Smart traveller
There’s a lot to be said about meeting your overseas supplier or customer in person and for some people, this is the only way they operate. The cost of flights, accommodation and travel insurance can be substantial, but your phone bills needn’t be.
If you’ll be spending a fair chunk of time making calls from your hotel, make arrangements so your bill only includes the cost of the call, without any additional fees that may come with hotel telephone service. Ask for the call charges to be itemised, and keep a record of the numbers you’ve dialled and the approximate duration of the calls to check that against their records.
On the go you may prefer to use your mobile. Ensure your provider has global roaming and check out their rates before you go so you know exactly what you’re paying for. It may be worth upgrading to a new plan if it gives you cheaper rates.
An alternative is a new service called TravelSIM, which is a prepaid SIM card designed specifically for international travellers. TravelSIM has its own number and country code, and the service uses a callback system, which means you dial the number you wish to call, then the system calls you back to connect you. Check for compatible handsets and countries available on the service at www.travelsim.net.au; you may even consider using their language interpretation service if you’re struggling with the local tongue.
