I hope I don't have to use my phone except in an emergency, like if my son gets separated from us. I got Verizon's global data plus voice plan; it is still pricey       but not as bad as having no plan, and while I haven't seen even 3g, it has been handy since it is not easy to find wifi; I will see which carrier's wifi is predominant in Himeji, assuming my in laws are still in the stone age. I also have Skype, and they upgraded me to premium for one month, too. 

First world problems....

John W.