Expert: Joel Linton - 12/29/2004

Question
I will be visiting India Jan 7-14 and wonder if there is a way to get a cell phone for the trip only, with somewhat reasonable rates.  My exployer will pay -- just don't want to be soaked

Answer
You will need a GSM phone -- that accomodates a SIM card.  Lately I have heard that AT&T sell a phone in the USA that will work overseas (but at very expensive rates).  There are a few options to consider (and will need internet research) that will assist you:
1.) Rent a GSM phone with SIM card from a US based company -- they are available and you will need to research this on the internet.
2.) Get hold of (borrow) a GSM phone and activate a "pay-as-you-go" plan when you arrive in India.  I am not 100% certain that you can do this but am pretty sure that it will be fine.  Again -- internet research required.  Google "GSM cell service in India" etc.  What you need to find is a local cell service provider that offers a sim card pay as you go service.  
3.) Buy a cheap GSM phone when you arrive and activate a PAYG service.  

If you are planning on going back or travelling on business elsewhere in Europe or Asia, owning your own GSM phone is the way to go -- and then buy temporary SIM cards in every country (that is actually what I do).

Hope this assists you
Good luck and safe travels -- and be careful with the food in India -- take some medication with you for upset stomach stuff.  I got real sick there once.

Take care
Joel