Best Phone & Service Combo For My Needs?

[KarenM]

Thank you for your responses. I didn't realize the site doesn't email me when one is made, so I'm a bit late in getting back to you. Believe it or not, I did do extensive research on this before writing here, so although I've never used a cell phone, I have a general idea of the issues involved.

After reading the thread noted above, and the responses, here I've decided to modify (hopefully simplify my "need list" as follows:

1. forget using the phone back here in California--complicates things too much

2. I'll only receive incoming calls from U.S. from one person--my housesitter--which will likely never exceed 5 minutes or so--only for emergencies.

3. calls within France, within Italy and what few I might make between countries, will not exceed 5 minutes

4. Voicemail messages can be left for me.

5. I prefer to not buy separate SIM cards--too much to keep track of--here, ease trumps pennies

With these ideas in mind, I though UM would be a decent choice, especially paired with CBW or Yackie. Will those who don't like that option please explain why? I like the idea of one phone number (for future trips), ease of renewal fees.

Since the OP is a "newbie", I wouldn't rec. UM. UM's service is NOT standard and would be diff. for a newbie to understand. Using UM would not be good because it can cost people who want to call her mucho dinero.

What about UM is difficult to understand?

Does anyone know if a Mobal $99 phone work with the UM card? Can it be purchased unlocked? (I don't want to call and ask them, since they make their $$ on their calling plans.)I am reluctant to do eBay for various reasons, and prefer a straightforward, clean purchase of something which works well, without "if" attached. I have no friends with GSM phones to borrow from.

Given my limited phone needs, in summary, I want to go with simple, easy and reliable--I don't have time to experiment with mistakes.

Further thoughts in view of this modified input?

Thanks so much,

Karen