using a calling card from AT&T or Sprint still triggers a hotel surcharge in most places. Mobile phones are a good option, unless you travel to Europe or the U.S., where your phone may not work.

Another strategy is to sign up for a callback service such as Kallback or Aquila. To initiate a callback you dial your personal "trigger" number, let it ring once and hang up. The system then calls you back at your pre-programmed location and connects you to your desired number through a long-distance line, usually based in the U.S. The system can also be programmed to ask for you by name when the hotel switchboard answers.

Internet long-distance companies such as Deltathree.com offer extremely competitive rates on long-distance calls (as little as 9 cents a minute depending on where you're calling). The line can sound oddly digital, and in Asia Deltathree's service is only available in Hong Kong. But the service only takes a few minutes to set up on the Web and then you can call away. First you dial a local number, type in your ID and password and then the number you wish to call. You pre-pay for your calls with your credit card, and you can track your costs at the company's website. Other companies plan to offer similar services in Asia soon. So the next time you're on the road and want to phone home, think of your options first.

Write to TIME at mail@web.timeasia.com

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