHLY recommend you call to check what the roaming rates are if that applies to your account. I needed to use my phone and the bill ended up being $818.00 @ @2.99/min for roaming charges. My texting was cheap considering at $0.35.
Sandra

If you have T-Mobile or Cingular just buy a prepaid card SIM at the SP phone company office for about US$10 for local service. You must get your phone unblocked while you're in the US.

If you need it for contact with USA just increase the prepaid amount. It will be cheaper than roaming on your US account.