It is not uncommon these days for families to be parted by thousands of miles. Whether they are deployed overseas, or you simply have family residing in other countries, you need an international calling plan that will not break the bank. Luckily, calling internationally is not as expensive as it used to be and there are many options available for those who want to keep in touch with their faraway family.
The Internet
One of the greatest advances with regards to keeping in touch abroad is the Internet. With so many platforms of communication online, you can easily and quickly get in touch with your friends and family in another country just by using the Internet service you are already paying for. Whether you talk with them through a social media platform such as Facebook, an instant messaging service, or a calling service such as Skype, as long as the person you are trying to reach has access to the Internet you can stay in touch.
Snail Mail
The world has advanced beyond the traditional mail system in many ways, but sending a letter or package is still a great way to stay in touch. While the Internet may allow you to talk in seconds, sending a letter is a much more personal experience and something that your loved one will cherish. Many people write off this method of communication as impractical when, in reality, it is one of the most personal methods of staying in touch that is available.
No Internet Access
While the Internet will be a great option for some, not everyone has access to the online world. This does not mean that you cannot still keep in touch without spending a fortune. There are plans available in which you pay only for the minutes you use. Why pay for an expensive international plan when you are not always going to be using the minutes? Instead of adding something like that to your existing phone plan, look into services that will work alongside the plans you already have. There are plans that will allow you to use a contract-free method of calling abroad. .
Keeping in touch with family and friends when you are far away from each other allows you to keep those relationships thriving even when you cannot be together. Whether you decide to communicate over the Internet, via mail, or through international calling; it is no longer financially out of reach to stay in touch with those you love. .
Patrick Whalen is a part of an elite team of writers who have contributed to hundreds of blogs and news sites. Follow him @2patwhalen.