Markus

I'm popping back to the UK for xmas, and I do have a mobile here in Canada, but I'm tempted not to use it due to international call charges. so, my thought was to get a cheapo PAYG type phone. I'm only back for a few weeks, so might not be worth it, then again, I cold give it to my mum and she could use it.

Does this sound like a plan? What's the best place to get a decent deal on PAYG handsets?

Freak

unlock your handset and bring it with you.
Before you come, get an o2 sim card from ebay (a couple of quid) or from o2 direct (free).
Top it up with a tenner when you get here, and you have the 10 quid call credit and 300 free txt messages.

Doesnt get much easier than that

Markus

might have a look into that.

Have just had a peek at international call charges. hmm, looks like 35 cents a min, which is aprox 15p, hmm, that's not too bad, maybe I'll just use my phone?

Freak

If your networks are anything like the uk ones, anyone that phones you from home will cost YOU money, due to roaming charges.
I realised this when i got home from france and had a whopping bill from people calling me!
Just another point to consider

Dracoro

You could always just use the public payphones. That'll prolly end up the cheapest




Although I will concede that they are a bit of a bugger to fit in your pocket.