I figured out I think.
Introducing Cingular® World Connect® the leading wireless carrier in international long distance. Enjoy discounted per-minute rates on long distance calls to select destinations for just $3.99 per month. To activate or for customer service, call 1-866-CINGULAR or visit a retail store.
The CSR that activated the feature had INTL long distance confused with INTL roaming which is a whole different beast. Standard INTL roaming is free and only required that A) you have good credit(if new account) or B) that you have been a Cingular customer for some time. If you opt for the $5.99 optional plan you can benefit from discounted INTL roaming rates but the discounts are not huge.
Dan