Should I buy or rent a cell phone for traveling in Europe? Any companies, pitfalls to watch out for?? I do need to have a phone with me, so that my family that will be staying in the US can reach me.
Thanks!

First I'd look to see if your carrier allows you to roam in Europe and, if so, the cost. AT&T has a good network as does T-Mobile. I'm living in Amsterdam for a few months and I bought a pre-paid cell phone. The phone itself was about 30 euros (including a bit of airtime) and then you buy cards with airtime as you need it. It's very easy to do.

I leave for France today, and my U.S. cell phone will not work. I rented a cell phone through Verizon that cost $3.99 per day and $1.49 per minute. I thought it was a good deal. It must be done at least a week ahead of time.

We use T-Mobile so that's my phone. Bought the $49 phone for hubby at www.mobal.com - somewhat high rates per minute but it's just for convenience, not long conversations.

Search "cell" on this forum to unearth a gazillion long threads full of expertise on the subject.

I just took my phone to Paris with me. It's Cingular, I guess that's AT&T now...anyway I paid a 5.99 fee and the calls were .99 per minute. It worked perfectly and was so convenient. I didn't talk all that much, just checked in from time to time..my bill was about 60.00 after I got home. I discontinued the service until the next time. My phone is duel voltage so all I needed was the adapter to charge it...voila!!!

I took my Cingular (AT&T) to SA, Namibia, and Botswana in January. I didn't sign up for the lower rate but I only used it to call within the country and to text message (a new skill for me) to keep in touch with my husband who was with me, or my daughter who was in Denver. It was .l5 per message. I loved it!