When you travel internationally, having a cell phone with you can not only be a comfort, but it can help you get out of tight spots. If you're visiting a country like Spain, for example, where not everyone can speak English, having a mobile phone at your side may be your only lifeline if you get lost somewhere and need to find your way back to your hotel. Using a mobile phone in Spain is simple and requires only a few preparations on your part.
Instructions
1. Make sure your cell phone is unlocked before you leave for Spain. Unless you purchased your phone through a third party, it came locked. In other words, it's programmed so that you can only use it with your current service provider. Visit a mobile phone repair specialist, who can inexpensively unlock your phone so that you can use it with other providers.
2. Visit a Spanish mobile phone retailer and purchase a Spanish SIM card when you arrive. Insert the SIM card into your phone. This gives you a Spanish phone number and the ability to make calls and receive text messages within Span (and, in some cases, internationally). Record your Spanish phone number so that you can give it to your hotels, tour guides and other people you meet.
3. Purchase an inexpensive phone from a Spanish mobile phone retailer if you were unable to have your phone unlocked or if you use a CDMA phone, one that doesn't use a SIM card. Some retailers may even allow you to rent a mobile phone for the duration of your trip, although the cost effectiveness of doing so will vary depending on how long you plan to stay in Spain.
4. Refill your balance by purchasing prepaid credit vouchers from your mobile phone retailer. The vouchers include simple instructions on add minutes to your account.
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