I would like to buy an unlocked GSM phone and get pre-paid cards for another trip to Lima in a few weeks. One reason for this is that I visit Peru, Costa Rica, Panama, Columbia, Nicaragua and Guatemala and I have previously rented phones or purchased cheap phones that are sometimes hard to become familiar with (see my earlier post here). I have purchased from Tigo and Moviestar in Guatemala recently.

The phone that I have in the states won't work and I would prefer a separate latin travel phone where I can store numbers and possibly photos. I looked at the [Solo usuarios registrados pueden ver este link ] site but I would prefer buying something in the states for $100 or less (used on eBay is fine) and taking the phone with me to Peru. The phone doesn't need to be too fancy but it should be easy to use and basic photo capacity would be good. Costa Rica has just started selling the pre-paid cards for GSM phones an I would like it to work there as well.

Is it still easy to buy cards GSM phone cards in Lima? Are the cards available at the airport?

What SPECIFIC phone including brand and model# do you recommend?
I need to make the decision soon -- I am already scouring eBay.

Thanks,
West_Wind

__________________

RT here.

I can't speak to any specific phone model, but yes, buying SIMM cards and time are still a snap in Lima. Just last week, Claro had SIMM cards (with activation) on sale for 15 Soles.

Lately, you can also just pay at cash registers at the supermarket or in Claro stores for time on your phone, and magically, your phone has the credits in seconds -- no card needed. I've not been successful buying a card at the airport, but when I tell a taxi driver that I need one, he's always all over it. I remembered to buy one on the way out of town this time, so I'm set for next trip.

Have fun. File a report!

__________________
[Solo usuarios registrados pueden ver este link ]
Upcoming Trips: TBA