Summertime means summer travel, especially for college students and recent graduates. But in today's age of heightened security, many parents have increased concerns when they send their children overseas. But wherever they go, parents can keep in touch thanks to the latest the must-have travel companion - GSM technology phones.

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Whether traveling in Europe, North America, South America or Asia, GSM technology and an international calling plan lets the latest mobile phones function - all with just one phone number. Good for students who want to connect with their fellow travelers and new friends abroad - and good for the parents who want to keep tabs on their globe-trekking children.

Research shows 71 percent of the world's population uses GSM technology already. So when you get ready for that long trip and grab your passport, it makes sense to take a GSM mobile phone along for the ride.

And if you're worried the charges from all of these international calls will add up, consider this. Many plans let you send text messages for a fraction of the cost of a call, so you can let mom and dad know you've arrived in Rome safely ...let your friends know you'll meet them at the Colosseum just as planned.