HELP! Phones and Internet in Belgium

scottp_2

Hi,

I may be moving to Belgium in the next few months so I am trying to sort everything out before I go.

I want to find out about what I can go regarding Phone calls to the UK, I was thinking of using Skype to talk to my Girlfriend and Family as I can sort out getting them on it (and as far as I am aware, skype to skype is free?). But for that I would need an internet connection, and I haven’t got a clue about how to sort it over there. Also, I think I would want one of those skype phones, which is the best one to use?

As well, what would be the best bet in regards to mobiles? I would rather use a UK one so that the bill can go out of my UK account (I will be paid into my UK account still) or so I can pay using my Credit Card.

Really it’s just the overall communication package. I have a laptop which I am going to take over there, and would also want to use wireless if possible (the laptop has a built in receiver)

Any help will be greatly appreciated!

redux

I'm told that the landline broadband market isn't as competitive on price as here, but I don't know what sort of contract length and other terms there are, or indeed the landline itself.

If you mean Skype access via the internet, I don't know enough about the phones to make any judgement. If you were wondering about Skype mobile access, this is only available with 3, and while on 3 networks abroad, and Belgium does not have one.

The cheapest Belgian SIM card to use would be Simyo, with 5 cent a minute calls to Belgian landlines, then use a callthrough access. There are also other SIMs with cheap international call tariffs , such as IDT mobile and Ortel

If you want to keep a British mobile number, and will receive a lot of calls, then look at O2 My Europe Extra, with free incoming calls for a £10 a month fee, or Vodafone Passport, 75p connection fee per incoming call. Other than those, most roaming rates are at or near the new standard Eurotariff, except 3 which is a bit cheaper at 10p incoming, 25p outgoing

scottp_2

Thanks!

I am going to be staying for around a year, so a 12 month contract wouldn't be a problem, although I would prefer to have a smaller cancellation period just in case I do not want to stay. What wireless Router could I use over there? And whats it like for installation of broadband and phone lines etc?

Thanks Alot!

redux

I don't know about landlines.

http://www.belgacom.be/home/home/jsp/dynamic/homepage.jsp?choosed_user_language=en