Using Google Voice abroad in Europe

[PimTac]

Yeah, why complicate things? Already built into every iOS device, and functions as long as there is internet access. Just make sure it's enabled, and that the Apple ID address is checked/included as one of the "can be reached at" personal IDs. OP indicates no need for cross platform.

And if there is, most, if not all of the major messaging apps also provide for voice communication.

The cow is already in possession. No need to buy milk separately.

There is also a way to FaceTime Android users as well. You need iOS 15 or higher to do it.

How to use FaceTime on Android

Plus FaceTime on Windows

www.techradar.com

 

[dishdude]

FaceTime isn't going to help if OP needs to call his credit card company.

 

[Carmudgeon]

Between FaceTime and GV, OP should have the back-and-forth to the U.S. covered. If an isolated pressing need arises, OP can still re-enable their Verizon e-SIM and pay their roaming ransom for an important call.

In general, I prefer local SIMs, which can be pre-purchased in the U.S. (albeit at higher cost), or on site, because they usually offer better value, a local phone number, and are native SIMs on their native networks, not roaming plans from an outside country.

Since the EU recognizes that their telco cartels need at least some sort of leash, roaming charges are not permitted within the territory (sorry, UK), so a SIM purchased at the POE can cover an entire trip.

Last time I was there, pre-meltdown, a $30 Vodafone plan purchased at LHR provided 20GB of data, voice, texting, and covered five countries over the better part of a month, with promo "bonus" data also awarded during the period.

But the prevalance of data-only e-SIM travel plans indicates that, in a world with myriad VoIP options, the demand for actual voice numbers is diminishing.

 

[Marcozi]

Just buy a SIM card with some minutes on it and be done with it. It’s not much more than just the data card because they know hardly anybody uses the traditional voice and text over there.

The phone has to be unlocked. Otherwise, definitely. This website is my go to for overseas SIMs: https://prepaid-data-sim-card.fandom.com/wiki/Prepaid_SIM_with_data

 

[PandaBear]

If it's only a few days, you can pay Verizon $10.00 per day for Travel Pass.

That's ridiculously expensive compare to foreign prepaid sim for travelers.

 

[mk378]

Yes but it gets unlimited usage and your friends and family won't need training to do something new. They would call or text your same number.