Keeping in touch while you're away

Communications ashore

Cellphone (mobile-phone)

Most cellphones (mobiles) can be used abroad but not all can be used everywhere in the world (check with your provider).

Most cellphones (mobiles) can be used abroad but not all can be used everywhere in the world (check with your provider).The technical name for making calls abroad is "roaming" - you should check with your provider not only how to set up your phone for roaming but also whether there are any special techniques to be used when retrieving messages.

• Contact your network provider to ensure your cellphone is enabled for international roaming. You should do this at least 2 weeks before your departure date but it would be advisable to do it even sooner as it can take a while for it to be activated and you can't do this from abroad.
• Check that your existing handset will work in the country you are travelling to. There is a chance that it won't so you might want to consider changing it.
• Check with your network provider how much it costs for international roaming services as charges can be very different to calls at home - also, confirm the current charges just before you leave as they can change at short notice.
• Some network providers offer international traveller services which give cheaper rates for calls abroad if you pay a monthly fee. Check what the costs are and how long you would want to be committed to this and if there are any minimum requirements with regards to length of contract etc.
• If you are likely to make a lot of calls while abroad, it is often cheaper to use another SIM card - the small card in the phone that enables the phone to work on a particular mobile network. It is easy to swap SIM cards in the phone.
• SIM cards for foreign networks can be bought abroad. Check with your cruise liner if they sell them on board the ship.
• Check if any alternative SIM cards will expire after a certain length of time
• If you are using your own network provider's pre paid international roaming service make sure you know how to use your credit card to top up your calling credit before you go, or take extra vouchers.
• Ask your network provider what you have to dial to use international roaming. This isn't always as simple as using the international prefix code.
• Remember to take your charger and an adapter for the charger - check with your cruise company what kind of adapter to take.

Cell Phone Security

• Make a note of your mobile serial number - also known as the IMEI number - leave a note of this at home and also be sure to take it with you (but keep it safely and separate from the phone itself).
• Make a note of your mobile telephone number if you don't know it and also of your operator's customer services number (including country dialing code).
• If the phone is stolen, contact the network operator by land-line and ask them to block your phone and/or SIM card. They may ask for a password so it is worth checking with your operator what their procedure is and check you have all the information you will need before you go.

Phonecards & letters

Is you are on a cruise the ship will usually stock a supply of local stamps suitable for postcards and letters - ask at reception or the Purser's Office.

Letters and postcards are still the most romantic and memorable way to send your experiences home.

Internet Shops/Cafes

Almost every port and large town now possesses at least one Internet shop or café at which, for a small fee, you can use a computer to email or surf the Internet.

These are usually well marked in English but, if you haven't much time and need to find the nearest or most convenient ask the ship's crew - they usually know exactly where to go to find the best Internet deals.

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