There are a lot of opinions about this topic but you have to use what is appropriate for you. If you need to make calls on the road then using an unlocked phone with a local sim card works...or Verizon Travel Pass if there is service....at $10/day when used so it is pricey if used for a few short calls.

There is wifi calling which is free to any US phone anywhere and cheap for calls to SXM...and there is Whatsapp which some here like. I make calls/texts mostly to the USA so wifi calling works for me and the cost is zero or around a buck to make a reservation on Island. I also have Travel Pass as a backup for an emergency

What works best for you....