Communications
If you are interested in having internet/phone service in your home, check with local utility companies (pdf).
Internet
There are not many internet cafes in the College Park area. However, there are many free on-campus wireless hotspots, and you can use computers in the libraries for email and internet research for free. Off campus, many coffee shops have wireless internet, and most public libraries allow their patrons to use their computers for internet access. Phones
Local calls: Most local phone companies in the United States offer unlimited local calls for a one price. From College Park, calls to the Washington metro area are considered local (Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and the metro Maryland area). You need to dial the area code and the number, but a 1 is not necessary. Example: 301-555-0145. Local area codes are 301, 202, 703, 240. Some 301 or 703 numbers may be long-distance. If this is the case, you will hear a recorded message which says, You must first dial a 1 before this number.
Long-distance calls: For long-distance calls, you will usually have to pay extra. Costs can vary, but if you dial a long-distance number without a plan or a 10-10 number, the rate will be very high. There are many long-distance companies. You must first dial a 1 to make a long-distance call. Example: 1-410-555-1579.
Cell phones: Cell phones are very popular in the United States. Be sure to shop around for the company that fits your needs. Many cell phone companies charge for incoming calls, and if you go over the minutes you're allowed for a month, your bill can be very, very expensive. To have a cheaper rate, you will be required to sign a contract, which can be from one year to two years (more common now).There are also pay-as-you-go cell phone options, which means you don't have a contract.
10-10 numbers: Often you can get a very low rate for long-distance and international calls by dialing 10-10 XXX before the number. Check out www.10-10phonerates.com for comparisons.
VOIP: There are also options for making free phone calls via the internet, including Skype, a program that allows you to talk to anyone in the world also using the program for free.