Just downloaded Skype to my iPhone, but not clear on how best to use it.

Does it only work where there is a WiFi connection? For example, in the hotels there will be WiFI at a cost - I asume we'll have to give a CC # to use that WiFi.

On the ship there is WiFi. I believe I get umlimitied access there. WIll Skype work with that? Since SKype charges a different fee depending on the country, anyone know what Country they will consider the ship?

And most important, what's the quality of a SKype connection from overseas? And how's the cost compared to an International plan on the iPhone?

Thanks

Gil,
I cannot be of any help since I have had Skype for over a year, and have only tried to use it once....not too successfully. Maybe someone here can teach you (and me) something.
Lynn

Gil:

Yes, Skype needs WiFi to work. If you need to pay the hotel for that....... so be it.

Last I heard, Regent has hobbled Skype. Used too much bandwith. I don't know if that is still the case.

The cost is major saving over iPhone. Go to the Skype website & check out the cost per minute.

I don't know what country Skype will think you are calling from...I suggest that you assume that it knows where you are & plan accordingly.

As far as quality, I used to use Skype for business calls to Europe. As good or better than land lines at a fraction of the cost.

I would replenish my Skype account, except I have more than enough Regent phone time,

I'd add a few dollars to your account, if I were you.

Doug

I called Mom from Edinburgh, using my laptop instead of cell phone. It cost a few cents.

Another option that we used everyday on MOOSE was the webcams with Mark's laptop at home and my laptop that I brought with me. It was great to see him in person and talk without the time lag that you experience with the ships phone. We could talk and visit as long as we wanted to for free. All you need to do this is a laptop with a webcam and a free instant message service like AIM. (you don't have to be an AOL customer to use their AIM instant messanger.)

Even if your computer at home is a desktop or laptop without a webcam, as long as one of the computers has a webcam, the other person without a cam can still hear you but not see you.

I even took the laptop out onto the balcony so he could see what I was seeing :)

Karen, didn't you have to log into the ship's wifi to do that?

Yes but most of us have free internet on the ships.

I have trouble seeing with Skype abroad. But the hearing is good and free, to another Skyper. To a land line, it's just pennies.