Cell phone usage.

[Orrjames]

Just wondering , what do you do about cell phones when traveling through out the BVI's and surrounding areas? I have heard pre-paid phone cards but not sure. Any advise on keeping my AT&T service or dump it?

[jpsgirl96]

AT&T has international data plans for the iphone at $100/100mb, $200/200mb, and, recently, $500/500mb (nothing between 200 and 500). Otherwise, without the plan (or over the limit) just shy of $20/mb!!!
WHEN you have wifi, you can access data at whatever the cost of the wifi (zero to included in a mooring or dockage fee to whatever the provider offers).
Text messaging is separate; I think something like $10 for 50 messages but don't quote me
I have struggled to keep it to 200mb/month, though if I ONLY did NOAA, Windfinder and email itught be sufficient.

[Orrjames]

Thank you I will check with AT&T about that, have you heard of people going with a pre-paid type phone?

[jpsgirl96]

Not really but we have been island hopping so the prepaid thing would be too much hassle for us. If you are just in the BVI it could be a good option, but mire for calling than data.
In PR and the USVI, duh, your US plan would likely work without international charges. I could still get US AT&T at the western reaches of the BVI.

[boatman61]

I carry an 'unlocked' phone and get local pre paid SIM's as and when... easy to get hold of... Internet I use 'Hotspots' which are nowadays much more widespread and have the added bonus of widening ones social sphere...
Nowt like a cruisers bar and conversations over beer and a laptop....

[jpsgirl96]

Love those hotspots! Unlocked phone is definitely good for calling but I don't do much of that...like, oh, this thing makes CALLS?
And AT&T data plans are awful but having it has meant being able to email and get weather without wifi, definitely somewhere south of necessity and north of luxury for us, w business to attend and aging parents.

[speciald@ocens.]

You will get some connection of your US phone in the BVIs but it is very spotty. I use a smart phone with Skype mobile to make calls where WiFi is available. We have a Skype- in number that allows voice mails as well.

[Orrjames]

Very good replys thank you!