Alright my helpful travel experts,

Leaving CA to go to Europe for a while (Barcelona, Rome, London) and need a way to communicate with the kids back home. I'm super technology challenged so don't laugh!

If I bring a netbook or a laptop, can I communicate with them (talking not emailing) via Skype from my netbook or laptop at a Europeon hotel or Starbucks with wifi, to a home desktop? I'd like them to hear my voice and vice versa. Is it a clear connection, or static-y and delayed?

If so, what version of skype do I get (for both computers), will there be a fee or is it free since both devices will have skype?

Or is there a better alternative to 'call' home?

Thanks for not laughing (out loud) at me!