Tell Your Telecom Company You Want a Better Deal

Do you know how much you are paying for your Internet/Telephone/Television?  Do you know if you're getting the top-of-the-line features?  When was the last time you checked?  I've got news for you: you are probably paying more than you need to.

If I were you, I would:

1. Find out what the best deal is for new customers for your carrier.
2. Find out what the best deal is for new customers for an alternative carrier that you would be happy switching to, if push came to shove.
3. Call your carrier and let them know that you would like to review your account and pay less (or get more features).

I know that sounds ridiculously facile -- but it works.  If you have had your contract for over one year, the telecom companies would really like to stay in business with you and will be willing to negotiate.

You should also know that if you haven't updated your DSL account in a while, you are probably paying way too much for slower broadband.  DSL companies will almost never suggest that you upgrade because that will mean a better deal for you -- and with a faster connection. 

Sure, this takes some of your time.  But you could save hundreds of dollars in 2010.  Getting good value and finding money is always a good thing.

Skype while traveling abroad!

Want a great way to stay in touch while traveling abroad without worry over international rates or roaming charges?

Take the easy way out and download Skype to your iPhone:  for a very low rate, call back home to the US from wherever you are as long as you can connect to a wifi network.

• If you don't already have a Skype account, go online and sign up.
• Depending on how many calls you plan to make while abroad, buy either a pay as you go plan OR a subscription model
• Go to the iTunes store and download the FREE app onto your iPhone
• Sign into Skype on your iPhone

You're ready to go!

Before you leave on your trip, I would suggest creating or importing the phone numbers that you plan to use while abroad so that you don't have to fiddle with that.

You will also be able to receive calls on your Skype iPhone app, so your friends don't need to endure long distance expenses either.  And remember that you need to connect to a Wifi network.  Soon, the Skype app will be accessible on the 3G network, but not yet.

You're welcome!

Travel with a Small Phone Bill

I'm always interested in never reinventing the wheel. Economy of motion.  In that spirit, I direct you toward a very interesting NY Times article about how to travel, talk on the phone a lot, and not return with a $1500 phone bill.  I've spoken about Skype in other blog posts, but this article is more comprehensive.  Enjoy! 

Skype while traveling abroad!

Want a great way to stay in touch while traveling abroad without worry over international rates or roaming charges?

Take the easy way out and download Skype to your iPhone:  for a very low rate, call back home to the US from wherever you are as long as you can connect to a wifi network.

• If you don't already have a Skype account, go online and sign up.
• Depending on how many calls you plan to make while abroad, buy either a pay as you go plan OR a subscription model 
• Go to the iTunes store and download the FREE app onto your iPhone
• Sign into Skype on your iPhone
• You're ready to go!

Before you leave on your trip, I would suggest creating or importing the phone numbers that you plan to use while abroad so that you don't have to fiddle with that.

You will also be able to receive calls on your Skype iPhone app, so your friends don't need to endure long distance expenses either.  And remember that you need to connect to a Wifi network.  Soon, the Skype app will be accessible on the 3G network, but not yet.

You're welcome!