Originally Posted by
Analise
Why would I need an access # to make calls from my cell if I have purchased a SIM card? Why not just dial directly?
It's often cheaper.
For example, you can get a monthly ~15€ domestic German landline flatrate through blau.de, AldiTalk, Tchibo mobile, or some other carriers. Then you can just use a domestic access number and make calls worldwide paying just for the international leg. For example, I can call out to the US via a German access number via Voipstunt/Voipcheap and others offer 300 minutes/week of calling to the US for 3-4 months if you deposit 10€.