(CNN) -- Phoning the United States from an international destination isn't always the easiest thing to do -- and the calling charges can add up fast. But in the past year, a number of international "call-back" services have started up that could save travelers up to 90 percent when calling back to the United States.

For example, from the United Kingdom, a call could cost just under $2, compared to about $17.50 for a standard AT&T direct call. And a call from Japan could be cut to under $4.

The service works simply: Sign up with a service. Then, after arriving at the international destination, you can make domestic calls by dialing a special U.S. phone number and following the particular service's instructions. A computer automatically calls back with a U.S. dial tone so phone calls can be made at cheaper domestic rates.

Two additional bonuses: There is no calling-card access fee, and some services offer a "roving" feature that allows for programming of different travel locations.

Here's how to contact three of the largest call-back services:

• Telegroup -- 800-338-0225
• USA Global Link -- 800-546-5737
• kallback -- 800-959-5255

Based on a report from CNN's Business and Travel and Beyond. The segment appears Monday through Friday on Daybreak at 5:30 AM (ET) and on Early Edition at 7 AM (ET). BT&B also airs Sundays on the World Today at 10 PM (ET).

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• Cell phone rental may be best bet for international travelers - December 5, 1997

Related sites:

• Telegroup
• USA Global Link
• kallback

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