To hobby phone or not to hobby phone?

I used to have an hobby phone paid with cash, etc. We all value our privacy and safety. But I have to admit, it was a pain in the ass. I would barely use it, and even though it was generally based on prepaid us, I would have to pay to recharge it every 90 days or so even if I didn't use it. So when it died about 3 mos. ago, I let it stay dead. Frankly, I haven't missed it. I usually book by PM, where new providers can see my reviews anyway, or email, and if someone asks, I say "don't have a hobby phone right now." It really has not been an impediment.

But today I tried booking with a relatively new provider by PM, was in the process of scheduling, but was eventually told "I don't give my address on eccie ... or email." Really? Like it's more secure on a stranger's text message (e.g., where an SO can find it)? I didn't argue about it - the way I look at it, if she doesn't feel secure, then we wouldn't have fun anyway.

On the other hand, one well-known/well-regarded provider I know strictly uses email.

I was just curious and wondering about communications habits of others. Specifically, in this stage in communication technology, do/should we really need hobby phones as hobbyists? Or providers?

I love google voice. Not the phone app, the log on app for my pc. It gives me a new phone number with texts and calls. It lives on google, not on my smart phone and it is free.

I say fuck it - I use my personal iPhone. If you have to hide maybe you should be doing something else, ahhhh like fucking your wife instead. Always stand behind what you do, sneaking around is weak ass shit.

I require a text when a client arrives at my incall for the building number and apartment number so I know you made it and actually showed up. I dont have a problem giving the address ahead of time however I will not give exact apt number. I have been stood up before and had my time wasted and stressed for a week because they knew exactly where I live. I think its also important to have access to text in case your not able to get through the gate or your lost or running late. Im very discrete and expect the same, I want to make sure you quietly find my apartment with out drawing attention to yourself. I know apartments are confusing with different levels and sides so a quick text so I can direct you easily with out you wandering around looking suspicious. There are numerous free apps that can be added on your cell phone device such as google voice that use a different number, I have used it for years with no problems. Just my .02 cents.

sneaking around is weak ass shit. Originally Posted by circumstances

So is taking pot shots at people you don't know anything about, have never met, and doubtfully ever will meet. I'm not saying I agree or disagree, simply that you only have limited information with your 4 days among our group. Sometimes it's better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.

You should practice your own advice? I stand by what I say, only pussies hide.

Enjoy the rep. you're gaining.

Again you speak and look like a fool.

I give him a month at most before he gets banned! LOL!

simply that you only have limited information with your 4 days among our group. Originally Posted by onei

He's been around a lot longer than that, I'll wager.

I give him a month at most before he gets banned! LOL! Originally Posted by onei

The over/under is another three days! LOL

Now, to the OP's question: when I saw the title of this thread my first thought was 'must be a noob, always use a hobby phone'. But, you've been around long enough to know what works for you. That said, my experience mostly matches Brittany's practice - they'll give me the address via email so I know where I'm going, but exact unit number is usually texted once I arrive.

Just like selecting a provider, I think it's a matter of personal preference. My attitude is the same as OP's - a separate phone would just be a hassle to me. That said, I could see the use or need for a hobby phone, whether it's to keep others out of your business or personal protection.

If you want to pay for it now, get a hobby phone.

If you really want to pay for it later....don't.

I love google voice. Not the phone app, the log on app for my pc. It gives me a new phone number with texts and calls. It lives on google, not on my smart phone and it is free. Originally Posted by firststick

If you have a phone with data plan, ^^^^this is the way to go. Hobby phone's more expensive in comparison.

If you insist on using a separate phone and are already using a GSM phone in your civie life, you can just keep the hobby sim card with you and switch it out with your personal phone sim card whenever you need to use it for hobby.

If you aren't worried about discretion, you can just do what Ricky aka "circumstances" does.

If you want to one-up Ricky, post your personal phone in your signature line and use it as your hobby phone

He's been around a lot longer than that, I'll wager. Originally Posted by Fratelli

Hadn't thought about that. Hahahaha! Possibly!

Google voice is easy and convenient ...
If you want a hobby phone Tracfone, call them and ask for a 1 year add on, with 30 minutes (or so) it costs you <100 for the year.
Or AT&T Pay As You Go ($100/year plus tax)

As Skip_8 says, pay it now or pay it later, but pay you will.