Prepaid calling cards make it easier for tourists to call home.
India beckons travelers with its cultural diversity, rich heritage, historical background and picturesque locations. American travelers visiting the country can enjoy the experience, yet stay connected with friends and family back home. Calling from India to the U.S. can be easy and cost effective.
Instructions
Calling the U.S. From India Using a Calling Card
1. Purchase an international calling card either online or in India. Companies like Airtel and Reliance Global offer flexible calling plans. Prior to purchase, check the talk time allotted. Also, make sure that the companies do not charge any processing fee. You can use prepaid calling cards from any cell phone or landline.
2. Figure out the time in the United States. India is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, which means it is 9 hours and 30 minutes later in India than it is on the East Coast of the U.S. However, remember that the U.S. has different time zones. Calculate the time accordingly.
3. Locate the pin number printed on the back of the calling card, hidden by a metallic strip. Use a paper clip or coin to scratch the strip to display the number. If purchased online, check your email notification for the pin.
4. Dial the toll-free number printed on the card. When prompted, punch in your pin number.
5. Follow instructions and when asked dial 1, the country code for the U.S.
6. Punch in the area code of the city you wish to place the call, followed by the phone number.
Calling the U.S. From a Landline or Cell Phone Without a Calling Card
7. Calculate the time difference and figure out the time in the U.S. India is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, which means it is 9 hours and 30 minutes later in India than it is on the East Coast of the U.S. However, remember that the U.S. has different time zones. Do the math accordingly.
8. Check if the landline phone or the cell phone has access to make international calls. In order to do so, dial 00, the international code. Wait for the message. If the phone does not have access, an automated message will inform you.
9. Dial 1, the country code for the U.S., followed by the area code and finally the destination number.
