I just purchased the 8830 World Edition and was assured that my coverage while in Panama City would be seamless. Telus is my provider. I have tried every which way, but it just keeps looking for networks. Surely there must be a way of connecting? Any help appreciated and thanks. (I'm on my laptop which easliy connected to a wireless connection)

Your laptop and your phone connect in two completey different ways. Just because your laptop connects to a wifi network doesn't mean your cell phone will work.

do you have a sim card in your 8830 and do you have international roaming on your account?

Thank you, I realize that - I was more so making a point that I couldn't use my BB
yes to the SIM card and yes to the international roaming on my account

do you have a local sim card or a Telus sim card?
Products and services / coverage map / international roaming / global roaming maps - TELUS Mobility - Ontario

telus doesnt have GSM roaming in Panama it appears. you need to buy a local SIM card to use your device for voice.

telus, and my main need is data, not voice

thanks!