National Geographic Announces Affordable Global Cell Phone Coverage Solution

WASHINGTON, Feb. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- National Geographic today announces the launch of the National Geographic Talk Abroad Travel Phone, designed specifically for the needs of the traveling public, allowing for affordable calls from over 100 countries, with no contracts to sign and free incoming calls in most international markets.

GSM cell phone technology experts at Cellular Abroad, Playa del Rey, Calif., collaborated with National Geographic in a licensing partnership to provide this service that works seamlessly across international borders, picking up local cellular networks and providing consumers with the best coverage available. Unlike other services, the phone number stays the same, no matter where the consumer travels. As an added benefit, the National Geographic Talk Abroad Travel Phone features a dedicated toll-free number to reach Cellular Abroad's 24/7 customer support service."Staying in touch while overseas has proved difficult for travelers; the majority of overseas travelers have not been able to afford the security and convenience of a cell phone," said Sebastian Harrison, president, Cellular Abroad. "With expensive rates and little or no technical support, international cellular service has excluded the general public. Now, it is at their fingertips."

"National Geographic is excited to offer the Talk Abroad Travel Phone to all international travelers. Students, vacationers, business travelers and our own explorers and photographers can now stay connected with this affordable travel phone and SIM card, while they seek to understand and experience our world," said John Dumbacher, senior vice president of licensing for National Geographic.

The National Geographic Talk Abroad Travel phone will be available March 2007 at www.Cellularabroad.com/travelphone

National Geographic Talk Abroad Travel Phone Quick Facts

* Purchase for $199 which includes 30 minutes of free outgoing talk time or rent at $49 a week.

* SIM card available for $79, which includes 30 minutes of free outgoing talk time and is available for purchase at select mobile telephone stores.

* Add minutes as you go; no contracts or bills. Pay a low flat rate of $0.90 per outgoing minute in the most frequently traveled countries.

* Unlimited free incoming calls in the most frequently traveled countries.

* 24-hour, 7-day-a-week dedicated customer service to address questions, add minutes or order a phone. National Geographic Talk Abroad Travel Phone users can access customer service, with no fee, directly from the phone.

About National Geographic

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 350 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and four other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; radio programs; films; books; videos and DVDs; maps; and interactive media. National Geographic has funded more than 8,000 scientific research projects and supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com

About Cellular Abroad

Cellular Abroad has been operating since 2001 and has become the most popular choice among international travelers for cellular service. They have an outstanding record of customer service and they are committed to making international cellular service available to everyone. You can visit their website at http://www.cellularabroad.com/ or for more information call their toll-free hotline at 1-800-287-5072.

Source: National Geographic