I am aware that American Express offices here sell such a card, but I have not used it and therefore don't know how economical it is.

I would suggest seeking out internet cafes for communication, instead. I even stayed one hotel in Europe this summer that had internet access in the lobby which could be charged to the room. Fifty cents to a dollar gets you all the time you need to check & send e-mail, which is much cheaper than any trans-atlantic call.

If you go this route, be sure that you know how to & have practiced how to check your e-mail on from a computer not your own.

JP