Neal, I have the Blackberry Storm.
Current deal is about $49 after $100 rebate on 2 year plan. Monthly access is about $30 for the phone, $20 for unlimited web and data.
Pros: One cell phone and one number, can take it world wide. The daughters can reach me in any country, I've used it it Europe, North America, Asia Australia and no problems. Add and drop international at about $10 a month as you travel. Cell, web, music, games, a word processor, great camera, video, voice navigation the world over, traffic reports, calender and address book.
Cons: the screen is a little iffy when you press down with a finger. You gotta get the right letter otherwise the auto word suggest will kick in (you can turn it off).
Options: get a leather carry case for it $10 to protect the face from the usual scratches.