Skype is a great cheap tool BUT its not free...its only free, IF the person you're talking to has a Skype account and is on the computer/web simultaneously.
One of the the nice unheralded feature so Skype is its ability to send text messages via SMS to friends cell phones...IF the bandwidth isn't capable of handling a call...BUT unfortunately, you can't receive a text message yet.
It also has a chat function when bandwidth is slow...with other Skype members.
Lastly, be carefule to not use Skype at Internet cafe computers as some of them have keyloggers etc. that will swipe your password. You'll find yourself with an empty account at the next cafe.
HTH
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