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View Full Version : Cell phone data and messaging options for 2 months in France?


infiniteengine
09-30-2009, 09:22 AM
I usually spend a seirous amount of time doing research before resorting to this sub-forum, but I have a situation I really need to deal with ASAP so here it goes:

I currently live in the U.S. and have a contract with AT&T for my Blackberry Bold that I believe runs me around $60 with unlimited data on my family plan. I suddenly find myself in France until December 10th, and am basically without any reasonable access to a phone of any kind.

Top priority is being able to communicate with my girlfriend who has a local number in Paris provided by her work; we can get by on text messages if necessary, calls couldn't hurt. I'd like to retain internet access on my phone, but AT&T's plans are ridiculous, so I'm looking for a plan where I can transfer the SIM card into my Blackberry Bold. International calls are not a priority, as theres nothing back home that I can't deal with through e-mail.

For an additional $6.99/month AT&T is offering me $1.30/min. calls, 50c text messages, and no data. The closest data plan they have to meeting my needs would be $70+, and there is no unlimited.

Can anyone who has found themselves in a similar situation, or who just travels frequently for business suggest a possible solution? I'm thinking, kill all data/messaging on my AT&T phone back home to save $50, and use that money to get a number here with few minutes and hopefully unlimited data/msg for under $70. Thanks in advance.

412
09-30-2009, 10:37 AM
Once you are in France, go to any cell phone shop (SFR, Orange, etc.), get yourself a pre-pay plan that suits you and be happy.
It sucks though that AT&T will not unlock your BlackBerry, but it's worth a try.

NordicNerd
10-01-2009, 12:35 PM
Buying a French phone with a French plan is definitely the way to go. I was there 2 years ago, and at that time, I was able to get a phone for around 10€ when they had some sale going on. I also got a pre-pay plan.

But pay attention: The cheaper pre-pay plans are only valid for 1 month. Mid-priced plans are valid for 3 months. Depending on your travel dates, you may need a more expensive plan (around 60€) to cover you the whole time you're there.

stufine
10-01-2009, 05:41 PM
i rem reading what 412 said unlocked phone and a sim from orange