Sat Phone and Provider ?

[Prashanti]

I'm looking into Sat phones and am overwhelmed with al the makes, models and service provider plans... Also the cheapest place to buy them.
I was hoping some of you could help point my research in the right direction.

Here's where and what I want it for.
Thailand, Northern Sumatra and the Andaman Islands
Data downloads for basic weather and email, emergency contact to/from next of kin, and if possible SMS Tsunami warnings.

Thanks

[Paul Elliott]

I would start my search here: Global Marine Networks (GMN)

Look at their XGate email product, the Iridium satphone, and an external antenna. You can buy Iridium phones from many sources, but GMN is a good one. I personally use Outfitter Satellite for my phone hardware and airtime, but GMN is probably just as good, and is definitely a full-service outfit. I have been very happy with XGate.

I don't know about the tsunami warnings, but if you can find a source for the SMS warnings the Iridium phones can receive them.

As you have seen there are many available options and products, but I think if you look at the GMN (Iridium and XGate) you won't be disappointed.