[Lucy]

I and my boyfriend will be in Germany for a month late July to late August. We both need mobile phones to talk to each other and to others. Plus I need an internet connection for my computer. I want a one-month flat rate so i don't worry about usage. (He'll have internet at the university where he is teaching a few days a week.)

Does it make sense to use one company for both tasks? If so, which? I understand that I must buy a usb stick to get the signal into my computer. (I have a smart phone, but that would not be adequate for a month of using the internet.) So that is a factor in determining the price. I'd like one that works in other countries and in the US in the event I should want a similar service here. That seems to be the most expensive item in the whole communications package i need. (Is there a standard unlocked stick I could get for less money, or do you have to get one from the provider?)

I see Tchibo being advised here as a good service, also because it doesn't live on a clogged system. Is that the best for me? What are the alternatives? Should I get phone and internet from different companies?

What about tethering? Can I use my G1 Android to connect to a wireless provider and tether that to my computer via bluetooth or cable?

Appreciate your advice.