renting cell phones in costa rica
 

Has anyone rented cell phones to call the US while in costa rica? How does this compare to purchasing phone cards to call the states? Any recommendations on either option? If cell phones, which company and if cards, where to purchase and where to call from?
Thanks!

Hi, My friends rented a cell phone, and sorry to say. It was a total rip off. They paid $350 for one month, just for the phone and the calls were soo overpriced.

I recommend to go to an internet shop, or bring your lap top, cause the majority of hotels have wi-fi and use skype. it's the cheapest and very reliable.

Hope this helps,
Marina K. Villatoro
http://travelexperta.com

Be very careful! Do NOT use this company:
http://www.cellphonescr.com
they are a total rip-off!!!

What about simply buying a cheap phone at the start of your trip and putting pre-paid minutes on it? Is that possible or practical in Costa Rica?

You may want to try renting your cell phone before you leave the US. Check with your US carrier and see what arrangements they can make. Also, I know AAA has a deal with a company for discounts.

CR cell phone carrier is a monopoly and does not allow prepaid SIMs. Only citizens are allowed to obtain cellphones. I tried a company called Celtrek that used to work, but flaked out. Your best bet is Skype from the internet cafe, or prepaid phone cards and payphones.

I bought an unlocked phone on EBAY and have used it all over the world including Costa Rica - bought the sim card at www.ekit.com. If worked fine