Cruising to foreign destinations generally doesn't mean abandoning communications with your family and friends. We all still want to stay connected — and not just through the latest Facebook and Instagram posts.

We want to talk and text. But have you seen international phone rates? YIKES!

There are better solutions and Carolyn Shearlock tells of her favorites.

Sponsor: SeaTech Systems, offering cruiser-tested solutions for weather and communications. Whether it's satellite, wifi, cell, or SSB, SeaTech's packages are simple and affordable.

Coupon Code: Free shipping through July 2018 with the code GALLEY2018 at checkout.

Music: "Slow Down" by Yvette Craig