Private telephone numbers in the United States are almost always 7 numbers, usually accompanied by the 3 digit area code and a number 1 at the beginning when calling long distance. They appear with the area code in parentheses in this format 1(111) 111-1111. In Manhattan, old numbers have the area code 212 (which does not need to be dialed if call from another 212 number). Because of the amount of new numbers constantly needed in the city, the 646 area code has been introduced to new Manhattan numbers. The other boroughs of NYC also have a different area code, usually 718. Telephone numbers beginning with the area code 800, 888 or 877 are free. To make international calls dial 011+country code+number. Some frequent country codes:

• To call the USA: 0 01
• To call Germany: 0 1149
• To call Austria: 0 1143
• To call Switzerland: 0 1141

NYC is well connected and you should be able to call from anywhere, anytime. However, the easiest and/or cheapest way may vary. The cheapest way is to use a phone card which may be purchased at supermarkets, newsstands, and convenience stores for an allotted amount of time. Phoning from hotels is the most convenient when visiting, but outside of local calls is very expensive. Phone booths have gone out of vogue with the popularity of cell phones, but can occasionally be found and take change. To reach information, dial 411.

To set-up a new account dial 0 on the phone and asked to be transferred to new accounts. You may also set-up long distance service in the same manner. There are reductions from 35 to 60% between 5 pm and 8 am and during the weekend for long-distance. Usually it is cheapest to call long distance on your cell phone so consulate your plan. Phone lines are often packaged with internet service or cable/satellite TV services. Some popular companies are Sprint and AT&T. Verizon is the most common provider of phone service in NYC. You can sign up on-line and find their rates and special discount offers.

RCN is another single source provider of bundled telecommunications services. Cable TV, Phone and Internet all in one payment.

To compare companies and prices consult http://www.abtolls.com.

For Long Distance Telephone Service:

• AT&T: 800/222-0300
• MCI: 800/950-5555
• Sprint: 800/877-4646
• RCN: 888/790-2121