I have read a few threads here about cheaper calling rates to other countries. I wanted to give a tip to "Skype".

You can either call for free computer to computer (called telephony) or you can pay 1.6 cents per minute to call from your computer to someones phone (this rate is from Sweden to the US). The Skype program is free to download, all you need is a computer (I'm guessing if you are reading this you have one) as well as a microphone to attach to the computer. Microphones are pretty cheap. I have used Skype a few times already and am very pleased with it. I think in the future that programs such as this will not only improve but will replace traditional long distance phone calling.

Check it out: www.skype.com

Yup, it's excellent.

Works better with a handset or headphones+mic like the ones you can buy from Clas Olle specifically for internet telephony.

I'm a fan of Skype in theory, if not in principle. I've used voice over IP (VOIP) in the past, including one time when I was working for a company that actively encouraged its employees to test the VOIP system and I had a long-distance boyfriend. That said, I've used Skype on a number of occasions, from different computers so I could be sure of my experience, and I'm not as happy with the quality -- I get too much interference, static, and outright echo on the call to want to do it more frequently than I have. Sure, the price is right, but it also ties people to the computer, unless you use SkypeOut, but that's pretty cheap, too. (And I haven't used that part of it yet, though I wonder if it sounds better.)

Have you experienced any of that fuzzy quality to your conversations?

Cheers,
Gale

I used SKYPE to call regular numbers in the US at 1.7 euro cents per minute and it was UNBELIEVABLE (this is called SKYPE OUT)....I also purchased a Massachusetts Phone Number through SKype for like 10 Euros for 3 months and people in the states can call me at no charge.....like a local call (This is called SKYPE IN)!!!

The quality has definitely improved because it is clearer than any phone call....My buddy asked me if I was in Boston

It might sound like I work for SKype cause when I think about it I get giddy like a school girl...If only they were publicly traded!
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Simpson hand me my Sand Wedge....Sand Wedge...Sandwedge...Sandwidge....Sandwich....mmmmmmmm.

I use SKYPE too and am happy with it. You can use a credit card to make an account for different amounts. That way if you're calling someone on a phone there's no hassle, they just debit your account.
I didn't know I could create a stateside number. Thanks for the tip!

My neither. How do I create a stateside account?