I long resisted getting a cell phone simply because I don't like making myself available to the entire world at all times.  I like being a bit inaccessible.  But too many incidents where having a cell phone arose and so I decided to get a Tracfone package with the Motorola W370.  I've had absolutely no problems like catalogued in some of the other reviews.  I do live in Chicago, which like most major cities is heavily blanketed with relays for cell phones.  Not once have I not been able to get service (except, of course, when the EL goes underground).