Technology in the U.S.

Cellular Phones
While cellular phones are popular in the U.S., our Broadband systems are not as advanced as they are in most other parts of the world. Upon arrival your mobile phone will most likely work, however, it will be very expensive in “ROAM” and you will probably want to buy a new U.S. based phone and monthly plan. If you are looking for a monthly plan that allows you unlimited usage for a set fee, most U.S. based cellular phone companies will require an upfront security deposit if you do not have American Credit

History.
You may also purchase a pre-paid plan such as http://onlinestorez.cingular.com/cell-phone-service/gophone/index.jsp  Please be aware of roam charges and/or overage charges if you go above your plan minutes. More importantly, please note that most plans carry early termination fees if you sign a contract and cancel your service earlier then the contract term.

Internet Service Provider (ISP)
Similar to your current ISP provider at home, the U.S. has many companies to choose from based on your destination. Most are comparable in price and speed of service. If available, you will want to consider ‘bulking’ your home telephone, internet service and possibly your cable TV all with one provider which will ultimately save you money per month.

Please be aware of potential security deposits for telephone service, and early termination fees should you cancel service earlier then a contract term date.

Cable Television
Once you purchase a Television (TV), you will probably want to sign up for some type of cable service which will enhance the few channels you already have through an antenna on your TV and, offer additional channels as well. You will have the option of “Basic” cable which will give you many channels of various. topics, i.e. cooking, news, golf, etc. Or you may also go with premium packages which offer movie channels. In most areas even if you do not get the Premium Package, you will have an option to pick a movie on your TV at any time for a nominal fee – called “pay per view” Most cable companies include Spanish speaking channels, and a few have additional foreign language channels. Check with the local provider/s in your area.

Some people choose a satellite dish which will offer you channels from all over the world in most languages. You will need to purchase additional equipment and sign a contract.

Radio:
Radio stations are free. All radio stations have advertisements or commercials in order to pay for this free service. You may also purchase a satellite radio which is a band of stations
each dedicated to a specialty such as Rock and Roll, Disco, News all the time, etc. Some satellite stations offer music in other languages and from other countries. You will need additional equipment and to sign a contract. The two most popular companies are: www.sirius.com and www.xmradio.com

Using the Telephone

Every U.S. number has a 3-digit area code and a 7-digit number. For example, OneWorld’s local phone number of (917) 847-4818: “917” is the area code “847-4818” is the #

Local Numbers – Most local calls within the same area code, it is necessary to dial only the 7 – digit number. However, when calling to any other area code, you will need to dial the area code, even if it is a local call plus you must first dial a “1”. Example: 1-718-555-1212 from Manhattan to Brooklyn.

International Telephone Calls – Dial 011 for international, the country code, the city code, followed by the 7-digit number. For Example, 011-46-702 44 44 47

“800” and “888” Numbers – These numbers are toll-free; that is, your call to them is free even if the recipient is not in the local calling area. Dial “1” plus “800” or “888” then the number.

“900” Numbers – If you call a number with “900” or “915” or “976”, you may pay extra for the call and can become quite expensive. Prior to calling, check to see how much the cost is per minute.

“911” Emergency Calls – You should call “911” only in emergency situations when assistance is needed from a police officer, the fire department or an ambulance.

Operator Assistance Calls – Dial “O” for Operator Assistance in the U.S., or “00” for international assistance.