Thanks for the replies that everyone has given so far.

I never thought of using skype or some type of voip for making phone calls while overseas.

Also I will have to check what Nick mentioned about getting a monthly pass instead of a day pass as costs might be less.

I would probably only use the cell phone for emergencies and I forgot all about using a calling card.

Again, I am not a big cell phone user and my cell phone is a basic phone with no games, camera, internet etc. Like Nick mentioned with Australia I have heard that having a phone that is unlocked and takes sim cards is the most cost effective way for phone access in other countries. I just have not figured out exactly how the sim cards work and what phone I might get.

right now I like the calling card/voip options. I will have to try skype sometime to see how it works. I have heard of the google voice but not sure how it works yet. I am sure I will check that out at some point.

Thanks again everyone, keep on posting your tips if you have anything to add.

Tony