About Joel Linton Expertise I have travelled on business to 37 countries in the past 4 years -- visiting 4 or 5 major cities in one 7-day trip ! All this out of Chicago (my home base). I can assist with itinerary planning, suggestions what to pack, how to get to locations, and can answer general questions about what to do during non-work time, and how to survive "on your own" on the road. I have a few "tips" on how to make a 7 to 10 hour plane ride more comfortable, less jet-lagged and what to take on board to assist.
Experience
Past/Present Clients Current client : Coca-Cola company
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.
