Should we wait to buy our unlocked cell phones in Europe or purchase them here in USA? Which is more inexpensive for a dual, tri, or quad band phone? Also, is there a difference in technologies between cards that we need to be aware (i.e., WIN vs TIM)? If there is, will this impact on the type of phone we will buy?

Thank you.

PERSONALLY:

Buy here; if multiple phones, then the same model so accessories can back up each other.

Not so dependent on dual, tri or quad bands.... depends on if you get camera, somethin new, pda-capable. You will definitely want 900/1800 to be safe for outside N America. 850 and 1900 are North American frequencies. If you want GSM for here, then consider a quad band.

I doubt the card technology will matter to the phone.

As you see, I have been happy with MOTO. Some say they S***. The Nokia is also fine.