What is the best way to call home from Mexico?

just wondering if a calling card from the hotel phone is the best (i think you still pay cell charges if you use calling card from cell phone) or if just using your cell is better and will there be reception??

Get calling cards. I was in Cancun last yr my cell phone would not work.

Some people could use thier phone. I am thinking about getting all my guest calling cards

we've used our sprint cell phones many times from cabo (and other cities in mexico), just call your provider a week or so ahead of time and have them set you up for international calls, then when you get back, call and have them turn it off. you might have a higher bill for that month, but we found it was the least expensive way to call home often. with the kids, they have to call and check in with their mom so she doesnt worry, and they usually call a couple times in a week. never had any issues.

I don't know what the best is, but we always use our cell phones. We're with Cingular, I mean "the new At&t" lol, and our plans/phones are automatically set up for international roaming. There is a specific plan you can get in addition that reduces the rates slightly.

I've heard that calling cards and pay phones are more economical but the convenience of the cell is worth the bill a month later IMO.

i would also use a calling card but a cell phone is great. we have Verizon and we text eachother....it doesn't cost that much more too....

We have AT&T also for cell service. When I went for my site visit I added the "Mexico" service, i think for $4.99/month. there is a minimal per minute charge for calls in addition to the monthly rate, but it's i know once i'm there it will be much easier to get in touch w/ my WC, FI and other immediate family that will still have cell service as well. It works to call within Mexico and back home.

OMG Michelle, you leave soon!! i'm SUPER excited for you!!

great thread. can't wait to be able to read it all.

I have used my cell and calling cards with the pay phones..I think the calling cards are a better value but convience the cell works best. Just don't use the hotel phone with a credit card or calling card they charge you a fortune for a connection charge.

i have AT&T (formerly Cingular) and I just add the International Plan anytime i travel and then cancel when I get back - it is so much easier and I think cheaper