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Reach Out and GOUGE Someone:
The Perils of Using Calling Cards Overseas
Dear Savvy Traveler:
In the past, you've warned us all against making long distance calls from hotels abroad using the hotel operator, due to the exorbitant charges you will incur. But I think you should also warn travelers to be careful about using calling cards provided by U.S. long-distance companies.
My daughter recently returned from an eight-week study abroad program in France. She returned just after our first bill arrived from MCI. In some cases, we were charged $7.73 per minute. What's scary is this is just the first bill - we're still waiting for the second month. Ultimately, the phone bill will end up costing more than the airline ticket!
I contacted MCI for an explanation, and the customer service rep told me that yes, the rates were correct - and to please continue using their services. I bet they want me to continue using their services. I got taken by this long-distance provider, but I don't want other travelers to learn the same lesson the hard way. The moral of the story: Be very wary of calling cards.
Ree
