travel smarts to know you can . To call between countries on a cell phone or landline , first input the International Direct Dialing prefix of the country you ’ re calling from ( 00 or 011 for most countries ). This is a standardized “ exit code ” that indicates to the network that you wish to place an international call . After the exit code , dial the country code for wherever you ’ re calling ( e . g . 1 for Canada ) plus the relevant area code and phone number . Note that you don ’ t need to dial an exit code for calls between the U . S . and Canada .
Communicating While Abroad
Heading outside of Canada ? Here ’ s how to stay in touch
Travelling is a way to temporarily escape “ everyday ” life . We don ’ t want to constantly monitor what ’ s going on back home , but there ’ s peace of mind in being able to check in . Plus , who can resist sending a few travel photos to friends and family ? These days , it ’ s easier than ever to do just that , provided you have a smartphone and a little know-how .
Deactivate your data Most cellular carriers offer international calling and data packages , but they ’ re often one-size-fits-all for a set fee , and not always what you need . Without a package , the easiest way to avoid roaming fees is to disable mobile data on your phone ( usually a one-step
Number One
there ’ s a phone number you ’ ll definitely want to know while abroad : that of your
By BriTney Hope
process in your phone ’ s settings ). You ’ ll still be able to use Wi-Fi connections when they ’ re available .
Pick a card If you ’ re fortunate enough to have an unlocked phone — that is , one that ’ s not under contract to a specific carrier — getting a prepaid international SIM card can be an ideal way to forgo roaming charges and surf the web . Most cards offer free incoming calls and competitive per-minute rates for outgoing calls , and can be pre-ordered online for delivery before your trip .
Calling codes You may not need to call family and friends while on vacation , but it ’ s good
travel insurance provider .
Depending on your level of coverage , travel insurance helps to ensure you ’ re protected against trip cancellation or interruption , baggage loss and medical problems . if such challenges arise , the first call you should make is to your insurer , who can
skype , Facetime and more A decade ago , Skype introduced video and voice calling to the masses and it ’ s still hugely popular . The free app allows you to connect with other Skype users around the world at no cost , and place calls to non-users for a fee . There ’ s also a Skype To Go service that enables lowrate international calling without an Internet connection . Similarly , you can make free voice and video calls using Apple ’ s FaceTime , Google ’ s Hangouts and Duo , and Facebook ’ s Messenger — assuming the person you ’ re calling also uses those apps . Otherwise , all you need is a Wi-Fi connection .
Online on the go So many apps rely on Wi-Fi , but you won ’ t always be near a coffee shop or hotel lobby ’ s open connection . Many travellers now opt to rent a portable Wi-Fi device to ensure seamless Internet access . Look online before your trip : Various companies will send the pocketsized gadget to your destination . You simply use it ( typically for a daily flat rate ) then mail it back before you leave . Most of these “ hotspots ” allow for multiple simultaneous users , which is handy for family vacations .
assist with starting the claims process and finding the right service provider for your needs .
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30 Winter 2016
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