Hi:

I'm upgrading my work Blackberry so I can access email/internet in Egypt/Jordan. Does anyone who has traveled to those countries have an opinion whether Verizon or AT&T service is better?

Verizon released the 8830 "Worldphone" so it is supposed to work on the 900MHz and 1800MHz GSM frequency bands. But I read that you need a special Verizon int'l SIM card (or to unlock it if I buy a local SIM card) AND to physically change the settings since Verizon service is spotty in the Middle East.

I'm not the most tech saavy person, so would I be better off getting the 8300 Curve through AT&T, which has superior service?

Many thanks.

I'd go with the AT&T GSM service.

I think you need to call AT&T before you go and tell them where you will be using your phone for "international roaming."

When I went to Peru last year, you could sign up for international data service or discounted international voice service, not both. But for me, the international data service proved much more useful. And it was awesome when my friend landed herself in the hospital. It made it much easier to communicate between those at the hospital, those at the hotel reworking travel arrangements, and her family at home.

That was on AT&T (fka Cingular).