Thanks again Letitride...

However, mail-order is out of consideration. We have to worry about the website taking orders from a foreign credit card, and shipping it to a hotel. Then my friend has to worry about the hotel accepting the package... So, if it cost $10 or $20 more, he will pay it.

Any idea what reputable mobile shops can handle this? (sell him a micro-SIM and activate it immediate for usage) I am in Michigan, and I'm used to seeing AT&T stores, but I never visit the other mobile shops... I would have no idea what to look for in LA. Does Radio Shack do this?

Exactly what "package" would my friend ask for? English is not his first language...